Owner's Manual
Power Pressure Cooker XL
Models: PPC771 (6 qt.) - PPC773 (10 qt.)
Warranty Information Inside
Introduction
Discover the benefits of pressure cooking for faster, more flavorful meals. The Power Pressure Cooker XL is designed to provide years of delicious family meals.
This manual contains essential information on operation and precautions. Please read it thoroughly before using the appliance.
Pressure cooking locks in flavor and nutrients, reduces cooking time, and eliminates messy stovetop spills, resulting in cooler kitchens and easier cleanup.
Important Safeguards
When using electrical appliances, always follow basic safety precautions:
- Always attach the power cord to the appliance first, then plug into a wall outlet.
- Caution Hot Surfaces: Avoid touching hot surfaces or steam release valves during operation.
- This appliance is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience, unless supervised or instructed.
- Keep children away from the unit during use.
- Use the appliance only for its intended purpose.
- Ensure the Lid is properly secured and the Pressure Release Valve is clear of debris before use.
- Never use the Lid handle to lift or move the cooker. Use the side handles. Do not move the cooker when under pressure or when contents are hot.
- Never attempt to open the Lid while the unit is operating or until all internal pressure has been released. If the Lid is difficult to rotate, do not force it open.
- Always open the Lid away from your face and body to avoid steam burns.
- Certain foods (e.g., rice, beans, oatmeal, noodles) expand and may clog the Pressure Release device. Do not fill the Inner Pot more than halfway for these foods and never fill above the MAX FILL LINE.
- Do not deep fry or fill with oil.
- Operate the unit on a countertop with proper space and ventilation. Keep away from flammable materials.
- Do not operate if the cord or plug is damaged. Return malfunctioning appliances to an authorized service facility.
- Unplug when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before handling parts.
- Anyone not fully understanding the instructions is not qualified to operate or clean the appliance.
- Warning: Cook only in the removable container (Inner Pot). Never immerse the housing in water.
Visit www.PowerPressureCooker.com for additional safety and cooking tips.
Save These Instructions - For Household Use Only.
Attaching the Power Cord
Caution:
- Always attach the electrical cord to the Pressure Cooker first, then plug into a wall outlet.
- DO NOT USE AN EXTENSION CORD.
- Model PPC771-773 is designed for use with a 3-prong, grounded, 120V dedicated electrical outlet only.
A short power-supply cord is provided to reduce the risk of entanglement or tripping.
Note: If the electrical circuit is overloaded with other appliances, your appliance may not operate properly.
Parts & Accessories
Your Power Pressure Cooker XL includes the following parts and accessories:
Lid Components:
- Lid Handle
- Float Valve
- Red Pressure Indicator
- Pressure Release Valve
- Magnetic Sensor for Lid
- Lid Liner (with Rubber Gasket)
Base Components:
- LED Display Control Panel
- Base
- Condensation Collector
- AC Cord
Accessories:
- Inner Pot (Removable)
- Steamer Tray*
- Ladle
- Measuring Cup
- *Varies per model.
For replacement parts, visit www.PowerPressureCooker.com.
Three-Layer Rack Assembly (10-qt. PPC-773 model only)
The removable wire rack system allows for stacking multiple layers for versatile cooking.
- Position 1: Creates a large bottom space and a smaller top space. Use for cooking main dish with a smaller item on top.
- Position 2: Use when cooking delicate foods like roast chicken. Insert Rack A with handles up, place food on rack.
- Position 3: Use when a longer handle for removal is not needed. Insert Rack B-1 feet-side down.
- Position 4: Creates 3 independent cooking layers. Insert Rack A (handles up), then Rack B-1 (feet down) through Rack A's handles, then Rack B-2 on top of B-1.
Note: Only included with units purchased online or by phone.
Features & Benefits
A. Built-In Safety Devices
- Lid Safety Device: Prevents pressure build-up if Lid is not closed properly.
- Spring-Loaded Safety Device: Releases steam and pressure if other safety features fail.
- Back-Up Safety Release Valve: Releases pressure if temperature/pressure sensor malfunctions.
- Clog-Resistant Feature: Helps prevent food from blocking the steam release port.
- Pressure & Temperature Sensors: Maintain even heat and pressure by controlling power supply.
- Temperature Cut-Off Device: Cuts off power if internal temperature exceeds safe limits.
- Magnetic Sensor for Lid: Ensures Lid is properly closed before pressurizing. Displays "LID" and beeps if not closed correctly.
