Tag: air fryer electricity usage

How Much Electricity Does an Air Fryer Use in South Africa? (2026 Real Cost Guide)

Published on Tigdag.com | Updated March 2026

Air fryers have become one of the most popular kitchen appliances in South Africa — and for good reason. They cook faster than an oven, require little oil, and work on many inverter systems during loadshedding. But one of the most common questions South Africans ask before buying is: how much electricity does an air fryer actually use, and what will it cost me every month?

This guide gives you real wattage figures, cost calculations based on South African Eskom tariffs, and a direct comparison against other common kitchen appliances so you can make an informed decision.

Quick Answer: A typical air fryer uses between 1,200W and 2,000W. At South Africa’s average electricity rate of around R2.80 per kWh (2026), a 30-minute cooking session costs approximately R0.70 to R1.40. Over a full month of daily use, that works out to R21–R42 — significantly less than a traditional oven.

How Many Watts Does an Air Fryer Use?

Air fryers vary in wattage depending on their size and brand. Here is a breakdown of the most common air fryer types available in South Africa and how much power they draw:

Air Fryer Size	Typical Wattage	Best For
Small (2–3L)	1,200W – 1,500W	1–2 people, inverter use, small kitchens
Medium (4–6L)	1,500W – 1,800W	2–4 people, most households
Large (6L+)	1,800W – 2,200W	Families, large meals
Dual basket models	2,000W – 2,400W	Families cooking multiple dishes

💡 Lower wattage does not always mean slower cooking. A well-designed 1,500W air fryer with good airflow can outperform a poorly designed 2,000W model.

What Does It Cost to Run an Air Fryer in South Africa?

South African electricity tariffs vary by municipality. As a general reference, the average residential rate in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban sits between R2.60 and R3.10 per kWh in 2026. For this guide we use R2.80/kWh as the baseline.

The formula for calculating your electricity cost is straightforward:

Cost = (Wattage ÷ 1,000) × Hours Used × Tariff Rate

Air Fryer	Wattage	30-min session	1 hour	Monthly (daily use, 30 min)
Small (1,200W)	1,200W	R0.84	R1.68	R25.20
Medium (1,600W)	1,600W	R1.12	R2.24	R33.60
Large (2,000W)	2,000W	R1.40	R2.80	R42.00

💡 These figures assume daily use. Most households cook with an air fryer 4–5 times per week, so your real monthly cost is likely 20–30% lower than the figures above.

Air Fryer vs Oven vs Microwave — Electricity Comparison

To understand whether an air fryer is worth it, it helps to compare it against the appliances most South Africans already own:

Appliance	Wattage	Avg Cook Time	Cost per Meal (R2.80/kWh)
Electric oven	2,500W – 3,000W	45–60 min	R5.25 – R8.40
Air fryer (medium)	1,600W	18–25 min	R1.20 – R1.87
Microwave	800W – 1,200W	5–10 min	R0.19 – R0.56
Stove plate (electric)	1,500W – 2,000W	20–30 min	R1.40 – R2.80

The data shows that an air fryer is not the cheapest appliance per minute of use — a microwave is — but when you factor in that an air fryer replaces an oven for most cooking tasks, the savings are significant. Switching from an oven to an air fryer for daily meals can save South African households R80–R150 per month on electricity.

Can You Run an Air Fryer During Loadshedding?

This is one of the most searched questions on the topic in South Africa, and the answer depends entirely on your backup power setup.

Inverter + Battery System

Most medium to large home inverters (2kVA and above) can run a small to medium air fryer. The key consideration is the air fryer’s startup surge — most models draw slightly more current at startup than during steady operation.

1,200W air fryer → needs at least a 1.5kVA inverter (2kVA recommended)
1,600W air fryer → needs at least a 2kVA inverter
2,000W+ air fryer → needs a 3kVA or larger inverter

💡 Always check your inverter’s continuous watt rating, not just its peak rating. The air fryer must run within the continuous watt capacity.

