Do Air Fryers Damage Countertops?
Is it safe to put your air fryer directly on your countertop? Sometimes yes but it depends on your countertop!
Air fryers are found in so many kitchens these days and if you’ve just a new air fryer, you might be wondering, can I put an air fryer on my countertop? Air fryers are little mini ovens that can get very hot, so it’s only a natural question to have!
The short answer is if your countertop is made of 100% heatproof material, then yes you can place your air fryer on the kitchen countertop. However, most countertop material commonly used isn’t heatproof like this, so it’s important to know which ones aren’t. Sometimes air fryers damage countertops that aren’t heatproof.
Even a heat-resistant countertop can be the victim of heat damage. This is mainly the case when an air fryer is used often and in the same spot.
Now let’s have a look at what countertop materials can handle these high temperatures and which ones can’t!
If your countertop isn’t heatproof, all you need to do is place a protector under your air fryer. We will look at some options for countertop protectors in the post.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are strong and durable. They are heat resistant, but not heatproof. What this means is that a quartz countertop is a heat-resistant material that can handle high temperatures sometimes, but not for prolonged periods of time. Using an air fryer on a quartz counter now and again might not be a cause for concern, but prolonged use can cause damage.
Quartz countertops are made up of around 90% quartz and 10% pigments and resin. Since the resin can only withstand approximately 150°F, the heat of an air fryer can cause damage to the resin and the countertop.
Granite countertop
Under normal circumstances, the top of a granite countertop should be able to easily handle the heat of an air fryer. Granite itself can withstand temperatures of up to 1200°F. However just like with the quartz countertop, if the granite were to get damaged it would be the coating on the countertop that would be damaged from too much heat.
This shouldn’t happen but sometimes if the countertop has a defect or wasn’t sealed correctly it can take off its sealant and make the granite more vulnerable to stains.
In general, a granite top is fine to use an air fryer on, but if you were using it constantly you might want to consider a protective board under it just to be safe.
Marble countertop
The same story goes with marble countertops as with granite and quartz. Though marble itself is extremely heat-resistant, it’s the sealer that can be damaged. It’s best to use a protector if using the air fryer often.
Marble, like concrete, is quite porous. If the sealer is damaged it can cause the marble to stain.
Stainless Steel Countertop
Stainless steel countertops are a type of countertop that can handle high heat. An air fryer can be used on that without the need for a protective pad.
Concrete Countertops
Concrete countertops are excellent at withstanding extreme heat. They are super strong and virtually indestructible. The only issue that may arise is if a sealant was used that cannot withstand heat.
Concrete is quite porous and unsealed concrete stains easily. If the heat of the air fryer goes through the sealant it may cause staining damage to the concrete. If you are in the process of putting in a concrete counter, take note that each concrete contractor will have their own preference for countertop sealers.
Ask them how well their choice holds up with high heat.
Laminate countertops / Formica countertops
Laminate materials are not heatproof and prolonged use of a heating element on the counter can cause cracking, burn marks, and even melting in some cases. The best option for using an air fryer on a laminate surface is to use a protector.
Wood Countertops
Though a wood countertop is very durable, excessive heat can cause warping and burn marks on the wood. It is best to use protective mats underneath the air fryer.
What to put under an air fryer
In pretty much all cases, bar stainless steel, it’s a good idea to put something under your air fryer. Particularly if you use it often and place it in the same spot each time you use it. Here are some of the options to use under your air fryer to prevent air fryer damage.
Silicone mats
Non-slip silicone pads and mats are a great option for air fryers, hot pans, and other kitchen appliances. These heat protector mats can handle heat up to 446°F. The good news is that they can come in many different sizes too, to suit whichever size air fryer you have.
Wooden boards
A wooden board is a great option for placing under your air fryer. Wooden cutting boards can also come in many different sizes.
Ceramic tiles
Old plain ceramic tiles can be a great option to place under your air fryer, especially if you have some lying around already and can reuse them!
Can I put my air fryer on the stove?
Since the stove is heatproof you might consider placing your air fryer there. However, we strongly recommend that you don’t. It’s way too easy to accidentally turn on your stove while the air fryer is on it.
Other things to consider
An air fryer can also have a vent at the back that release the hot air. Check where your air fryer back is facing too, to ensure all the hot steam doesn’t cause damage. The hot steam released can sometimes be the cause of cracking or damaged paint on walls.
From our personal experience, one time we had our air fryer near our central heating remote that was placed on the wall in the kitchen. The steam caused it to temporarily not work!
You want to ensure it’s not blowing hot steam into an electrical outlet. Check that your air fryer doesn’t touch other kitchen appliances while cooking, as the outside of the air fryer can become very hot while it’s being used.
In general, give the air fryer enough space around it so there is room for airflow and so things don’t get too hot. Some air fryers have a cool-touch surface but many don’t.
Conclusion
Now that we have run through the various countertop materials and methods to protect your kitchen surface, you’re hopefully more confident in where to place your air fryer.
If you’re using the air fryer very infrequently, the heat-resistant materials such as quartz, granite, and marble should be alright unprotected, but in general, it’s the best idea to place something under your appliance.
Especially if you’re using it frequently. Countertops are an expensive part of the kitchen so why not mitigate the risk of damage with an easy solution like a silicone mat or wooden board?
Help! I need your most important tips asap. New to air frying.