Tower T17088 Air Fryer Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
This manual, available online as a 20-page PDF (16MB), details the Tower T17088 9L Dual Basket Vortx Air Fryer․
It offers support via Argos (409/6137) and Tower Housewares’ website․
The Tower T17088 Vortx 9L Dual Basket Air Fryer is designed for convenient and efficient cooking․
Praised for superior chip quality – even better than McDonald’s, according to some – this appliance offers a larger 9L capacity with two independent baskets․
This eliminates cooking disagreements and allows for synchronized or independent operation․
The accompanying manual, downloadable as a PDF, provides comprehensive instructions for optimal use,
including guidance on features like the ‘Smart Finish’ function and accessing support through Argos (409/6137)․
Key Features and Specifications
The Tower T17088 boasts a generous 9L capacity, divided into two separate 4․5L baskets for versatile cooking․
Its ‘Vortx’ technology ensures rapid and even air circulation, delivering crispy results with less oil․
The air fryer features a digital control panel with pre-set programs for common foods․
A key selling point is the ‘Smart Finish’ function, synchronizing basket completion times․
The downloadable manual (16MB PDF) details specifications and provides guidance on maximizing its capabilities․

Understanding the Control Panel
The T17088 utilizes a digital touch panel for operation, though some users find it “over engineered” and potentially confusing initially․
The manual clarifies its functions․
Power Button and Indicator Lights
The power button initiates operation of the Tower T17088 Vortx Air Fryer․ Indicator lights clearly display the current status – whether the unit is powered on, preheating, or actively cooking․
These lights provide essential feedback during the cooking process․ Understanding these visual cues is crucial for effective use, especially given some initial user reports of the control panel being slightly complex․
The manual details specific light patterns and their corresponding meanings, ensuring users can easily monitor and control their air frying experience․
Temperature Control Settings
The Tower T17088 features precise temperature control, allowing users to adjust cooking heat for optimal results․ The manual details the temperature range, typically spanning from 80°C to 200°C, catering to diverse recipes․
Adjustments are made via the control panel, enabling customized cooking for various food types․
Users can fine-tune settings to achieve perfectly crispy fries or gently reheat leftovers․
Given the “over engineered” touch panel, the manual emphasizes understanding the temperature adjustment process for consistent cooking․
Timer Functionality
The Tower T17088’s timer is crucial for precise cooking, preventing overcooking or burning․ The manual explains how to set the timer, typically up to 60 minutes, using the control panel․
It features an auto-shutoff function, enhancing safety and convenience․
The synchronized cooking mode utilizes the timer to finish both baskets simultaneously․
Considering the control panel is described as “a little confusing at first,” the manual likely provides detailed instructions on timer operation for a seamless user experience․
Pre-set Cooking Programs
The Tower T17088 Vortx Air Fryer boasts pre-set programs designed for common foods, simplifying cooking․ These programs automatically adjust temperature and time for optimal results, potentially including options for fries, chicken, or steak․
The manual details each program’s specific settings and recommended food types․
Given the control panel’s complexity,
the manual likely provides clear guidance on selecting and utilizing these pre-set functions effectively, ensuring even novice users can achieve delicious meals with ease․

Using the Dual Baskets
The T17088 features two 4․5L baskets, enabling synchronized or independent cooking․
This allows for cooking two different foods simultaneously or larger quantities of a single dish․
Synchronized Cooking Mode
The Tower T17088’s synchronized cooking mode is a standout feature, designed to simplify meal preparation․
This innovative function allows both baskets to cook simultaneously, but intelligently adjusts the timing so that both foods finish cooking at the same time․
This eliminates the need for staggered cooking or removing foods at different stages․
Users can prepare complete meals – like a protein and a side – effortlessly, ensuring everything is hot and ready to serve together․
It’s perfect for busy weeknights and simplifies the cooking process significantly․
Independent Basket Operation
The Tower T17088 offers the flexibility of independent basket operation, allowing users to cook two entirely different dishes simultaneously with unique settings․
Each basket functions as a separate air fryer, with its own temperature and timer controls․
This is ideal for families with varying preferences or when preparing multiple components of a meal requiring different cooking parameters․
You can air fry chicken in one basket while roasting vegetables in the other, all at once․
This maximizes efficiency and saves valuable time in the kitchen․
Maximum Food Capacity per Basket
The Tower T17088 boasts a generous 9L total capacity, divided equally between its two baskets;
Each basket can comfortably accommodate approximately 4․5L of food, making it suitable for families or larger portions․
Avoid overfilling the baskets, as this can hinder proper air circulation and result in unevenly cooked food․
For optimal results, leave some space around the food items to ensure hot air can circulate effectively․
This ensures crispy and delicious results every time․

