One of the most common questions is how much power an air fryer uses. There's no single figure, because it depends on your model's wattage, how long you use it and how the thermostat behaves. The good news is you can work it out yourself with data you already have: the wattage on the label and how long each cook lasts. Here's the method and an example with assumed numbers, so you can swap in your own.

Energy use is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh):

Energy (kWh) = power (kW) × time (hours)

• The power is on the label or in the manual, usually in watts (W). Divide by 1,000 to convert to kW.
• The time is how long the cook lasts.
• The cost is the energy used multiplied by the price per kWh on your rate plan, which appears on your bill.

Imagine a 1,700 W (1.7 kW) model that runs for 20 minutes (a third of an hour):

1. Maximum energy use: 1.7 kW × 0.33 h ≈ 0.57 kWh.
2. If a kWh cost €0.15 (an assumed price used only for this example), the cost would be about €0.085 per cook.

This is a theoretical maximum: actual consumption is usually somewhat lower, because the heating element isn't on at full power the whole time, but cycles on and off to hold the temperature. Replace the example's figures with those of your appliance and your rate.

The most reliable way is a plug-in energy meter, which shows watts and accumulated kWh. Some smart plugs for connected homes include this function and show it in an app. Before buying one, check that:

• It supports the wattage of your air fryer. An air fryer is a high-power appliance: the plug must be rated for that load. Look at the maximum current stated on the plug (for example, a 16 A model handles more power than a 10 A one) and compare it with your appliance's label.
• You don't overload the power strip or extension cord you plug the air fryer into.
• It has the certifications required by the regulations in force where you live.

For ideas on setting up a connected home with smart plugs and measuring the consumption of all your appliances, see domoticadigital.com (in Spanish).

• Cook full batches without piling food up, rather than several small batches.
• Don't over-preheat if your model heats up quickly.
• Use the air fryer for small amounts and the oven for large ones. See the comparison air fryer vs oven.
• Adjust the time with the cooking times chart so you don't leave food in longer than necessary.

If your home has solar panels, concentrating your air fryer use in the hours of highest production can help you make better use of your energy. How much you offset, how surplus energy is credited and which rules apply depend on your installation, your energy provider and the regulations in force in your region, and that information changes over time. Always consult official sources and your installer before making decisions. To understand how to size an installation and how much each appliance uses, you can start with kitsolar.info (in Spanish). Last reviewed: November 2026.

It has high wattage, but it runs only a few minutes per cook. To find out how much it uses in your case, multiply its power in kW by the hours of use.

It's on the appliance's label (usually on the bottom or back) and in the manual.

It depends on the wattage, the time and the amount of food. With small batches, heating a smaller space usually takes less energy; measure your appliances to compare them.

• Air Fryer Guides: How to Choose, Use and Maintain Yours
• How to Clean an Air Fryer, Inside and Out
• Air Fryer vs Oven: Which One Suits What You Cook
• Air Fryer Recipes: Easy, Quick and with Approximate Times