PowerXL Vortex Air Fryer

Owner's Manual

Save These Instructions - For Household Use Only

MODELS: ID1501A (5 qt.) - ID1701A (7 qt.)

When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed. Do not use the PowerXL Vortex Air Fryer™ until you have read this manual thoroughly.

Visit TristarCares.com for tutorial videos, product details, and more. Guarantee Information Inside

Before You Begin

The PowerXL Vortex Air Fryer will provide you many years of delicious family meals and memories around the dinner table. But before you begin, it's very important that you read this entire manual, making certain that you are totally familiar with this appliance's operation and precautions.

Important Safeguards

⚠️ WARNING

PREVENT INJURIES! – CAREFULLY READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USE!

When using electrical appliances, always follow these basic safety precautions.

1. READ AND FOLLOW all instructions carefully.
2. NEVER immerse the Main Unit Housing, which contains electrical components and heating elements, in water. Do not rinse under the tap.
3. THIS APPLIANCE IS NOT INTENDED FOR use by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge unless they are under the supervision of a responsible person or have been given proper instruction in using the appliance. This appliance is not intended for use by children.
4. TO AVOID ELECTRICAL SHOCK, do not put liquid of any kind into the Main Unit Housing containing the electrical components.
5. THIS APPLIANCE HAS A POLARIZED PLUG (one blade is wider than the other). To reduce the risk of electric shock, this plug is intended to fit into a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully into the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician. Do not attempt to modify the plug in any way.
6. MAKE SURE the appliance is plugged into a wall socket. Always make sure that the plug is inserted into the wall socket properly.
7. DO NOT use outdoors.
8. DO NOT place the appliance on the stove top. Place on a flat, horizontal surface with adequate space for air flow. Do not place other appliances within 5 in. of the appliance.
9. TO PREVENT food contact with the heating elements, do not overfill.
10. DO NOT cover the Air Intake Vent or Hot Air Outlet Vent while the appliance is operating. Doing so will prevent even cooking and may damage the appliance or cause it to overheat.
11. NEVER pour oil into the Basket. Fire and personal injury could result.
12. WHILE COOKING, the internal temperature of the appliance reaches several hundred degrees F. To avoid personal injury, never place hands inside the appliance unless it is thoroughly cooled down.
13. DO NOT use this appliance if the plug, the power cord, or the appliance itself is damaged in any way.
14. IF THE POWER CORD IS DAMAGED, you must have it replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent, or a similarly qualified person in order to avoid hazard.
15. KEEP the appliance and its power cord out of the reach of children when it is in operation or in the cooling down process.
16. KEEP the power cord away from hot surfaces. Do not plug in the power cord or operate the appliance controls with wet hands.
17. NEVER connect this appliance to an external timer switch or separate remote-control system.
18. NEVER use this appliance with an extension cord of any kind. A short power-supply cord (or detachable power-supply cord) is provided to reduce the risk of becoming entangled in or tripping over a longer cord.
19. DO NOT let cord hang over the edge of table or counter surfaces.
20. DO NOT operate the appliance on or near combustible materials, such as tablecloths, paper towels, or curtains.
21. WHEN COOKING, do not place the appliance against a wall or against other appliances. Leave at least 5 in. free space on the back and sides and above the appliance. Do not place anything on top of the appliance.
22. DO NOT USE the appliance for any purpose other than described in this manual.
23. THE USE OF ACCESSORY ATTACHMENTS not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may cause injuries.
24. NEVER operate the appliance unattended.
25. WHEN IN OPERATION, hot air and steam is released through the Hot Air Outlet Vent. Keep your hands and face at a safe distance from the Hot Air Outlet Vent. Also avoid the hot steam and air while removing the Basket and Fry Tray from the appliance.
26. THE APPLIANCE'S OUTER SURFACES may become hot during use. The Basket and Fry Tray will be hot. Wear oven mitts when handling hot components or touching hot surfaces.
27. Before using your new appliance on any countertop surface, CHECK with your countertop manufacturer or installer for recommendations about using appliances on your surfaces. Some manufacturers and installers may recommend protecting your surface by placing a hot pad or trivet under the appliance for heat protection. Your manufacturer or installer may recommend that hot pans, pots, or electrical appliances should not be used directly on top of the countertop. If you are unsure, place a trivet or hot pad under the appliance before using it.
28. DO NOT place your appliance on a hot cooktop because it could cause a fire or damage the appliance, your cooktop, and your home.
29. SHOULD THE APPLIANCE EMIT BLACK SMOKE, unplug immediately and wait for smoking to stop. Allow the appliance to cool and wipe out excess oil and grease from the appliance.
30. Extreme caution must be used when moving an appliance containing hot oil or other hot liquids.
31. USE EXTREME CAUTION when removing tray or disposing of hot grease.
32. DO NOT clean with metal scouring pads. Pieces can break off the pad and touch electrical parts, creating risks of electric shock.

