Air Fryer Making Weird Noise? Here’s What It Really Means

Have you ever turned on your air fryer and heard a strange noise that made you stop and think, “Wait, is that normal?” You’re definitely not alone. Air fryers are amazing kitchen tools, but when they start making weird sounds, it can feel a little alarming. Let’s talk about what’s going on.

Why is My Air Fryer Making a Rattling or Buzzing Noise?

Loose Parts Can Cause Rattling Sounds

One of the most common reasons your air fryer might be making a rattling noise is because something inside it is loose. This could be a small screw, the basket, or even the tray not sitting properly. If you’ve ever put something in the basket a little too quickly or forcefully, it might have shifted or loosened something inside the unit. When the air fryer heats up and the fan starts spinning, those loose parts can rattle and make unexpected noises.

The basket and tray must always be fitted properly before use. If they aren’t secured well, the vibrations from the fan can shake them and cause a noticeable rattling sound. Try removing the basket and tray and placing them back in carefully. Give them a gentle shake before turning the air fryer on again. If the noise stops, it was most likely just loose parts.

Food Debris or Build-Up Inside the Unit

Another sneaky cause of rattling or buzzing sounds could be leftover food crumbs, oil, or grease inside the air fryer. Over time, these small bits can build up and harden. If these pieces are near the fan or heating element, they might get knocked around as the machine runs, creating a buzzing or tapping sound.

Cleaning your air fryer regularly helps prevent this. Make sure it’s fully cooled down, then remove the basket and tray and wipe down the inside. If you can safely reach the fan area (check your user manual), give it a gentle cleaning too. Be careful not to use too much water near the electrical parts.

The Internal Fan Might Be Damaged

The fan is one of the most important parts of an air fryer. It’s what moves the hot air around to cook your food evenly. If the fan becomes loose, damaged, or dirty, it can make all sorts of strange noises, including buzzing, whirring, or clunking.

Sometimes, pieces of food or even a loose screw can get caught in the fan blades. This is dangerous because it can affect how your food cooks and may even damage the motor. If you hear the sound coming from the top or back of the unit where the fan usually is, it’s worth checking.

You may need to contact the manufacturer or a technician if you suspect the fan is damaged. Trying to fix it yourself could void your warranty or lead to more problems if you don’t know what you’re doing.

Vibration From Uneven Surfaces

Not all noises come from inside the air fryer. Sometimes, the sound is caused by where the air fryer is placed. If it’s on a wobbly or uneven surface, the vibrations from the fan and motor can cause it to rattle against your countertop. This can make a simple whirring sound feel much louder than it actually is.

To fix this, move your air fryer to a flat and sturdy spot in your kitchen. You can also put a small silicone mat or towel under it to absorb some of the vibrations. This small change can make a big difference in the noise level.

Whirring or High-Pitched Noise from the Air Fryer Fan

Normal Operation Sounds

Air fryers aren’t silent. In fact, some noise is completely normal. The fan inside spins very fast to circulate hot air, and this creates a whirring sound. Some brands are a bit louder than others, depending on their build and design. If your air fryer has always made a steady, high-speed fan noise, and nothing else seems wrong, that’s usually just how it works.

However, if the sound changes suddenly—gets louder, higher-pitched, or starts and stops—that’s when you should take a closer look. Sudden changes in the noise often point to a developing issue.

Fan Blade Misalignment

Over time, the fan blades inside the air fryer can become bent or misaligned. This can happen if the air fryer was dropped, hit, or even just from long-term use. When the blades aren’t spinning smoothly, they may start to whine, scrape, or make a sharp whirring noise.

This kind of noise usually comes from the top of the unit. If you suspect the fan is misaligned, turn off the air fryer right away. Let it cool down, unplug it, and take a look if you can safely access the fan. If not, it’s time to call the manufacturer or a repair technician for help.

Blocked Ventilation or Airflow

Air fryers need good airflow to work properly. If the vents are blocked, the fan has to work harder. That can cause it to make a loud or strained noise, almost like it’s forcing air through a tight space.

Check the back and sides of your air fryer for any blockages. It’s common for crumbs, dust, or grease to build up around the vent. Make sure your air fryer has enough space around it when in use—at least a few inches on each side. Don’t place it directly against a wall or under a cabinet while cooking.

Also, never cover the air fryer with foil or cloth while it’s working. This can trap heat and block airflow, which stresses the fan and can even be dangerous.

Motor or Fan Bearing Issues

If your air fryer sounds like a tiny jet engine or a high-speed blender, especially when starting up or shutting down, the motor or fan bearings might be worn out. This happens with age or heavy use and usually sounds like a loud grinding or roaring noise.

Unfortunately, this is not a DIY fix. If your air fryer is under warranty, contact customer service for help. If it’s older, you may need to consider replacing it. A worn motor can lead to overheating and other problems if not addressed.

Clicking, Popping, or Ticking Noises While Cooking

Thermal Expansion Sounds

It might sound strange, but your air fryer clicking or popping during use can actually be normal. As it heats up, the metal parts inside expand. When they cool down, they contract. This can cause small ticking or popping sounds that are completely harmless.

This kind of noise is usually random and soft, and it doesn’t last long. It’s just the air fryer adjusting to the heat. You’ll often hear it more when cooking foods at high temperatures or running the unit for long periods.

Cracking From Oil or Moisture

If you’re cooking something with oil or water in it—like marinated chicken or frozen vegetables—those tiny drops of liquid can splatter when they hit the hot surfaces inside. This can make a cracking or popping sound, kind of like when you fry something on the stove.

