Michigan State University Extension
Preserving Food Safely - 01600735
08/03/99
CANNING EQUIPMENT-PROBLEMS
Sometimes, a lid on the pressure canner will become
"stuck" if the lid is not removed when the pressure has
reached zero. NEVER try to hurry the cooling of any canner
or force it open by pouring cold water over it. This shock
treatment could cause the seals to loosen, the liquid to
siphon off, or the jars to break. Reheating the canner and
letting it return once again to zero pressure should release
the vacuum.
Other methods that are recommended:
Using a rubber mallet, gently tap around the rim.
Then, exert equal downward pressure when turning the cover.
Never use a regular hammer. If the canner lid is stubborn
due to a sticky sealing ring, it's time to replace the
gasket. Rings are prelubricated before packaging and only
need oiling occasionally. Oiling the gasket too frequently
can cause swelling, rapid deterioration, and even more
problems.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
This file was generated from data base 01 on 05/29/03.
Data base 01 was last revised on 08/03/99.
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