Ninja Double Stack XL Air Fryer 9.5L SL400ME

Created by Hatch Villaverde, Modified on Wed, 30 Apr at 11:53 AM by Hatch Villaverde

Question	Answer
How many cooking functions are included with the unit?	The unit has 6 different cooking functions: Air Fry, Max Crisp, Bake, Roast, Reheat and Dehydrate.

	Each has a different range of temperatures and fan speed which are tailored to get the best cooking results. Our helpful recipe guide gives advice on which program is best for different ingredients and recipes.
What is Max Crisp?	Use the Max Crisp program for cooking smaller quantities of frozen food. It's perfect for breaded or battered foods and will give a really great crispy exterior. We recommend frequently checking your food and shaking or tossing it to ensure desired results.
What is the temperature range of the unit?	The temperature ranges from 40°C (for Dehydrate) to 240°C (for Max Crisp). Roast, Air Fry, Reheat and Bake have a maximum temperature of 210°C.
What is the capacity of the SL400ME model compared to the AF400ME?	The SL400 has an overall capacity of 9.5L (4.75L per drawer).

	The AF400 has an overall capacity of 9.5L (4.75L per drawer).
What type of coating if used for the air fryer and the included parts?	The drawers are made with a PTFE coating and the crisper plates are non-stick aluminium with a nano ceramic coating. The unit's exterior is BPA free.
How big is the unit? How much space do I need?	The exterior dimensions for the air fryer are H:38.5 x W:28.0 (including control panel) x D:47.0 cm.
	The internal drawer dimensions are H:12.5 x W:18.4 x D:21.5 cm.

	When using this appliance, provide at least 15cm of space above and on all sides for adequate air circulation
What are the timer increments?	The timer increments vary depending on the function:
	• Air Fry: 1-minute increments up to 1 hour
	• Roast: 1-minute increments for the first hour, followed by 5-minute increments for the next 3 hours
	• Dehydrate: 15-minute increments up to 12 hours
	• Reheat: 1-minute increments up to 1 hour
	• Bake: 1-minute increments for the first 30 minutes, followed by 5-minute increments for the next 3 1/2 hours
	• Max Crisp (not included on all models): 1-minute increments up to 30 minutes
How do I know if the air fryer is on?	When the unit is powered on, the digital display will show 00:00.
Why can't I change the temperature for Max Crisp?	240˚C is the default temperature for Max Crisp. It's purposely set at this temperature to crisp frozen breaded or battered foods.
How do I change functions on the unit?	To change functions for specific zone, press the corresponding number of the desired zone (either 1 or 2) and then turn the dial left and right to change function.
Why won't the temperature go any higher?	This means you're already at the max temperature for that setting.
How do I read the time setting?	The display shows in HH:MM (hours, minutes).
The timer won't go past 1 minute.	The timer is actually at 1 hour. The time display should be read as HH:MM.
Will the outside of the unit get hot?	Although the outside of the unit will heat up during the cooking process, the control panel and air fry drawer handle will remain safe to touch.
Does the air fryer need to preheat?	The air fryer does not need to be preheated.
Can I adjust the cook time and/or temperature once the unit is running?	Yes. You can adjust the cook time or temperature at any point throughout the cooking process by selecting the desired zone, then pressing TEMP and use the dial to adjust the temperature.
How do I pause the countdown timer?	The countdown timer will pause automatically when you remove the drawers from the unit. Reinsert drawer within 10 minutes to resume cooking or the zone with the drawer open will be cancelled.
Why did the display screen go black?	The unit is in standby mode. Press the power button to turn it back on.
Why is the unit beeping?	Either the food is done cooking or the other zone has started cooking.
Why is there an “E” message on the display screen?	The unit is not functioning properly. Please contact Customer Services.
Where is the exhaust vent located on the unit?	The exhaust vent is located on the side of the unit. This area will heat up during cooking and steam will be released. Be sure to keep the unit at least 15cm away from any other surfaces.
When should I use each cooking function?	AIR FRY: Use this function to give your food crispiness and crunch with little to no oil.
	MAX CRISP: Best for cooking smaller quantities of frozen food such as French fries and chicken nuggets, which may need a high temperature.
	BAKE: Create decadent baked treats and desserts.
	ROAST: Use the unit as an oven for tender meats and more.
	REHEAT: Revive leftovers by gently warming them, leaving you with crispy results.
	DEHYDRATE: Dehydrate meats, fruits and vegetables for healthy snacks
When and how do I use Sync function?	Sync is recommended when cooking 2 food loads using 2 different functions, temperatures or cook times. This feature allows you to cook two different foods two different ways and finish at the same time.

