5 Common NESCO Pressure Canner Problems (Troubleshooting)

Pressure canners are great tools for home canning, but they aren’t perfect.
If you’re having trouble with your pressure canner, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.

Pressure canners are designed to safely sterilize food at high temperatures.
They’re also known as steam cookers because they create heat through boiling water under pressure.
This method produces consistent results every time, no matter what type of food you’re cooking.

Pressure canners are relatively inexpensive, but they require maintenance and regular cleaning.
Here are some common problems and solutions

NESCO Pressure Canner Problems

1. Check the venting system. Make sure the vent holes are not blocked or clogged. Also check the vent hose connections for any kinks or damage.
2. Check the regulator. Make sure it is not leaking. If it is leaking, clean the area around the regulator.

1) Liquid Oozing Out

Liquid oozing out from the top of the canner indicates that the canner is not properly vented. This problem can occur if the vent pipe is plugged or damaged. To correct this problem, remove the canning rack and place it back into the canner. Then open the vent valves located on the bottom of the canner. Close the valves after each use.
2 Leaking Regulator
Answer: A leaky regulator is caused by a broken spring or other mechanical failure. It may be necessary to replace the regulator.

Pressure

If the pressure gauge does not move during processing, the pressure is too low. Increase the heat setting on the stovetop burner or increase the pressure regulator setting.
3 Overheating
Overheating occurs when the temperature exceeds 212 degrees F 100 C. This usually happens because the canner was left unattended for too long. Turn off the heat source and allow the canner to cool down naturally.

Air Bubbles

Air bubbles form when liquid comes into contact with air. To prevent air from entering the canning jar, always fill jars completely full. Never leave any air spaces.
Canning Jars
Answer: Canning jars are available in different sizes. Choose the right size based on how many jars you plan to process at one time. Larger jars hold more food and are easier to handle.

Seal & Ring Band

A ring band is placed around the mouth of the jar and tightened using a rubber band. This helps ensure a good seal between the top edge of the jar and the lid.
Lid Sealing Process
Answer: Once the lid is properly sealed, the jar is heated until the contents reach the proper processing temperature.

Temperature

Once the jar reaches the desired processing temperature, the lid is removed from the jar and the process continues.
Processing Time
Answer: After reaching the desired processing temperature, jars are processed for the required time.

2) The Lid Doesn’t Fit Correctly

If the lid doesn’t fit correctly, the pressure inside the jar will not build up properly and the contents won’t get cooked properly.
3 Jar Cracks During Processing
Answer: The cracks occur because of the sudden change in pressure during processing.

Locking Lugs Lining

The locking lugs prevent the lid from coming off while processing.

3) Unable To Build Pressure

If the pressure does not build up properly, it could mean that the pressure regulator is faulty.
4 Overheating
Answer: Overheating occurs if the pressure gets too high. This can happen if the pressure regulator is defective.

Gasket

A gasket is a rubber ring that seals around the opening of the pressure vessel. It prevents any leakage of gas from the vessel.
5 Leaking
Answer: Leakage can occur if the gaskets are damaged or worn out.

4) Gasket Doesn’t Seal

If the gasket doesn’t fit properly, it won’t seal correctly.
3 Gasket Is Damaged
Answer: A damaged gasket can leak gas into the pressure vessel.
2 Gasket Not Sealed Properly
Answer: If the gasket isn’t sealed properly, it could allow gas to escape.
1 Gasket Has Been Removed
Answer: If the gas regulator is removed, gas can escape.

5) High-Pressure Valve Pops

High-pressure valves pop because of excessive pressure build-up.
4 Gas Leaks Out
Answer: If the pressure relief valve opens, gas leaks out.

Why is my pressure canner spitting water?

If your pressure cooker releases steam, it could mean that something is wrong with the unit. It could be a problem with the regulator or the valve. To check if the pressure cooker is leaking, turn off the stove and open the lid. Check if any liquid is coming from the bottom of the cooker. If there is, then you need to get it repaired immediately.

Why is steam coming out of my pressure cooker while cooking?

If the canner isn’t weighted down, it could move around during processing. This can lead to uneven pressure distribution and poor results. To prevent this from happening, place a heavy object like a brick on top of the canner.

Why won’t my pressure canner weight won’t jiggle?

Steam comes from the vaporization of water during cooking. Steam is produced when the water molecules in the food particles change into gas. This happens because the water molecules become heated above 212 degrees Fahrenheit 100 degrees Celsius. As the water changes into gas, it expands and pushes against the sides of the vessel. This creates a vacuum within the vessel, causing the steam to form.

Why is my pressure cooker releasing steam?

If you see water coming from the top of your canner, it could mean that the airlock is not properly sealed. To solve this problem, you can remove the lid and check if the airlock is properly closed. If it is not, you can try to reseal it using a rubber band. Also, if you notice any leaks around the edges of the lid, you can fix these by tightening the screws.