⚠️ WARNING: For California Residents

This product can expose you to Bisphenol A, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS – FOR HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY

⚠️ CAUTION

• Always operate the appliance on a horizontal surface that is level, stable, and noncombustible.
• This appliance is intended for normal household use only. It is not intended for use in commercial or retail environments.
• If the appliance is used improperly or for professional or semi-professional purposes or if it is not used according to the instructions in the user manual, the guarantee becomes invalid and the manufacturer will not be held liable for damages.
• Always unplug the appliance after use.
• When the cooking time has completed, cooking will stop and the fan will continue running for 10 secs. to cool down the appliance.
• Let the appliance cool down for approximately 30 mins. before handling, cleaning, or storing.
• The appliance is equipped with an internal microswitch that automatically shuts down the fan and heating element when the Basket is removed.

Overheating Protection

Should the inner temperature control system fail, the overheating protection system will be activated and the appliance will not function. Should this happen, unplug the appliance. Allow time for the appliance to cool completely before restarting or storing.

Automatic Shut-Off

The appliance has a built-in shut-off device that will automatically shut off the appliance when the cooking time has completed. You can manually switch off the appliance by pressing the Power Button. The fan will continue running for 10 secs. to cool down the appliance.

Electric Power

The appliance should be operated on a dedicated electrical outlet. If the electrical outlet is being used by other appliances, your new Appliance may not operate properly.

Electromagnetic Fields

This appliance complies with all standards regarding electromagnetic fields. If handled properly and according to the instructions in this user manual, the appliance is safe to use based on scientific evidence available today.

Parts & Accessories

Description of components:

• 1. FRY TRAY
• 2. RUBBER BUMPERS*
• 3. BASKET
• 4. HANDLE
• 5. MAIN UNIT HOUSING
• 6. AIR INLET VENT
• 7. CONTROL PANEL
• 8. HOT AIR OUTLET VENT
• 9. POWER CABLE

NOTE: Unpack all listed contents from the packaging. Contents vary by model. Please remove any clear or blue protective film on the components before use.

*Removing bumpers is not recommended.

CAUTION: Appliance may be hot. Be careful not to touch the appliance while in use. Keep the appliance away from other objects.

IMPORTANT: Please make sure that your appliance has been shipped with the components that you ordered (some accessories may be sold separately). Check everything carefully before use. If any part is missing or damaged, do not use this product. Contact the shipper using the customer service number located on the back of this manual.

Appliance Specifications

The PowerXL Vortex Air Fryer is available in two sizes:

• 5 Qt. Model: ID1501A
• 7 Qt. Model: ID1701A

Technical Specifications

Using the Control Panel

The control panel allows you to manage the appliance's functions:

• 1. Power Button: Press once to set a default temperature (370° F) and time (15 mins). Press a second time to start cooking. Press during cooking to turn off the appliance.
• 2. Cooking Presets: Select from various presets for common foods. Refer to the Preset Chart for specific times and temperatures. Running lights indicate when the cycle begins and stay on for up to 20 seconds after completion.
• 3. Temperature Control Buttons: Use the '+' and '-' buttons to adjust temperature by 5° F increments. Holding the button rapidly changes the temperature. Range: 180°F-400° F (Dehydrate: 90° F-170° F).
• 4. Time and Temperature Display: Shows current temperature and remaining cook time.
• 5. Timer Control Buttons: Use the '+' and '-' buttons to adjust time by 1-minute increments (30-minute increments for Dehydrate). Holding the button rapidly changes the time. Range: 1-60 mins. (Dehydrate: 2-24 hrs.).

