Tower Family Fryer Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 9.0/10
Best for: Faster, lower-oil everyday cooking and reheating
Not for: Large family roasts and big-batch cooking, where a full-size oven still wins on capacity
Bottom line: A practical air fryer (4.3L) that crisps food fast with little oil and costs less to run than an oven.
The Tower Family Size Air is a sensible option for larger households, driven by its 4.3L capacity and 1500W power rating. It is positioned as a best The Tower air fryer choice where more cooking space is needed in one unit, with a 60-minute timer for planned serving times. Results still depend on food type, portion size and how evenly items are arranged, and the larger capacity may be unnecessary for smaller households.
Key specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 4.3L |
| Power | 1500W |
| Colour | Black |
| Timer | 60-Minute (Not specified) |
Pros
- 4.3L capacity
- Faster and cheaper to run than a full-size oven
Cons
- Takes up worktop space
- Cooks smaller batches than a full-size oven
- Some foods still need a light spray of oil to crisp up
Capacity and Size
With a 4.3L cooking capacity, the air fryer is positioned for making more food at once, which can be helpful for feeding more than one person. The capacity figure refers to the cooking space, so results depend on how food is arranged in the basket and the shape of portions. For smaller meals, a larger basket space can be less efficient because food may need more careful spacing to heat evenly. The unit is rated at 1500W.
Cooking Performance and Functions
Cooking performance and functions on the Tower are mainly shaped by its 4.3L capacity and 1500W power rating, as these determine how much food can be prepared at once and how quickly the unit can heat. It uses hot-air cooking for family-sized portions, and it includes a 60-minute timer to manage cooking time for items that need longer monitoring. Overall, it is suitable for straightforward batch cooking, while flexibility beyond basic timed cooking is limited where programme and temperature details are not provided.
Single or Dual Zone
Single-zone air fryers, such as the air fryer, suit people who want one cooking area to handle a batch at the same time. With a single zone, all food items share the same airflow and cooking environment, so items placed together tend to finish at the same time, particularly when portions are similar. This works well for cooking chips with chicken in the same batch, using the model's 4.3L capacity for family portions. Dual-zone models can allow different timings for separate foods, reducing overcooking risk.
Ease of Use and Controls
This air fryer's Family Size Air Fryer T17021 keeps everyday cooking simple with a 60-minute timer and a clear, single cooking chamber. The controls centre on setting a time, then starting the cook, so most routines follow a straightforward sequence without needing extra steps. A 4.3L cooking space supports larger batches. The black 1500W unit is positioned for quick turnaround, but cooking results still depend on the food type and how it is arranged in the chamber. Overall, it prioritises simple operation, with fewer adjustable options than some competitors.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward on the Tower Family Size Air, as the controls are simple and cooking takes place in a single, enclosed chamber. After use, the unit should cool completely. The drawer and basket can be removed and washed, ideally using warm soapy water. For stubborn residue, soaking helps, and a non-abrasive sponge is recommended to help avoid scratches. The interior chamber can be wiped with a damp cloth, while the heating area should not be soaked. The exterior surfaces should be wiped gently, then everything should be dried before reassembly. Regular checks for grease buildup support consistent performance, with deep cleaning carried out occasionally.
Noise and Energy Use
Noise and energy use depend mostly on how long the Tower is run, because it uses a 1500 W heating element and cooks in a single enclosed chamber. In daily use, the fan and heater cycles can create noticeable background sound, especially during longer cook times. Energy use increases as the unit runs longer, since power draw is tied to the 1500 W element. To control overall cost, preheat only when needed, set the 60-minute timer appropriately, and avoid frequent extra reheats.
Who Is This Air Fryer For?
The air fryer suits people who want to cook for multiple people without using a larger oven, because its 4.3L capacity is designed for everyday batches rather than single portions. It fits households that prefer faster meal prep, since the 60-minute timer supports planned cooking within a session. The 1500W power may appeal to those wanting quicker heat-up compared with smaller appliances, but results still depend on what is cooked and how full the basket is. It may feel limiting for larger gatherings, because 4.3L is not intended for oversized trays.
Where to Buy in the UK
Where can shoppers buy the Tower in the UK? It is available through major UK retailers that stock The air fryer small appliances, though availability varies by region and date. Online marketplaces may also list the T17021, so buyers should check that the listing specifies the correct black 4.3L, 1500W model with the 60-minute timer. For best certainty, shoppers can compare official retailer product pages, because third-party listings sometimes feature similar This air fryer air fryers. If the box details or product code do not match T17021, it is safest to skip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tower worth it?
For faster, lower-oil cooking of chips, chicken, veg and reheats, the Tower Family Size Air earns its place with 4.3L capacity. It is also cheaper to run than heating a full-size oven - check the current Amazon UK price, as it changes often.
Is the air fryer big enough for a family?
This air fryer has 4.3L capacity. As a rough guide, 4-5L suits 1-2 people, 6-8L suits 3-4, and larger or dual-drawer models suit families of 4 or more.
What are the downsides of the Tower?
Air fryers take up worktop space, cook smaller batches than a full oven, and some foods still need a light oil spray. They are best for crisping and reheating rather than replacing every oven job, which is why they suit some kitchens better than others.
Is the air fryer cheaper to run than an oven?
For small and medium portions, usually yes - the Tower heats a much smaller space than a full-size oven and cooks faster, so it uses less energy. For large meals that fill a big oven anyway, the saving is smaller. Exact cost depends on its wattage and your tariff.
Is the air fryer easy to clean?
The drawer and crisper plate wipe or wash clean; non-stick coatings make this easier. Clean it after each use, as baked-on grease is harder to remove later.
Do you need oil in the Tower Family Size Air?
Little or none - this air fryer circulates hot air to crisp food, so most things need only a light spray of oil or none at all. Naturally fatty foods like sausages need no added oil, while a fine mist helps fresh chips and breaded items crisp up.