In recent years, air fryers have surged in popularity, touted as energy-efficient alternatives to traditional ovens. However, financial expert Martin Lewis has issued a cautionary note, emphasizing that these appliances may not always be the most cost-effective choice for every cooking scenario.
Air fryers have become a staple in many kitchens, celebrated for their ability to cook food quickly and with less oil. Their compact size and rapid cooking times make them appealing, especially for individuals seeking healthier meal options. The allure of reduced energy consumption compared to conventional ovens has further fueled their adoption.
Martin Lewis, renowned for his financial advice, addressed the cost implications of using air fryers during an appearance on “This Morning.” He acknowledged that while air fryers are efficient for small, quick-cooking items, their benefits diminish when preparing larger meals.
Lewis stated, “Air fryers are good for small things that cook quickly. If you’re going to have to use your air fryer 15 different times for different items, generally, on energy usage, you’d be better off to use an oven.”
To illustrate his point, Lewis provided a comparison:
- Microwave: Ideal for single items like a jacket potato, taking about 10 minutes and costing approximately 6p.
- Oven: Cooking the same item would take around an hour and a half, resulting in higher energy costs.
- Air Fryer: While faster than an oven, cooking multiple items sequentially can lead to increased energy usage, potentially surpassing that of an oven.
Steven Kipling from Which? echoed Lewis’s sentiments, noting that while air fryers can offer savings for small meals, their limited capacity necessitates batch cooking for larger meals, which can negate energy savings. “The savings soon drop off if you have to cook in batches,” Kipling remarked.
Lewis suggested a formula to determine the cost-effectiveness of cooking appliances:
- Cost = Power (kW) × Electricity Rate (pence per kWh) × Time (hours)
For instance, using an 800W air fryer for 30 minutes at a rate of 24.5p per kWh would cost approximately 9.8p. However, more powerful models or extended cooking times can increase costs significantly.
When to Choose Each Appliance
- Microwave: Best for reheating or cooking single items quickly.
- Air Fryer: Suitable for small meals or snacks.
- Oven: More efficient for large meals or when cooking multiple items simultaneously.
While air fryers offer convenience and potential energy savings, it’s essential to assess their usage context. For small, quick meals, they can be cost-effective. However, for larger meals requiring multiple cooking cycles, traditional ovens may be more economical. Consumers should evaluate their cooking habits and energy rates to make informed decisions.
