DZ090 Series Ninja® Foodi® 6qt, 2-Basket Air Fryer FAQs

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This article contains the FAQs for the DZ090 Series Ninja® Foodi® 6qt, 2-Basket Air Fryer. This supports the following SKUs DZ090 and DZ090C.

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How to Operate Questions

What are the different functions?

DZ090, DZ090C - Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate, Bake

DZ091C - Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate, Air Broil

How do I change functions on the unit?

To change functions for a specific zone, press the corresponding number of the desired zone (either 1 or 2) and then press the desired function button for each zone.

What are the temperature ranges for each function?

DZ090, DZ090C -

  • Bake: 250°F–400°F, default at 325°F
  • Reheat: 270°F–400°F, default at 350°F
  • Air Fry: 300°F–400°F, default at 390°F
  • Roast: 250°F–400°F, default at 375°F
  • Dehydrate: 105°F–195°F, default at 150°F

DZ091C

Air Broil: 400°F to 450°F, default at 325°F 

Reheat: 270°F–400°F, default at 350°F 

Air Fry: 300°F–400°F, default at 390°F 

Roast: 250°F–400°F, default at 375°F

Dehydrate: 105°F–195°F, default at 150°F

Why won't the temperature go any higher?

This means you're already at the max temperature for that setting.

When and how do I use Smart Finish?

Smart Finish is recommended when cooking 2 foods using 2 different functions, temperatures, or cook times. To set up, program each zone as normal and select SMART FINISH to have both zones finish at the same time.

When and how do I use Match Cook?

Match Cook sets both zones to the same function, time, and temperature so you can have double the capacity. To use Match Cook, first turn the unit on, select MATCH COOK, then select the desired function. Adjust the time and temperature accordingly (Note: This will adjust both zones). Press START/PAUSE to begin cooking.

Where is the power button located?

The power button is located on the front of the unit on the bottom left-hand side.

What do the different cooking functions do?

*NOT ALL FUNCTION ARE INCLUDED ON ALL MODELS*

 

  • Air Fry: Use this function to give food crispiness and crunch with little to no oil. Bake: Create decadent baked treats and desserts.
  • Roast: Use this function as a roaster oven to tenderize meats and more.
  • Air Broil: Add the crispy finishing touch to meals or melt toppings to create the perfect finish.
  • Reheat: Warm your leftovers with crispy results.
  • Dehydrate: Dehydrate meats, fruits, and vegetables for healthy snacks.

 

How do I know if the unit is on?

When the unit is powered on, the digital display will show 00:00 in LEDs. If you are having issues with your unit's power, please contact Ninja Customer Service.


 

Product Questions

Are the basket and crisper plate nonstick?

The baskets are made of aluminum with a PTFE nonstick coating. The crisper plate has a PTFE-free ceramic nonstick coating.

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.

Why do some ingredients blow around when air frying?

Occasionally, the fan from the air fryer will blow lightweight foods around. Use wooden toothpicks to secure loose lightweight food, like the top slice of bread on a sandwich.

Will the outside of the unit get hot?

Yes, the outside of the unit will heat up during cooking, but the control panel and basket handles will remain safe to touch.

Why does the display show an "ERR" code?

This means the unit is not functioning properly. Contact Customer Service at 1-877-646-5288. So we may better assist you, please register your product online at registeryourninja.com and have the product on hand when you call.

How many watts is the unit?

1690 Watts

Why is there steam coming from the unit during cooking?

It’s normal for some steam to release through either the vents or the baskets, especially when cooking foods with high water content such as vegtables.

Are the baskets safe to put on my countertop?

The baskets will heat up during cooking. Use caution when handling and place them on heat-safe surfaces only. DO NOT place the baskets on top of the unit.

Why did a circuit breaker trip while using the unit?

The unit uses about 14 amps of current, so it must be plugged into an outlet on a 15- amp circuit breaker. Using an outlet on a 10-amp breaker will cause the breaker to trip. It is also important that the unit be the only appliance plugged into an outlet when in use. To avoid tripping a breaker, make sure the unit is the only appliance plugged into an outlet on a 15-amp (or larger load) breaker.

How large is each basket?

Each basket holds 3 qts.

Why is the unit beeping?

The beeping means the cook time is complete or cooking has started in another zone.

What materials are the baskets and crisper plates made of?

The cooking pot is made of aluminum with a PTFE nonstick coating. The crisper plate is aluminum with a nano-ceramic nonstick coating.

The crisper plate won't come out of the basket.