Solar Systems

If your solar system includes a battery bank, an air fryer is viable during loadshedding as long as the battery is sufficiently charged. A 30-minute air fryer session at 1,600W uses 0.8kWh — roughly the equivalent of running an LED TV for 8 hours.

Generator

Most petrol generators of 2kW or higher will run an air fryer without difficulty. Always allow the generator to stabilise before switching on the air fryer.

Which Air Fryers Use the Least Electricity in South Africa?

If electricity saving is your primary concern, here are the most efficient options available in South Africa:

Model	Wattage	Capacity	Estimated Monthly Cost*
Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer 3.5L	1,500W	3.5L	R31.50
Philips Essential Air Fryer 4.1L	1,400W	4.1L	R29.40
Russell Hobbs Satisfry 4L	1,350W	4L	R28.35
Bennett Read 4L Digital	1,600W	4L	R33.60

*Based on 30-minute daily use at R2.80/kWh

Tips to Reduce Air Fryer Electricity Usage

Even small changes in how you use your air fryer can reduce your electricity costs:

Preheat for 2–3 minutes only — air fryers heat faster than ovens and do not need long preheating
Avoid overcrowding the basket — food cooks faster and more evenly when air can circulate freely
Use the right temperature — higher is not always better; cooking at the correct temperature reduces wasted energy
Cook in batches — if you are preparing multiple items, cook them back to back while the air fryer is already hot
Keep the basket clean — residue buildup reduces efficiency over time
Use a smaller air fryer if cooking for 1–2 people — larger models use more energy even when not full

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an air fryer use more electricity than a microwave?

Yes. A microwave typically uses 800W–1,200W and cooks food in 5–10 minutes, making it the most energy-efficient cooking appliance. However, an air fryer produces different cooking results — crispier textures — that a microwave cannot replicate. For reheating, a microwave is cheaper. For roasting, grilling, or making crispy chips, an air fryer is more efficient than an oven.

How much does it cost to run an air fryer for 1 hour in South Africa?

At R2.80/kWh, a 1,600W air fryer costs approximately R4.48 per hour. In practice, very few recipes require a full hour, so most cooking sessions cost between R1.00 and R2.50.

Is an air fryer cheaper to run than an oven in South Africa?

Yes, significantly. A standard electric oven uses 2,500W–3,000W and typically requires 45–60 minutes for a full meal including preheat time. An air fryer doing the same job uses 1,200W–2,000W and typically completes cooking in 18–25 minutes. The total energy used is 60–70% less per meal in most cases.

Will an air fryer increase my electricity bill noticeably?

Not significantly, especially if it replaces your oven. If you are adding air frying on top of existing cooking habits, expect to add R25–R45 to your monthly electricity bill. If you use it instead of your oven, you are likely to see your bill decrease.

Final Verdict

An air fryer is one of the most electrically efficient cooking appliances you can own in South Africa, particularly when compared to a traditional oven. For households dealing with loadshedding and rising electricity tariffs, a small- to medium-sized air fryer offers a practical way to cook full meals quickly and cost-effectively.

The key is choosing the right size for your household. A family of four does not need a 2,200W dual-basket model if a 1,600W medium air fryer will handle daily cooking. Matching size to actual need is the single most effective way to manage air fryer electricity costs.

Related guides on Tigdag.com:

Tigdag is a South African product review website focused on helping households choose practical appliances. All guides are written to simplify buying decisions and explain real-world usage rather than marketing claims. No sponsored rankings.

March 11, 2026

Air Fryer vs Deep Fryer: Which Is Healthier and Cheaper?

Deep frying has been a popular cooking method for decades, but air fryers have quickly become one of the most popular kitchen appliances in South African homes. Many people are now wondering whether an air fryer can truly replace a traditional deep fryer.

Both appliances cook crispy foods such as chips, chicken, and snacks, but they work in very different ways.