	Follow the steps below whne using the SYNC function:
	First, place the ingredients in Zone 1 and in Zone 2. After powering on the unit, you’ll notice the settings automatically default to Zone 1, so start by setting Zone 1.

	Zone 1: Select the desired cooking function. Then set the temperature by pressing the Temp button. Then select the Time button to set the cook time.

	Zone 2: Select Zone 2. Select the desired cooking function. Then set the temperature by pressing the Temp button. Then select the Time button to set the cook time.

	Once both zones are set, press the SYNC button so that both baskets finish cooking at the same time and press the START/STOP button to begin the cooking cycle. The zone with the shorter cook time will display HOLD until the time matches the other zone.

	Be sure to use the Quick Start Guide included with your air fryer as it’s a great resource for looking up Ninja’s recommended cook times, function instructions, or finding delicious recipes to try out.
When and how do I use Match function?	The Match feature easily copies settings across baskets for full 9.5L capacity, meaning both baskets will automatically use the same setting, cooking time and temperature while distributing the heat evenly across the baskets.
	To use Match, select Zone 1, then select the desired cooking function. Press the TEMP button, to set the temperature, and press the TIME button, to set the time. Press the MATCH button to copy the zone 1 settings to zone 2. Then Press START/STOP to begin cooking in both zones.
	Be sure to use the Quick Start Guide included with your air fryer as it’s a great resource for looking up Ninja’s recommended cook times, function instructions, or finding delicious recipes to try out.
When and how do I use Double Stack Pro function?	DOUBLE STACK PRO: Cook 4 foods at once in 2 independent air fry drawers for evenly crispy meals and snacks. It allows you to create 2 full meals, in one zone, with a crispy bottom layer and extra-crispy top layer.
	The extra crispy top layer is for proteins and fast cooking, the crispy bottom layer for veggies and starches.

	For best cooking results when using the Ninja DoubleStack Pro function, follow the steps below.

	1.To start, insert the crisper plates with the feet facing down to the bottom of each basket. It’s important these crisper plates are installed into the baskets every time you cook, no matter what function you use, as these help the rapid hot air surround the food to cook it to perfection. Then place the veggies or sides onto the crisper plate.

	2.Next, insert the Stacked Meal Rack inside over the veggies with the handles facing up. These stacked meal racks should fit snuggly into the side notches in the baskets. Then, place the proteins gently onto the Stacked Meal Rack.
	Note: Something important to note is that these Stacked Meal Racks should only be used when using the Double Stack Pro function or multi-layer cooking.

	3.Next, power the air fryer on, insert both baskets into the air fryer. The unit defaults to Zone 1.

	4.Zone 1: Next, select your desired cooking function - for example, select Air Fry. Then set the time and temperature for Zone 1 by selecting the TEMP button to set the desired temperature and selecting the TIME button to set the desired cook time.

	5..Zone 2: Then select Zone 2 to program the air fryer. Following the same steps as for Zone 1, select the desired function, temperature, and time.

	4.Then select the Double Stack Pro button. Then all you have to do is press the START/STOP button to begin cooking.
Do I need to use oil when air frying?	Although oil is not essential, we recommend starting with 1 tablespoon and adjusting for personal preference, or referencing the recipe for recommended oil amounts.
Can I cook different foods in each zone and not worry about cross contamination?	Yes, both zones are self-contained with separate heating elements and fans.
Can I air fry wet, battered ingredients?	Yes, but use the proper breading technique. It is important to coat foods first with flour, then with egg, and then with bread crumbs. Press breading firmly onto the battered ingredients, so crumbs won’t be blown off by the fan.
When should I use Max Crisp instead of Air Fry?	For best results, use Max Crisp when cooking pre-packaged frozen foods, such as french fries or chicken nuggets. The temperature is 240°C and cannot be changed. This high temperature lends itself to small quanities of breaded or battered foods and you'll get a crispy, crunchy result.
Do I need to defrost frozen foods before air frying them?	It depends on the food. Follow package instructions.
Can I use parchment paper or aluminum foil in the air fry drawer?	Yes. It is safe to use parchment paper and aluminum foil in the drawer. The use of aluminum foil is suggested in some recipes.
How do I adjust the temperature or time while using a single zone?	Select the active zone, then press TEMP and use the dial to adjust the temperature or press TIME and use the dial to adjust the time.
How do I adjust the temperature or time while using dual zones?	Select the desired zone, press TEMP and use the dial to adjust the temperature or press TIME and use the dial or the arrow buttons to adjust the time.
How do I stop one zone when using both zones?	To stop one zone, first press the zone button then press START/STOP. To stop both zones simply press START/STOP.
Do I have to shake the drawers while cooking?	Yes. It is important to shake or rotate your food for consistent browning and crispiness. For best results, follow the recipe or cooking chart to find out how often you should shake or rotate ingredients while cooking.
Can I pull out the drawers to check on food during cooking?	Yes. We recommend checking on your food regularly throughout the cooking process. Simply pull out the drawer and shake or rotate the food. The timer will pause automatically and the heater and fan will shut off when the drawer is removed. When you are done, slide the drawer back into place. The timer will start and the unit will automatically resume cooking.
Why is my food burning on Max Crisp?	Max Crisp cooks your food faster than traditional air crisping, so make sure you check on your food and shake it often to prevent burning.
My food is not crispy/brown enough.	To achieve an even amount of crisping/browning, it is important to shake or flip your food throughout cooking. For best results, follow the recipe or cooking chart to find out how often you should shake or flip ingredients while cooking.

