Hamilton Beach 6 Qt Multi-Function Pressure Cooker

1. Product Overview

The Hamilton Beach Multi-Function Pressure Cooker, Model 34502, is a versatile kitchen appliance designed to simplify meal preparation. It combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, egg cooker, and food warmer into one unit. This appliance features a unique steam release button for safety and True Slow Cook Technology for consistent results.

Image 1: The Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Multi-Function Pressure Cooker, Model 34502, with its lid partially open, revealing a whole chicken surrounded by vegetables cooking inside the stainless steel pot. The control panel is visible on the front.

Key Features:

• 7-in-1 Functionality: Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté Pan, Egg Cooker, and Warmer.
• Steam Release Button: Safely releases steam away from hands.
• True Slow Cook Technology: Gradually raises temperature to prevent overcooking, ensuring traditional slow cooker results.
• 10 Preset Cooking Programs: Dedicated settings for Meat, Poultry, Rice, Steamed Vegetables, Beans, Whole Grains, Casseroles, Eggs, Soup, and Brown/Sauté.
• Durable 6-Quart Stainless Steel Pot: Removable and dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.

2. Important Safeguards

When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and/or injury to persons. Read all instructions carefully before operating the appliance.

• Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
• To protect against electrical shock, do not immerse cord, plugs, or pressure cooker in water or other liquid.
• Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
• Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before putting on or taking off parts.
• Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner.
• The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may cause injuries.
• Do not use outdoors.
• Do not let cord hang over edge of table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
• Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
• Extreme caution must be used when moving an appliance containing hot oil or other hot liquids.
• Always attach plug to appliance first, then plug cord into the wall outlet. To disconnect, turn any control to OFF, then remove plug from wall outlet.
• Do not use appliance for other than intended use.
• This appliance cooks under pressure. Improper use may result in scalding injury. Make certain unit is properly closed before operating.
• Never force open the pressure cooker. Make sure pressure has dropped completely before opening.
• Do not fill the unit over 2/3 full. When cooking foods that expand during cooking, such as rice or dried vegetables, do not fill the unit over 1/2 full.
• Always check the pressure release valve and float valve for clogging before use.

3. Components and Features

Familiarize yourself with the parts of your Hamilton Beach Multi-Function Pressure Cooker.

Image 2: A diagram illustrating the dimensions of the Hamilton Beach Multi-Function Pressure Cooker, showing its height of 13 inches and width of 11.75 inches. The control panel and lid components are visible.

Main Components:

• Lid: Features a steam release button, pressure release valve, and float valve.
• Control Panel: Digital display and buttons for preset programs, time adjustment, and pressure/slow cook selection.
• Cooking Pot: Removable 6-quart stainless steel inner pot.
• Base Unit: Houses the heating element and control electronics.
• Accessories: Roasting/steaming rack, rice paddle, rice measuring cup, and an additional lid gasket.

Image 3: A close-up view of the Hamilton Beach pressure cooker lid, highlighting the red steam release button being pressed by a finger, with steam visibly escaping from the valve. This demonstrates the one-touch steam release feature.

4. Setup and First Use

Before First Use:

1. Unpack all components and remove any packaging materials.
2. Wash the inner cooking pot, lid, and accessories (roasting/steaming rack, rice paddle, measuring cup) in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
3. Wipe the exterior of the base unit with a damp cloth. Do not immerse the base unit in water.
4. Ensure the sealing gasket is properly seated around the lid's rim.

Initial Test Run (Water Test):

It is recommended to perform a water test to familiarize yourself with the pressure cooker's operation and ensure all components are working correctly.

1. Place the inner pot into the base unit.
2. Add 3 cups of water to the inner pot.
3. Place the lid on the cooker, aligning the arrow on the lid with the arrow on the base unit handle, then turn clockwise until it locks. Ensure the pressure release valve is in the "Sealing" position.
4. Plug the power cord into a grounded electrical outlet.
5. Press the "Pressure Select" button, then use the "+" or "-" buttons to set the cooking time to 5 minutes.
6. The cooker will begin to preheat. Once pressure is reached, the float valve will rise, and the 5-minute countdown will begin.
7. After the cooking cycle completes, the cooker will beep and switch to "Warm" mode.
8. Carefully press the Steam Release Button to release pressure. Once the float valve drops, you can safely open the lid.
9. Unplug the cooker and discard the water.