In this guide we compare:

How air fryers and deep fryers work
Health differences
Electricity usage and cost
Which appliance is better for everyday cooking

Quick Comparison

Feature	Air Fryer	Deep Fryer
Cooking method	Hot air circulation	Oil immersion
Oil required	Very little	Large amounts
Health factor	Lower fat	Higher fat
Electricity use	Moderate	Moderate
Cooking results	Crispy outside	Very crispy

Both appliances can cook similar foods, but the cooking method and health impact differ significantly.

How an Air Fryer Works

An air fryer cooks food by circulating very hot air around the food at high speed. This process creates a crispy outer layer similar to frying, but with far less oil.

Most air fryers use between 1500 W and 2000 W of power and cook food at temperatures up to 200°C.

Because of this technology, air fryers can cook foods such as the following:

chips
chicken wings
vegetables
frozen snacks

using little or no oil.

You can learn more in our guide on how much electricity an air fryer uses in South Africa.

How a Deep Fryer Works

A deep fryer cooks food by completely immersing it in hot cooking oil, usually at temperatures between 170°C and 190°C.

The oil surrounds the food and cooks it quickly, creating a very crispy texture.

However, deep fryers require a significant amount of oil, which increases the fat content of the food.

Common foods cooked in deep fryers include:

french fries
fried chicken
doughnuts
battered foods

Which is healthier?

In most cases, an air fryer is significantly healthier than a deep fryer.

Deep frying requires food to be submerged in oil, which increases the calorie and fat content.

Air fryers, on the other hand, use very little oil. Many recipes only require one tablespoon of oil or none at all.

This means air fryer meals typically contain less fat and fewer calories than deep-fried food.

For people trying to reduce oil consumption, an air fryer is usually the better choice.

Electricity Usage Comparison

Both appliances use electricity, but their usage patterns are slightly different.

Appliance	Typical Power	Average Cooking Time
Air fryer	1500W – 2000W	10–20 minutes
Deep fryer	1500W – 1800W	8–15 minutes

Air fryers may run slightly longer depending on the food being cooked, but overall electricity usage is usually similar.

However, air fryers can often replace an electric oven, which consumes much more electricity.

For a full breakdown, see our guide on air fryer vs oven electricity cost.

Cooking Results

Deep fryers generally produce the crispiest results, especially for battered foods.

However, modern air fryers can achieve very similar results for many foods, including:

chips
chicken wings
frozen snacks

Air fryers may not always match the exact texture of deep frying, but they come very close while using much less oil.

Which One Is Easier to Use?

Air fryers are usually easier to use and clean.

Advantages of air fryers:

little oil required
easier cleaning
less smell in the kitchen

Deep fryers require more maintenance because:

oil must be replaced regularly
cleaning can be messy
used oil must be disposed of properly

Which Appliance Is Better?

The better appliance depends on your cooking preferences.

Choose an air fryer if you want:

healthier cooking
less oil usage
easy cleaning
versatile cooking functions

Choose a deep fryer if you want:

traditional fried food texture
very crispy battered foods

For most households, an air fryer offers a better balance between health, convenience, and versatility.

Final Verdict

Air fryers and deep fryers can both produce crispy food, but they serve slightly different purposes.

Deep fryers still produce the traditional fried texture many people enjoy, but they require large amounts of oil and can be more difficult to clean.

Air fryers provide a healthier alternative that uses far less oil while still producing crispy food. They are also more versatile and easier to maintain.

For many modern kitchens, an air fryer has become a more practical everyday appliance.

Explore More Air Fryer Guides

If you’re considering buying an air fryer or comparing different models, you may also find our other guides helpful. We have researched and compared many air fryers available in South Africa to help you choose the best option for your kitchen.

You can start with our complete guide to the Best Air Fryer in South Africa, where we compare the top models currently available.

If you’re looking for specific types of air fryers, you can also explore these guides:

Best Budget Air Fryers in South Africa – affordable models that offer great value.
Best Small Air Fryers in South Africa – compact air fryers ideal for individuals or smaller kitchens.
Best Large Air Fryers in South Africa – high-capacity air fryers designed for families.