	You may also increase the cook time or add additional oil to the recipe in 1-tablespoon increments. Continue to flip or shake food to ensure even browning/crisping.
Why is the air fryer taking so long to cook?	The unit's power is distributed to both zones during cooking when both are in use. When only a single zone is in use, the unit will allocate all of the power to that single zone. So if you're using both zones to cook, it may take longer.
Why didn’t my food cook fully?	Make sure the drawer is fully inserted during cooking. For consistent browning, make sure ingredients are arranged in an even layer on the bottom of the drawer with no overlapping. Shake drawer to toss ingredients for even crispiness. Cook temperature and time can be adjusted at any time during cooking. Simply select the desired zone, press TEMP and use the dial to adjust the temperature or press TIME and use the dial to adjust the time.
Why is my food burned?	For best results, check progress throughout cooking and remove food when desired level of brownness has been achieved. Remove food immediately after the cook time is complete to avoid overcooking.
Why do some ingredients blow around when air frying?	Occasionally, the fan from the air fryer will blow lightweight foods around. Use wooden cocktail stick to secure loose lightweight food, like the top slice of bread on a sandwich.
Is it dishwasher safe?	The drawers and crisper plates can be washed in the dishwasher or by hand. If handwashed, air-dry or towel-dry all parts after use. To extend the life of the drawers we recommend hand-washing them.
How do I clean the unit?	To clean the main unit and the control panel, wipe them clean with a damp cloth after unplugging from the wall. Never submerge main unit in water.
	The drawers and crisper plates can be washed in the dishwasher or by hand. If handwashed, air-dry or towel-dry all parts after use. To extend the life of the drawers, we recommend hand-washing them.
	If food residue is stuck on the crisper plates or drawers, place them in a sink filled with warm, soapy water and allow to soak.
How often should the unit, drawers and crisper plates be cleaned?	The unit, drawers and crisper plates should be thoroughly cleaned after every use. Before cleaning, unplug the unit from the socket. To clean the main unit and control panel, wipe them with a damp cloth. The drawers are hand wash only. The crisper plates are dishwasher safe. If there is food residue stuck on the drawer or crisper plate, place them in a sink filled with warm, soapy water and allow them to soak. Use a soft sponge to help remove any remaining residue. Thoroughly air-dry or towel-dry all parts after cleaning.
When should I use the crisper plate?	For best cooking results, use the crisper plate when you want food to come out crispy. The plate elevates the food in the drawer so that air can flow under and around it to cook ingredients evenly. If using, the crisper plate should always go in the bottom of the drawer and then ingredients go on top.
When should I use the stacked meal rack?	Use the stacked meal racks when you want to cook two layers of food in one drawer. For the best cooking results, we recommend using the Double Stack Pro function when cooking multi-layered food.
How much can I fill the drawers?	There is no fill line. Make sure that the drawer can close properly in the unit. For best results don't over fill the drawers so that hot air can evenly circulate and ingredients can be shaken often.
Are the drawers safe to put on my worktop?	The drawers will heat up during cooking. Use caution when handling, and place them on heat-safe surfaces only. DO NOT place the drawers on the top of the unit.
The crisper plate is not coming out.	When removing the crisper plate, wait for the unit to cool, then remove the entire drawer from the unit. To speed up the cooling process, remove the drawer from the unit and run under cold water. Then reach into the drawer and grab the small handle located in the center of the crisper plate. Pull up firmly to remove the crisper plate from the drawer.