5. Operating Instructions

General Operation:

1. Add ingredients to the inner pot. Ensure liquid is always present for pressure cooking.
2. Place the lid on the cooker and lock it. Ensure the pressure release valve is set to "Sealing" for pressure cooking.
3. Select a preset program or manually set pressure/slow cook time and temperature.
4. The cooker will preheat, build pressure (if applicable), and then begin the cooking countdown.
5. Once cooking is complete, the cooker will beep and switch to "Warm" mode.
6. Release pressure using the appropriate method (Natural Release or Quick Release via Steam Release Button).
7. Open the lid only after the float valve has dropped.

Preset Programs:

The cooker features 10 preset programs for common dishes. Simply press the desired program button.

Image 4: A detailed view of the Hamilton Beach Multi-Function Pressure Cooker's control panel, highlighting the 10 preset cooking program buttons, including Meat/Stew, Poultry, Rice/Risotto, Steam Vegetables, Beans, Whole Grains, Casserole, Brown/Sauté, Egg, and Soup. The digital display and other control buttons are also visible.

• Meat/Stew: For various cuts of meat and stews.
• Poultry: Ideal for chicken, turkey, and other poultry.
• Rice/Risotto: For cooking different types of rice and creamy risottos.
• Steam Vegetables: Gently steams vegetables to retain nutrients.
• Beans: For cooking dried beans and legumes.
• Whole Grains: Suitable for oats, quinoa, and other whole grains.
• Casserole: For one-pot casserole dishes.
• Egg: For perfectly cooked eggs.
• Soup: For various soup recipes.
• Brown/Sauté: Allows browning ingredients before pressure cooking or slow cooking.

Delayed Start Function:

The Delayed Start function allows you to program the cooker to start at a later time, up to 24 hours in advance.

Image 5: The Hamilton Beach Multi-Function Pressure Cooker displaying the "DELAY" function on its digital screen, indicating that a delayed start has been set. The image also shows a cooked chicken and vegetables, suggesting the convenience of preparing meals in advance.

1. Add ingredients and secure the lid.
2. Select your desired cooking program and adjust time if necessary.
3. Press the "DELAY COOKING TIME" button. Use "+" or "-" to set the delay time in hours.
4. The cooker will start automatically after the set delay time.

6. Cleaning and Maintenance

Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and longevity of your pressure cooker.

Cleaning the Inner Pot and Accessories:

• The stainless steel inner pot, sealing gasket, and accessories are dishwasher safe.
• For hand washing, use warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge.
• Ensure all parts are thoroughly dry before reassembling.

Cleaning the Lid:

• Remove the sealing gasket and wash it separately.
• Wash the lid with warm, soapy water. Pay attention to the pressure release valve and float valve areas to ensure no food particles are lodged.
• Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry completely.

Cleaning the Base Unit:

• Wipe the exterior of the base unit with a damp cloth.
• Never immerse the base unit in water or any other liquid.
• Ensure the heating element area is clean and free of debris.

Storage:

Store the pressure cooker in a dry place. It is recommended to store the lid inverted on the inner pot to prevent odors and prolong the life of the sealing gasket.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

• Model: 34502
• Brand: Hamilton Beach
• Capacity: 6 Quarts
• Material: Stainless Steel (Inner Pot)
• Color: Stainless Steel
• Wattage: 1200 watts
• Voltage: 220 Volts (Note: Please verify voltage compatibility for your region.)
• Item Weight: 12.57 pounds (approx. 5.7 kg)
• Product Dimensions: 11.75 x 13 x 13 inches (L x W x H)
• Control Method: Touch
• Operation Mode: Automatic
• Dishwasher Safe: Inner Pot and accessories (Base unit is not)
• UPC: 040094345021
• ASIN: B07VPX751C

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, product registration, or customer support, please refer to the official Hamilton Beach website or contact their customer service department.

Hamilton Beach Customer Service: Please visit www.hamiltonbeach.com/customer-service for contact details and support resources.

Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.