Note: Saut and Slow Cooking presets do not require the Lid to be on. Lid on is recommended for Slow Cooking to prevent splatter. The unit will not beep or show "LID" for Slow Cooking. For Saut, the unit will beep and show "LID" if the Lid is closed.
B. Special Features
- Digital Display: Offers various cooking modes (saut, low-temperature, stewing, steaming) with adjustable times.
- Warm Mode: Automatically shifts to KEEP WARM after cooking, keeping food warm for up to 24 hours (flavor/texture may degrade after 4 hours).
- Sterile Environment: Achieves temperatures of 248°F (120°C), higher than conventional stovetop cooking (212°F / 100°C), for a more sterile environment and faster cooking.
- Red Pressure Indicator: A visual indicator on the Lid that shows when the unit is under pressure (UP position) and safe to open (DOWN position).
- Pressure Release Valve: Allows quick and complete pressure release. Use tongs or a utensil; never use bare hands.
- One-Touch Technology: Pre-programmed settings for easy, quick cooking with a single button press.
Instructions for Use
A. Preparing for Use
- Check Parts & Accessories: Ensure all parts are included before discarding packaging. Refer to Parts & Accessories section.
- Clean Inside Lid: Remove Lid Liner and Rubber Gasket. Wash Lid Liner, Gasket, Inner Pot, and accessories with warm, soapy water. Ensure Gasket is replaced correctly.
- Place Pressure Cooker on a clean, flat surface.
- Attach Condensation Collector to the side of the unit.
- Attach the power cord to the unit first, then plug into a wall outlet. The display will show "0000". The unit is ON when plugged in.
- Conduct Test Run with Water Only:
- Fill Inner Pot with water to about 2/3 full (never above MAX FILL LINE). Place Inner Pot in housing.
- Attach Lid: Align Magnetic Safety Sensor with Condensation Collector. Rotate Lid counter-clockwise to "LOCK" until it clicks and a single beep is heard. The display will show "LID" if not closed correctly (except for Slow Cook).
- Close Pressure Release Valve: Rotate Valve to "LOCK" position by aligning arrow on side with the [lock symbol]. The valve has a loose fit, it does not click.
- Select the "CANNING/PRESERVING" button. Allow pressure to build; the display will show a "rotating effect".
- When full pressure is reached, the Red Pressure Indicator will move to the "UP" position. Caution: Do not attempt to open the Lid when the indicator is UP.
- Safely Release Pressure: Select "KEEP WARM/CANCEL". Using tongs, rotate Pressure Release Valve counter-clockwise from "LOCK" to "OPEN". The [vent symbol] on the valve should now line up with the side arrow. Allow all pressure to escape. Warning: Use tongs, never bare hands.
- Open Lid: When pressure is released, the Red Pressure Indicator drops "DOWN". Open Lid by rotating handle clockwise. Lift lid using the handle. Warning: Prevent burns! Do not touch stainless steel exterior. Open away from face and body.
- Allow water to cool, then remove and empty Inner Pot. Rinse and towel dry.
The Power Pressure Cooker XL is now ready for use!
Operating Instructions
Any function can be stopped immediately by selecting the "CANCEL" button.
- Place unit on a clean, flat surface.
- Attach Condensation Collector.
- Attach power cord and plug into wall outlet.
- Add ingredients to Inner Pot according to your recipe. Never fill above MAX FILL LINE. Place Inner Pot in housing.
- Place Lid on cooker and lock securely.
- Rotate Pressure Release Valve to "CLOSE" position.
- Select Cooking Mode: Choose from various modes (see Figure H).
- Select Cook Time: A default time appears. Choose "QUICK", "MEDIUM", or "WELL" by selecting the mode button multiple times, or use the "TIME ADJUSTMENT" button to set a specific time.
- Use Delay Timer (Optional): Select "DELAY TIMER" before choosing cooking mode and time to start cooking later.
- Once mode and time are selected, the display shows a "rotating effect" as the unit builds pressure.
- When full pressure is reached, the Red Pressure Indicator moves to the "UP" position. Do not move the unit or open the Lid.
- At the end of the cooking cycle, the unit beeps and enters "KEEP WARM" mode. Cancel manually by pressing "CANCEL". Follow instructions for safely releasing pressure and opening the Lid.
Note: The time for the "rotating effect" (building pressure) varies from 5 to 40 minutes depending on contents.
