the non-stick coating on the drip tray is peeling off in big flakes after a few months, is that safe?

Diagnosis

The peeling of the non-stick coating on the Instant Vortex Plus 10-Quart drip tray is a result of delamination. This occurs when the bond between the base metal and the PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) or ceramic coating fails. In most cases, this is triggered by "thermal shock"—placing a cold tray into a preheated 400°F oven or, more commonly, placing a scorching hot tray directly into cold soapy water. This rapid temperature shift causes the metal to contract at a different rate than the coating, creating microscopic cracks that eventually lead to large flakes. Another primary cause is the use of abrasive cleaning agents or metal utensils. Even "non-scratch" green scouring pads can create micro-abrasions in the coating, allowing moisture and oils to seep underneath the surface, lifting the coating from the base. You can confirm this is a coating failure if you see "bubbles" appearing before the flakes drop off, or if the flakes feel like thin, plastic-like shards rather than metal shavings. It is not safe to continue using a peeling tray. While the coating itself is generally inert, the physical flakes act as contaminants in your food. More importantly, once the coating is compromised, the exposed base metal can oxidize or react with acidic foods, and the remaining coating is more likely to shed larger pieces into your meals during the high-velocity airflow cycles typical of the Vortex Plus system.

How to Fix It

Because the non-stick coating is chemically bonded to the metal, it cannot be "re-patched" or repaired at home. The only safe solution is a full replacement of the component.

1. Immediately remove the damaged drip tray from the unit. Do not attempt to scrape off the remaining loose flakes, as this will only accelerate the peeling of the remaining healthy sections.
2. Locate the exact model number of your unit (usually found on the rear panel or the bottom of the appliance) to ensure you purchase the correct 10-Quart specific tray, as the 6-Quart and 4-Quart versions are not interchangeable.
3. Purchase a genuine Instant Brand replacement drip tray. Avoid generic third-party trays from marketplaces, as they often lack the precise depth required to maintain the airflow gap between the tray and the heating element, which can lead to overheating or uneven cooking.
4. Before using the new tray, wash it with warm soapy water and a soft sponge to remove any factory residues.
5. Insert the new tray into the bottom slot, ensuring it sits flush against the base to prevent the oven from tilting or vibrating during the convection cycle.

If That Didn't Work

If you find that your replacement tray begins to peel within a few months, consider these alternative strategies to extend the life of the coating:

• Switch to Parchment Liners: Use perforated air fryer parchment paper liners specifically designed for the 10-Quart model. By placing a liner on the tray, you create a physical barrier between the food and the coating, reducing the need for aggressive scrubbing and preventing direct contact with acidic marinades that can degrade the non-stick layer.
• Implement a Cooling Phase: Never move the tray directly from the oven to the sink. Let the tray cool to room temperature (approximately 15-20 minutes) before introducing it to water. This prevents the thermal shock that causes delamination.
• Modify Your Cleaning Kit: Discard all steel wool, metal scrubbers, and stiff nylon brushes. Switch exclusively to silicone scrapers or soft microfiber cloths. If grease is stubborn, soak the tray in warm water with a drop of dish soap for 30 minutes rather than scrubbing harder.
• Avoid Aerosol Non-Stick Sprays: Stop using "Pam" or similar aerosol sprays containing lecithin. These sprays leave a gummy residue that polymerizes under high heat, creating a sticky film that requires abrasive scrubbing to remove, which in turn destroys the coating. Use a small amount of high-smoke-point oil (like avocado or grapeseed oil) applied with a silicone brush.

Heads Up

• Always check the tray for "bubbling" every few weeks; if you see a bubble, the seal is broken and the tray should be replaced before it begins to flake into your food.
• Be mindful of the "Searing" or "Air Fry" settings at 400°F; prolonged use at maximum temperature increases the rate of coating degradation.
• Ensure the drip tray is always clean of old grease buildup; carbonized oil can bake onto the coating and "pull" the coating away from the metal when you try to clean it.
• If you notice a metallic smell during operation after a tray has started peeling, the exposed metal is reacting to the heat; replace the tray immediately to avoid altering the taste of your food.