Tefal ActiFry Express
User Manual and Cooking Guide
Product Overview
The Tefal ActiFry Express is a kitchen appliance designed for convenient and healthy cooking, primarily known for its ability to cook fries and other dishes using hot air circulation and a stirring paddle. It offers efficient cooking with minimal oil.
Safety Instructions
This product is designed for domestic use only. Any commercial use, inappropriate use, or failure to comply with instructions will void the guarantee and the manufacturer accepts no responsibility.
- Read these instructions carefully and keep them for future reference.
- The appliance is not intended for operation via external timers or remote control systems.
- Do not use if the appliance or power cord is damaged, or if it has been dropped and shows visible damage or appears to be working abnormally. Contact an Approved Service Centre.
- If the power cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, an approved After-Sales Service, or a similarly qualified person to avoid danger. Never attempt to disassemble the appliance yourself.
- This appliance is not designed for use by individuals (including children) with physical, sensory, or mental impairments, or those lacking knowledge or experience, unless supervised or given prior instructions by a responsible adult. Children must be supervised to ensure they do not play with the appliance.
- Children aged 8 and above, and persons with reduced capabilities or lack of experience/knowledge, can use the appliance if given supervision or instruction on safe use and understanding the hazards. Children must not play with the appliance. Children under 8 years should not use this appliance unless continuously supervised by a responsible adult. Cleaning and user maintenance should not be performed by children unless they are older than 8 and supervised. Keep the appliance and its cord out of reach of children under 8 years.
- Certain parts can become hot during operation, potentially causing burns. Do not touch hot surfaces like the lid or visible metal parts.
- Children should not clean or perform maintenance unless supervised by a responsible adult.
- Do not use the appliance near flammable materials (blinds, curtains) or external heat sources (gas hob, hotplate).
- Never operate the appliance under kitchen cupboards.
- Never move the appliance when it contains hot food.
- Never operate the appliance when empty.
- A harmless smell may be noticed during the first use, which will quickly disappear and does not affect the appliance.
- To avoid damage, adhere to the quantities of ingredients and liquid specified in the instruction and recipe booklets.
- Never overload the tray or exceed recommended quantities.
- Never leave the measuring spoon in the appliance while it is on.
- Never put the paddle in without the bowl.
- Never exceed the maximum level markers on the paddle and the tray.
- Never leave the appliance unattended during operation.
Environment Protection: Your appliance contains valuable, recoverable, or recyclable materials. Dispose of it at a local civic waste collection point.
General Precautions
- This appliance is intended for household use only. It is not intended for use in staff kitchen areas, farm houses, hotels, motels, or bed and breakfast environments.
- Do not immerse the product in water or any other liquid.
- For safety, the appliance complies with applicable standards and regulations (Low Voltage, Electromagnetic Compatibility, Materials in contact with food, Environment, etc.).
- Check that your mains voltage matches the appliance's rating plate (alternating current).
- If using the appliance in a different country, have it checked by an Approved Service Centre.
- For models with detachable power cords, use only the original power cord.
- Do not use an extension lead. If necessary, use one that is in good condition and compatible with the appliance's power, at your own responsibility.
- Use the appliance on a flat, stable, heat-resistant work surface away from water splashes.
- Do not let the power cord dangle.
- Do not unplug by pulling the power cord.
- Always unplug the appliance after use, to move it, or to clean it.
- In case of fire, unplug the appliance and smother flames with a damp tea towel.
Preparing the Food
To avoid damaging the appliance, never exceed the quantities of ingredients and liquids specified in the manual and recipe book. Always observe the maximum level indicated on the removable paddle.
Potato Preparation:
- Potato Variety: Use potatoes recommended for chipping, such as King Edward and Maris Piper. For freshly harvested potatoes, which have higher water content, cook for a few extra minutes.
- Storage: Store potatoes in a dark, cool cupboard (6-8°C), away from light.
- Cutting: Wash whole potatoes and cut into chips using a sharp knife or chip cutter. Ensure chips are of equal size for even cooking. Recommended thickness: American style (8x8mm), Thin (10x10mm), Standard (13x13mm). Maximum recommended thickness is 13mm x 13mm, with a length up to 9cm. Thinner chips are crunchier; thicker chips are softer inside.
- Washing & Drying: Wash chipped potatoes in cold water until clear to remove starch. Dry thoroughly with a clean, absorbent tea towel. Chips must be perfectly dry before cooking to ensure crispiness. Pat with paper kitchen towel just before cooking and dry again if any wetness remains.
Oil Usage:
A wide variety of oils can be used:
- Standard oils: Olive oil, grape seed oil, corn oil, groundnut (peanut) oil, sunflower oil, soya oil*.
- Flavoured oils: Oils infused with herbs, garlic, chilli, lemon.
- Speciality oils: Hazelnut*, sesame*. (*Follow manufacturer's instructions).
