my air fryer makes a loud humming or buzzing noise when it’s running, is that normal?

Diagnosis

The Black+Decker HF110SBD utilizes a high-velocity convection fan located directly above the heating element to circulate hot air. A steady, low-frequency hum is the standard operational sound of the motor. However, a loud buzzing, rattling, or grinding noise indicates an imbalance or an obstruction in the airflow path. This most commonly occurs when food particles, grease splatters, or small debris from the basket are sucked upward into the heating chamber and lodge themselves in the fan blades. When a foreign object hits the blades, it creates a high-frequency vibration that resonates through the plastic housing, manifesting as a loud buzz. Alternatively, if the noise is a rhythmic grinding, it typically signifies that the fan motor bearings have degraded or that the fan blade has shifted slightly off its center axis due to overheating or physical impact. You can confirm this by listening closely to the top of the unit; if the sound intensifies as the unit reaches maximum temperature, it is likely a thermal expansion issue or a debris obstruction.

How to Fix It

To eliminate debris and stabilize the fan operation, follow these precise steps:

1. Disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet and allow the unit to cool for at least 30 minutes. Never attempt to clean the interior while the heating element is hot.
2. Remove the fry basket and the crisper tray completely to expose the inner cavity.
3. Turn the air fryer upside down over a trash bin or sink. Gently shake the unit from side to side. This often dislodges dried food remnants or crumbs that have migrated to the top of the heating chamber.
4. Using a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment or a can of compressed air, blow air into the top vents and around the heating coil area to clear out any lingering particles.
5. Take a damp (not dripping) microfiber cloth and wipe the interior walls and the area immediately surrounding the heating element. Do not spray liquid cleaners directly into the top of the unit, as this can short the motor.
6. Reinsert the basket and run the unit on the lowest temperature setting for 2 minutes to see if the buzzing has subsided.

If That Didn't Work

• Check the Basket Seating: Ensure the fry basket is fully locked into the chassis. If the basket is slightly skewed, it can cause an airflow turbulence that vibrates the internal housing, mimicking a motor buzz. Remove the basket and re-seat it firmly until you hear a click.
• Surface Stabilization: Place the unit on a hard, flat surface like a granite or laminate countertop. If the air fryer is sitting on a wooden cutting board or a silicone mat, the vibrations from the fan can be amplified by the surface, creating a loud humming sound.
• Inspect for Coil Sag: Look inside the top of the cavity. If the heating coil has sagged and is physically touching the fan shroud, it will create a metallic buzzing sound. If the coil is deformed, the unit is unsafe to use and requires professional service.
• Bearing Lubrication: If the noise is a high-pitched metallic screech, the motor bearings are likely dry. While the HF110SBD is a sealed unit, ensuring the unit is kept in a dust-free environment prevents the buildup of "grime" on the motor shaft which causes this friction.

Heads Up

• Avoid using oversized pieces of parchment paper or foil that touch the heating element; these can be sucked upward by the fan, causing immediate and loud buzzing or permanent motor damage.
• Never submerge the main housing in water; only the removable basket and tray are dishwasher safe.
• Always leave at least 5 inches of clearance around the rear exhaust vents to prevent the motor from overheating, which can warp the fan blades over time.
• Clean the heating element area every 10-15 uses to prevent grease buildup from hardening, which can throw off the fan's balance.