This document is the owner's manual for the 10-Quart Digital Pressure Cooker, Model: PC-WAL4, manufactured by Power Cooker. It provides comprehensive information on the device's function, technical specifications, usage, and maintenance.
Function Description:
The Power Cooker is a digital pressure cooker designed for various cooking methods, including pressure cooking, browning, low-temperature cooking, stewing, and steaming. It utilizes digital controls to offer a wide range of choices and precise cooking. The unit automatically shifts to a "KEEP WARM" mode upon completion of a cooking cycle, holding food warm for an unlimited period, though flavor and texture may degrade after 4 hours. Digital pressure cooking operates at temperatures up to 248°F (120°C), creating a sterile and healthier cooking environment compared to traditional methods.
The device features a "BROWN" mode for searing or browning food directly in the inner pot before pressure cooking. A "RAPID RELEASE" feature allows for quick pressure reduction by sliding a button forward in short bursts, then holding it in the full forward position until all pressure escapes. The "STEAM" mode quickly heats cooking liquid to a boil for steaming various foods.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Model Number: PC-WAL4
- Supply Power: AC 120V 60Hz
- Rated Power: 1400W
- Capacity of Inner Pot: 10 Quarts (10QT)
- Working Pressure: 0-70 kPa
- Safety Working Pressure: 80-90 kPa
- Pressure Measurement: kPa (approximately 7kPa to 1PSI)
- Cooking Temperature: Up to 248°F (120°C)
Usage Features:
The Power Cooker's digital control panel offers several basic cooking modes. When first plugged in, "0000" appears on the LED display. Upon selecting a cooking process (e.g., COOK), the default time blinks, and rotating double zeros indicate pressure building. Once pressure is built, the zeros stop rotating, and the countdown begins. The unit beeps, the LED display goes blank, and it enters "KEEP WARM" mode automatically after the cooking time expires. Pressing the "KEEP WARM/CANCEL" button (11) stops a cooking cycle or cancels the "KEEP WARM" operation. When the unit is in neutral mode ("0000" on LED), pressing this button resets the unit to "KEEP WARM" mode.
The "COOK TIME BUTTON" (9) allows users to change the default cooking time. The "DELAY TIME BUTTON" (10) enables delayed cooking from 30 minutes to 24 hours in 30-minute increments. The "PRESSURE ADJUST" button (8) allows custom pressure settings from 20 to 80 kPa in 10-kPa intervals, each setting a default cook time that can be adjusted.
Safety Features:
The Power Cooker is equipped with multiple built-in safety features:
- Lid Safety Lock: Prevents opening when pressurized.
- Pressure/Temperature Sensor Controls: Automatically activate or deactivate power to maintain even heat and pressure.
- Back-Up Safety Release Valve: Releases built-up pressure if the primary sensor malfunctions.
- Clog Resistant Feature: Prevents food from blocking the steam release port.
- Spring-Loaded Safety Pressure Release: A device beneath the heating element that lowers the inner pot, separating it from the rubber gasket to release steam and pressure if other safety features fail.
- Temperature Cut-Off Device: Cuts off power if internal temperature exceeds safe limits and does not automatically reset.
- Red Pressure Indicator on Lid: Indicates pressurization; should not be touched or pressed manually.
- Magnetic Sensor for Lid: Ensures the lid is properly closed for pressurization. If not closed correctly, a beeping noise and "LID" on the display indicate the issue.
Important Safeguards:
- Always ensure the float valve is correctly assembled to prevent steam leakage and pressure issues.
- Do not touch hot surfaces; use handles or knobs.
- Do not immerse cords or plugs in water.
- Never operate the appliance near flammable materials.
- Ensure sufficient air space around the unit during operation.
- Plug the electrical cord directly into a 3-prong, grounded 120V electrical outlet; do not use extension cords.
- Never fill the inner pot above the MAX line, especially with expanding foods like rice or beans, to prevent clogging and excess pressure.
- Always check pressure release devices for clogs before use.
- Do not force open the Power Cooker if it is difficult to open, as this indicates remaining pressure.
- Cook only in the removable container; do not immerse the housing or base in water.
- Use non-plastic coasters or mats under the appliance to prevent damage to surfaces from heat.
- Use carry handles when moving the pressure cooker, not the lid handle.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning: After each use, unplug and allow the unit to cool. Wash the inner pot, lid, and rubber gasket with warm, soapy water. The removable cooking pot and lid are immersible. Do not use abrasive cleaners.
- Pressure Release Valve Cleaning: Remove the valve by pulling it up, wash with mild detergent under warm water, and check that the interior spring-loaded part moves freely. Reinstall by pushing it down onto the spring-loaded mechanism.
- Rubber Gasket Maintenance: The rubber gasket (G) located under the lid must be removed and washed separately. It should always be properly positioned and checked periodically for cleanliness, flexibility, and tears. It should be replaced annually or sooner if necessary, especially if the cooker has been unused for a long time, as it can harden and lose its airtight seal.
- Condensation Collector: Align the collector with the grooves on the back of the cooker to capture moisture. Empty and clean after each use.
- Float Valve Assembly: The manual provides detailed instructions for assembling the float valve, ensuring the silicon gasket is properly placed for free movement and a tight seal.
Troubleshooting:
The manual includes a troubleshooting guide for common issues such as the lid not locking, air escaping, the float valve not rising, and the unit turning off. It also lists display error indicators (E1, E2, E3, E4) and their corresponding problems (circuit open/short of sensor, overheating, pressure switch malfunction) with suggested solutions.