Clean the basket and tray after every use

The basket and tray are where food sits during cooking, so they collect grease and crumbs. Let them cool for at least 15 minutes after you finish cooking, then remove them from the unit. Most Power XL baskets and trays are dishwasher-safe on the top rack, but hand-washing with warm soapy water works just as well and takes about two minutes.

If food is stuck on, soak the basket or tray in warm soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes before scrubbing. Use a soft sponge or cloth — avoid steel wool or abrasive scrubbers, which can scratch the non-stick coating. Dry both pieces completely before putting them back in the unit. Water left inside can drip onto the heating element and cause rust or electrical problems.

Do not submerge the main unit itself. The heating element and electrical components are inside the body, and water will damage them.

Key Takeaways

  • Clean the basket and tray after every use by hand-washing or placing them on the top rack of the dishwasher.
  • Wipe the inside walls and heating element with a damp cloth once a month to remove grease buildup that can affect cooking.
  • Never submerge the main unit body in water or spray it directly with a hose.
  • Check the air vents on the back and sides monthly and clear any debris blocking airflow.

Wipe the interior walls monthly

Grease and food particles can build up on the inside walls of the cooking chamber over time. This buildup reduces air circulation and can make your food cook unevenly. Once a month, unplug the unit and let it cool completely. Use a damp cloth or soft sponge to wipe the interior walls, including the sides and bottom.

Pay attention to the heating element at the top — wipe around it gently without pressing hard. If you see stubborn grease, dampen the cloth with a little white vinegar. Let the interior dry completely before plugging the unit back in and using it again.

Clear the air vents and heating element

Power XL air fryers have vents on the back and sides that pull air through the cooking chamber. If these vents get blocked by dust or grease, the unit cannot circulate air properly and your food will not cook evenly. Check the vents every month and use a dry cloth or soft brush to wipe away any debris.

The heating element at the top of the chamber can also collect grease residue. Once a month, look up into the chamber with a flashlight and see if the element looks coated. If it does, use a damp cloth to gently wipe it clean. Do not use water directly on the element — just a cloth that is damp, not dripping.

Handle the exterior casing

The outside of your Power XL unit collects dust and fingerprints. Wipe it down with a dry cloth or a cloth barely dampened with water. If the exterior is greasy (which can happen if you open the basket while cooking), use a cloth with a tiny bit of mild dish soap and water, then dry it when ready.

Never spray water directly on the unit or use harsh chemicals. The exterior casing protects the electrical components inside, and water seeping through can cause damage.

What to do if the basket loses its non-stick coating

The non-stick surface on the basket and tray can wear down over time, especially if you use metal utensils or abrasive scrubbers. If food starts sticking more than it used to, you have two options: replace just the basket and tray (Power XL sells these separately), or replace the entire unit if it is very old.

To extend the life of the non-stick coating, always use silicone or wooden utensils when removing food, and hand-wash with soft sponges. Avoid the dishwasher if the basket is showing signs of wear.

Descaling if you live in a hard water area

If your tap water is hard (contains a lot of minerals), mineral deposits can build up inside the heating element over time. This makes the unit less efficient and can shorten its life. If you notice that your air fryer is heating more slowly than usual, or if you see white or chalky buildup inside, you may need to descale.

Fill a small bowl with equal parts white vinegar and water. Place the bowl in the basket, close the unit, and run it at 350°F for 10 minutes. Let it cool, then wipe out the interior with a damp cloth. Do this once or twice a year if you have hard water, or once every two years if your water is soft.

Store it properly when not in use

When you are not using your Power XL air fryer, store it in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the basket and tray inside the unit or in a cabinet so they do not collect dust. If you store it for more than a few weeks, wipe down the exterior and interior one more time before using it again.

Do not store the unit with the basket or tray still wet. Any moisture left inside can cause rust or mold growth, especially if the air fryer sits unused for a long time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put the Power XL basket in the dishwasher?

Yes, most Power XL baskets and trays are dishwasher-safe on the top rack. However, hand-washing extends the life of the non-stick coating. If you use the dishwasher, avoid harsh detergents and do not use the heat-dry setting.

What if my air fryer smells like burning plastic?

A new air fryer may smell like plastic for the first few uses — this is normal. Run it empty at 400°F for 10 minutes in a well-ventilated area to burn off the smell. If the smell continues after several uses or gets worse, stop using it and contact Power XL customer service, as this could indicate a defect.

How often should I clean my air fryer?

Clean the basket and tray after every use. Wipe the interior walls and check the vents once a month. If you cook greasy foods often, you may want to wipe the interior more frequently to prevent buildup.

Is it safe to use cooking spray in a Power XL air fryer?

Cooking spray can build up on the basket and heating element over time, making cleaning harder. Instead, lightly coat food with oil before placing it in the basket, or use parchment liners designed for air fryers. If you do use spray, clean the basket and interior more often.

What should I do if water drips from the bottom of my air fryer?

Stop using it when ready and unplug it. Water inside the unit can damage electrical components. Let it dry completely in a warm, dry place for 24 to 48 hours before using it again. If water continues to drip after drying, contact Power XL support — this may indicate an internal problem.