How to Replace the Sealing Ring on a Presto Pressure Cooker

Is steam leaking from your pressure cooker lid? You probably need a new sealing ring. The sealing ring forms the seal between the pressure cooker pot and the lid. The seal is made of rubber and will harden (and crack) over time. When this happens, the lid won't seal tightly, and steam can leak. The sealing ring kit includes a new overpressure plug. The overpressure plug is also made of rubber (and will harden over time). To ensure safe operation, the overpressure plug should be replaced whenever the seal is replaced on your pressure cooker.

Let's get started.

REMOVING THE SEALING RING & OVERPRESSURE PLUG   1. Remove the lid.

a. Remove the lid assembly from the pressure cooker.

b. Place the lid on a flat surface (with the sealing ring facing up).

  2. Remove the sealing ring.

a. Carefully pry one side of the sealing ring from the lid assembly.

b. Remove the sealing ring from the lid.

  3. Remove the overpressure plug.

a. Place the lid assembly on a flat surface (with the sealing ring facing down).

b. Use a small screwdriver to press the overpressure plug out of the lid assembly.

  INSTALLING THE NEW SEALING RING & OVERPRESSURE PLUG   4. Clean the components.

a. Thoroughly clean the pressure cooker lid assembly to remove any calcium deposits or baked-on food particles.

b. Thoroughly wash and dry the new sealing ring and overpressure plug before installation.

  5. Install the sealing ring.

a. Slide the new sealing ring underneath the locking tabs on the lid.

  6. Install the overpressure plug.

a. Install the new overpressure plug from the underside of the lid (the domed portion should face down).

b. The word “TOP” should be visible on the overpressure plug when viewed from the outside of the lid.

c. Firmly press the overpressure plug into the lid.