First-Time Use & Preparation
Before initial use, thoroughly clean the air fryer․
Proper ventilation is key; ensure adequate space around the unit for safe operation․
Initial Cleaning Procedure
Before the very first use of your Tower T17088 Vortx Air Fryer, a comprehensive cleaning is essential․ Remove all packaging materials and accessories․ Wash the baskets and any removable parts with warm, soapy water․
Ensure all residue is removed, then thoroughly dry each component․ Wipe down the interior and exterior of the air fryer with a damp cloth․ Avoid immersing the main unit in water․
This initial cleaning process prepares the appliance for optimal performance and ensures food safety․
Recommended Seasoning Process
While not strictly required, a light seasoning process can enhance the non-stick properties of your Tower T17088’s baskets․ After the initial cleaning, lightly coat the baskets with a high smoke point oil, such as vegetable or canola oil․
Use a paper towel to spread the oil evenly, ensuring a thin layer․ Run the air fryer empty at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes․
This process helps create a protective layer, improving performance and simplifying future cleaning․
Placement and Ventilation Requirements
Ensure the Tower T17088 is placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface with adequate ventilation․ Maintain at least 6 inches (15cm) of space around the air fryer – above, behind, and on both sides․
Avoid placing it under cabinets or near flammable materials․ Proper airflow is crucial to prevent overheating and ensure efficient operation․
Do not operate the air fryer on a soft surface like a rug, as this can obstruct ventilation․

Cooking with the Tower T17088
The 9L Dual Basket Vortx Air Fryer excels at cooking foods you love, and can even make chips better than McDonalds, according to reviews!
Recommended Cooking Times for Common Foods
While specific times vary, the Tower T17088 is versatile for reheating and cooking favorites․ Be cautious with greasy foods like sausages, as they can create excess smoke․
The air fryer is excellent for chips, potentially surpassing traditional methods․ Users share experiences adapting recipes for air frying, showcasing its flexibility;
Experimentation is key, but online resources and videos demonstrate usage, helping overcome initial confusion with the touch panel and dual basket functionality․
Remember to adjust times based on quantity and desired crispness․
Adjusting Cooking Times and Temperatures
The Tower T17088’s touch panel, though sometimes described as “over engineered,” allows precise control․ Adjust cooking times based on food quantity and desired crispness – experimentation is encouraged!
Start with recommended times, but don’t hesitate to increase or decrease them․ Monitor food closely, especially when adapting traditional recipes for air frying․
Remember that preheating isn’t always necessary, but can improve results․ Adjusting temperature impacts cooking speed and texture․
Refer to online videos for guidance․
Using Accessories (if applicable)
Information regarding specific accessories for the Tower T17088 is limited in the provided sources․ However, air fryers generally benefit from accessories like racks, skewers, and baking pans․
These enhance versatility, allowing for more complex recipes beyond simple frying․
Always ensure accessories are air fryer safe and fit properly within the baskets to avoid safety hazards․
Check the Tower Housewares website for compatible accessories designed for the T17088 model․