Pressure Cooking Time Charts
Digital Display Button | Default Time | Quick-Medium-Well Time | Adjustable Time Range | Delay Timer | Cook Temperature | Working Pressure |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pressure | N/A | N/A | 0-24 hrs. | N/A | 116° C (241° F) | 82.7 kPa (12 psi) |
Canning/Preserving | 10 mins. | 10-45-120 mins. | 10-120 mins. | Yes | 116° C (241° F) | 82.7 kPa (12 psi) |
Soup/Stew | 10 mins. | 10-30-60 mins. | 10-60 mins. | Yes | 109° C (228° F) | 50 kPa (7.2 psi) |
Slow Cook | 2 hrs. | 2-6-12 hrs. | 2-12 hrs. | Yes | 79-93° C (174-199° F) | <30 kPa (<4.3 psi) |
Rice/Risotto | 6 mins. | 6-18-25 mins. | 6-25 mins. | Yes | 109° C (228° F) | 50 kPa (7.2 psi) |
Beans/Lentils | 5 mins. | 5-15-30 mins. | 5-30 mins. | Yes | 109° C (228° F) | 50 kPa (7.2 psi) |
Fish/Veg/Steam | 2 mins. | 2-4-10 mins. | 2-10 mins. | Yes | 109° C (228° F) | 50 kPa (7.2 psi) |
Meat/Chicken | 15 mins. | 15-40-60 mins. | 15-60 mins. | Yes | 109° C (228° F) | 50 kPa (7.2 psi) |
Saut | 20 mins. | 20-25-30 mins. | 1-30 mins. | No | 70° C [+/-10° C] (158° F [+/-50° F]) | N/A |
Keep Warm | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Vegetable | Liquid Amount Approx. (cups) | Time (min.) |
---|---|---|
Asparagus, thin whole | 1 | 1-2 |
Beans, fava | 1 | 4 |
Beans, green | 1 | 2-3 |
Beans, lima | 1 | 2 |
Beets, medium | 1 | 10 |
Broccoli, pieces | 1 | 2 |
Brussels sprouts, whole | 1 | 4 |
Carrots, 1-in. pieces | 1 | 4 |
Corn, on the cob | 1 | 3 |
Pearl onions, whole | 1 | 2 |
Potatoes, 1 1/2-in. chunks | 1 | 6 |
Potatoes, whole, medium | 1 | 10-11 |
Squash, acorn, halved | 1 | 7 |
Squash, summer, zucchini | 1 | 4 |
Note: All pressure cooking modes require liquid. Follow recipes for liquid amounts. Never fill Inner Pot above MAX LINE. Always use Pressure Release Valve to lower pressure.
Meat | Liquid Amount Approx. (cups) | Time (min.) |
---|---|---|
Beef/veal, roast or brisket | 3-4 | 35-40 |
Beef Meatloaf, 2 lbs. | 1 | 10-15 |
Beef, corned | 4 | 50-60 |
Pork, roast | 1 | 40-45 |
Pork, ribs, 2 lbs. | 3 | 20 |
Leg of lamb | 2-4 | 35-40 |
Chicken, whole, 2-3 lbs. | 3-4 | 20 |
Chicken, pieces, 2-3 lbs. | 3-4 | 15-20 |
Cornish hens, two | 1 | 15 |
Meat/poultry soup/stock | 4-6 | 15-20 |
Seafood/Fish | Liquid Amount Approx. (cups) | Time (min.) |
---|---|---|
Clams | 1 | 2-3 |
Lobster, 1 1/2-2 lbs. | 1 | 2-3 |
Shrimp | 1 | 1-2 |
Fish, soup or stock | 1-4 | 5-6 |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Lead Content: No, this unit does not contain lead.
- Material: Stainless steel housing and aluminum Inner Pot.
- Assembly/Disassembly: Unit comes assembled. Attach Condensation Collector before operation. See Preparing for Use.
- Default Time: A default time appears for each mode. The unit must reach proper pressure/temperature before the countdown clock starts.
- Time to Reach Pressure: The "rotating effect" on the display ends, and the countdown begins when the unit reaches pre-set pressure and temperature. This typically takes 5 to 40 minutes.
- Changing Cook Time: Yes, by selecting QUICK, MEDIUM, WELL, or using the TIME ADJUSTMENT button.