For more comparisons, electricity usage guides, and buying advice, visit our Air Fryer Buying Guides Hub, where you’ll find all our air fryer articles in one place.

These guides will help you compare different air fryer sizes, features, and prices so you can choose the right appliance for your needs.

March 8, 2026

Air Fryer vs Oven Electricity Cost in South Africa (2026)

With electricity prices rising and loadshedding still affecting daily life, many South African households are looking for cheaper ways to cook at home. One of the most common questions people ask is whether an air fryer actually uses less electricity than a traditional oven.

Both appliances can cook similar meals, but they operate very differently. In this guide, we compare the real electricity usage of an air fryer vs an oven in South Africa, explain how much each costs to run, and discuss which option is more practical during loadshedding.

For a full buyer comparison and recommended models, read our Best Air Fryer in South Africa guide.

How Much Electricity Does an Oven Use?

A standard electric oven in a South African home generally draws between 2,500W and 3,000W while heating. Before cooking even begins, the oven must preheat, which already consumes a noticeable amount of electricity.

Most meals require 45 minutes to an hour of cooking time, and some dishes need even longer. Because of the high wattage and extended operating time, ovens are among the higher electricity-consuming appliances in the kitchen, especially when used several times a week.

How Much Electricity Does an Air Fryer Use?

Air fryers use a heating element and a high-speed fan to circulate hot air around food. Most models available in South Africa run between about 1,200W and 2,000W depending on size.

Unlike an oven, an air fryer does not need long preheating and usually reaches cooking temperature within a few minutes. Food portions such as chips, chicken strips, and vegetables often cook in 12 to 25 minutes.

Because the cooking time is shorter and the internal space is smaller, the total electricity used per meal is generally lower than that of a traditional oven, even if the air fryer draws similar power while running.

Electricity Cost Comparison (Air Fryer vs Oven in South Africa)

To understand the real difference, it helps to look at electricity usage in practical terms. South African electricity tariffs vary by municipality, but a typical residential rate is roughly around R2.50 to R4.75 per kWh.

A typical oven running at about 2,800W for one hour uses roughly 2.8 kWh of electricity. Depending on the tariff, that single cooking session can cost approximately R7 to R14.

An air fryer using around 1,500W for 20 minutes consumes only about 0.5 kWh. This usually costs about R1.50 to R2.50 per use.

While the exact numbers differ slightly by model and cooking time, the pattern remains consistent: an air fryer generally costs significantly less electricity per meal than a conventional oven.

Electricity Cost Comparison (Air Fryer vs Oven in South Africa)

Air Fryer vs Oven Comparison

Feature	Air Fryer	Oven
Typical Power Usage	1200W – 2000W	2500W – 3000W
Preheating Time	Very short (2–5 minutes)	Long (10–20 minutes)
Cooking Time	Fast	Slower
Electricity Cost per Use	Lower (R1.50-R2.50)	Higher (R7-R14)
Works on Backup Power	Sometimes (depending on inverter/generator)	Usually not
Best For	Daily meals, small portions	Large meals, baking
Loadshedding Practicality	More practical	Less practical

The differences above show why many South African households now use air fryers for everyday cooking while keeping ovens mainly for baking and large meals.

Air Fryer vs Oven on Backup Power (Inverters & Batteries)

During loadshedding there is no electricity available, so neither an oven nor an air fryer can operate unless a backup power system is being used. Many South African households now rely on inverters or battery systems to keep essential appliances running when power returns or during shorter outages.

A full-sized electric oven usually requires more power than most residential backup systems can safely supply. The heating elements draw high wattage for long periods, which quickly drains batteries or overloads smaller inverters/generators.

An air fryer is generally more practical on backup power. It runs for shorter periods, and, depending on the inverter size, many households can operate it for quick meals after an outage. For homes using battery backup, an air fryer is typically a far more manageable cooking appliance than a traditional oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an air fryer really save electricity compared to an oven?
Yes. Although an air fryer still uses a heating element, it cooks food much faster and in a smaller space. Because of the shorter cooking time, the total electricity used per meal is usually lower than a traditional oven.

