Cook's essentials K44020 User manual

4Qt. Electric
Pressure Cooker
Model K44020
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Before operating your new appliance,
please read all instructions carefully and keep for future reference.

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
When using pressure cookers, basic safety precautions should always be followed:
1. Read all instructions before operation.
2. Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs and a potholder.
3. This appliance should not be used by or near children or individuals with
certain disabilities.
4. NEVER ATTEMPT TO OPEN LID WHILE THE UNIT IS OPERATING. Do not open the
pressure cooker until the unit has cooled and all internal pressure has been released.
If lid is difficult to rotate, this indicates that the cooker is still pressurized. Do not
force it to open. Any pressure in the cooker can be hazardous. See "OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS" section in this manual.
5. Do not place the pressure cooker in a heated oven or on any stovetop.
6. Extreme caution must be used when moving a pressure cooker containing hot
liquids.
7. Do not use pressure cooker for other than intended use.
8. This appliance cooks under pressure. Improper use may result in scalding injury.
Make certain unit is properly closed before operating. See "INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE"
section in this manual.
9. To protect against electrical shock, do not immerse cord, plugs, or outer vessel in
water or other liquids.
10. Do not fill unit over 2/3 full. When cooking foods that expand during cooking such
as rice, legumes, beans, or dried vegetables, do not fill the unit over 1/2 full.
Overfilling may cause a risk of clogging the pressure limiting valve and developing
excess pressure. Failure to follow this procedure can result in injury to person(s)
and/or damage to the unit. See "INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE" section in this manual.
11. Be aware that certain foods, such as applesauce, cranberries, pearl barley, oatmeal
or other cereals, split peas, noodles, macaroni, rhubarb, or spaghetti can foam, froth,
and sputter, and clog the pressure release device (steam vent). These foods should
not be cooked in a pressure cooker unless following a Maxi-Matic® approved
pressure cooker recipe.
12. Always check the pressure release devices for clogging before use.
13. Do not use this pressure cooker for pressure frying oil.
14. DO NOT tamper with the Steel Ring in the Lid (2) with any tools or external forces. If
the Steel Ring is damaged, please stop using immediately and replace the Lid.
15. Clean the Filter (17) regularly to keep the cooker clean.
16. NEVER use additional weight on the Pressure Limiting Valve (3) or replace the
Pressure Limiting Valve (3) with anything not intended for use with this unit.
17. The surface of contact between the Inner Pot (6) and the Electronic Heater (14)
should always be clean. DO NOT use the Inner Pot with other heating sources. DO
NOT replace the Inner Pot with a container other than what is recommended by the
manufacturer.
18. The Inner Pot consists of a non-stick layer surface. To avoid scratching the non-stick
surface, please use wooden or plastic utensils.
19. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before
putting on or removing parts.
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20. Do not operate this appliance with a damaged cord or plug or after it malfunctions
or has been damaged in any manner. Return appliance to the nearest authorized
service facility for examination, repair or electrical or mechanical adjustment.
21. Always attach plug to appliance first, then plug cord into the wall outlet. To
disconnect, turn control to off, then remove plug from wall outlet.
22. Do not use outdoors.
23. The use of accessories not specifically recommended by Maxi-Matic® may cause
injuries or damage to the unit.
24. Some countertop and table surfaces, such as Corian®, wood and / or laminates, are
not designed to withstand prolonged heat generated by certain appliances. It is
recommended by countertop manufacturers and Maxi-Matic® thata hot pad or
trivet be placed under your appliance to prevent possible damage to the surface.
25. Do not use under hanging cabinets; steam from pressure release may cause
damage.
26. Do not operate your appliance in an appliance garage or under a wall cabinet. When
storing in an appliance garage always unplug the unit from the electrical outlet. Not
doing so could create a risk of fire, especially if the appliance touches the walls of
the garage or the door touches the unit as it closes.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
FOR HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS: This appliance must be grounded. It is equipped with a 3-
prong cord having a grounded plug. The plug must be plugged into an outlet which is
properly installed and grounded.
Warning: Improper use of the grounded cord can result in the risk of electric shock.
Consult a qualified electrician if necessary. Do not attempt to defeat this safety feature
by modifying plug.
A short power-supply cord is provided to reduce the hazards resulting from
entanglement or tripping over a longer cord. If it is necessary to use an extension cord, it
should be positioned such that it does not drape over the counter or tabletop where it
can be pulled on by children or tripped over and:
A. Use only 3-prong extension cord with 3-blade grounding plug.
B. The marked rating of the extension cord must be equal to or greater
than the rating of this appliance. The electrical rating is listed on the
bottom of this unit.