This is more common when the air fryer is new and super clean, as the food contacts more of the hot metal surface. As long as there’s no smoke, burning smell, or sparks, a little crackling noise is usually fine.

To reduce this sound, pat your food dry before placing it in the basket, or avoid using too much marinade. This not only helps with the noise but also makes the food crispier.

Damaged Coating or Basket

Sometimes a clicking or popping noise comes from damage inside the basket or tray. If the nonstick coating is peeling or flaking, those tiny flakes can bounce around inside, making noise. This can also be unsafe because those particles might get into your food.

Check the inside of your basket for any signs of wear. If the coating is chipped or flaking, it’s time to replace it. Using damaged parts can harm your health and ruin your food’s flavor.

Electrical Clicking or Thermostat Sounds

Many air fryers click softly when the thermostat kicks in to adjust the temperature. This clicking sound often happens every few minutes and means the air fryer is doing its job to keep the heat steady.

But if the clicking becomes loud, frequent, or is followed by power loss or flickering lights, that could mean there’s an issue with the internal wiring or temperature sensor. If that happens, stop using the air fryer and call a professional.

How to Fix or Prevent Air Fryer Noises in the Future

Clean Your Air Fryer Often

The best way to keep your air fryer quiet is to keep it clean. After each use, remove the basket and tray and wash them with warm, soapy water. Wipe the inside of the air fryer to remove crumbs or grease.

Once a week, do a deeper clean. Use a small brush or toothbrush to clean vents and corners. Make sure no food is stuck near the fan. Always unplug the air fryer before cleaning.

Place It on a Flat, Heat-Safe Surface

Make sure your air fryer sits flat on your countertop. If it’s wobbly or placed on a hard, noisy surface, it will vibrate and make extra noise. A soft silicone mat can help reduce this.

Avoid putting it too close to the wall or anything that can block airflow. Give it a few inches of space on all sides.

Don’t Overload the Basket

Putting too much food in the basket at once can make it heavy or unbalanced. This can strain the motor or fan and cause weird noises. Try to cook in batches if needed.

Also, avoid placing wet or dripping food directly into the basket. The extra moisture can cause steam, crackling, and splashing noises that can wear down the parts faster.

Check for Damage or Wear Regularly

Every few weeks, give your air fryer a quick check. Look for:

• Loose screws or parts
• Damaged fan blades
• Worn-out baskets or trays
• Unusual smells or smoke

If something looks off, contact the company for replacement parts or repair. Catching problems early can prevent bigger issues later.

Use the Air Fryer According to the Manual

Always read and follow the instructions for your specific model. Some air fryers have different settings or parts that need extra care. Never try to fix the inside on your own unless the manual says it’s safe.

Some brands allow you to access the fan area; others don’t. If you’re not sure, contact the manufacturer for help.

I hope this guide helped you figure out why your air fryer is making weird noises and how to fix or avoid them in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it normal for an air fryer to make noise?

Yes, it’s normal for an air fryer to make some noise. Most of the sound comes from the internal fan that circulates hot air to cook your food. However, loud rattling, grinding, or clicking sounds could be a sign of a problem. Always check for loose parts, dirt, or any damage. If the noise seems new or unusual, it’s best to stop and inspect the unit before continuing use.

Can I keep using my air fryer if it makes a clicking sound?

If the clicking sound is soft and happens occasionally, it’s usually the thermostat adjusting the temperature. That’s completely normal. But if it’s loud, constant, or followed by other issues like flickering lights or smoke, you should stop using it. The clicking could be from a faulty thermostat, a fan issue, or something loose inside. Better to be safe and have it checked out before using it again.

Do I need to clean my air fryer to stop the noise?

Yes, cleaning your air fryer can often help reduce or stop strange noises. Food crumbs, grease, or oil can build up over time and cause crackling, buzzing, or rattling sounds. Cleaning also helps your air fryer run better and last longer. Try to clean it after each use and do a deeper clean every week or two, especially around the fan and vents.

Is it safe to open the air fryer if it’s making a noise?

It’s safe to open the air fryer after it has cooled down and been unplugged. Never try to open it while it’s hot or running. If you hear strange noises, turn it off, unplug it, and let it cool. Then you can safely inspect the basket, tray, and visible parts. If the noise seems to come from the motor or fan, it’s better to contact customer service before taking anything apart.

Can a noisy air fryer be fixed?

In many cases, yes. A noisy air fryer can often be fixed by tightening parts, cleaning it properly, or replacing worn-out components like the basket or tray. If the issue is deeper, like a broken fan or motor, you might need help from a repair service. If your air fryer is still under warranty, contact the brand to see what they can do. Don’t ignore the noise—it could lead to a bigger problem.

Do I have to stop using my air fryer if the fan is loud?

If the fan is louder than usual, it might just be working harder due to blocked vents or a heavy load. Try cleaning the vents and reducing the amount of food. If the sound stays loud or gets worse over time, it might be a sign of a worn-out fan or motor. You should stop using it if you hear grinding or whirring that sounds abnormal and get it checked before using it again.

Is it okay to use a silicone mat under my air fryer?

Yes, placing a silicone mat under your air fryer is a great idea. It helps keep the air fryer stable and reduces noise from vibration. It also protects your countertop from heat and oil splatters. Just make sure the mat is heat-resistant and big enough to cover the area under the air fryer. Always check the manual to be sure it doesn’t block any air intake vents.

Can overloading my air fryer cause noise?

Overloading the basket can lead to unbalanced cooking, heavier weight, and extra strain on the motor or fan. This can cause the air fryer to make more noise than usual. Try to follow the recommended food limits in the manual. Cooking in smaller batches may take a little longer, but it keeps your air fryer working better and more quietly over time.