If you’ve just bought an Instant Pot and are wondering why it’s taking what feels like an eternity to pressurize, you’re not alone. Many new Instant Pot users are surprised by how long the pressurization process seems to take. But don’t worry, there are some simple reasons why your Instant Pot may be taking longer than expected to come up to pressure.
How Long Should an Instant Pot Take to Pressurize?
On average, an Instant Pot takes 10-15 minutes to fully pressurize once the lid is sealed and the pressurization process begins. However, the pressurization time can vary quite a bit depending on several factors:
- The amount and temperature of food inside – More food and colder food will take longer.
- The amount of liquid in the pot – More liquid pressurizes faster.
- The type of program selected – Pressure cook takes less time than slow cook.
- Instant Pot model – Newer models pressurize slightly faster.
- Altitude – Higher altitudes increase pressurization time.
So while 10-15 minutes is typical, it’s not uncommon for an Instant Pot to need 20 minutes or even 25+ minutes to fully pressurize under certain conditions. Be patient, it will get there!
7 Reasons Your Instant Pot is Taking Too Long to Pressurize
If your Instant Pot seems to be taking significantly longer than 15-20 minutes to pressurize, there are a few common culprits to check:
1. You’re at a high altitude
The air pressure is lower at higher altitudes, which means it takes longer for the Instant Pot to pressurize and come to temperature. For each additional 1000 feet above sea level, plan on adding about 5-10 minutes to the pressurization time.
2. The sealing ring is damaged
If the rubber sealing ring is cracked, deformed, or not properly installed, steam can escape and prevent the pot from pressurizing. Try removing the ring and reinstalling it, or replace it if damaged.
3. There are blockages in the venting system
Check that the steam release valve, float valve, and anti-block shield are all clean and free of debris like food or lint buildup. Blockages prevent proper venting and pressurization.
4. You’re pressure cooking a large quantity or dense food
Thick stews, large roasts, beans or grains will naturally take longer for the Instant Pot to come up to pressure. More food means more liquid to heat up and pressurize. Allow extra time for larger and denser dishes.
5. The contents were not sufficiently heated before sealing
Always ensure food is brought up to a simmer and is hot before sealing the Instant Pot for pressure cooking. Starting with cold or room-temp food will substantially increase pressurization time.
6. The lid wasn’t properly sealed
Make sure the lid is rotated into the fully sealed position until it clicks and locks. If the lid seal is loose or not properly aligned, steam can escape and prevent pressurization.
7. Your Instant Pot needs maintenance
Mineral buildup on the inner pot or faulty parts like the float valve or control panel can affect pressurization. Try running the steam release several times and cleaning the pot. Replace any damaged parts.
Tips for Speeding Up Pressurization
If your Instant Pot is taking forever to pressurize, here are a few tips to help speed things up:
- Start with hot or boiling water/broth and hot food
- Cut large pieces of meat into smaller chunks
- Add a bit more liquid than the minimum amount
- Make sure the sealing ring and valves are clean
- Allow extra time if cooking at high altitude
- Select lower pressure cook settings where possible
- Replace the sealing ring if it’s damaged/defective
- Have the float valve in the popped-up position before sealing
- Contact Instant Pot if no improvements after troubleshooting
When to Worry About Long Pressurization Times
While it’s normal for pressurization to take 15-25 minutes in some cases, there are a few scenarios where an unusually long pressurization time could signal a bigger issue:
- It takes 30+ minutes every time, even for small amounts of food
- The float valve doesn’t pop up within 35-40 minutes of sealing the lid
- You frequently get a “burn” error message
- Pressurization times keep getting longer over multiple uses
- You notice steam escaping from the seals during pressurization
If you notice any of these, it’s a good idea to contact Instant Pot customer support. There may be an underlying issue with the sealing ring, float valve, or other components that needs troubleshooting.
When to Start Timing for Recipes
Since pressurization times can vary so much, when should you actually start the timer for your Instant Pot recipes? Here are some guidelines:
- Start timing after the float valve pops up, indicating full pressurization.
- Or, start timing 10-15 minutes after the lid seals and pressurization begins.
- For larger quantities of food, wait 20-25 minutes after sealing before timing.
- Let natural pressure release 10-15 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.
Getting an accurate active cook time is important for food safety and properly cooked meals. Let the pot fully pressurize before starting recipe timers.
Conclusion
Pressurization taking longer than expected is a common experience for new Instant Pot users. But with some troubleshooting, adjusting expectations, and allowing extra time, you’ll get the hang of your pot’s normal pressurization pace. Be patient, relax, and your delicious pressure-cooked meal will be ready before you know it!