Classic Air Fryer HF-196DT

PowerXL Classic Air Fryer HF-196DT

The PowerXL Classic Air Fryer HF-196DT is the 7-quart version of the Classic Air Fryer series. It uses circulating hot air to cook food in a removable basket fitted with a fry tray, allowing foods such as French fries, chicken, steak, fish, shrimp, baked foods, and other suitable dishes to be prepared using adjustable time and temperature controls.

The HF-196DT operates at 120V, 60Hz and 1700W, has a full basket capacity of 7 quarts, and provides an adjustable temperature range from 180°F to 400°F (82°C to 204°C).  

The 7-quart model uses the same control-panel layout as the 5-quart version and includes all seven food presets shown in the manual: French Fry, Roast, Bake, Fish, Shrimp, Chicken, and Steak.    

Models Covered by the Manual

All three models use a 120V ~60Hz power supply.  

Parts and Components

The parts diagram on page 6 identifies the air fryer’s main cooking and ventilation components.  

The manual states that package contents can vary by model. Clear or blue protective film should be removed from components before first use, while the rubber bumpers on the fry tray generally should remain installed.  

Technical Specifications for HF-196DT

The model specifications and temperature limits are provided on pages 7 and 9 of the manual.    

Control Panel Guide

The 7-quart HF-196DT uses six main groups of controls.  

Power Button

Once the basket and fry tray are properly installed, the control panel illuminates.

Pressing the Power button once sets the air fryer to the default settings:

• 370°F / 188°C
• 15 minutes

Pressing Power a second time starts cooking. Pressing Power during an active cooking cycle switches the appliance off.  

M Button

The M button cycles through the cooking presets.

The HF-196DT 7-quart model includes all seven presets listed in the manual.    

Timer Controls

The timer can be adjusted from 0 to 60 minutes.

• Press + to increase time.
• Press – to reduce time.
• Each normal press changes the setting by 1 minute.
• Holding a button changes the time more rapidly.  

Temperature Controls

The temperature can be adjusted from 180°F to 400°F (82°C to 204°C).

Each normal press changes the temperature by 10°F. Holding the control changes the temperature more quickly.  

PowerXL Classic Air Fryer Presets

The HF-196DT 7-quart model includes all presets shown in the manual.  

These preset values can serve as starting points. The manual states that owners can select their own time and temperature after becoming familiar with the appliance.  

Before First Use

The PowerXL Classic Air Fryer should be prepared before food is cooked for the first time.

Initial Setup

1. Remove all packaging material.
2. Remove stickers or labels from the appliance.
3. Wipe the inside and outside with a warm, moist cloth and mild detergent.
4. Hand-wash the cooking accessories.
5. Place the air fryer on a stable, horizontal, level, heat-resistant surface.
6. Keep the appliance in a well-ventilated area away from hot surfaces and combustible materials.
7. Do not place the air fryer on a stovetop.
8. Install the fry tray in the basket.
9. Slide the basket into the appliance until it clicks into position.  

Initial Burn-In

Before cooking food for the first time, the manual instructs the owner to preheat the air fryer for a few minutes so the manufacturer’s protective oil coating can burn off.

After this initial cycle, the appliance should be wiped with warm, soapy water and a washcloth.  

Placement and Ventilation

The appliance should operate on a flat, horizontal surface with room for airflow.

The manual requires at least 5 inches of open space behind, beside, and above the appliance. Nothing should be placed on top of the air fryer while it is operating.  

The air intake and hot-air outlet vents must remain uncovered. Blocking either vent can affect cooking and may cause overheating.  

How to Preheat the PowerXL Classic Air Fryer

The manual provides a three-minute preheating procedure.

1. Plug the appliance into the wall socket.
2. Press the Power button.
3. Use the temperature controls to set the desired cooking temperature.
4. Use the Time Decrease button to set the preheat period to 3 minutes.
5. Allow the preheat cycle to finish.
6. Carefully pull out the basket.
7. Add the ingredients.
8. Return the basket to the air fryer.  

The manual recommends using the fry tray with the basket for better performance.  