- Leaving Unit Unattended: It can be left on, but not unattended, especially with children or pets. Review FDA guidelines for food safety.
- Frozen Foods: Yes, add an extra 10 minutes to cooking time for frozen foods.
- Cooking with Oil: No. Do not attempt pressure frying. Pressurized oil fumes are dangerous and can cause explosions.
Care & Cleaning
Caution: Ensure safety devices are not obstructed by food debris.
- Allow unit to cool completely before cleaning.
- Unplug the power cord.
- Clean the exterior with a soft, damp cloth. Do not immerse the housing in water.
- Remove Lid Liner and Rubber Gasket. Wash Gasket and Lid Liner separately with warm, soapy water. Re-attach Gasket correctly. Check Gasket periodically for cleanliness, flexibility, and damage.
- Remove Pressure Release Valve by pulling up. Wash with mild, soapy water. Use a pin to clear blockages if necessary. Ensure the spring-loaded part moves freely.
- Rinse Lid, ensuring Float Valve and Red Pressure Indicator are free from debris and move freely. Dry completely.
- Re-attach Lid Liner and Pressure Release Valve.
- Wash Inner Pot by hand with warm soapy water and a soft cloth/sponge. Do not use harsh chemicals. Note: Inner Pot is dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended.
- Clean Condensation Collector with warm soapy water.
- Other servicing should be performed by an authorized service representative.
Dishwasher Safe Parts: Inner Pot, Measuring Cup, Spoon, Steamer Tray.
DO NOT PLACE LID, HOUSING, OR RUBBER GASKET IN DISHWASHER!
Troubleshooting
Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
---|---|---|
Lid Does Not Lock | Rubber Gasket on Inner Lid not properly installed | Re-install Rubber Gasket. |
Cannot Open Lid after Pressure is Released | Float Valve and Red Pressure Indicator are still raised | Ensure steam release is open and steam is escaping. Do not place face near valve opening. |
Rubber Gasket was not installed or was not installed properly | Install Rubber Gasket. | |
Air Escapes from Rim of Lid and Pressure will Not Increase | Food residue on Rubber Gasket | Clean Rubber Gasket. |
Rubber Gasket is damaged or worn out | Replace Rubber Gasket (visit www.PowerPressureCooker.com). | |
Air Escapes from Float Valve During Operation | Food is stuck on Rubber Sealing Ring of Float Valve | Clean Sealing Ring on Float Valve. |
Sealing Ring of Float Valve is worn out | Replace Sealing Ring (visit www.PowerPressureCooker.com). | |
Pressure Release Valve is not in proper position | Adjust Pressure Release Valve to "CLOSE" position. | |
Float Valve Does Not Rise | Appliance not filled with enough food or water | Check recipe for proper quantities. |
Air escaping from rim of Lid and/or from Pressure Release Valve | Call customer service for repair (973-287-5169). | |
Float Valve not assembled correctly | Ensure Sealing Ring is clean and Float Valve moves freely. See Parts & Accessories section for diagram. | |
Unit Turns Off Unexpectedly | Appliance is overheated | Unplug and let unit cool for 30 minutes to reset. |
Display Reads "LID" and Beeping Sound Occurs | Lid not positioned correctly | Adjust Lid as per ATTACHING LID instructions. |
Display Error Indicators
- Error Code E1: Circuit open of sensor.
- Error Code E2: Short circuit of sensor.
- Error Code E3: Overheated.
- Error Code E4: Pressure switch malfunction.
Note: Do not attempt to repair malfunctioning appliances. Contact customer service.
Unit Specifications
Model Number | Supply Power | Rated Power | Capacity of Inner Pot | Working Pressure | Safety Working Pressure |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
PPC771 | AC 120V 60HZ | 1000W | 6 qt. | 0-80 kPa | 80-90 kPa |
PPC773 | AC 120V 60HZ | 1400W | 10 qt. | 0-80 kPa | 80-90 kPa |
Canning Guide
Caution: Improper canning can lead to serious health consequences. Follow all steps carefully.
Pressure canning is essential for low-acid foods like vegetables, meats, and seafood to destroy harmful bacteria such as clostridium botulinum (cause of botulism), which require temperatures of 240°F (115°C) achievable only with pressure canning.
Food Acidity
- Foods High in Acidity: Apples, Applesauce, Apricots, Berries, Cherries, Cranberries, Fruit Juices, Oranges, Peaches, Pears, Pickled Beets, Pineapple, Plums, Rhubarb.
