Air Fryer
E2
The E2 error code on a Tower air fryer points to a temperature sensor fault — specifically, the appliance is detecting that its internal thermistor (temperature probe) has either failed, become disconnected, or is reading an abnormally high temperature. It sounds alarming, but in many cases it’s a fixable problem that doesn’t mean your air fryer is destined for the bin. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what triggers the E2 code on Tower air fryers, the most common causes, and a clear set of steps to try before spending a penny on a repair or replacement.
What does this error mean?
The E2 error code on Tower air fryers (including popular models such as the Tower Vortx, T17021, T17024, T17038, and the Cavaletto range) is a temperature-related fault code. Your air fryer contains a small component called a thermistor — a type of temperature sensor — that constantly monitors the internal heat of the cooking chamber. When the appliance’s control board receives a reading from that sensor that is either out of the expected range, suspiciously high, or absent altogether, it shuts the unit down and displays E2 as a safety precaution. In plain terms: the air fryer thinks something is wrong with its temperature monitoring system, so it refuses to operate rather than risk overheating. This is a safety feature, not just a glitch — so it’s worth taking seriously rather than simply ignoring or repeatedly resetting it.
Est. repair cost
£5–£15 for a DIY thermistor replacement part; £40–£60 for a professional repair (thermistor fault); £50–£90 for a professional repair if the control board is involved
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Step 1 — Switch off and unplug the air fryer immediately. Do not attempt to use the appliance or repeatedly reset it while the E2 code is active. Pull the plug from the wall socket and leave it to cool completely for at least 30–45 minutes before doing anything else.
Step 2 — Check the placement of your air fryer. Measure the clearance around the unit — you need a minimum of 10 cm on each side and 15 cm above. If it’s been sitting in a tight corner, on a shelf with a low ceiling, or tucked against a wall, move it to a clear, open worktop and this alone may resolve the issue.
Step 3 — Clean the basket, drawer, and vents thoroughly. Remove the basket and drawer and wash them in warm soapy water, paying close attention to the mesh base where grease accumulates. Use a soft brush (an old toothbrush works well) to clear any debris from the vents on the back and underside of the main unit. Do not submerge or wet the main unit body. Allow everything to dry completely before reassembling.
Step 4 — Perform a hard reset. Once the unit is clean, cool, and correctly positioned, plug it back in and switch it on. Some Tower models require you to hold the power button for 5–10 seconds to perform a full reset rather than just switching it on and off. Check your specific model’s manual for reset instructions — Tower’s manuals are available free on their website at towerhousewares.co.uk.
Step 5 — Test with a short, low-temperature cook. Run the air fryer at 160°C for 5 minutes with nothing in the basket. Watch to see whether the E2 code reappears. If it completes the cycle without faulting, the issue was likely overheating caused by poor ventilation or grease buildup.
Step 6 — If E2 returns immediately on power-up (before the unit even heats up), this strongly suggests the thermistor itself has failed rather than a genuine overheating event. At this point, check whether your Tower air fryer is still within its warranty period. Tower typically offers a 1–3 year guarantee depending on the model — contact Tower customer support on 0345 604 0628 or via their website before spending money on parts.
Step 7 — If your appliance is out of warranty and you are comfortable with basic DIY electronics, you can attempt to replace the thermistor yourself. Replacement thermistors compatible with Tower air fryers are available from UK sellers on eBay and Amazon for approximately £5–£15. You will need a small Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the outer casing panels. IMPORTANT: Only attempt this if you are confident working with small electronics. Disconnect from the mains, discharge any residual heat, and take photos before disconnecting any wires so you can reconnect correctly. If you are unsure at any point, stop and call a professional.
Step 8 — Do NOT attempt to open or replace the control board yourself. If the thermistor replacement does not resolve the E2 error, the fault likely lies with the control board — this requires a qualified small appliance repair technician and is not a safe DIY task.
📞 When to call a professional
You should stop DIY attempts and contact a professional repair technician if: the E2 error reappears immediately after a full reset and clean (suggesting a hardware fault rather than overheating); you’ve replaced the thermistor but the code persists (pointing to a control board issue); or you’re not comfortable opening the appliance casing. When you call, tell the technician: the exact model number (printed on the base of the unit), that you’re seeing an E2 error code, and what steps you’ve already tried (reset, clean, thermistor replacement if applicable). This saves time and helps them arrive with the right parts. For UK-based repairs, search for small appliance repair specialists in your area via the Trusted Traders directory or Which? Trusted Traders. Alternatively, contact Tower’s own aftersales support — they may offer a repair or discounted replacement for out-of-warranty units.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
If your Tower air fryer is less than 2 years old, it’s almost certainly worth repairing. A thermistor replacement is inexpensive (the part costs £5–£15) and straightforward for a confident DIYer, and even a professional repair for this specific fault should cost no more than £40–£60 including labour. Tower air fryers typically retail between £40 and £120 depending on model and size, so a professional repair that costs more than 50–60% of the replacement price is rarely worth it. If the fault lies with the control board, repair costs rise significantly (£50–£90 for parts and labour), and at that point — particularly if the unit is over 2–3 years old — replacement becomes more sensible. Tower parts availability is reasonable for current models but can become patchy for units over 4–5 years old, which also tips the balance towards replacement. One final consideration: Tower regularly runs promotions and their air fryers are widely stocked at Argos, Amazon UK, and Very — so finding a competitive replacement price is rarely difficult.