The 2026 Tower air fryer recall affects six specific models manufactured between January 2022 and April 2023 due to a manufacturing defect that presents a significant risk of fire. According to the latest safety updates from the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) as of March 9, 2026, the affected models include the T17023 (2.2L), T17061BLK (4L), T17067 (4L Digital), T17087 (2L Compact), and two T17129 Vortx (8L) variations sold at Lidl and Argos. The defect can cause the appliance to overheat and potentially ignite during normal operation. Owners of these units are urged to stop using them immediately, unplug the device, and visit the official Tower safety website at www.tower-safety.co.uk to register for a free replacement or a full refund.
In this comprehensive guide, you will find the full list of recalled model numbers, specific batch codes for dual-basket units, and a step-by-step walkthrough on how to identify if your kitchen appliance is dangerous. We also cover retailer-specific return policies for stores like Sainsbury’s, Tesco, and Argos to ensure you receive your compensation quickly and safely.
Recalled Tower Air Fryer Models
The primary concern for UK and Irish households in 2026 involves six distinct models that were widely distributed across major high-street retailers. These products were produced in China during a specific 16-month window and do not meet the requirements of the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016. The recall was first initiated in April 2025 and expanded in March 2026 to include additional SKUs and batch numbers, particularly for the larger 8L dual-basket models.
The most common affected unit is the Tower 4L Digital Air Fryer (T17067), which was a top-seller at Sainsbury’s and Argos. While the majority of Tower’s current 2026 inventory is safe and unaffected, the presence of these older units in kitchens remains a high priority for safety officials. If you purchased your air fryer between 2022 and 2024, you must verify your model number against the official registry immediately to mitigate the risk of a domestic fire.
Full List of Affected Models
| Model Number | Description | Retailer Examples |
| T17023 | Tower 2.2L Manual Air Fryer | Amazon, Tower Website |
| T17061BLK | Tower 4L Manual Air Fryer | B&M, Tesco, Argos |
| T17067 | Tower 4L Digital Air Fryer | Sainsbury’s (SKU 143897281) |
| T17087 | Tower 2L Compact Manual | Poundland, Robert Dyas |
| T17129L | Tower Vortx 8L Dual Basket | Lidl (Specific Batches) |
| T17129 | Tower Vortx 8L Dual Basket | Argos (Specific Batches) |
How to Check Your Device
To determine if your appliance is part of the 2026 recall, you must locate the silver or white rating label usually found on the base or the back of the air fryer. This label contains the model number, which always begins with the letter “T,” and the manufacturing date code or batch number. For the Vortx 8L models (T17129L), you must also check for specific batch codes such as PO264626 or PO271391, as not every unit of this model is faulty.
Once you have identified your model number, do not attempt to “test” the device if it has been working fine so far. The manufacturing defect involves internal components that may degrade over time, meaning a unit that has functioned perfectly for two years could still pose a sudden fire risk. After unplugging the device, take a clear photograph of the rating label, as you will likely need to upload this image to the Tower safety portal to process your claim.
Fire Hazards and Safety Risks
The technical reason behind the Tower air fryer recall is a failure in the thermal cut-off component or internal wiring insulation. When the appliance is used at high temperatures for extended periods, these components can fail, leading to an uncontrolled increase in heat that can melt the plastic outer casing or ignite the internal electronics. The OPSS has classified this as a high-risk fire hazard, particularly because many users leave air fryers unattended while they cook.
There have been reported incidents in the UK where the base of the unit scorched kitchen worktops or produced thick acrid smoke. While no significant injuries were reported in the 2026 update, the risk of “thermal runaway” means the fire can spread rapidly to other kitchen items. Tower Housewares has stated that the recall is a “proactive measure” to ensure customer safety, but the urgency of the “stop use” command reflects the serious nature of the electrical fault.
Practical Information and Return Steps
How to Register for a Refund
Owners of recalled units should not return them to the retail store without first registering online. Tower has set up a dedicated infrastructure to handle the 2026 recall volume. By using the official portal, you can choose between a direct replacement with a newer, safe model or a refund in the form of a voucher or bank transfer, depending on your original proof of purchase.
Contact Details and Help
Safety Website: www.tower-safety.co.uk
Support Email: towerproduct@customersvc.co.uk
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (GMT)
What to Expect: Once your claim is verified, a courier may be sent to collect the faulty unit, or you may be instructed to dispose of it safely at a local recycling center after cutting the power cord (only do this if specifically instructed by Tower).
Tips for Impacted Users
If you are currently without an air fryer due to the recall, check if your purchase was made via Amazon. In many cases, Amazon has issued direct notifications and automatic refunds to customers who bought the T17023 or T17061BLK models through their platform. Always keep your case reference number once you have filled out the safety form to track the delivery of your replacement.
FAQs
Is the Tower T17067 air fryer part of the recall?
Yes, the Tower 4L Digital Air Fryer (T17067) is one of the primary models being recalled in 2026. This is especially true if it was purchased at Sainsbury’s with the SKU 143897281 between early 2022 and mid-2023.
What should I do if my Tower air fryer catches fire?
If your appliance begins to smoke or ignite, unplug it immediately if it is safe to do so. Use a fire blanket or a dry powder extinguisher if necessary, but never throw water on an electrical fire. Call emergency services if the fire cannot be contained instantly.
Can I still use my air fryer if it looks fine?
No. The recall notice explicitly states that users should cease use immediately, regardless of the current condition of the appliance. The defect is internal and can lead to sudden overheating without prior warning.
How do I find my Tower air fryer model number?
Unplug the appliance and turn it over to inspect the base. You will find a silver rating sticker with a “Model No.” entry. It will start with “T” followed by five digits (e.g., T17023).
Will I get a full refund for the recalled air fryer?
Tower is offering either a free replacement model of equivalent value or a refund. If you purchased the item recently, you are entitled to a full refund through the safety portal or the original retailer.
Which retailers sold the recalled Tower air fryers?
The affected units were sold at Argos, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, B&M Bargains, Lidl, Poundland, Robert Dyas, and the official Tower Housewares website.
Is the Tower Vortx 8L dual basket air fryer safe?
Only specific batches of the T17129 and T17129L models are recalled. You must check your batch number (e.g., PO264626) on the base label against the list at www.tower-safety.co.uk to confirm if your specific unit is affected.
How long does a replacement take to arrive?
Under the 2026 recall guidelines, most users are reporting a 10 to 14-day turnaround from the time their claim is approved to the delivery of a new unit.
Can I get a refund if I lost my receipt?
Yes. Because this is a safety-critical product recall, the model number and batch code on the physical device serve as proof of ownership. You do not necessarily need the original paper receipt to qualify for a replacement.
Are newer 2025 and 2026 Tower models safe?
Yes. Tower has confirmed that models manufactured from May 2023 onwards are not affected by this manufacturing defect and meet all current UK and EU safety standards.
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