The yellow rubber thing that comes with Instant Pots is an important accessory called the sealing ring. This ring creates an airtight seal between the lid and the inner pot, allowing the Instant Pot to build up pressure and cook food quickly. Knowing what the sealing ring is and how to care for it properly is essential for getting the most out of your Instant Pot.
What is the Instant Pot Sealing Ring?
The Instant Pot sealing ring, sometimes called the silicone ring or gasket, is a flexible, removable rubber ring that sits in a channel on the underside of the Instant Pot lid. It serves a crucial function – when the lid is closed, the sealing ring compresses to fill the gap between the lid and the inner pot. This creates an airtight seal so that pressurized steam cannot escape from the pot during pressure cooking.
The tight seal allows the Instant Pot to build up high pressure safely, reaching temperatures above 240°F (115°C). This high-pressure environment enables fast cooking times; foods can cook up to 70% faster compared to traditional cooking methods. Without an effective seal, the Instant Pot could not reach adequate pressure levels to deliver its signature speed.
Sealing rings are typically made from food-grade silicone or rubber. Silicone is preferred by many users since it tends to be more durable and withstands odors, stains, and deformation better than rubber over time. The flexible material also allows the sealing ring to compress and create a tight seal every time.
Why Does the Instant Pot Come with a Yellow Sealing Ring?
Instant Pots ship with a bright yellow silicone sealing ring. There are a few reasons why yellow is the default color:
- High Visibility – The yellow stands out against the stainless steel lid, so it’s easy to see if the ring is properly installed before closing the lid.
- Clean Appearance – Pale yellow silicone resists stains and discoloration from foods better than white would.
- Safety – The bright color acts as a visual safety cue to clearly show if the ring is in place or missing.
While a single pale yellow ring is included with Instant Pots, the rings are interchangeable. Many people purchase additional sealing rings in different colors to have spares or easily identify rings for sweet or savory dishes.
Instant Pot Sealing Ring Sizes
Instant Pot sealing rings come in various sizes to fit different cooker models. The size must match correctly for the ring to seal properly.
Instant Pot Model | Sealing Ring Diameter |
---|---|
Lux 3 Qt | 85 mm |
Lux 6 Qt | 99 mm |
Duo 8 Qt | 115 mm |
Duo Plus 6 Qt | 99 mm |
The duo 6-quart is one of the most popular sizes and comes with a 99 mm sealing ring. Make sure to check your model’s manual to identify the correct replacement ring size when needed.
How to Insert the Sealing Ring
Installing the Instant Pot sealing ring properly is key for pressure cooking success. Here are step-by-step instructions:
- Check that the sealing ring is clean and free of debris or cracks. Replace if worn out.
- Locate the sealing ring rack built into the lid. The channel has a lip to hold the ring in place.
- Stretch the ring over the rack from the back. The ring should fit snugly in the groove along the entire track.
- Press down firmly on the ring with your fingers to ensure it sits securely in the channel. There should be no gaps.
- Visually inspect that the ring is fully seated before closing the lid.
The ring will compress when the lid is locked into place, creating an airtight seal for pressure cooking.
Maintaining the Instant Pot Sealing Ring
Taking care of the sealing ring properly is imperative for safe pressure cooking and healthy meals. Follow these best practices:
- Inspect frequently – Check for cuts, cracks, or thinning silicone. Replace if damaged.
- Wash regularly – Use a soft sponge and dish soap to clean after each use. Rinse and air dry to prevent mold.
- Avoid harsh chemicals – Don’t use abrasive scrubbers or bleach that could degrade silicone.
- Monitor odors – Absorbed food smells mean it’s time to replace the ring.
- Replace annually – Swap for a new ring every 12 months for optimal results.
Always remove the ring after cooking for cleaning and storage. Leaving it installed can lead to warping or mildew growth.
Replacing a Worn or Damaged Ring
Over time, sealing rings show signs of wear and tear and lose their flexibility. Indentations, cracking, and brittleness indicate it’s time to replace the ring with a new one. Typical lifespan is 12-18 months with regular use.
Purchase replacement sealing rings from the Instant Pot website or retailers like Amazon. Select the proper size for your model. Most rings cost $8-15 and come in multi-colored sets. Replacing old rings annually ensures the tightest seal and prevents leaks.
Adjusting the Sealing Ring for Altitude
Users living at high altitudes above 3000 feet may need to modify their Instant Pot sealing rings. Lower air pressure impacts cooking temperatures. To compensate, you can purchase an altitude ring insert that sits inside the regular ring.
The thinner insert takes up space, preventing excess pressure buildup in high elevations. Check your product manual for specific altitude adjustment recommendations. The inserts are available on the Instant Pot site.
Troubleshooting Sealing Ring Issues
Sealing ring problems usually prevent the Instant Pot from pressurizing correctly. Try these troubleshooting tips:
- Make sure the ring is snapped completely into place with no gaps. Refit if needed.
- Inspect for damage. Small cuts can cause steam leakage.
- Clean dirty rings which may not seal if coated in grease and food debris.
- Swap in a new ring if old rings become hard, warped, or inflexible.
- Adjust position of ring – rotating it may improve fit.
- Contact Instant Pot if ring channel on the lid is damaged.
Conclusion
The yellow silicone sealing ring is a crucial Instant Pot accessory that allows the appliance to safely reach high pressures for fast cooking. Taking proper care of the ring by regularly cleaning, inspecting for damage, and replacing annually ensures the lid forms an airtight seal every time you pressure cook. Following best practices will extend the lifespan of your Instant Pot’s rings for years of home cooking success.