Instant Pot Error Codes Complete Guide

When your Instant Pot starts flashing an error message, it can be concerning – especially if you’re in the middle of preparing dinner! But don’t panic – this is just a way of alerting you to issues that can be usually be resolved quickly. This comprehensive guide covers Instant Pot error codes you might encounter, from common lid warnings to more complex sensor issues, with clear solutions to get you back to cooking.

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Understanding Instant Pot Error Messages

Your Instant Pot has multiple safety features and sensors that constantly monitor its operation.

Numerous safety features help reduce common errors. Safety features include pressure sensor technology, lid close detection, lid lock technology, overheat protection, and automatic temperature and pressure controls.

When something isn’t right, the display screen will show an error code to help you identify and fix the problem.

While these pressure cooker error codes might seem cryptic at first, they’re straightforward once you know what they mean.

Before doing anything else, turn the unit off, let it cool down a bit, and turn it back on.

Common Instant Pot Error Codes

Lid Error

Problem: Your Instant Pot’s lid isn’t correctly positioned for the selected cooking program.

OvHt, Burn, or Food Burn Notice

Problem: The Instant Pot has detected that food might be burning on the bottom of the pot.

POT Error

Problem: The Instant Pot can’t detect the inner pot.

Pressure-Related Errors

PrSE (Pressure Steam Error)

Problem: Pressure has built up during a non-pressure cooking program. This is usually because you are sauteing with the lid on.

noPr (No Pressure)

Problem: The pot isn’t building pressure during the pre-heating cycle.

Sensor Error Codes

Temperature Sensor Errors (C1, C2, C3, C4)

Problem: The temperature sensors aren’t working properly.
Solution: These are hardware issues requiring professional attention. Contact Instant Pot customer service.

C5 (High Temperature Error)

Problem: The pot has detected excessive heat.

Pressure Sensor Errors (C3, C6, C6L, C6H)

Problem:

• C3: General pressure sensor error
• C6/EC: General pressure sensor failure
• C6L: Low-pressure sensor issue
• C6H: High-pressure sensor problem

Solution: While you can try removing and reinserting the pot, these typically require customer service intervention. If you are handy at electronics, read about how to fix these sensor errors.

C7 (Heating Element Error)

Problem: The heating element isn’t functioning correctly. This is a common error and has many potential causes.

C8 (Wrong Pot Error)

Problem: The heating element isn’t functioning correctly. This is a common error and has many potential causes.

C9 (Sensor Connection Error)

Problem: There is an issue with the male/female sensor connection on models with the air fryer lid.

Preventing Common Errors

To avoid these error codes and ensure smooth operation:

1. Always use sufficient liquid (minimum amounts by pot size):
   – 3 Qt: 1 cup (8 oz / 250 mL)
   – 6 Qt: 1½ cups (12 oz / 375 mL)
   – 8 Qt: 2 cups (16 oz / 500 mL)
2. Keep all components clean and free of food debris
3. Regularly inspect the sealing ring for damage
4. Use only the correct inner pot for your model
5. Follow recipe instructions for release methods

When to Contact Customer Service

While many errors can be resolved at home, contact Instant Pot support if you:

• Keep getting the same error despite trying the above solutions
• Experience any C1, C2, C6, or C9 errors
• Notice physical damage to any components
• Have safety concerns

Make sure you have your receipt and know what model you have when contacting customer service for warranty-related issues.

Quick Reference Chart

Error Code	Problem	Solution
Lid	Lid is not in the correct position for the selected program	Make sure the lid has been turned clockwise all the way when pressure cooking, and make sure the lid is NOT on for the Saute function.
OvHt, Burn or Food Burn	Instant Pot is overheating	Clean the sealing ring and float valve. Add the minimum quantity of liquid for your model. Deglaze the inner pot and make sure that there’s nothing stuck on the bottom. Get more detailed information about Instant Pot food burn error.
Pot	The inner pot is not being detected	Make sure the inner pot is in place. If it’s already in place, take it out and put it back in. The sensor may not have detected it.
PrSE	Pressure has accumulated during a non-pressure cooking program	Clean the lid and ensure no food is stuck in the areas around the steam release, float valve, sealing ring, and anti-block shield. Clean around the heating element. Make sure the steam release is in the Vent position. If you’re using Saute mode, make sure the lid is not on. Lower the temperature to Medium setting if you have a model that allows the Saute temperature to be adjusted (e.g., Duo Evo Plus).
noPr	Working pressure is not reached during the pre-heating cycle.	Make sure the sealing ring and float valve are clean and not damaged. See reasons why Instant Pot not sealing.
C1	Faulty temperature sensor	Create a support ticket with Instant Pot customer service.
C2	Faulty temperature sensor	Create a support ticket with Instant Pot customer service.
C3	Faulty sensor	Create a support ticket with Instant Pot customer service.
C4	Faulty temperature sensor	Create a support ticket with Instant Pot customer service.
C5	The temperature is too high	Unplug the Instant Pot and plug it back in. Ensure the stainless steel inner pot is placed correctly in the base unit. Make sure there’s enough liquid in the Instant Pot. If all else fails, saute the food on the stovetop and add it back into the Instant Pot to pressure cook.
C6 or EC	Faulty pressure sensor	Press Cancel, take the pot out, put it back in, and try again. Create a support ticket with Instant Pot customer service.
C6L	Faulty low-pressure sensor	Create a support ticket with Instant Pot customer service.
C6H	Faulty high-pressure sensor	Create a support ticket with Instant Pot customer service.
C7	The heating element has failed	Make sure the steam release mechanism is in the Sealing position. Check the sealing ring and replace it if needed. Add enough thin, water-based liquid to the inner pot based on size: — 3 Qt – 1 cup (8 oz / 250 mL) — 6 Qt – 1 ½ cups (12 oz / 375 mL) — 8 Qt – 2 cups (16 oz / 500 mL) Thoroughly clean the float valve and steam release valve with a brush. Once cool, clean the area around the heating element. Create a support ticket with Instant Pot customer service.
C8	The wrong inner pot is being used	Make sure you’re using the stainless steel inner pot/liner meant for your model. Press Cancel, lift the liner up, turn it 180 degrees, put it back in, and restart. Use the custom temperature setting for Saute mode and set it to Medium
C9	Sensor connection problem	Press down on hard to ensure the air fryer lid and the pot connect correctly.