GENERAL
Why do you refer to the Instant Pot as a Smartcooker?
The Instant Pot® is a smartcooker because of its pre-set cooking programs, useful for various food ingredients and cooking methods. Users can customize the Smart Programs to achieve their preferred cooking results.
How do the Smart Programs work?
The Instant Pot® is developed with an embedded microprocessor. The microprocessor carefully runs lab-tested algorithms to control the time, cooking pressure and temperature to ensure consistent cooking results. Users can customize the Smart Programs to achieve their preferred cooking results.
Why do I need to do the Initial Test Run (12psi Water Test)
The Initial Test Run helps you become familiar with your Instant Pot® while ensuring the Lux is operating at peak performance before you start preparing your delicious dishes.
Is the Lux currently available outside of North America?
No, the Lux is available in a 120V version, for purchase and use within Canada and the USA.
Is there an Instant Pot Store?
Yes! Visit www.store.instantpot.com for a full list of products, parts, and accessories.
SPECS
What available sizes is the Lux Series available in?
The Lux Series is available in 3, 6 and 8 Quart sizes.
What is the power of the heating element on the various Quart sizes?
Each model of Lux has a specific maximum draw:
- 3 Quart – 700W
- 6 Quart – 1000W
- 8 Quart – 1200W
What color is the Lux series available in?
The Lux is available in:
- Brushed stainless steel and black (3, 6 & 8 Quart)
- Brushed stainless steel and red
- Brushed stainless steel and blue
Why should I own a Lux?
The Instant Pot® Lux is a 6-in-1 multi-use programmable pressure cooker that combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice/porridge cooker, steamer, sauté/searing pan, and warmer.
For additional technical details on the Instant Pot® pressure cookers go to: https://instantpot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/product-comparison.pdf
Why are the Lux models called 6-in-1?
The Lux models are all 6-in-1 appliances, replacing 6 commonly used kitchen appliances in 1 – Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice/Porridge Cooker, Sauté/Searing Pan, Steamer, and Warmer.
What are the built-in Smart Programs?
3 Quart – 10 Smart programs:
Pressure Cook, Keep Warm, Meat/Stew, Soup/Broth, Sauté, Porridge, Steam, Egg, Rice and Slow Cook
6 and 8 Quart – 12 Smart programs:
Pressure Cook, Keep Warm, Meat/Stew, Soup/Broth, Sauté, Porridge, Steam, Egg, Multigrain, Cake, Rice and Slow Cook.
How many customizations can the Lux series remember?
The Lux Series remembers customizations made in “Less”, “Normal” and “More” modes (Low, Med, High) on all Smart Programs.
How long after selecting the setting will the cooker Start?
10 seconds after selecting your settings, the cooking process will start. The cooker will beep 3 times and the LCD displays ON.
How long is the Delay Start time?
The Delay Start can be set for a maximum of 24 hours.
How many temperature settings does the Automatic Keep Warm have?
The Automatic Keep Warm (when activated, turns ON after cooking completes) operates exclusively on the highest temperature setting: “More”.
How many temperature settings does the Manual Keep Warm have?
The Manual Keep Warm operates exclusively on the highest temperature setting: “More”.
How do I know if Keep Warm is ON or OFF?
For the Lux Series, the LED display shows an “L” as the first digit, such as “L0:02”, to indicate the time duration for the Automatic Keep Warm. The clock will count up for 10 hours, then when the cycle finishes the cooker will go into Standby mode.
How do I turn the Sound OFF/ON?
Sound OFF – Press and hold the [-] key for 5 seconds, until the cooker displays “SOFF”.
Sound ON – Press and hold the [+] key for 5 seconds, until the cooker displays “S On”.
What is the quality of the stainless steel on the inner pot?
The inner pot is made from food grade 304 (18/8) stainless steel. The 3-ply bottom has an aluminum core for optimal heat dispersal. There is no chemical coating, and the inner pot is compliant with FDA food safety standards. Instant Pot’s inner pot is dishwasher safe.
How full (of food & liquid) can the inner pot be for pressure cooking?
For pressure cooking Smart Programs, the total contents (pre-cooked food and liquid) in the inner pot should not pass the —2/3 line.
When preparing food that expands during cooking such as rice, beans or vegetables, the contents in the inner pot should not pass the —1/2 line. Overfilling the inner pot may risk clogging the steam release assembly, which may result in the development of excess pressure. Excess pressure can cause leakage, personal injury, or damage to the cooker.
Note: Fill level warnings do not apply to non-pressure cooking programs.
Can I use a 5 Quart inner pot in a 6 Quart Instant Pot?
No. The 5 Quart inner pot is too short to properly sit against the heating element.
Only use genuine Instant Pot® inner pots, sized for your cooker. The use of an incorrectly sized inner pot will damage the cooker.
Can I purchase a secondary or replacement 3, 6 or 8 Quart inner pot?
Yes.
The 3 Quart inner pots are interchangeable between 3 Quart Instant Pots.
The 6 Quart inner pots are interchangeable between 6 Quart Instant Pots.