Preset Chart

Experiment with your own recipes by selecting the time and temperature that suits your taste.

Instructions for Use

Before First Use

1. Remove all packaging material.
2. Remove any stickers or labels from the appliance.
3. Before initial use, wipe the inside and outside of the appliance with a warm, moist cloth and mild detergent. Handwash all cooking accessories.
4. Before cooking food, preheat the appliance for a few minutes to burn off the manufacturer's protective coating of oil. Wipe the appliance with warm, soapy water and a washcloth after this burn-in cycle.
5. Place the appliance on a stable, horizontal, and level surface. Ensure good air circulation and keep away from hot surfaces and combustible materials. Do not place on the stove top.
6. Place the Fry Tray in the Basket. Slide the Basket into the appliance until it clicks into place.

NOTE: The appliance cooks using hot air. Do not fill the Basket with oil or frying fat. Do not put anything on top of the appliance, as this disrupts airflow and affects cooking results.

Using the PowerXL Vortex Air Fryer

1. Plug the appliance into a grounded wall socket.
2. To preheat, push the Power Button.
3. Press the Temperature Increase or Decrease Buttons to set the cooking temperature.
4. Set the preheat time to 3 mins. using the Time Decrease Button. After preheating, carefully pull out the Basket and place ingredients inside. NOTE: For best results, always use the Fry Tray with the Basket.
5. Do not touch the Basket directly as it becomes very hot during operation. Only hold the Basket by its handle.
6. Press the Power Button. Set the appropriate time and temperature for the ingredients you are cooking.
7. When the timer beeps five times, cooking is complete. Pull the Basket out and place it on a heat-resistant surface.
8. If food is fully cooked, use tongs to remove it. CAUTION: Do not turn the Basket upside down, as excess oil may leak onto ingredients.
9. If food is not fully cooked, slide the Basket back in and add a few minutes to the cooking time.
10. The appliance is ready for preparing another batch.

Shaking

To ensure even cooking, some foods require shaking. Remove the Basket, gently shake contents, and return to the appliance. CAUTION: The Basket will be hot. Wear an oven mitt.

1. Place the Basket on a heat-resistant surface.
2. Shake the ingredients in the Basket.
3. Return the Basket to the appliance to finish cooking.

Tips

• Smaller foods usually require shorter cooking times than larger foods.
• Large quantities of food require longer cooking times than smaller quantities.
• Shaking smaller-sized foods halfway through cooking ensures even frying.
• Adding a bit of vegetable oil to fresh potatoes can result in crispier fries. Add oil just before cooking.
• Snacks normally cooked in an oven can also be cooked in the appliance.
• Use premade dough for quick filled snacks; it requires a shorter cooking time than homemade dough.
• The appliance can be used to reheat foods by setting the desired temperature and time.

Capacity Chart

General Cooking Guidelines

NOTE: These settings are guidelines. Actual cooking times may vary based on ingredient origin, size, shape, and brand.

