Air Fryer
E5
The E5 error code on a Tower air fryer indicates an overheating fault — the appliance has detected an internal temperature that exceeds safe operating limits. It’s a safety cut-out, not a catastrophic failure, and in most cases you can resolve it at home without a technician.
What does this error mean?
Tower air fryers use a thermal sensor (thermistor) to monitor the cooking chamber temperature. When the sensor reads a temperature above the programmed safety threshold — or detects that the temperature is rising uncontrollably — it triggers the E5 code and shuts the unit down. This prevents damage to internal components and reduces fire risk. The fryer is doing exactly what it’s designed to do, but something has caused it to overheat in the first place.
Est. repair cost
£60–£100 professional repair; thermistor replacement part £5–£15 if DIY-capable. Replacement air fryer: £40–£120 new.
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Switch off and unplug immediately. Do not try to restart the unit while it’s hot. Leave it on a heat-safe surface for at least 30 minutes to cool down completely.
Check and clear the vents. Once cool, inspect the air intake (usually on the base or rear) and the exhaust vent. Use a soft brush or dry cloth to remove any grease or food debris. Never use water directly on the vents.
Clean the basket, drawer, and interior. Built-up grease on the interior walls and basket can contribute to overheating. Wash the basket and drawer in warm soapy water, and wipe down the inside of the main unit with a damp cloth — always with the unit unplugged.
Check your positioning. Make sure the air fryer has at least 15–20 cm of clear space on all sides and above. Move it away from walls, cabinets, and any overhanging surfaces.
Reduce your load and retry. Fill the basket no more than two-thirds full, plug in, and run a short test cycle at a lower temperature (around 160°C) to see if the error returns.
Factory reset (if applicable). Some Tower models allow a reset by unplugging for 10–15 minutes, then holding the power button for 5 seconds on restart — check your specific model’s manual on the Tower Housewares website for confirmation.
📞 When to call a professional
If the E5 error returns immediately after cleaning, repositioning, and reducing the food load, the thermistor or heating element is likely faulty — these require opening the main housing, which involves electrical components and should be handled by a qualified appliance repair technician. When calling, tell them: ‘My Tower air fryer is displaying an E5 overheating error code that persists after a full cool-down and cleaning.’ Do not attempt to open the main unit yourself; the internal capacitors can retain charge even when unplugged.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for a faulty thermistor or heating element typically costs £60–£100 in the UK including labour — often more than a comparable Tower air fryer replacement model, which retail between £40 and £120 depending on capacity. If your Tower air fryer is more than 3 years old or out of warranty, replacement is almost always the more cost-effective option. For a newer unit still under Tower’s standard 2-year warranty, contact Tower Housewares directly at towerhousewares.co.uk before paying for any repair.