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ABOUT PRESSURE COOKING
This digitally controlled and automatic pressure cooker uses advanced technology so you
and your family can enjoy the benefits of better, faster and healthier cooking. Your
Cook's Essentials Pressure Cooker seals in steam to cook hotter and faster while
maintaining important nutrients for healthier meals. Cooking fast and with less water
saves vital natural resources and energy! The unit features easy touch-button settings, a
countdown timer, and a cooking pot big enough for family gatherings! It’s the easiest
pressure cooker to use on the market. It may seem like a complicated unit but rest
assured, this pressure cooker is simple to use, makes meals quick and easy, and overall it
saves you money! Please accept our thanks for purchasing a Cook's Essentials Pressure
Cooker and Enjoy!
ELECTRICAL SAFETY WARNING
There is a potential risk of fire, electric shock or injury to persons if the product is not
used as instructed. Protection against electric shock is assured only if the main
power cord is connected to a properly grounded 120V | 60Hz power receptacle.
This product is to be used in an indoor environment only and is not intended for
commercial use. Dry locations only.
All parts and accessories for this appliance must be used properly according to the
instructions. All parts and accessories must be the original provided from
manufacturer. All other parts or accessories that is not intended for use with this
appliance is strictly prohibited.
The use of an extension cord, power adapter or other electric devices is highly not
recommended.
LED ERROR INDICATOR
If any of the below error codes appear on the pressure cooker display, unplug the
power cord and re-plug after 10 minutes. If the error code remains, contact the
manufacturer for a replacement part.
See Troubleshooting on page 18 for instructions regarding an E4 error.
Indicator Code
Problems/Causes
E1
Open Circuit of the Sensor
E2
Short Circuit of the Sensor
E3
Overheating
E4
Signal Switch Malfunction
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS 1-2
ABOUT PRESSURE COOKING 3
ELECTRICAL SAFETY WARNING 3
E1 - E4 ERROR INDICATOR 3
PARTS IDENTIFICATION 5
Glass Lid/Rubber Seal Ring Assembly 6
Pressure Cooker Lid Markings/Pressure Limiting Valve Warning 7
Condensation Cup Assembly 7
Float Valve Assembly 8
ADDITIONAL SAFETY TIPS 9
BEFORE FIRST USE 10
Lid assembly 10
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE 11
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 12-15
How to use the menu buttons 12
How to use the pressure cook time button 12-13
Auto-keep warm feature 13
Reset/Cancel function 13
Removing the lid after cooking 13-14
Preparing White Rice 14
How to brown/sauté with your pressure cooker 14
How to use the slow cook function 15
SAFETY FEATURES 15
HOW TO COOK WITH FROZEN FOODS 16
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE 16
TROUBLESHOOTING 17-18
HELPFUL TIPS 19
COOKING TIME CHART 20-23
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PARTS IDENTIFICATION
1. Lid Handle
2. Lid
3. Pressure Limiting Valve
4. Float Valve (external view)
5. Float Valve (internal view)
6. Inner Pot*
7. Outer Pot
8. Side Handles
9. Upper Ring
10. Control Panel
11. Power Cord
12. Condensation Collector
13. Outer Body
14. Heating Plate
15. Bottom Ring
16. Seal Ring for Float Valve
17. Filter
18. Rubber Seal Ring
19. Sensor
20. Stainless Steel Rack
21. Tempered Glass Lid
* The Inner Pot (6) consists of a
non-stick surface. To avoid
scratching the non-stick surface,
please use wooden or plastic
utensils.
UNDERSIDE OF LID
5
16
17
18
ACCESSORIES
20
21
Float Valve
is Red
5

GLASS LID ASSEMBLY
**Your Pressure Cooker is equipped with
a Tempered Glass Lid (21) that can be
used with the SLOW COOK function.
Please do not use this Glass Lid (21) with
any other functions on this Pressure
Cooker.
Assembly of the Knob on the Glass Lid
will require a Phillips Screwdriver (not
included).
Follow the diagram (Figure 1) to
assemble the knob on the Glass Lid (21).
1. Handle
2. Handle Base
3. Glass Lid Body
4. Silicon Gasket
5. Gasket
6. M4 Screw
RUBBER SEAL RING ASSEMBLY
Always ensure the Rubber Seal Ring (18)
is securely fitted onto the metal Y-
shaped ring in the interior of the Lid (2).
Make sure the crease in the Rubber Seal
Ring (18) meets with the outside of the
Y- Ring all the way around. Then place
the Y-Ring and Rubber Seal Ring (18)
back into the Lid (2) making sure the
hole in the center of the Y-Ring's cross-
section is lined up with the metal pin in
the center of the Lid (2). Press down
firmly until the Y-Ring is secured onto
the Lid (2) (Figures 2-3).