Cleaning and Maintenance
Disassemble for cleaning; some parts are dishwasher safe․ Use proper cleaning solutions, and be cautious when cleaning after cooking greasy foods․
Disassembling the Air Fryer for Cleaning
Before cleaning, always ensure the Tower T17088 air fryer is unplugged and completely cooled․ Carefully remove the dual baskets and wash them separately․ The crisper plates within each basket are also removable for thorough cleaning․ Detach any other removable components as needed, consulting the full manual for specific instructions․
Avoid immersing the main unit in water or any liquids․ Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth․ Proper disassembly ensures all food residue is removed, maintaining optimal performance and hygiene․
Dishwasher Safe Parts
The Tower T17088’s dual baskets and crisper plates are confirmed to be dishwasher safe, offering convenient cleaning․ However, the manual recommends a gentle cycle to prevent damage․ Avoid using abrasive cleaners on these parts, as they can scratch the non-stick coating․
The main unit and control panel should never be placed in the dishwasher․ Always hand wash these components with a damp cloth and mild detergent, ensuring they are thoroughly dried before reassembly․
Proper Cleaning Solutions
For effective cleaning of the Tower T17088, utilize warm, soapy water and a soft cloth․ Avoid harsh abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or steel wool, as these can damage the non-stick coating within the baskets and crisper plates․
Stubborn food residue may require a paste of baking soda and water․ Ensure all cleaning solutions are thoroughly rinsed away before reassembling the air fryer․ Never immerse the main unit in water․

Troubleshooting Common Issues
If the air fryer isn’t heating or food cooks unevenly, consult the manual․
Error codes have specific meanings detailed within the provided documentation․
Air Fryer Not Heating
If your Tower T17088 air fryer fails to heat, first ensure it’s properly plugged into a functioning electrical outlet․
Double-check the power button is engaged and the indicator lights are illuminated, confirming power is reaching the unit․
Refer to the comprehensive manual for troubleshooting steps regarding potential internal issues․
Verify the temperature is set correctly and the timer has been activated․
A lack of heat may indicate a fault requiring support from Tower Housewares or Argos (409/6137)․
Food Not Cooking Evenly
Uneven cooking in the Tower T17088 can often be resolved by ensuring food isn’t overcrowded within the baskets․
Shake or flip the food midway through the cooking cycle, promoting consistent heat exposure․
The dual basket feature allows for separate cooking of items requiring different times or temperatures․
Consult the manual’s recommended cooking times for various foods as a starting point․
Adjusting cooking times and temperatures may be necessary for optimal, even results; seek guidance from the online resources․
Error Codes and Their Meanings
Unfortunately, specific error codes for the Tower T17088 aren’t explicitly detailed in the readily available online documentation․
However, if the air fryer fails to heat, check the power connection and ensure the baskets are correctly inserted․
Consult the full instruction manual (downloadable PDF) for troubleshooting steps․
For unresolved issues, contact Argos product support (409/6137) or Tower Housewares directly․
Online user forums may also provide insights from other owners experiencing similar problems․

Safety Precautions
Always follow electrical safety guidelines and avoid overheating․
Be cautious with greasy foods like sausages, and ensure proper hot air function usage․
Electrical Safety Guidelines
Before operating the Tower T17088, ensure the voltage matches your household supply․ Never immerse the air fryer, cord, or plug in water or other liquids to prevent electric shock․
Regularly inspect the cord for damage; if damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or a qualified technician․
Avoid using extension cords; if necessary, use a heavy-duty extension cord appropriately rated for the appliance’s wattage․
Always unplug the air fryer when not in use and before cleaning․
Avoiding Overheating
To prevent overheating, ensure adequate ventilation around the Tower T17088 air fryer during operation․ Do not block the air intake or exhaust vents, and maintain clearance on all sides․
Avoid placing the air fryer near flammable materials like curtains or paper towels․
Be cautious when cooking greasy foods like sausages, as they can increase the risk of overheating and potential fire hazards․
Never operate the air fryer without the baskets properly inserted․
Proper Usage of the Hot Air Function
The Tower T17088 utilizes rapid air circulation for cooking, mimicking traditional frying with less oil․ Ensure food is arranged in a single layer within the baskets for even cooking․
Avoid overcrowding, as this hinders airflow and results in unevenly cooked food․
For optimal crisping, lightly coat food with oil or use an oil sprayer․
Regularly check and turn food during the cooking process to promote consistent browning and texture․