Cooking
Starting the Cooking
- Plug the appliance into an earthed socket. The appliance emits 2 beeps and the screen displays "00".
- Set the cooking time using the +/- buttons (refer to cooking table). Press the button; the appliance emits 2 beeps, and cooking begins with hot air circulation and paddle rotation.
- The selected time is displayed, followed by a minute-by-minute countdown. Time below one minute is shown in seconds.
- The appliance can be paused by pressing the button. Press again to resume cooking.
- The cooking time can be changed at any time using the +/- buttons.
- To delete or reset the time, press and hold the button for 2 seconds, then re-select the time.
Removing the Food
The appliance stops cooking when the lid is opened. To restart, close the lid and press the button.
After the lid has been open for 2 minutes, the appliance requires resetting.
- When cooking is complete, the timer beeps, and the display shows "00". The appliance stops automatically. Stop the beeps by pressing one of the +/- buttons.
- Open the lid.
- Lift the handle until it "CLICKS" to remove the pan and food.
- Unplug the appliance.
Note: The timer signals the end of cooking but does not switch off the appliance.
Cooking Times
Cooking times are approximate and may vary based on food seasonality, size, quantities, personal taste, and mains voltage. The amount of oil can be increased to taste. For crispier chips, add a few extra minutes.
Potatoes
| Type | Quantity | ActiFry spoons of oil | Cooking time* (mins) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard sized chips (10 mm x 10 mm, max length 9 cm) | 750 g | 1/2 | 25-27 |
| Fresh (chips) | 1000 g | 3/4 | 28-30 |
| 1500 g | 1 | 36-38 | |
| Traditional chips | 750 g | None | 23-25 |
| Frozen (chips)** | 1200 g | None | 30-32 |
* Freshly harvested potatoes may require longer cooking for a crisper, more golden result.
** For best results, use frozen chips without wheat flour batter coating, as it can lead to less crisp results and the batter may detach during cooking.
Meat-Poultry
Mix spices with oil (paprika, curry, herbs, thyme, bay leaf, etc.) for added flavour.
| Type | Quantity | ActiFry spoons of oil | Cooking time (mins) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken nuggets | Fresh | 1200 g | None | 13-15 |
| Frozen | 1200 g | None | 15-17 | |
| Chicken drumsticks | Fresh | 4 to 6 | None | 20-22 |
| Chicken breast (boneless) | Fresh | 6 | None | 18-20 |
| Fresh | 9 | None | 22-24 | |
| Meatballs | Frozen | 1200 g | 1 | 18-20 |
Frozen Foods
| Type | Quantity | ActiFry spoons of oil | Cooking time (mins) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ratatouille* | Frozen | 1000 g | None | 23-25 |
| Farmer's stir fry* | Frozen | 1000 g | None | 22-24 |
| Paëlla* | Frozen | 1000 g | None | 15-17 |
* Frozen preparations may not be available in all countries.
Fish - Shellfish
| Type | Quantity | ActiFry spoons of oil | Cooking time (mins) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calmari (battered) | Frozen | 500 g | None | 11-13 |
| Raw king prawns | Fresh | 450 g | None | 8-10 |
Vegetables
| Type (fresh) | Quantity | ActiFry spoons of oil | Cooking time (mins) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Courgettes/Zucchini | Strips | 1200 g | 1 spoon oil + 150 ml cold water | 25-30 |
| Peppers | Strips | 1000 g | 1 spoon oil + 150 ml cold water | 20-25 |
| Mushrooms | Quarters | 1000 g | 1 | 16-18 |
| Tomatoes | Quarters | 1000 g | 1 spoon oil + 150 ml cold water | 15-17 |
| Onions | Slices | 750 g | 1 | 18-20 |
Desserts
| Type | Quantity | ActiFry spoons of oil | Cooking time (mins) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bananas | Slices | 7 | 1 s. + 1 s. of sugar | 5-6 |
| Strawberries | Foil wrapped | 3 | None | 15-17 |
| Apples | Quarters | 1500 g | 2 s. of sugar | 10-12 |
| Pineapples | Halves | 5 | 1 s. + 2 s. of sugar | 10-12 |
| Pieces | 2 | 2 s. of sugar | 15-17 |
ActiFry Cooking Hints and Tips
- Do not add salt to chips while they are in the pan. Add salt only after cooking.
- When adding dried herbs and spices, mix them with oil or liquid first. Sprinkling them directly may cause them to blow around by the hot air.
- Strong coloured spices may slightly stain the paddle and appliance parts; this is normal.
- For best results, use finely chopped garlic instead of crushed garlic to prevent it from sticking to the paddle.
- For onions, use thinly sliced rings instead of chopped pieces for better cooking. Separate onion rings and stir them to distribute evenly.
- With meat and poultry dishes, pause the appliance and stir the pan once or twice during cooking to ensure even heating and prevent food from drying out on top.
- Prepare vegetables in small or stir-fry sizes for thorough cooking.