Can an air fryer run on an inverter in South Africa?
It depends on the inverter size. Many medium- to large-sized inverters can run smaller or mid-sized air fryers for short cooking periods, but very small backup systems may struggle to handle the starting power draw.

Why does an oven use more power?
An oven heats a much larger internal space and must maintain temperature for a long time. The heating elements repeatedly switch on to keep the temperature steady, which increases electricity consumption.

Is it cheaper to cook chicken in an air fryer?
In most cases yes. Chicken portions usually cook in 18–25 minutes in an air fryer compared to much longer cooking times in an oven, reducing overall energy use.

Which appliance is better after loadshedding?
After power returns, an air fryer is usually more practical because it heats quickly and prepares meals faster. An oven takes longer to preheat and uses more electricity during the same period.

Final Thoughts

For many South African households, an air fryer is not only convenient but also a practical way to reduce cooking electricity costs. While ovens are still useful for large meals and baking, an air fryer offers faster cooking and lower power usage for everyday meals, especially when managing electricity carefully.

Want to know more in-depth about the electricity cost of an air fryer? Please check how much electricity does an air fryer use in south africa (2026)

For more comparisons and buying advice, visit our Air Fryer Guides in South Africa.

February 26, 2026

Best Air Fryer in South Africa (2026)— Complete Buyer’s Guide

Loadshedding has changed the way South Africans cook at home, and air fryers have quickly become one of the most popular kitchen appliances because they use less electricity than ovens while cooking food faster. The problem is that many people buy the wrong size or a low-quality model and end up with uneven cooking, long cooking times, or a unit that trips an inverter during power outages.

In this guide we compare the best air fryers available in South Africa in 2026, explain what size you actually need, how much power they use, and which models work best during loadshedding so you can choose the right one the first time.

Quick Answer: The Best Air Fryers in South Africa (2026)

If you don’t want to read the full guide, these are the top air fryer choices in South Africa right now based on reliability, cooking performance, electricity usage and value for money:

• Best Overall: Philips Essential XL Air Fryer
• Best Budget Option: Bennett Read 4L Digital Air Fryer
• Best for Large Families: Milex XXXL 7.2L Air Fryer
• Best for Loadshedding/Inverter Use: Xiaomi Smart Air Fryer 3.5L

Below we explain why these models stand out and which one is right for your home.

1. Philips Essential XL Air Fryer – Best Overall Air Fryer in South Africa

Philips Essential XL Air Fryer South Africa

The Philips Essential XL Air Fryer is one of the most popular air fryers in South Africa and for good reason. It uses Rapid Air Technology to circulate hot air evenly around food, producing crispy results with little to no oil. The 6.2L capacity is large enough for a family of 4 and makes it ideal for chips, chicken, and frozen foods during loadshedding.

This model is especially attractive to first-time buyers because it is simple to use, heats up quickly, and is far more electricity efficient than a traditional oven. For households affected by frequent loadshedding, the lower power usage makes a noticeable difference on inverter or backup power systems.

Key Features

• ±6.2L capacity (3-4 people: small family size)
• Rapid Air Technology for even cooking
• Adjustable temperature control
• Timer with automatic shut-off
• Non-stick removable basket
• Easy manual controls

Pros

Very easy to use
Energy efficient
Even cooking results
Good size for families
Trusted Philips reliability

Cons

More expensive than budget brands
No viewing window
Basic digital display

Who should buy the Philips Essential XL Air Fryer?

Live in a flat or small house
Want to reduce electricity usage during loadshedding
Cook for 3-4 people
Want fast meals after work
Ideal for beginners who don’t want complicated settings

2. Milex Power Air Fryer XXL – Best Budget Air Fryer in South Africa

Bennett Read 7.5L Digital Air Fryer South Africa

Many South Africans want an air fryer but don’t want to spend premium prices. The Milex Power Air Fryer XXL is one of the most popular budget air fryers because it offers a large basket and strong performance at a much lower price than premium brands.

