Questions and Answers
HOW DOES THE PRESSURE COOKER WORK?
The Pressure cooker produces pressure by heating water thereby generating
steam (similar to the steam that raises the lid of your conventional cooker).
he Pressure Cooker keeps the steam inside, allowing the excess to escape
through the Vent Tube. The Pressure Control automatically maintains a constant
internal pressure.
IF I USE HIGH HEAT WILL THE FOOD COOK FASTER?
No. Using high heat for cooking will only waste energy and result in excessive
loss of cooking liquid (water). However you must use high heat to initially
bring cooker up to pressure.
WHY DOES STEAM ESCAPE FROM THE REUSEABLE OVERPRESSURE PLUG AT THE BEGINNING
OF THE OPERATION?
At the start of cooking the internal pressure is low and not sufficient to
activate the red center pin of the Overpressure Plug. The purpose of this is
to eliminate the cold air inside the cooker at the start of cooking. However,
if during cooking, steam continues to escape, make sure the Overpressure Plug
is clean and the red center pin is in the correct position. Remember to only
open your cooker when the pressure is down. If the Overpressure Plug continues
to leak replace it with a new one.
WHEN SHOULD I REPLACE THE RUBBER GASKET?
The lifespan of your Rubber gasket depends on the type of food and how frequently
you use your Pressure Cooker.
If you notice steam escaping between the body and the lid (as long as the gasket
and lid are clean and properly installed), stretch the Rubber Gasket slightly
and test it again. Should the leakage continue, replace it with a new and
original one.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF, DURING COOKING, STEAM STOPS COMING OUT OF THE VENT TUBE?
Turn off the heat and wait while your Pressure Cooker cools to room temperature.
Open it and remove the Pressure Control, check the Vent Tube against the
light and clean it with wire, check the level of food and water (if in excess
remove part of it), close the lid correctly, replace he Pressure Control
and resume cooking.
WHAT MAKES THE RUBBER GASKET STRETCH, SHRINK, SWELL OR STIFFEN?
The stretching or 'swelling' may occur when there is accumulation of grease
from the food or excessive oiling. Wash it thoroughly after each use. Stiffness
or shrinkage is caused by pressure, heat and age. If this occurs, replace
with a new one.
WHEN COOLING MY PRESSURE COOKER UNDER THE WATER TAP, IT WHISTLES; IS THIS
DANGEROUS?
While being cooled under water, initial pressure is quickly reduced producing
a vacuum. The whistle is produced by the incoming air. This is normal and
not dangerous.
WHAT MAKES THE COOKER LID HARD TO CLOSE?
In a new cooker, the gasket is dry and often very snug fitting. Pressing down
on the cover with one hand, while you close the cooker with the other will
often help. You may lubricate the gasket with cooking oil or shortening for
the first two or three uses. Caution: Excessive lubrication will cause the
gasket to swell and not fit properly.
HOW DO I KNOW WHEN THE PRESSURE COOKER IS OPERATING CORRECTLY?
As long as the cooker lid is closed, that is lid handle directly over pan handle
and the Pressure Control is gently rocking or jiggling you can be sure the
cooker is maintaining the proper internal pressure. The Pressure Cooker
never need to be tested or adjusted for accuracy.