How to Cook with the PowerXL Classic Air Fryer

After preheating:

1. Place the food inside the basket.
2. Hold the basket only by its handle because the basket becomes hot.
3. Slide the basket securely into the appliance.
4. Press the Power button.
5. Choose the required cooking time and temperature or select a preset.
6. Allow the cooking cycle to run.
7. Shake foods during cooking when recommended.
8. When cooking ends, the timer beeps five times.
9. Pull out the basket and place it on a heat-resistant surface.
10. Remove food with tongs.
11. If additional cooking is required, return the basket to the appliance and add a few more minutes.
12. The air fryer can begin another batch immediately after the previous cycle.  

Do Not Fill the Basket With Oil

The Classic Air Fryer cooks using hot air. The manual specifically states that the basket should not be filled with oil or frying fat.  

Removing Cooked Food

The basket should not be turned upside down to empty food because excess oil collected in the bottom can pour back over the food.

The manual recommends removing cooked food with tongs.  

Shaking Food During Cooking

Some foods cook more evenly when shaken partway through the cycle.

To shake the food:

1. Pull the basket out.
2. Place it on a heat-resistant surface.
3. Wear an oven mitt because the basket is hot.
4. Gently shake the contents.
5. Return the basket to the appliance.
6. Continue cooking.  

The appliance has an internal microswitch that stops the fan and heating element when the basket is removed.  

Basket Capacity for French Fries

The manual provides a French-fry capacity guide for the three sizes.

General Cooking Tips

The manual recommends the following practices:

• Smaller foods generally cook faster than larger pieces.
• Larger quantities generally require longer cooking times.
• Shake smaller foods halfway through cooking for more even results.
• A small amount of vegetable oil can be added to fresh potatoes for increased crispness.
• Add oil immediately before cooking.
• Foods normally prepared in an oven can also be prepared in the air fryer.
• Premade dough can be used for filled snacks and generally cooks faster than homemade dough.
• The air fryer can also be used to reheat suitable foods by selecting the preferred temperature and time.  

General Cooking Time and Temperature Guide

The chart on page 12 of the manual provides starting points for common foods. The manufacturer notes that these settings are guidelines because ingredient size, shape, origin, and brand can affect cooking.  

Automatic Shut-Off

The Classic Air Fryer automatically stops heating after the programmed cooking time finishes.

After cooking ends, the fan continues to operate for approximately 10 seconds to cool the appliance. The air fryer can also be switched off manually by pressing the Power button.  

Overheating Protection

The appliance contains an overheating-protection system.

If the internal temperature-control system fails, the protection system activates and the air fryer will stop working.

If this occurs:

1. Unplug the appliance.
2. Allow it to cool completely.
3. Restart it only after it has cooled.  

Important Safety Instructions

The PowerXL Classic Air Fryer reaches very high temperatures and releases hot air and steam during operation.

Important safeguards in the manual include:

• Do not immerse the main unit housing in water.
• Do not rinse the main housing under running water.
• Do not place liquids inside the main housing.
• Keep the appliance away from children.
• Do not use the air fryer outdoors.
• Do not place it on a stovetop.
• Do not overfill the basket.
• Do not cover the air intake or outlet vents.
• Never pour oil into the basket.
• Do not place hands inside the appliance until it is fully cooled.
• Do not use an appliance with a damaged plug, cord, or housing.
• Keep the power cord away from hot surfaces.
• Do not operate the controls with wet hands.
• Do not connect the appliance to an external timer or separate remote-control system.
• Do not use an extension cord.
• Keep the appliance away from combustible materials.
• Keep hands and face away from the hot-air outlet.
• Wear oven mitts when handling the hot basket or fry tray.
• Do not leave the appliance unattended while operating.  

Black Smoke Warning

If the appliance produces black smoke, the manual instructs the owner to:

1. Unplug it immediately.
2. Wait until smoking stops.
3. Allow the appliance to cool.
4. Remove excess oil and grease.  

California Proposition 65 Warning

The manual includes a California warning concerning exposure to Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, a chemical identified by the State of California as causing cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.  

