Deep fryer vs. air fryer: running cost
A deep fryer is cheaper to run: about $5 a year versus $24 for an air fryer at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $19 difference.
| Deep fryer | Air fryer | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 1,700 W | 1,500 W |
| Watt range | 1,000–1,800 W | 800–1,800 W |
| Typical use | 30 minutes a day, 1 days a week | 24 minutes a day |
| Energy per year | 27 kWh | 131 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 18¢ | 16¢ |
| Cost per day | 1.3¢ | 6.5¢ |
| Cost per month | $0.40 | $1.97 |
| Cost per year | $5 | $24 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $12 | $57 |
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What drives the difference
- Deep fryer: Electric deep fryers draw 1,500-1,800 W to heat 2-4 liters of oil; heating the oil takes 10-15 minutes before cooking starts.
- Air fryer: Air fryers draw 1,200-1,800 W but cycle once at temperature; a 20-minute cook uses about 0.25-0.4 kWh.
Ways to cut either cost
Skips heating quarts of oil and typically cooks in less total time and energy.
See options on AmazonKeep the basket clean so airflow and cook times stay efficient.
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Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a deep fryer or an air fryer?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), an air fryer costs about $24 a year versus $5 for a deep fryer. That's $19 more, or 4.9× as much.
How many watts do deep fryer and air fryer use?
A deep fryer typically draws 1,700 W (range 1,000–1,800 W). An air fryer draws 1,500 W (range 800–1,800 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.