It is especially popular for students, small families, and first-time buyers who want to try air frying without committing to an expensive appliance.

Key Features

±5.6L capacity (good for 3–4 people)
Adjustable temperature control
30-minute timer
Non-stick removable basket
Manual dial operation (very simple controls)

Pros

Very affordable compared to premium brands
Large basket for the price
Easy to operate
Good results with frozen foods
Widely available in South Africa

Cons

Build quality is average
Louder fan noise than premium air fryers
No automatic cooking programs
Can cook unevenly if basket is overcrowded

Who should buy this air fryer?

The Milex Power Air Fryer XXL is ideal for first-time buyers, students, or households on a budget that still want to reduce electricity usage and cook during loadshedding recovery periods. It offers excellent value for money and is a good starting point before upgrading to a premium model later.

Bennett Read 7.5L Digital Air Fryer – Best for Large Families

For bigger households, basket size becomes very important. The Bennett Read 7.5 L Digital Air Fryer is a popular choice in South Africa because it offers a much larger cooking capacity than standard air fryers while still remaining affordable.

The 7.5-litre basket allows you to cook multiple portions at once, making it useful for families who want to prepare meals quickly without cooking in batches. This is especially helpful during loadshedding recovery periods when electricity is available for a short time and meals need to be prepared fast.

Unlike manual dial air fryers, this model includes digital controls and preset cooking programs, which makes it easier for beginners to get consistent cooking results.

Key Features

Large 7.5L capacity (4-6 people: family sized)
Digital touch screen controls
Multiple cooking presets
Adjustable temperature control
Timer with automatic shut-off

Pros

Large cooking capacity
Easy digital controls
Good for families
Faster meal preparation
Good value for its size

Cons

Takes more counter space
Uses slightly more electricity than smaller models
Not ideal for very small kitchens

Who should buy this air fryer?

The Bennett Read 7.5L Digital Air Fryer is best suited for families of four or more people or households that cook larger meals. It is particularly useful for preparing full dinners quickly during loadshedding breaks.

Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer 3.5L – Best for Small Homes & Inverter Use

Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer 3.5L South Africa

The Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer 3.5L has become very popular in South Africa because it combines compact size with modern smart features. Unlike traditional air fryers, this model connects to a mobile app, allowing you to schedule cooking, adjust temperature, and monitor cooking progress remotely.

Its smaller capacity makes it ideal for couples, flats, and apartments where kitchen space is limited. Another advantage is its lower power draw compared to larger air fryers, which makes it one of the more practical options for households using backup batteries or certain inverters during loadshedding recovery periods.

The digital temperature control also allows slower cooking at lower heat settings, which is useful for reheating food, baking, or dehydrating snacks.

Key Features

3.5L compact capacity (1-2 people)
App control via smartphone
Digital temperature control
Timer scheduling
Sleek modern design

Pros

Compact and space-saving
Lower electricity usage than large models
Smart app features
Quiet operation
Good for couples or small kitchens

Cons

Small basket size
Not suitable for large families
Higher price than basic budget models

Who should buy this air fryer?

The Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer is ideal for couples, apartment living, and people who want a modern appliance with smart features. It is also a practical choice for households that rely on backup power because of its smaller energy demand.

Air Fryer Comparison Table (South Africa)

Model	Capacity	Power Usage	Best For	Price Range
Philips Essential XL	6.2L	±2000W	Overall performance	Premium
Milex Power Air Fryer XXL	5.6L	±1700W	Budget buyers	Affordable
Bennett Read 7L Digital	7.5L	±1800W	Families	Mid-range
Xiaomi Mi Smart Air Fryer	3.5L	±1500W	Small homes & inverter use	Mid-range

Note: Air fryer capacity ratings differ between brands. Basket shape and cooking surface area often matter more than the litre number, so two air fryers with similar litre ratings may not cook the same amount of food.

