Wednesday Why: Choosing a Pressure Canner

What are some things to consider when choosing a pressure canner?

Pressure canners come in a variety of sizes and also styles.  Some are smaller than others, which is nice if you have a small stove area to work with or don't plan on doing big batches.  The bigger ones are nice if you do have the space and you want to do big batches.  Also remember the bigger it is, the heavier it will be both empty and filled with water.  I personally recommend putting the canner on the stove and filling it with water there by using a pitcher, rather than filling the canner in the sink and then moving it to the stove--especially if you have a smooth-top stove--as moving it when it is filled can scratch or do other damage (besides being heavy).  Another thing to consider is the height--some range hoods are low and so the taller pressure canners may be too big, if this is a concern measure the space between the stove and the hood to be sure to get a pressure canner that will fit.

Some canners don't have gaskets (All-American) while others do (Presto & others).  Gaskets do break down over time and will need to be replaced periodically, so take that into consideration when choosing your pressure canner.  Consider the cost of replacement when considering over-all price.

Another thing to consider is whether or not the pressure canner is ok to use on your stove.  Many clearly state you shouldn't use them on smooth-top/glass-top stoves, while others may not mention one way or another, if you have a smooth cooktop stove it is best to stick with the ones that indicate they are safe and ok to use on them.  Why is this important?  If you use a pressure canner that isn't cooktop safe, it could damage your cooktop.  Also, if you have a warranty on your cooktop, some warranties can and will be voided if you use a pressure canner on it & it gets damaged because of that.  Presto makes a pressure canner that they claim can be safely used on both regular and smooth top stoves.

With all pressure canners, you should check the gauge(s) regularly to make sure they are working correctly.  Local extension offices can usually help with this or if you have a pressure canner service center nearby that might be an option too.  Also, be sure to follow the instructions for the type of pressure canner you have/get, there are differences that can and will affect their usage.

Have fun canning!  Pressure canners widen the scope of canning--not just fruits/jams and tomatoes anymore, but veggies and meats too!  Pressure canners can be used as water bath canners, or you can have both a pressure canner and a water bath canner--you can be canning meats while canning jam.