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PRESSURE COOKER LID MARKINGS
Please note the "UNLOCK" and "LOCK"
markings on the rim of the pressure
cooker body (13) and the“ ”on the rim
of the Lid (2). To properly close and
secure the pressure cooker Lid (2),
always line up the "LOCK" marking on
the Upper Ring (9) and the “ ”on the
rim of the Lid (2) (see Figure 4).
PRESSURE LIMITING VALVE
WARNING
WARNING: Avoid serious injury. Always
use tongs or a long kitchen tool to set
the valve to EXHAUST.
CAUTION HOT STEAM: KEEP HANDS AND
FACE AWAY FROM THE PRESSURE
LIMITING VALVE WHEN ROTATING TO
EXHAUST.
CONDENSATION CUP ASSEMBLY
The Condensation Cup is the clear plastic
piece that snaps into the back side of the
pressure cooker as shown on the left.
Place condensation cup in rear of the
unit until it locks into place (shown in
Figure 6; it is part 12 in the diagram on
page 5).
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FLOAT VALVE ASSEMBLY
If there is steam escaping from the Lid and the Pressure Limiting Valve (3) on top of the
Lid is in the Airtight position please see Troubleshooting on pages 17-18.
It is also important to ensure the Float Valve (4) is assembled correctly. Incorrect
assembly may cause steam to escape from the sides or prevent pressure from building.
The Float Valve (4) should be able to move up and down freely only stopping when the
Seal Ring (16) meets the Lid (2). It is however normal for condensation to appear in the
condensation collector. See illustration below for assembly.
DIS-ASSEMBLY OF FLOAT VALVE (4)
ASSEMBLY OF FLOAT VALVE (4)
Hold Lid (2) upside down to
locate the Float Valve (4).
Ensure that there is something
underneath the Lid (2) that
can catch the Float Valve.
Grasp and pull off the Seal
Ring for Float Valve (16) .
The Float Valve (4) will drop out
from the Lid (2). Check and clean
the hole, the Seal Ring (16) and
the FloatValve (4).
Insert fluted end of Float Valve
(4) into the hole in the Lid (2)
and use a pencil or other slim
tool to hold in place.
Flip the Lid (2) upside down
while using the pencil to hold
the FloatValve (4) in place.
Place the Seal Ring (16) onto
the fluted end ofthe Float
Valve (4) so it sits in the
groove. The Float Valve (4)
should be able to move up and
down freely only stopping
when the Seal Ring (16) meets
the Lid (2).
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ADDITIONAL SAFETY TIPS
Always keep hands and face away from Pressure Release Device when releasing
pressure.
Use extreme caution when removing the lid after cooking. Always tilt the lid away
from you, so any remaining steam is away from your face.
Never attempt to open lid while cooking, or before the Red Float Valve (4) has
dropped. Do not attempt to defeat this safety feature by forcing lid open.
Do not cover or block the pressure valves.
Do not touch the pot or lid except for the handle immediately after using.
To avoid burns, allow food to cool before tasting. The temperature of the food gets
considerably hotter than with conventional cooking.
Ensure that the gasket is properly in place and is free of food particles or is not
damaged in any way.
WARNING! Do not release steam manually with recipes containing lots of liquid,
such as soups and stews. Make sure the "KEEP WARM" indicator light is on and
unplug the cooker. Allow to sit until the lid turns without any resistance.
Do not fill unit over 2/3 full. When cooking foods that expand during cooking such
as rice, legumes, beans, or dried vegetables, do not fill the unit over 1/2 full.
Overfilling may cause a risk of clogging the pressure limiting valve and developing
excess pressure. Failure to follow this procedure can result in injury to person(s)
and/or damage to the unit. See "INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE" section in this manual.
Be aware that certain foods, such as applesauce, cranberries, pearl barley, oatmeal
or other cereals, split peas, noodles, macaroni, rhubarb, or spaghetti can foam, froth,
and sputter, and clog the pressure release device (steam vent). These foods should
not be cooked in a pressure cooker unless following a Maxi-Matic® approved
pressure cooker recipe.
This appliance cooks under pressure. Improper use may result in scalding injury.
Make certain unit is properly closed before operating. See "INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE"
section in this manual.
Always check the pressure release devices for clogging before use.
Do not use the pressure cooker without liquid; this could damage the pressure
cooker severely.
Do not use pressure cooker for storage purposes nor insert any utensils.
This is NOT a Stovetop Pressure Cooker. Under NO circumstances should this
Pressure Cooker or any of its parts or components be placed ON or NEAR a Stovetop,
Range, or Open Flame. Doing so will cause serious damage to the Pressure Cooker
and/or injury to person.
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