I have to admit, I really enjoy using my air fryer. When I first bought it, I felt like I had discovered the perfect kitchen appliance. It makes everything—from crispy fries and golden vegetables to juicy chicken wings—taste amazing, and it’s faster than a conventional oven while being far less messy than frying on the stovetop.

But a few weeks ago, something happened that made me seriously reconsider the habit of leaving my air fryer plugged in overnight. That night started like any other after a long day. I tossed some frozen fries into the air fryer, cooked them up quickly, sprinkled on a little salt, and sat down to watch a movie. I didn’t bother unplugging the air fryer, assuming it was perfectly safe since it wasn’t in use. Hours later, I walked into the kitchen for a glass of water and immediately smelled something burning. My first thought was to check the stove—nothing there. Then I noticed a small trail of smoke coming from behind my air fryer. My heart started pounding as I rushed over. When I unplugged it, the plug was hot to the touch, and the plastic around the edges had begun to melt. I couldn’t believe how close I had come to a serious fire. Naturally, I couldn’t sleep after that and turned to the internet to learn more.

What I found shocked me—my experience wasn’t unique. There are numerous reports of air fryers catching fire or overheating when left plugged in, even when they’re not actively in use. These appliances, while incredibly convenient, draw a lot of electricity, and if something inside malfunctions—like a stuck heating element—it can continue pulling power and generate heat even when turned off. Experts warn that this constant flow of electricity through compromised wiring or faulty circuits can lead to electrical fires.

While not extremely common, these incidents happen often enough that fire safety professionals recommend unplugging your air fryer when it’s not being used—especially overnight or when you’re not home. We’ve all gotten used to leaving things like coffee makers, microwaves, and toasters plugged in all the time, but air fryers are a bit different. They combine high temperatures, strong fans, and a substantial electrical load in a compact device. A tiny manufacturing defect, some old grease buildup, or the effects of regular wear and tear can increase the likelihood of electrical shorts or overheating. What really struck me were posts from actual firefighters warning people to take these devices seriously. They shared stories of air fryer fires that escalated quickly because the appliance was sitting near flammable items like paper towels, wooden cabinets, or curtains. The kitchen is already the most common place for house fires to start, and leaving a powerful appliance plugged in overnight just adds to the risk.

To avoid potential disaster, the most important step is simple: unplug your air fryer when it’s not in use. In addition, it’s smart to inspect it regularly. Take a close look at the power cord and plug, and check the body of the appliance for any signs of damage or abnormal wear, such as cracks, melted parts, or a strange smell. If anything looks or feels off, stop using it and contact the manufacturer. Many companies offer customer service, repairs, or replacements if issues are reported in time. Another important safety step is keeping your air fryer clean. Grease buildup doesn’t just ruin the flavor of your meals—it also increases fire risk. Make it a habit to wipe down your air fryer after every use, and give it a thorough cleaning every couple of weeks to prevent residue from accumulating. Ever since that close call, I’ve made it a nightly routine to unplug my air fryer before going to bed. It might feel like a minor hassle, but the peace of mind it brings is well worth it. Convenience is great, but it should never come at the cost of safety, especially when it comes to your home and the people you care about. I’m not telling you to get rid of your air fryer—I still use mine almost every day. But I’ve learned to respect how powerful and potentially dangerous it can be. All it takes is a single oversight—a forgotten plug—and what was once your favorite kitchen gadget could become a serious threat. So tonight, before you call it a day, take a moment to unplug your air fryer. That one small act could make all the difference.