01 Quick answers
Do the water test first
The manual asks you to run an initial test with water only. It checks the lid seals properly and gets you comfortable with the valve before you cook anything.
- Check the sealing ring is seated in the lid and the anti-block shield is in place.
- Add 3 cups (750 ml) of water to the inner pot.
- Lock the lid and turn the steam release to Sealing.
- Select Pressure Cook, set 5 minutes on High.
- When it beeps, release the pressure as the manual describes and open the lid away from your face.
Burn or OvHt on the display
This message means the bottom of the pot is overheating, usually because food is sticking or there isn't enough thin liquid. Release the pressure, open the lid, scrape the bottom, and add thin liquid like water or broth. Thick sauces and tomato products should go on top of other ingredients, not underneath.
Cleaning the sealing ring
Remove and wash the sealing ring, float valve and anti-block shield after each use. The ring absorbs odors over time. Having a spare for savory and sweet dishes is a common trick, and worn or stretched rings should be replaced because they can stop the cooker reaching pressure.
02 Finding the model number
Turn the cooker base over. The rating label on the bottom shows the model number and size.
03 Error codes
The Duo shows a few text messages. Numbered "C" codes indicate hardware or sensor faults.
| Code | Meaning | What to try |
|---|---|---|
Burn / OvHt | Overheat at the bottom of the pot | Release pressure, scrape the pot, add thin liquid, and restart. |
Lid | Lid not in the right position for the program | Close and lock the lid, or remove it for Sauté. |
C + number | Sensor or hardware fault | Unplug and let it cool. If it repeats, contact Instant Brands support. |
04 Specifications
| Sizes | 3, 6 and 8 quart |
| Functions | Pressure cook, slow cook, rice, steam, sauté, yogurt, warm |
| Inner pot | Stainless steel, dishwasher safe |
| Power | 120V, 60 Hz |
Specifications can vary by region and production year. The rating label on the product is the final word.
05 What's in the Instant Pot manual
The official owner's manual is organized into these main sections. Use them to find the right page once you open the PDF.
- 01Important safeguards
- 02Product specifications
- 03Parts and accessories
- 04Initial setup and water test
- 05Pressure cooking
- 06Releasing pressure
- 07Non-pressure cooking
- 08Care and cleaning
- 09Troubleshooting
- 10Warranty
06 Owner questions
Steam is leaking around the lid. Is that normal?
A little steam before the float valve pops up is normal. Continuous leaking around the rim usually means the sealing ring isn't seated properly, is damaged, or food is caught on the rim.
Can the inner pot go in the dishwasher?
Yes, the stainless steel inner pot and the sealing ring are dishwasher safe. The cooker base must never be put in water.