During a heatwave, turning on a full-sized gas or electric oven can make the kitchen unbearably hot, causing discomfort and potentially increasing energy bills. Cooking outside with a grill, smoker, pizza oven, or fire pit can be an option to keep the kitchen cool, but may not be ideal in extreme temperatures. An air fryer can be a valuable tool during a heatwave, as it cooks quickly and emits less heat than an oven or grill. The author found that using an air fryer did not raise the temperature in their house significantly, in contrast to using a traditional oven.
In a test comparing the heat output of an air fryer to a wall oven, the author roasted chicken thighs in both appliances and measured the temperature changes in their kitchen. The oven made the kitchen 12 degrees hotter than the air fryer, showing that the air fryer is a more efficient option for cooking during a heatwave. The air fryer recipe required less cooking time and preheat time compared to the oven, further showcasing its advantages in hot weather. Additionally, the author highlighted the potential health risks of cooking with natural gas in an enclosed kitchen.
Using an air fryer during a heatwave not only keeps the kitchen cooler but can also help lower energy bills. Air conditioners already work hard in hot weather, and using an oven can cause them to work even harder, resulting in higher energy consumption. The author emphasized that modern ovens use significantly more energy than air fryers, making the latter a more cost-effective option. Cooking with an air fryer for shorter periods of time can help reduce the strain on the AC and save money in the long run.
While air fryers are smaller than traditional ovens, they can still handle a wide range of cooking tasks, from roasting chicken to preparing fish and burgers. The author discovered the versatility of the air fryer by experimenting with various recipes and found that it exceeded expectations beyond just cooking wings and fries. They shared seven foods that they now exclusively make in the air fryer due to the quality of the results and the convenience of keeping the kitchen cool. Overall, the air fryer emerged as a valuable kitchen appliance during hot weather, offering efficient cooking and energy-saving benefits.