Troubleshooting Guide

The troubleshooting table on page 13 covers power, cooking, basket, smoke, fries, and thermal-sensor problems.  

Error Codes

The manual directs owners to customer service rather than attempting to repair thermal-sensor faults.  

Cleaning Instructions

The PowerXL Classic Air Fryer should be cleaned after every use.

The basket and fry tray have a nonstick coating, so abrasive cleaning products and utensils should not be used.  

Cleaning the Main Unit

1. Unplug the air fryer.
2. Allow it to cool thoroughly.
3. Wipe the exterior with a warm, moist cloth and mild detergent.
4. Clean the inside with hot water, mild detergent, and a nonabrasive sponge.
5. If necessary, use a soft cleaning brush to remove food residue from the heating element.  

The main housing contains electrical components and must never be submerged in water or other liquid.  

Cleaning the Basket

The basket should be cleaned using:

• Hot water
• Mild detergent
• Nonabrasive sponge

The manual does not identify the basket as dishwasher safe.  

Cleaning the Fry Tray

The fry tray is dishwasher safe.

For stubborn food residue, soak the fry tray in hot, soapy water for approximately 10 minutes before cleaning.  

Rubber Bumpers

The rubber bumpers are part of the fry tray and generally should not be removed.

If cleaning requires their removal:

1. Locate the capped end of each bumper.
2. Push the capped end away from the fry tray slot.
3. Remove the bumper.
4. Clean it.
5. Align its opening with the original slot.
6. Slide it completely back into position.  

Storage Instructions

Before storing the air fryer:

1. Unplug it.
2. Allow it to cool completely.
3. Make sure all components are clean.
4. Make sure all components are dry.
5. Store the appliance in a clean, dry location.  

90-Day Money-Back Guarantee

The PowerXL Classic Air Fryer is covered by a 90-day money-back guarantee.

If the purchaser is not fully satisfied, the manual states that the product may be returned for a replacement or refund. Proof of purchase is required, and refunds include the purchase price less processing and handling charges.  

One-Year Replacement Guarantee

Products purchased from an authorized retailer include a 1-year replacement guarantee for the original purchaser.

If the product or one of its components does not perform as expected within one year of purchase, it may qualify for replacement with a functionally equivalent new product or component. Proof of purchase is required.  

Customer Support

The manual provides the following customer-service information:

The back page states that customer service can assist with questions concerning the PowerXL Classic Air Fryer.  

Return Address

For qualifying returns made under the manual’s return policy:

PowerXL Classic Air Fryer
Empower Brands, LLC
500 Returns Road
Wallingford, CT 06495

The manual states that the RMA should be written on the outside of the package and that the return should include the purchaser’s contact information, reason for return, proof of purchase or order number, and whether a refund or replacement is requested.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the PowerXL Classic Air Fryer cook foods other than fried food?

Yes. The manual states that it can prepare foods including steak, chops, burgers, and baked goods, in addition to fried-style foods.  

Can soup or sauce be cooked or reheated in the air fryer?

No. The manual specifically states that liquids such as soups and sauces should never be cooked or reheated in the appliance.  

Can the PowerXL HF-196DT be stopped during cooking?

Yes. Press the Power button once or remove the basket.  

What should be done if the air fryer shuts off while cooking?

Remove the basket and place it on a heat-resistant surface. Allow the appliance to cool, unplug it, and reconnect it after cooling. The unit can then be restarted with the Power button.  

Does the PowerXL Classic Air Fryer need preheating?

The manual recommends a 3-minute preheat cycle. If cooking from a cold start, it says three minutes can instead be added to the cooking time.    

Can food be checked while the air fryer is running?

Yes. The basket can be removed during cooking to inspect or shake the food.  

Is the PowerXL Classic Air Fryer dishwasher safe?

Only the fry tray is identified as dishwasher safe. The main appliance must never be submerged, and the basket is cleaned with hot water, mild detergent, and a nonabrasive sponge.    

What should be done if E1 or E2 appears?

Both E1 and E2 indicate thermal-sensor faults. The manual directs the owner to contact PowerXL Customer Service at 973-287-5129 rather than attempting a home repair.