This is an important question for any Instant Pot owner. The pressure relief valve on the Instant Pot serves a critical safety function – it releases excess pressure from the pot to prevent dangerous over-pressurization. Knowing whether the valve should be left up or down during different stages of Instant Pot cooking helps ensure safe operation. In this article, we’ll provide a quick overview of how the Instant Pot pressure relief valve works, explain when it should be up versus down, and provide tips for proper valve placement and maintenance. Read on for the key things every Instant Pot user should know about this important component!
How Does the Instant Pot Pressure Relief Valve Work?
The pressure relief valve on the Instant Pot is a critical safety component. It is located on the lid and consists of a small metallic disc that sits over the steam release pipe. When the Instant Pot builds up too much internal pressure, the valve pops up to let steam escape until the pressure returns to a safe level.
There are two main types of pressure relief valves on Instant Pots:
1. Dual Position Valve
This type of valve can be manually switched between two positions:
– Sealed (valve down) – Pressure builds up inside pot for cooking.
– Venting (valve up) – Lets steam release to avoid dangerous over-pressurization.
2. Float Valve
This type of valve automatically pops up when needed to release excess pressure, then drops back down to seal when pressure decreases. It operates as follows:
– Sealed (valve down) – Float valve sits flush with lid. Pressure builds inside pot.
– Venting (valve up) – Float valve pops up to release excess pressure.
– Returns to sealed when pressure decreases to safe level.
In both cases, the valve rising up is what allows steam to escape the pot and prevents hazardous pressure buildup.
When Should the Pressure Relief Valve be Up or Down?
Knowing whether the pressure relief valve should be up or down is important for safe Instant Pot operation. Here are the guidelines:
Valve Down:
– When cooking under pressure – Having the valve down allows pressure to build up inside the sealed pot so food can cook faster. This is the normal position for pressure cooking.
– When bringing pot to pressure – Keep valve down so the pot can build up pressure. Once desired pressure is reached, cooking time starts.
– When doing a natural pressure release – Leave the valve down to allow pressure to come down naturally over time after cooking finishes. Do not try to force the valve down if it has popped up.
Valve Up:
– Before cooking under pressure – Always make sure valve is up when first sealing the lid to allow air to vent out. Venting the air is necessary for building up pressure.
– After cooking to quick release pressure – Manually switch the valve to the up/venting position to release pressure quickly after cooking is done. This stops the cooking process.
– To avoid over-pressurization – If the float valve pops up on its own, do not try to push it back down. Allow it to vent excess pressure to avoid safety issues.
– When opening the lid – The valve must be in the up position to allow all internal pressure to vent before opening the lid. This prevents dangerous steam bursts.
– When pot is not in use – Leave the valve up if the pot will be left idle for a period of time after cooking. This prevents accidental pressurization.
Proper Valve Placement When Cooking
Follow these steps for proper pressure relief valve placement when using your Instant Pot:
1. Check that the valve is in the UP position before sealing the lid. Venting the air is crucial for pressurization.
2. Lock the lid into place, making sure it is securely sealed on the rim.
3. Select your recipe’s cooking time. The pot will now start coming up to pressure.
4. DO NOT try to force the valve down during pressurization. Leave it alone and let the pot seal and build up internal pressure.
5. Once pressurized, the float valve will automatically drop down into the sealed position OR you can manually switch a dual position valve to the down setting.
6. Cooking time starts once full pressure is reached. The valve must remain down during the entire cooking cycle.
7. After cooking completes, use quick release by moving the valve to the VENT position to force a quick pressure release if desired.
8. OR, leave the valve in the down position to allow a natural pressure release over 10-15 minutes.
9. Open the lid ONLY when the valve is up and all pressure has been fully released after cooking.
Tips for Proper Valve Maintenance
To keep the pressure relief valve working properly:
– Check that the valve can move up and down smoothly. Soak in vinegar and use a needle to clear any debris if sticky.
– Make sure the float valve pops up all the way when testing. Replace if needed.
– Do not try to force the valve down when it pops up. Restricting a natural pressure release is dangerous.
– Wipe away any food debris around the valve after cooking.
– Let all moisture dry after cleaning before sealing the lid again.
– Replace the valve if it becomes deformed or damaged and no longer seals properly.
FAQs
Why does my float valve get stuck down sometimes?
It is common for the float valve to get a little sticky and resist popping up if food debris or moisture gets trapped around it. Try cleaning with vinegar and ensure it is totally dry before use. Avoid forcing it up or down. Replace valve if needed.
Is it safe to press down on an up float valve?
Never try to force a float valve back down when it pops up! This action could lead to dangerous over-pressurization. Allow the valve to vent naturally.
What happens if I open the lid too soon?
If you open the lid before all internal pressure has been released, a dangerous burst of scalding hot steam can shoot out. Always make sure the valve is up and there is no more hissing sound before unlocking the lid after cooking.
Do I need to replace my valve regularly?
The valve may need replacement after a lot of use due to wear and tear or if it no longer functions smoothly. But periodic replacement is not required if it continues sealing and venting properly.
Can I cook without the valve in place?
Absolutely not! The pressure relief valve MUST always be installed before using the Instant Pot. Cooking without this important safety component could lead to an explosion hazard.
Conclusion
Understanding the proper up or down position for the Instant Pot pressure relief valve during different stages of use is key to safe operation. While pressurizing and cooking, the valve must be down to allow internal pressure buildup. After cooking, the valve should pop up or be switched up to vent pressure before opening the lid. Never try to force the valve into position – allow it to rise and fall naturally. With proper valve placement and maintenance, your Instant Pot will provide many years of safe and delicious meals!
| Valve Position | Time to Use This Position |
|---|---|
| Down | Pressurizing pot |
| Down | Cooking under pressure |
| Down | Natural pressure release after cooking |
| Up | Before sealing lid to vent air |
| Up | Quick pressure release after cooking |
| Up | Avoiding over-pressurization |
| Up | Releasing all pressure before opening lid |