- Foods Low in Acidity: Asparagus, Beans, Beets, Carrots, Corn, Hominy, Meat, Mushrooms, Okra, Peas, Potatoes, Seafood, Spinach, Winter Squash.
Packing Methods
- Raw Packing: Canning fresh, unheated foods. May cause floating and color loss over time.
- Hot Packing: Canning foods pre-cooked before packing. Reduces air in food. Liquids added should be heated to boiling to remove air and shrink food.
Processing Time, Pressure, Altitude
The Power Pressure Cooker XL's "CANNING" button sets pressure at 80 kPa (11.6 psi). It is suitable for canning up to 2000 ft. above sea level. For altitudes above 2000 ft., consult the National Center for Home Food Preservation (http://www.uga.edu/nchfp/) or your local county extension agent.
Important: Review USDA guidelines prior to canning.
Food Item | Style of Packing | Canning Time |
---|---|---|
Asparagus | Hot & Raw | 30 mins. |
Beans (green) | Hot & Raw | 20 mins. |
Beans (lima, pinto, butter, or soy) | Hot & Raw | 40 mins. |
Beets | Hot | 30 mins. |
Carrots | Hot & Raw | 25 mins. |
Corn, whole-kernel | Hot & Raw | 55 mins. |
Greens | Hot | 70 mins. |
Okra | Hot | 25 mins. |
Peas, green or English | Hot | 40 mins. |
Potatoes, white | Hot | 35 mins. |
Meat strips, cubes or chunks | Hot | 75 mins. |
Ground or chopped meat | Hot | 75 mins. |
Poultry, without bones | Hot & Raw | 75 mins. |
Poultry, with bones | Hot & Raw | 65 mins. |
Safe Canning Tips
- Do not use over-ripe fruit.
- Limit low-acid ingredients (onions, peppers) as specified in recipes.
- Do not over-season with spices.
- Do not add butter or fat; fats don't store well.
- Use only USDA-recommended thickeners (not flour, starch, pasta, rice, or barley).
- Add acid (lemon juice, vinegar) as directed, especially for tomatoes.
Getting Started
- Jar Capacity: PPC771: four (4) 16-oz jars; PPC773: seven (7) 16-oz jars.
- Jar Cleaning: Wash jars in hot water with detergent. Rinse thoroughly. Use vinegar solution for hard water films.
- Lid Preparation: Use self-sealing lids with metal Screw Bands. Follow lid manufacturer's directions. Examine lids for defects; do not use old, dented, or deformed lids.
The Canning Process
- Select a pre-tested pressure canning recipe.
- Prepare food as instructed, using freshest ingredients.
- Fill jars to Liquid Level mark, leaving approx. 1-inch headspace.
- Remove air bubbles using a flexible spatula.
- Place a clean flat lid on the jar opening and hand-tighten the Screw Band. Note: Do not overtighten bands; this can cause lids to buckle or jars to break.
- Place Inner Pot in base. Place Wire Rack in the bottom of the Inner Pot. Place filled, sealed jars on the Wire Rack.
- Pour hot water into the Inner Pot until it reaches 1/4 way up the sides of the jars (approx. 6 cups for four 16-oz jars; more water needed for fewer jars).
- Place Lid on the appliance and lock it. Plug in the unit.
- Select the "CANNING/PRESERVING" option and set the Cook Time as per recipe.
- When the process is complete, select "CANCEL". Release pressure using the Pressure Release Valve (use tongs). Remove Lid carefully.
- Using Canning Tongs, carefully remove hot jars and place on a heat-resistant surface to cool.
- Once jars are cool, remove Screw Bands. Lids should be tightly sealed. If a lid gives when pressed, the seal failed; re-process or refrigerate.
- Store jars in a cool, clean, dry place. Remove Screw Bands before storing.
Properly canned food can last for months. Check jars, lids, and bands for damage before reuse.
Manufacturer's 60-Day Limited Warranty
This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for 60 days from the date of purchase.
- The warranty is valid only for the original consumer purchaser and requires proof of purchase.
- This is the only express warranty provided. Implied warranties are limited to the duration of this warranty.
- You have specific legal rights that vary by state.
To Return for Replacement or Refund within 60 Days: Pack the product securely and send postage paid with a description of the reason for return, proof of purchase, and order number to: Tristar Products, Inc. 500 Returns Road Wallingford, CT 06495