- This appliance is not suitable for recipes where the combined food and liquid content exceeds the maximum level indicated on the removable paddle (e.g., goulash, curries).
Easy to Clean
- Allow the appliance to cool completely before cleaning.
- Open the lid by pressing the button (B) and then the latches to remove the lid.
- Lift the detachable pan handle until it "CLICKS" to remove the pan.
- Remove the paddle by pushing the release button.
- Never immerse the appliance in water or any other liquid.
- Do not use corrosive or abrasive cleaning products.
- Clean the removable filter regularly.
- To prolong the life of the removable pan, never use metal utensils.
- Use only washing-up liquid for cleaning.
- All removable parts are dishwasher safe or can be cleaned with a non-abrasive sponge and washing-up liquid.
- Clean the appliance body with a damp sponge and a little washing-up liquid. Dry carefully before reassembling.
- The detachable pan complies with regulations for materials in contact with food.
- If food gets stuck or burnt onto the pan or paddle, soak them in warm water before cleaning.
Troubleshooting
Tips in Case of Problems
| Problems | Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| The appliance is not plugged in properly. | Make sure the appliance is properly plugged into a mains power socket. | |
| The appliance does not work. | You have not yet pressed the ON/OFF button. | Press the ON/OFF button. |
| You have pressed the ON/OFF button but the appliance does not operate. | Close the lid. | |
| The appliance is not heating. | Call the customer Helpline below. | |
| The paddle does not turn. | The paddle has been fitted correctly but is not turning. | Check that it is inserted in the correct position, otherwise call the customer Helpline below. |
| The paddle does not stay in place. | The paddle is not locked. | Reposition the paddle until you hear it "CLICK". |
| The food has not been cooked uniformly. | You have not used the paddle. | Put it in position. |
| The food/chips have not been cut uniformly. | Cut the food/chips to the same size. | |
| The chips are not crunchy enough. | You are not using a potato variety recommended for chips. | Choose a potato variety recommended for chips, such as Maris Piper or King Edwards or Rooster. |
| The potatoes are insufficiently washed and/or not completely dried. | Wash potatoes for a long time to remove starch, drain and dry very thoroughly before cooking. They must be completely dry. | |
| The chips are too thick. | Cut them more thinly. Maximum chip dimensions are 13 mm x 13 mm. | |
| There is not enough oil. | Increase the amount of oil (see cooking table p. 6 to 7). | |
| The filter is clogged. | Clean the filter. | |
| The chips break during cooking. | The quantity is too large. | Reduce the amount of potatoes and adjust the cooking time. |
| The food stays on the edge of the pan. | The pan has too much food. Max level exceeded. | Comply with the maximum quantities shown on the cooking table. Reduce the amount of food. Reduce the quantities. |
| Cooking fluids have leaked into the base of the appliance. | Faulty pan or paddle. The max level has been exceeded. | Check that the paddle is correctly positioned, otherwise call the customer Helpline below. Observe the max level. Do not use ActiFry for recipes with high liquid content. |
| The LCD screen does not work. | The appliance is not plugged in. | Plug the appliance in. |
| The lid is open. | Close the lid. | |
| The LCD displays shows "Er" (error). The appliance is not functioning correctly. | Unplug the appliance, wait 10 seconds, plug it in again and press the ON/OFF button. If the LCD screen still shows "Er", see the table of error codes p. 10. | |
| The appliance is abnormally noisy. | You suspect there is a problem with the appliance motor. | Call the customer Helpline below. |
Table of Error Codes: ER.
| Error Code | Description | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Er. 1 or 2 | The fan is not working. | Check that all removable parts are fitted and correctly positioned (bowl ventilation output grid and removable filter, pan, lid). Check that there are no foreign bodies in all of these removable parts. After checking for foreign bodies in the ventilation outlets, if the fault persists, call the customer Helpline. |
| Er. 3 | This error may appear if the appliance has been stored for a long time at too low a temperature. | Leave the appliance at an ambient temperature of more than 15°C for one hour before starting it up again. If the fault persists, call the customer Helpline. |
| Er. 4 | Your appliance has a fault in the temperature sensor. | Call the customer Helpline below. |
| Er. 5 | The voltage of your domestic network is too low. Cooking performance may be altered. | Contact your electricity supplier. |
| Er. 6 | The voltage of your domestic network is too high; for safety reasons your appliance should be protected against the risks of overheating. | Contact your electricity supplier. |
Protect the Environment
Your appliance is designed for long-term use. When you decide to replace it, contribute to environmental protection. Before discarding, remove the battery from the timer and dispose of it at a local civic waste collection centre (according to model). Approved Service Centres can take back old appliances for disposal in accordance with environmental regulations.
Customer Support
For any product problems or queries, contact the Customer Relations Team for expert help and advice:
- Helpline: 0345 602 1454 - UK
- Helpline: (01) 677 4003 - ROI
- Website: www.tefal.co.uk
