This article contains the FAQs for the AF180 Series Ninja® Air Fryer Pro XL. This supports the following SKUs: AF180, AF181, AF181BK, AF181CM, AF181C, AF181GY and AF182AMZ.
Product Specs
How many cooking functions are included with the unit?
- AF181- The air fryer has 6 different cooking functions: Max Crisp, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- AF180- The air fryer has 4 different cooking functions: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
What materials are the cooking drawer, crisper plate, and unit's exterior made of?
The cooking drawer and crisper plate are both made out of aluminum with a nano-ceramic coating. The unit's exterior is BPA-free.
Operational Questions
How do I know if the unit is on?
When the unit is powered on, the digital display will show 0:00.
Can I adjust the cook time and/or temperature once the unit is running?
Yes, you can adjust the cook time or temperature at any point throughout the cooking process by using the up and down TIME and/or TEMP arrows. 
Can I adjust the cook time once the unit is running?
Yes, you can adjust the cooking time at any point during cooking by using the up and down TIME arrows.
Can I pull out the drawer to check on food during cooking?
Yes. We recommend checking on your food regularly throughout the cooking process. Simply press the 'START/PAUSE' button pull out the drawer and shake or rotate the food. Press 'START/PAUSE' to resume the cook cycle.
Can I use parchment paper or aluminum foil in the drawer?
Yes. It is safe to use parchment paper and aluminum foil in the drawer. The use of aluminum foil is suggested in some recipes.
How do I insert the crisper plate?
(Only applicable for AF181 model): You can insert the crisper plate into the drawer in 2 ways.
- Lower Position (for single-layer cooking): To place the crisper plate in the lower position of the drawer, make sure the cutouts are on the left and right side of the drawer.
- Upper Position (for dual-layer cooking): To place the crisper plate in the upper position of the drawer, make sure the cutouts are at the front and back of the drawer.
AF180 model: only has one position.
How do I pause the countdown timer?
Pressing START/PAUSE during cooking will PAUSE the cooking function.
How do I read the time setting?
The display shows in HH:MM (hours, minutes).
Air Fryer Usage Questions
Is the crisper drawer nonstick?
Yes. The drawer has a nano-ceramic coating.
What are the timer increments?
The timer increments vary depending on the function:
- Air Fry: 1-minute increments up to 1 hour
- Max Crisp: 1-minute increments up to 1 hour (Not included for AF180 model)
- Roast: 1-minute increments for the first hour, followed by 5-minute increments for the next 3 hours
- Dehydrate: 15-minute increments up to 12 hours
- Reheat: 1-minute increments up to 1 hour
- Bake: 1-minute increments for the first 30 minutes, followed by 5-minute increments for the next 3 1/2 hours (Not included for AF180 model)
What is Max Crisp?
Max Crisp Technology provides hotter, faster, and crispier results for all your favorite prepackaged frozen foods. Max Crisp cooks at 450°F. For best results, reduce cooking times and shake food often.
What is the temperature range of the unit?
- AF180: The temperature ranges from 104°F (for Dehydrate) to 400°C (for Air Fry).
- AF181: The temperature ranges from 104°F (for Dehydrate) to 450°C (for Max Crisp).
Where is the exhaust vent located on the unit?
The exhaust vent is located on the back side of the unit. This area will heat up during cooking. When using this appliance, make sure to provide at least 6 inches of space above and on all sides for air circulation.
Where is the power button located?
The power button is located on the left side of the control panel. 
Does the unit pause when I pull out the drawer?
No, the unit does not automatically pause.
Cleaning and Maintenance Questions
How do I clean the unit?
To clean the main unit and the control panel, wipe them clean with a damp cloth. The drawer and crisper plate can be washed in the dishwasher. If food residue is stuck on the drawer or crisper plate, place them in a sink filled with warm, soapy water and allow to soak. Thoroughly air-dry or towel-dry all parts after cleaning.
How often should the unit, drawer and crisper plate be cleaned?
The unit, drawer and crisper plate should be thoroughly cleaned after every use. Before cleaning, unplug the unit from the wall outlet. To clean the main unit and control panel, wipe them with a damp cloth. The drawer and crisper plate are both dishwasher safe. If there is food residue stuck on the drawer or crisper plate, place them in a sink filled with warm, soapy water and allow them to soak. Use a soft sponge to help remove any remaining residue. Thoroughly air-dry or towel-dry all parts after cleaning.
Cooking Questions
Can a whole chicken fit in the Air Fryer Max?
Can I air fry wet battered ingredients?
Yes, but use the proper breading technique. It is important to coat foods first with flour, then with egg, and then with bread crumbs. Be sure to press the bread crumbs onto the food with your hands. Because the air fryer has a powerful fan as part of its mechanism, the coating can sometimes be blown off. Pressing the bread crumbs firmly on will help them stick.
Why is my food blowing around when air frying?
Occasionally, the fan from the air fryer will blow lightweight foods around. To alleviate this, secure foods (like the top slice of bread on a sandwich) with cocktail sticks.
Why is my food burning on Max Crisp?
Max Crisp cooks your food faster than traditional air crisping, so make sure you check on your food and shake it often to prevent burning. (only applicable for AF181 model)
Do I have to shake the drawer while cooking?
Yes. It is important to shake or rotate your food for consistent browning and crispiness. For best results, follow the recipe or cooking chart to find out how often you should shake or rotate ingredients while cooking. 
Do I need to defrost frozen foods before air frying them?
It depends on the food. Follow package instructions.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Yes, we recommend a 3-minute preheat before adding ingredients.
Do I need to use oil when air frying?
Although oil is not required, we recommend starting with one tablespoon and adjusting for personal preference, or referencing the recipe for recommended oil amounts.
How do I convert conventional oven temperatures to the Air Fryer Max ?
Reduce the cook temperature by 10˚C.
When should I use Max Crisp instead of Air Crisp?
For best results, use Max Crisp when cooking prepackaged frozen foods, such as french fries or chicken nuggets.
When should I use the crisper plate?
We recommend to use the crisper plate when you want food to come out crispy. The plate elevates the food in the drawer so air can flow under it for even cooking and crisping.
General Questions
Will the outside of the unit get hot?
Although the outside of the unit will heat up during the cooking process, the control panel and crisper drawer handle will remain safe to touch.
Is it safe to put the drawer on my countertop?
Place the drawer on heat-safe surfaces only and use caution when handling as the drawer will get hot during cooking.
The timer won't go past 1 minute.
The timer is actually at 1 hour. The time display should be read as HH:MM.
Why can't I change the temperature for Max Crisp?
(only applicable for AF181 model): 450°F is the default temperature for Max Crisp.
Why won’t the temperature go any higher?
- AF180 model: The max temperature is 400˚F for Air Fry
- AF181 model: The max temperature is 450˚F for Max Crisp. The max temperature is 400˚C for all other functions.