Usually, yes: 3–5 minutes at the cooking temperature. It gives crisper results and makes recipe times accurate. For frozen snacks it's optional.
The short answer
An air fryer heats up quickly compared with an oven, but the basket and the air inside still start cold. Food that goes into a cold basket spends its first few minutes warming up rather than browning. Preheating for 3–5 minutes means the food starts crisping straight away, and cooking times, including the ones on this site, line up with what you'll see.
When it matters, and when it doesn't
| Food | Preheat? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Steak, chops, burgers | Yes | A hot start gives a better crust before the inside overcooks. |
| Chicken wings and thighs | Yes | Helps render fat and crisp the skin. |
| Breaded foods, fresh-cut fries | Yes | Sets the coating quickly so it doesn't go soggy. |
| Frozen fries, nuggets, snacks | Optional | Add 2–3 minutes if you skip it. |
| Baking (muffins, cakes) | Yes | Batters need steady heat from the start to rise properly. |
| Reheating leftovers | Optional | Low risk either way. |
| Dehydrating | No | Low temperatures and long times make it unnecessary. |
How to preheat
If your fryer has a Preheat button, use it. Many models beep when they're ready. If not:
- Insert the empty basket, with the crisper plate if your model uses one.
- Set the temperature you'll cook at.
- Run it for 3 minutes for small fryers (under 4 quarts) or 5 minutes for larger ones and oven-style models.
- Pull out the basket, add the food quickly, and start the cooking time.
Use oven mitts. The basket gets very hot within a couple of minutes.
Safety notes
- Never preheat with a loose parchment liner inside. With nothing holding it down, the fan can lift it into the heating element.
- Don't use aerosol cooking spray on a nonstick basket. Many manufacturers warn that the additives can damage the coating. Use a refillable oil mister or brush instead.
- Check your manual for its preheat guidance. Some makers advise against running some models empty for long periods.
Questions people ask
Does preheating waste electricity?
A few minutes at full power uses a little extra energy, but usually less than preheating a full-size oven.
What if I forgot to preheat?
Just add 2–3 minutes to the cooking time and check as normal.
Do dual-basket fryers need preheating?
The same rules apply. Preheat the baskets you'll use.
Related guides
Reviewed October 2026. Temperatures from Health Canada and the USDA; see Sources.