When removing the crisper plate, wait for the unit to cool, then remove the entire basket from the unit. To speed up the cooling process, remove the basket from the unit and run under cold water. Then reach into the basket and grab the small handle located in the center of the crisper plate. Pull up firmly to remove the crisper plate from the basket.

Why can't I change the temperature for Air Broil?

DZ091C Only: Air Broil can be set to 400˚F, 425˚F, and 450˚F only.


 

Cleaning Questions

How do I clean the unit?

The unit, baskets, and crisper plates should be thoroughly cleaned after every use. Before cleaning, unplug the unit from the wall outlet. To clean the main unit and control panel, wipe them with a damp cloth. The baskets*, crisper plates*, and any other accessories are dishwasher safe. If there is food residue stuck on the basket 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.


*To extend the life of the baskets and crisper plates, we recommend hand-washing.

How often should the unit, baskets, and crisper plates be cleaned?

The unit, baskets, and crisper plates should be thoroughly cleaned after every use. Before cleaning, unplug the unit from the wall outlet. To clean the main unit and control panel, wipe them with a damp cloth. The baskets*, crisper plates*, and any other accessories are dishwasher safe. If there is food residue stuck on the basket 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.


*To extend the life of the baskets and crisper plates, we recommend hand-washing.

 
 

Cooking Questions

Why is the unit 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.

How do I start a cook function?

To select a cooking function, press the power button, then press the desired cook function to select. Using the TIME and TEMP arrows, adjust the cooking duration and temperatures accordingly. Press the START/PAUSE button to begin cooking.

"Do I have to let the unit preheat before I use a function?"

Preheating is not needed.

Do I need to defrost frozen foods before air frying them?

It depends on the food. Follow package instructions. For food without instructions, refer to our cooking charts for more information.

How do I cancel a cooking function?

Press the START/PAUSE button at any time during cooking to pause a cooking function. Press the Power button to end cooking and turn off unit.

Can I change the cooking function during cooking?

When using a single zone, there are two options: 1) Turn the unit off then back on OR 2) Adjust the time down to zero, wait a few seconds, and the unit will end cooking. When using both zones, select the zone number you want to change, then press the START/PAUSE for the desired zone and you will be able to select a new cooking function.

Does the unit pause when I remove a basket?

No, the unit will not pause when you remove a basket. Press the START/PAUSE button to pause cooking.

Can I remove the baskets at any time during cooking?

Yes, you can remove the baskets at any point during cooking. We recommend you remove the baskets a few times during cooking to shake/stir your ingredients to ensure even cooking.  Press the START PAUSE button to properly pause unit before removing the baskets.

How do I adjust the temperature or time while cooking?

You can adjust the cook time or temperature at any point during cooking. To do so, select the zone number you would like to change, then press the UP/DOWN arrows to adjust TEMP or TIME.

How do I pause or stop one zone when using both zones?

Select the zone you want to pause or stop, then press the START/PAUSE button. When using the Smart Finish feature, it is recommended to pause both zones to ensure synchronized finish times. To pause both zones, press the START/PAUSE button.

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 basket so that air can flow under and around it to cook ingredients evenly.

Why didn't my food cook fully?

Make sure the basket is fully inserted during cooking. For consistent browning, make sure ingredients are arranged in an even layer on the bottom of the basket with no overlapping. Shake basket to toss ingredients for even crispiness. Cook temperature and time can be adjusted at any time during cooking. Simply use the TEMP arrows to adjust the temperature or the TIME arrows 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.

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.

Can I use parchment paper or aluminum foil in the baskets?

Yes. It is safe to use parchment paper and aluminum foil in the baskets. The use of aluminum foil is suggested in some recipes.

Do I have to shake the basket 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.

Do I need to use oil when air frying?

Although oil is not required, we recommend starting with one tablespoon and adjusting for personal preference or referencing the recipe for recommended oil amounts. Note that different oils and fats (such as butter or margarine) has different smoke points. We recommend using fats with a high smoke point to prevent burning during high temperature cooking. If you are noticing smoking of food during your cooking experience, try using a fat with a higher smoke point such as avocado or olive oil.

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 in 1-tablespoon increments. Continue to flip or shake food to ensure even browning/crisping.

My food didn't cook.

Make sure the basket is fully inserted during cooking. For consistent browning, ensure food is arranged evenly across the basket. When stacking ingredients, make sure to flip or shake food regularly for best cooking results. You can adjust the cook time at any point during cooking. To do so, select the zone number you would like to change, then press the UP/DOWN arrows to adjust TEMP or TIME. If using MATCH COOK, do not select a zone—just press the UP/DOWN arrows to adjust TEMP or TIME.

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