Originally Posted by
walkerwek1958
I’ve had two Tefal actifry friers over the years and neither lasted very long! Despite being used sparingly ( once/ twice/ week typically) the first broke after a couple of years. I replaced it with a new uprated version, the handle broke after around 3 years, I replaced it, then the frier itself developed a fault and would cut out, giving an error message. I checked the error code on the Tefal website, it claimed the mains voltage was too hugh and advised me to contact my electricity supplier! At this point I stripped the thing down to look for problems that may cause it to overheat but got nowhere so I reluctantly scrapped it. At over £100 each, with minimal usage, I reckon each batch of chips cost around 60p in depreciation. I don’t know what other brands are like but Tefal seem to have reliability problems, other family members have had similar experience and I definitely wouldn’t buy another. I have reverted back to a £20 deep fat frier that makes far nicer chips!
I liked the chips from the Actifry but they were never quite as crisp as ‘ real’ chips. They take around 25 to cook too, which is a bit long for me.
Here’s a top tip for making nice crispy chips: use Maris Piper spuds if you can get ‘em, boil the chips for a couple of minutes first before frying, and get the oil really hot. Use a conventional deep fat frier with good quality veg oil........forget the air frier!