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User Manual for Presto Precise 17-Quart Digital Pressure Canner
Quick guide for the Presto Precise 17-Quart Digital Pressure Canner. Includes setup, pressure and boiling water canning instructions, recipes, troubleshooting, and maintenance.
Table of contents
Manual images
Click an image to enlargeQuick guide from the manual
The Presto Precise Digital Pressure Canner is designed for both pressure canning and boiling water canning. Before first use, it is recommended to perform the Water Test using 3 quarts of hot tap water to understand the operation. Always ensure the vent pipe and vent filter are clear of debris before each use.
Important Safety
- This appliance is for countertop use only.
- Do not immerse the canner body, cord, or plug in water.
- Never attempt to open the canner until all internal pressure has been released and the air vent/cover lock has dropped.
- Use only genuine Presto accessories and replacement parts.
- Do not use for deep fat frying or cooking/preparing foods.
Getting Started
The canner comes fully assembled. Before first use, disassemble and clean the parts. The sealing ring assembly must be on the removable pot rim during canning. Ensure the temperature sensor arm is in the upright, unlocked position when removing or installing the cover.
Canning Methods
Pressure Canning
- Prepare food and fill jars according to a tested recipe.
- Place the removable pot in the canner body and add 3 quarts of hot tap water.
- Select PRESSURE CAN mode using the control knob.
- Follow the display prompts to warm jars, fill them, and vent the unit.
- Place the regulator on the vent pipe only when prompted by the display.
- The unit will beep when the canning process is complete.
Boiling Water Canning
- Select BOILING WATER CAN mode.
- Follow the display prompts to warm jars and fill them.
- Add boiling water around the jars until the water level is at least 1 inch above the jars.
- Never use the regulator during boiling water canning.
Cleaning and Maintenance
After every use, wash the sealing ring, metal frame, vent filter, canning rack, and removable pot in warm, soapy water. Do not wash the removable pot or canner cover in the dishwasher. Periodically check the air vent/cover lock gasket and sensor gasket; replace them if they become hard, deformed, or cracked.
Troubleshooting
The canner displays error codes for malfunctions. Common codes include E3 (overheated/insufficient water) and E10/E20/E30 (pressure issues due to incorrect regulator placement). Always unplug the unit and follow the specific remedy listed in the manual before attempting to restart.
Manufacturer information
National Presto Industries, Inc.
Practical help
Common problems
E3 Error Code
Canner is overheated due to insufficient water. Unplug, remove regulator, cool for 15 minutes, add water to the 3-quart fill line, and restart.
E10/E20/E30 Error Codes
Pressure developed during warming or venting because the regulator was installed on the cover. Unplug, wait for pressure to drop, remove regulator, and restart.
Jar breakage
Ensure jars are not packed too solidly, are not overfilled, and are not touching the bottom of the canner. Use only Mason jars.
Steam leaking from cover
Check if the sealing ring is properly installed or if it needs replacement due to stretching or damage.
Before use
- Check vent pipe and vent filter for blockages.
- Ensure air vent/cover lock moves freely.
- Verify sealing ring is properly positioned on the metal frame.
- Ensure the removable pot and heating plate are clean and dry.
- Use 3 quarts of hot tap water for the initial setup.
Specs in practice
- 3-quart fill line
- Required water level for both pressure and boiling water canning.
Images and diagrams
- Fig A: Exploded view showing the assembly of the cover, sealing ring, and pot.
- Fig M/S: Display icons indicating the current canning phase.
- Fig N/O: Correct alignment for installing and locking the canner cover.
- Fig P/V: Correct position of the green latch when locked.
Model compatibility
- Use only tested canning recipes from reliable sources like the National Center for Home Food Preservation.
- Do not use for cooking or preparing foods; intended only for canning.
- Use only genuine Presto replacement parts.
Manual page author
Emily Carter
User documentation editor
Prepares concise manual descriptions and highlights the most useful setup, operation, and maintenance information for readers.