Why Does a Pressure Cooker Burst and How to Prevent It?

If your pressure cooker suddenly hisses, shakes, or even erupts, you’ve probably experienced a burst. It’s scary, but it’s not inevitable. Most bursts happen because the pot can’t release steam fast enough. Overfilling, a blocked vent, or a worn‑out gasket are the usual suspects. Understanding these causes lets you take simple steps to keep your kitchen safe.

Common Reasons a Pressure Cooker Explodes

1. Overfilling. The manufacturer’s fill line isn’t a suggestion – it’s a safety limit. Fill beyond it and the steam has nowhere to go, creating dangerous pressure.

2. Blocked pressure release valve. Food particles, grease, or a misplaced lid can jam the valve. When the valve can’t vent, pressure builds until the seals give way.

3. Worn or damaged gasket. The rubber ring creates the airtight seal. Cracks, shrinkage, or food residue on the gasket let steam escape the wrong way, causing uneven pressure spikes.

4. Using the wrong heat level. Turning the burner up too high makes the cooker race to pressure faster than the safety mechanisms can react.

5. Faulty safety valves. Even a brand‑new cooker can have a defective valve. If it doesn’t pop open at the set pressure, the cooker will eventually give up at the weakest point – often the lid.

What to Do If a Burst Happens

First, stay calm. Your safety is the priority. Move away from the cooker, open windows, and let any steam disperse. If food or liquid splashed onto you, rinse with cool water and seek medical help if needed.

Next, turn off the heat source. If the cooker is still on the stove, carefully remove the pot using heat‑resistant gloves – but only if the lid is fully released. Never try to force the lid open; it can shoot out with force.

After the incident, inspect every part. Look for dents, cracks, or warped metal. Replace the gasket and check the valve for debris. If the lid or body is damaged, it’s safest to replace the whole unit.

Preventing Future Bursts

Keep the vent and safety valve clean. A quick wipe after each use removes food buildup that could block steam flow.

Never exceed the maximum fill line. Remember that liquids expand as they heat, so leave extra headspace.

Check the gasket regularly. If it looks dry, cracked, or misshapen, swap it out. Gaskets are inexpensive and a small investment compared to a new cooker.

Use medium heat to bring the cooker up to pressure, then lower it to maintain a steady state. This gives the valve time to work and reduces stress on the seal.

Finally, test the safety valve before each use. Most cookers let you lift the valve slightly; you should hear a soft hissing sound. If there’s no sound, the valve might be stuck.

Even with careful use, wear and tear can cause problems. If you notice odd noises, steam leaking from the sides, or the cooker takes longer than usual to reach pressure, call a professional. At Wells Appliance Repairs we specialize in pressure cooker diagnostics and gasket replacements. A quick service can save you from a dangerous burst and keep your favorite kitchen tool working for years.

In short, a pressure cooker burst is usually preventable. Keep the vent clear, respect the fill line, replace the gasket regularly, and monitor the heat. When in doubt, let the experts handle the repair – it’s faster, safer, and often cheaper than buying a new cooker.