If your COSORI air fryer keeps smoking during operation, it can be concerning and potentially unsafe. Often, this issue arises from accumulated grease, food debris, or incorrect use of accessories. Fortunately, most problems are fixable with simple cleaning and proper use practices. In this guide, we’ll walk you through effective steps to troubleshoot and resolve smoking issues, ensuring your air fryer operates safely and efficiently.
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Before starting, always unplug your device and allow it to cool completely. Proper maintenance and cautious operation can extend your appliance’s lifespan and keep your cooking experience enjoyable and safe.
Key Takeaways
| Proper cleaning prevents smoke | Regularly clean the basket and heating element to remove grease buildup. |
| Use accessories correctly | Avoid placing liners or accessories that can trap grease or block airflow. |
| Check for food residue | Food debris or oil spills can ignite and cause smoke if not cleaned. |
| Monitor cooking temperatures | Cooking at excessively high temperatures can cause smoking—adjust accordingly. |
Step 1: Turn Off and Unplug Your Air Fryer
Before attempting any troubleshooting, ensure your COSORI air fryer is turned off and unplugged from the power outlet. Wait until it cools completely, especially the heating element and basket, to prevent burns or accidents during cleaning.
Step 2: Clean the Basket and Heating Element
- Remove the basket and any accessories, such as a mesh rack or liners. If using liners, ensure they are the correct type and used properly (see below).
- Wash the basket thoroughly with warm, soapy water. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to remove grease and food residues.
- Wipe down the heating element inside the unit with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid soaking or using harsh chemicals.
- Dry all parts completely before reassembling.
Grease and food particles can ignite when heated, causing smoke. Regular cleaning is key to preventing this issue.
Step 3: Check and Use Proper Accessories
If you use accessories like liners or racks, ensure they are suitable for your model. For example, the COSORI 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer can be paired with accessories like the ALJ 3PCS Air Fryer Oven Mesh Rack, which promotes even air circulation and prevents grease buildup. Avoid using liners that can trap grease or block airflow, especially during preheating.
Always place food directly on the basket or use accessories designed for your device to prevent flare-ups or smoke caused by trapped residues.
Step 4: Adjust Cooking Temperatures and Times
High temperatures (close to 450°F) can sometimes cause smoking if excess oil or grease is present. Reduce the temperature slightly and monitor the process. For most foods, cooking at 350-400°F is sufficient.
If your recipes require high heat, ensure the basket is clean and free of excess oil. Also, avoid overcrowding, as this can cause uneven heating and smoke.
Step 5: Use Liners and Accessories Safely
Disposable paper liners like the Cosori Air Fryer Liners or the Air Fryer Paper Liners can help keep your basket clean, but must be used correctly. Never place liners during preheating, as trapped heat can cause them to catch fire or produce smoke.
Ensure liners are weighted down with food to prevent them from flying up and contacting the heating element. Using appropriate accessories like the ALJ Mesh Rack can improve air circulation and reduce grease buildup, lowering smoking risks.
Additional Tips and Safety Warnings
- Always clean your air fryer regularly, ideally after each use, to prevent grease accumulation.
- Ensure no food residues are trapped in the heating element or around the fan system.
- Use the recommended accessories and avoid overfilling the basket.
- Monitor cooking temperatures — avoid setting them too high unless necessary.
- If smoking persists despite cleaning, contact COSORI customer support for further assistance.
Never leave your air fryer unattended while in use, especially if smoke is present. Smoke can be a sign of a serious problem, such as a grease fire, which requires immediate action.
The Products in This Guide

Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt
- ✔ Weight: 15.4 lbs
- ✔ Material: Plastic and stainless steel
- ✔ Warranty: 1-year

ALJ 3PCS Air Fryer Oven Mesh Rack
- ✔ Durability: High
- ✔ Ease of Use: Very easy
- ✔ Cleaning: Dishwasher safe
Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt

The COSORI 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer combines innovative TurboBlaze technology with precise temperature control, making it ideal for crispy, evenly cooked meals. Its built-in smart controls and multiple cooking modes make it a top choice for busy households.
Pros:
- Powerful 3600 rpm fan for even cooking
- Multiple cooking functions including roast, bake, broil
- Smart control with app connectivity
- Precise temperature control from 90°–450°F
Cons:
- Can produce smoke if not cleaned regularly
- Some users find the controls complex initially
- Larger size may not fit all kitchen spaces
Best for: Users seeking a versatile air fryer with advanced features and even cooking capabilities
Not ideal for: Those looking for a compact, basic model or primarily for small quantities
Bottom line: A high-performance air fryer capable of delivering crispy results with smart features.
ALJ 3PCS Air Fryer Oven Mesh Rack

The ALJ 3PCS Air Fryer Oven Mesh Rack enhances air circulation and promotes even cooking, making it a valuable accessory for your COSORI air fryer. Made of food-grade stainless steel, it’s durable, dishwasher safe, and helps prevent grease buildup that causes smoking.
Pros:
- Improves airflow for crispy results
- Made of food-grade stainless steel
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
- Prevents grease buildup
Cons:
- Additional cost for accessories
- Requires proper placement to avoid blocking airflow
- Not compatible with very small baskets
Best for: Users wanting to improve air circulation and reduce smoke caused by grease buildup
Not ideal for: Those seeking an all-in-one appliance without additional accessories
Bottom line: A practical accessory that enhances airflow and keeps your air fryer cleaner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my COSORI air fryer keep smoking even after cleaning?
Persistent smoking can be caused by residual grease or food particles trapped in the heating element or basket. Regular cleaning, proper use of accessories, and monitoring cooking temperatures can help prevent this.
Can I use liners in my COSORI air fryer to prevent smoking?
Yes, but only use liners designed for air fryers, such as the Cosori Air Fryer Liners or the silicone-coated disposable liners. Never place liners during preheating, and always ensure they are weighted down to prevent contact with the heating element.
What temperature should I set to prevent smoking?
While the COSORI can reach up to 450°F, cooking at lower temperatures (around 350-400°F) with proper cleaning minimizes smoke. Adjust temperatures based on your food and avoid overcrowding.
How often should I clean my air fryer?
It’s best to clean your air fryer after each use. Regular maintenance prevents grease buildup and reduces the risk of smoking during operation.
What should I do if my air fryer continues to smoke?
If cleaning and proper use don’t resolve the issue, unplug the device and contact COSORI customer support for further assistance. Do not ignore ongoing smoking, as it could indicate a more serious problem.
Keep Your COSORI Air Fryer Smoke-Free with These Tips
Maintaining your COSORI air fryer with regular cleaning, correct accessory use, and proper temperature settings can greatly reduce smoking issues, ensuring safe and delicious cooking every time. Remember, safety first—if problems persist, seek professional support to avoid potential hazards.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
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