Recipes & Cooking Inspiration
Explore quick and easy recipes, or adapt favorites for air frying!
Enjoy chips better than McDonalds, and cook more of the food you love․
Quick & Easy Air Fryer Recipes
Unlock a world of effortless cooking with your Tower T17088!
Reheat leftovers with ease, or quickly prepare crispy, golden chips – even better than those from popular fast-food chains, according to reviews․
The dual baskets allow for simultaneous cooking of sides and mains, streamlining meal times․
Experiment with simple recipes like roasted vegetables, chicken wings, or even baked goods․
The Vortx technology ensures even cooking and a deliciously crispy finish, making healthy eating convenient and enjoyable․
Don’t be afraid to get creative!
Adapting Traditional Recipes for Air Frying
Transform your favorite recipes using the Tower T17088’s air frying capabilities!
Reduce oil usage while maintaining that satisfying crispy texture․
Consider lowering cooking temperatures slightly and checking for doneness frequently, as air fryers cook faster․
For breaded items, ensure a thorough coating to prevent it from blowing around inside the baskets․
The dual basket feature is perfect for cooking components of a meal separately for optimal results․
Experiment and enjoy healthier versions of classic dishes!

Warranty Information
Tower provides warranty coverage details for the T17088․
Information on how to claim the warranty is available through Tower Housewares and Argos support channels․
Warranty Coverage Details
The Tower T17088 Vortx Air Fryer is covered by a standard manufacturer’s warranty, though specific terms aren’t explicitly detailed in the readily available online information․
Generally, Tower warranties cover defects in materials and workmanship under normal household use․
The warranty period length isn’t specified in the provided snippets, so direct confirmation from Tower Housewares or Argos is recommended․
Warranty claims typically require proof of purchase and a description of the defect․
How to Claim Warranty
To initiate a warranty claim for your Tower T17088 Air Fryer, first gather your proof of purchase – a receipt or order confirmation is essential․
Contact Tower Housewares directly through their website (towerhousewares․co․uk) or Argos customer support (409/6137)․
Clearly describe the defect and provide your product model number (T17088)․
Follow their instructions regarding returning the unit or providing photographic evidence; they will guide you through the process․
Where to Find Additional Support
For extra help, visit Tower Housewares’ website or contact Argos support at 409/6137․
Explore online user forums for community assistance and video guides․
Tower Housewares Website
The official Tower Housewares website, http://www․towerhousewares․co․uk, serves as a central hub for comprehensive product support related to the T17088 air fryer․
Here, you can typically find downloadable manuals, frequently asked questions (FAQs), and potentially even video tutorials demonstrating the air fryer’s features and operation․
The website also showcases the full range of Tower products, allowing users to explore other kitchen appliances and accessories․
It’s a valuable resource for troubleshooting, understanding specifications, and maximizing your cooking experience with the Vortx Air Fryer․
Argos Product Support (409/6137)
For direct assistance with your Tower T17088 9L Dual Basket Vortx Air Fryer, purchased through Argos, you can contact their dedicated product support line at 409/6137․
This helpline is specifically designed to address queries related to the product, including troubleshooting common issues and understanding the instruction manual․
Argos support can provide guidance on operation, features, and warranty claims․
Ensure you have your product details readily available when calling for efficient assistance․
Online User Forums and Communities
Beyond official support, numerous online platforms host Tower T17088 air fryer users sharing experiences and solutions․
These communities offer a valuable resource for troubleshooting, recipe ideas, and understanding nuanced features․
A 10-minute video demonstrates the fryer’s use, addressing initial confusion with its controls․
Engage with fellow owners to gain insights and discover tips for maximizing your cooking experience with this popular appliance․