How to Choose the Right Air Fryer in South Africa

Choosing the right air fryer is not only about brand name or price. South African households have unique needs because of rising electricity costs and loadshedding, so it is important to consider a few key factors before buying.if you want to rad more about the top brands in SOuth Africa follow click on the link: What Is the Best Air Fryer Brand in South Africa? (2026)

1. Basket Size

Air fryer capacity is one of the most important decisions.

• 2–3L → Suitable for 1 person
• 3–5L → Couples or small families
• 5–7L → Families (recommended for most households)

A larger basket allows you to cook full meals at once instead of cooking in batches.

2. Electricity Usage

Power consumption matters, especially if you use backup power.
Most air fryers use between 1200W and 2000W.

Smaller air fryers:
• Use less electricity
• Work better with inverters

Large air fryers:
• Cook more food
• Use slightly more power

3. Manual vs Digital Controls

Manual dial air fryers:
• Cheaper
• Simple to operate
• Reliable

Digital air fryers:
• Preset cooking modes
• More precise temperature control
• Easier for beginners

4. Cooking Performance

Good air fryers should:
• Heat quickly
• Cook evenly
• Produce crispy results

A stronger fan and proper airflow design are more important than just high wattage.

5. Cleaning and Maintenance

Look for:
• Non-stick basket
• Dishwasher-safe parts
• Removable tray

This makes daily use far easier.

6. Loadshedding & Backup Power

Many South Africans specifically buy air fryers to cook after loadshedding.

Smaller or mid-size air fryers are usually better for inverter systems because they draw less peak power than ovens.

Air Fryer vs Oven – Which is cheaper in South Africa?

Many South African households are switching to air fryers because of rising electricity costs and loadshedding. While both an oven and an air fryer can cook similar foods, they do not use the same amount of electricity.

A traditional electric oven normally uses between 2,500W and 3,000W and also needs time to preheat before cooking starts. An air fryer, on the other hand, usually uses 1,200W to 2,000W and begins cooking immediately without preheating. Because cooking times are shorter, the total electricity used per meal is often much lower with an air fryer.

For example, chicken pieces may take 45–60 minutes in an oven, but only about 18–25 minutes in an air fryer. Even though the air fryer still draws power, it runs for a much shorter time, which reduces overall energy usage and monthly electricity costs.

Air fryers are also more practical during loadshedding. Many medium to large inverters can run an air fryer, while most cannot handle a full-size oven. This makes an air fryer a useful option for households using backup power systems.

Overall, for small to medium meals, an air fryer is usually the cheaper and more practical option compared to a traditional oven in South Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryers in South Africa

Does an air fryer use a lot of electricity?
No. Most air fryers use between 1200W and 2000W. Because they cook faster than an oven, the total electricity used per meal is usually lower.

Can you run an air fryer during loadshedding?
You cannot use it during a power outage, but you can use it on certain backup systems. Medium to large inverters can run many air fryers once power returns, depending on the inverter capacity.

Can an air fryer run on an inverter?
Yes, but you usually need at least a 2kW inverter depending on the model.

How long does an air fryer last?
Most good brands last 3–5 years with normal use.

Is an air fryer worth it in South Africa?
Yes, especially because of loadshedding and rising electricity costs.

What size air fryer do I need?
A 3–5L air fryer is suitable for 1–2 people, while a 5–7L air fryer is better for families.

Final Verdict – Is an Air Fryer Worth Buying in South Africa?

Air fryers have become one of the most practical kitchen appliances for South African households. They cook food faster than an oven, use less electricity, and are especially useful after loadshedding when you need to prepare meals quickly.

For most homes, a mid-size air fryer is a good investment because it reduces cooking time and monthly electricity usage while still producing crispy results. Whether you choose a premium model like the Philips, a budget option like the Milex, or a larger family unit, an air fryer is a convenient and cost-effective appliance for everyday cooking in South Africa. Check out: Air fryer vs Oven electricity.

About the author: Tigdag is a South African product review website focused on helping households choose practical appliances for everyday use, especially in situations affected by loadshedding and rising electricity costs. All guides are written to simplify buying decisions and explain real-world usage rather than marketing claims.

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February 25, 2026