eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.

How To

How to Replace a Gauge on a Pressure Cooker

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Pressure cookers are as durable as Sherman Tanks. But even though the pressure cooker unit itself is virtually indestructible, there are parts on a pressure cooker that do eventually require replacement. One of those parts is the pressure cooker gauge. An improperly functioning pressure cooker gauge could result in improperly processed foods, which could lead to food poisoning or worse.

Difficulty: Challenging
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Realize that a pressure cooker may have one of two styles of gauges: a removable weighted pressure gauge or a fixed dial gauge.

  2. Step 2

    Understand that weighted pressure gauges do not need to be tested or calibrated. Just keep them clean and free of rust. Dial pressure gauges must be calibrated at least once each year to ensure proper, safe functioning.

  3. Step 3

    Have your pressure cooker gauge tested either by your local cooperative extension program or send it to the manufacturer to be tested. If your gauge cannot be properly recalibrated, it needs to be replaced.

  4. Step 4

    Have the manufacturer replace the pressure cooker gauge if they discover that the gauge cannot be recalibrated. This will save you having to return ship the pressure cooker again. If the manufacturer does not provide this service, see Step 5.

  5. Step 5

    Order a replacement pressure cooker gauge from the retailer where you purchased your pressure cooker, from the manufacturer or from another home food preservation supply source.

  6. Step 6

    Bring the pressure cooker and the replacement dial gauge to your local cooperative extension office so they can properly install the new gauge for you. There will likely be a small fee for this service. You may have to leave the pressure cooker overnight and pick it up a few days later.

Tips & Warnings
  • Manufacturers usually charge a small fee for testing, plus add on shipping and handling charges. Not all manufacturers offer pressure cooker gauge testing and replacement services.
  • Never use a secondhand pressure cooker without first having it pressure tested. There can be indiscernible cracks in the pressure cooker that can result in serious injury to household members.
  • Visit the National Center for Home Food Preservation's website for information on safe home canning practices.
Subscribe

Post a Comment

Post a Comment

Related Ads

  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This
Get Free Food & Drink Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License.

eHow Food and Drink
eHow_eHow Food and Drink