Heat Sources for Stovetop Canners
What Heat Source can I use for the Presto Stovetop Pressure Canner? This is a question we received from a Family and Consumer Sciences Agent. Quick answer—Presto stovetop canners are versatile and will work on gas, electric coil, and electric smooth top (glass top) ranges. There are though, some qualifiers that must be considered.
GAS—12,000 BTU or less. With new ranges it can be hard to find a front burner that meets this criteria. Using heat above 12,000 BTU risks damage to the canner such as the bottom bowing (warping). No outdoor propane burners are recommended! BTU is too high thus making it difficult to regulate pressure and operate safely.
ELECTRIC COIL—UL858 is a safety regulation that went into effect in 2018. Any electric coil range manufactured in 2018 or later uses “Sensi-Temp Technology” meaning there is a sensor in the center of the coil. If the sensor detects a pan temperature near 450 degrees F, the burner will automatically shut off until a lower pan temperature is reached. This cycling will continue until the unit/burner is turned off. When canning, this may mean that necessary pressure can’t be reached and/or maintained for canning. Some models will work, some will not. User must check with range manufacturer.
ELECTRIC SMOOTH TOP—some smooth top (glass top) ranges can support the weight of a fully loaded canner (as much as 50+ pounds), and some can’t. We recommend that users check with their range manufacturer regarding compatibility. It is important to also use the proper size burner to place the canner on. Use the element that most closely matches the 8-inch diameter of the canner bottom (the portion of the canner bottom that comes in contact with the element).
INDUCTION – the Presto® Induction Canner is equipped with a stainless steel clad base thus making it compatible with an induction heat source. An induction range or cooktop does require that an induction canner be used. However, the stainless steel base required for induction heat transfer does work on gas and electric ranges too. If you need a portable induction cooktop, here is a link to a product that is compatible with the Presto Induction Canner – it has actually been tested to assure the Presto Induction Canner will operate properly during use:
https://www.amazon.com/Duxtop-Professional-Induction-Commercial-Countertop/dp/B07G9YKPQC/ref=sr_1_4?crid=GXGDQVUYOZ3B&keywords=Duxtop+Professional+portable+Induction+Cooktop+Model+P961LS%2FBT-35-D&qid=1670533804&sprefix=duxtop+professional+portable+induction+cooktop+model+p961ls%2Fbt-35-d%2Caps%2C267&sr=8-4
Read or share the full April 2025 issue of Let’s Preserve Together to learn more about:
- Why did my canner bottom bow (warp)?
- My canner is making a whistling noise, why?
- My stovetop canner cover is hard to open and close, what should I do?
- How much do current Presto canners weigh?
- Why is the inside of my canner and the canning rack discoloring?
- How does pressure equate to temperature?
- Learn more about vacuum sealers and vacuum sealing!
