Testing dial pressure canner gauges

Pressure canners will either have a dial gauge or a weighted gauge for indicating and regulating the pressure inside the device. 

A dial gauge can lose accuracy over time and with repeated use. If a dial gauge reads high, this can lead to under-processing or not reaching the required temperature during canning. Under-processing can result in unsafe food. If a dial gauge reads low, this can lead to over-processing or too high of a temperature is reached during canning. Over-processing can result in poor-quality food. 

Weighted gauges will rock gently or make a frequent jiggling noise to indicate if the correct pressure is being maintained. Read the manufacturer's instructions to know how a particular weighted gauge should rock or jiggle. Weighted gauges do not require testing for accuracy as the weights are solid pieces of metal with no moveable parts.

Dial gauge accuracy

Pressure canners with a dial gauge should be checked for accuracy each year before use. This is an important step in safely preserving foods and should not be skipped. Dial gauges that read 2 or more pounds differently, either high or low, during testing should be replaced. Pressure adjustments can safely be made if the dial gauge reads up to 2 pounds high or low. 

Where to have your dial gauge checked

Presto^Ⓡ will test dial gauges at no charge from only these brands:

• National (made by National Presto Pressure Cooker Company)
• Magic Seal (sold at Montgomery Ward)
• Maid of Honor (sold at Sears, Roebuck and Company)
• Presto

After the dial gauge has been tested, Presto will return your dial gauge to you with the results and recommendations for use. Contact Presto for testing and replacement part questions at 1-800-877-0441 or contact@gopresto.com. 

Steps to send in your pressure gauge

1. Complete the Presto testing request form. 
2. Carefully remove the dial gauge from the canner lid. If you cannot remove the dial gauge from the lid, you can send the lid with the dial gauge attached. Do not include the base of the pressure canner. 
3. Package the dial gauge with foam, bubble wrap, or other packaging supplies to prevent damage during shipping. 
4. Presto recommends using a tracking number when shipping your dial gauge.
5. Ship to: National Presto Industries, Inc.
   ATTN: Gauge Testing
   3925 N Hastings Way
   Eau Claire, WI 54703

All American pressure canners are manufactured by the Wisconsin Aluminum Foundry. These pressure canners have both a weighted gauge and a dial gauge. These models are regulated by the weighted gauge. The dial gauge is for reference purposes and does not require testing. Contact the Wisconsin Aluminum Foundry for testing and replacement part questions at 920-686-2701 or customerrelations@wafco.com.  

For all other pressure canner brands, please check with the manufacturer for testing services and replacement parts.