Troubleshooting

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I prepare foods other than fried dishes with my appliance? You can prepare a variety of dishes, including steaks, chops, burgers, and baked goods. See the PowerXL Vortex Air Fryer Recipe Guide.
2. Is the appliance good for making or reheating soups and sauces? Never cook or reheat liquids in the appliance.
3. Is it possible to shut off the appliance at any time? Press the Power Button once or remove the Basket.
4. What do I do if the appliance shuts off while cooking? As a safety feature, the appliance has an Auto Shut-Off device that prevents damage from overheating. Remove the Basket and set it on a heat-resistant surface. Allow the appliance to cool down. Remove the Power Cable from the outlet. Once cool, plug the Power Cable back into the socket. Restart by pressing the Power Button.
5. Does the appliance need time to heat up? If you are cooking from a cold start, add 3 mins. to the cooking time to compensate.
6. Can I check the food during the cooking process? You can remove the Basket at any time while cooking is in progress. During this time, you can shake the contents in the Basket if needed to ensure even cooking.
7. Is the appliance dishwasher safe? Only the Fry Tray is dishwasher safe. The appliance itself, which contains the heating coil and electronics, should never be submerged in liquid of any kind or cleaned with anything more than a warm, moist cloth or nonabrasive sponge with a small amount of mild detergent.
8. What happens if the appliance still does not work after I have tried all the troubleshooting suggestions? Never attempt a home repair. Contact customer service and follow the procedures set forth by the guarantee. Failure to do so could render your guarantee null and void.

Cleaning

Clean the appliance after each use. The Basket and the Fry Tray have a nonstick surface. Never use abrasive cleaning materials or utensils.

1. Remove the Power Cable and ensure the appliance is cool before cleaning.
2. Wipe the outside with a warm, moist cloth and mild detergent.
3. Clean the Basket and Fry Tray with hot water, mild detergent, and a nonabrasive sponge. NOTE: The Fry Tray is dishwasher safe. TIP: Soak difficult food particles in hot, soapy water for 10 mins.
4. Regarding rubber bumpers on the Fry Tray: They are part of the Fry Tray. To remove for cleaning, push the capped end off. To reattach, align the hole with the slot and slide back on.
5. Clean the inside of the appliance with hot water, mild detergent, and a nonabrasive sponge.
6. Remove any food residue from the heating element with a soft cleaning brush if necessary.

Storage

1. Unplug the appliance and let it cool down thoroughly.
2. Ensure all components are clean and dry.
3. Place the appliance in a clean, dry place.

90-Day Money-Back Guarantee

The PowerXL Vortex Air Fryer is covered by a 90-day money-back guarantee. If unsatisfied, return the product for replacement or refund. Proof of purchase is required. Refunds include purchase price, less processing and handling. Follow the Return Policy for requests.

Replacement Guarantee Policy

Products from authorized retailers include a 1-year replacement guarantee for performance issues, valid for the original purchaser. Return the product or part for replacement with a functionally equivalent new item. Proof of purchase is required, and return shipping costs are the customer's responsibility. Guarantee coverage for replacements ends six months after receipt or remainder of the existing guarantee, whichever is later. Tristar may replace the appliance with one of equal or greater value.

Return Policy

To return or replace under the money-back guarantee, use your order number as the return merchandise authorization number (RMA). For retail purchases, use "RETAIL" as the RMA. Return the product to the address below for replacement (no additional fees) or refund (less processing/handling). You are responsible for return shipping costs. Find your order number at www.customerstatus.com. For questions, call customer service at 973-287-5129 or email customerservice@tristarproductsinc.com. Pack the product carefully with a note including: (1) name, (2) mailing address, (3) phone number, (4) email address, (5) reason for return, and (6) proof of purchase or order number. Specify if requesting a refund or replacement. Write the RMA on the outside of the package.

Return Address:
PowerXL Vortex Air Fryer
Tristar Products
500 Returns Road
Wallingford, CT 06495

If a request is not acknowledged after two weeks, contact Customer Service at 973-287-5129.

Refund

Refunds within the money-back guarantee timeframe will be issued to the original payment method if purchased directly from Tristar. If purchased from an authorized retailer, proof of purchase is required, and a check will be issued for the item and sales tax amount. Processing and handling fees are non-refundable.

We are very proud of the design and quality of our PowerXL Vortex Air Fryer™. This product has been manufactured to the highest standards. Should you have any questions, our friendly customer service staff is here to help you. Visit us at www.TristarCares.com, email us at customerservice@tristarproductsinc.com, or call us at 973-287-5129.

Distributed by: Tristar Products, Inc. Fairfield, NJ 07004 © 2020 Tristar Products, Inc. Made in China

Model Numbers: PXL-VAF_5-7QT_IB_ID1501A-ID1701A_ENG_V1_200924