The 8 Quart inner pots are interchangeable between 8 Quart Instant Pots.
Find replacement accessories on our website: www.store.instantpot.com/collections/accessories/InnerPots_Accessories
Why does the stainless steel inner pot have a blue, white, or rainbow discoloration after washing?
The discoloration effect on the stainless steel inner pot is called “rainbowing” and can be caused by exposure to high heat, cooking starchy food (e.g. rice, pasta) or even detergent or hard water staining after hand or dishwashing. This is normal, and common in all polished stainless steel cookware, and is safe to cook on.
To remove staining, add 1 cup of white vinegar to the inner pot and scrub the affected area with a sponge.
How should I position the steam release handle when pressure cooking?
The steam release handle must be in the Sealing position for pressure-cooking.
How should I position the steam release handle when non-pressure cooking?
The steam release handle must be in the Venting position for non-pressure-cooking.
How do I turn the Instant Pot OFF?
To turn the Lux OFF, press Cancel, then remove the plug from the power source.
Note: Unplug from power outlet when not in use and prior to cleaning or storage.
COOKING
What is the difference between Natural Release (NR) and Quick Release (QR)?
Natural Release: Allows the cooker to cool down over time. It may take up to 40 minutes until the float valve drops down, depending on the volume in the cooker among other factors. Once the cooking process has completed, turn Keep Warm mode OFF to hasten cooling.
Note: Foods with high liquid volume or starch content should use Natural Release as thicker liquid may spatter.
Quick Release: Turn the steam release handle to the “Venting” position to release steam until the float valve drops. Never pull off the steam release handle while it is releasing steam, as escaping steam is extremely hot and can cause scalding.
How do I know when I should use Natural Release (NR) or Quick Release (QR) venting methods?
Please refer to the recipe.
Quick Release: used for delicate dishes such as custards and fresh vegetables.
Natural Release: used for meats, chilis, stews, soups and grains.
How long can the Lux Series pressure cook for?
With the Lux Series you can Pressure Cook for a maximum of 4 hours.
What is the Pressure setting in the Lux?
The Lux operates on High Pressure: 10.2 ~ 11.6 psi
What is the maximum time for the Sauté function?
The maximum time is 30 minutes as a safety precaution.
Note: Never have the lid ON when using the Sauté Program.
How many temperature settings are there on the Sauté program? What are they?
There are 3 temperature setting on the Sauté Program:
- Less:For simmering or thickening a sauce
- Normal: For regular browning/searing
- More: For stir-frying or blackening meat.
To change the cooking temperature, press Adjust to toggle between 3 settings.
What is the maximum time for the Slow Cook function?
Slow Cook can be set from 0.5 – 20 hours.
How many temperature settings are there on the Slow Cook function? What are they?
There are 3 temperature setting on the Slow Cook Program:
- Less: For warming food
- Normal: Comparable to “Low” on a traditional slow cooker
- More: Comparable to “High” on a traditional slow cooker.
To change the cooking temperature, press Adjust to toggle between 3 settings.
How does the Slow Cook function work in comparison to a traditional slow cooker?
There are 3 temperature setting on the Slow Cook Program. Whereas conventional slow cookers apply different heating intervals or intensity (the difference between the High and Low settings of most conventional slow cookers is only in the time it take to reach 212°F or 100°C), the Lux offers more control over the temperature levels.
- Less:For warming food – 180~190°F / 82~87.8°C
- Normal: Comparable to “Low” on a traditional slow cooker – 190~200°F / 87.8~93°C
- More: Comparable to “High” on a traditional slow cooker – 200~210°F / 93~98°C
To change the cooking temperature, press Adjust to toggle between 3 settings.
For the best slow cooking results, consider the Instant Pot® tempered glass lid.
Can I make adjustments once the cook cycle has begun?
The Lux Series allows one to easily adjust settings even after the cook cycle has begun.
What is Delay Start?
Use Delay Start to postpone cooking. Set the delay time prior to starting the cooking process.
Note: When using the Delay Start allow sufficient cooling down time prior to serving.
Can Delay Start be used for all dishes?
The Delay Start is not recommended for porridge, oatmeal, or any other foamy and thick liquids. When preparing foods that foam or splatter, the cooking progress should be monitored.
What is the maximum time a Smart Program can be delayed?
You may delay cooking for up to 24 hours.
How does the Cancel key work?
The Cancel key ends a Smart Program at any time, and returns the cooker to Standby mode, displaying OFF.
Press and hold Cancel to reset all Smart Programs on the cooker to default settings.
How do I know if a Pressure Cooking Program has begun?
10 seconds after inputting your selections, the cooker will beep 3 times and the display will read “On” to indicate that the cooker has entered the preheating cycle.
Depending on the amount of food and its temperature, the preheating cycle can take up to 40 minutes. As the cooker heats up and pressure builds, the float valve will rise on its own. When working pressure is reached, the cooker enters the cook cycle and displays the remaining cooking time in minutes (i.e.; “2” on the display indicates “2 minutes”).
When the cook cycle completes, the cooker will beep and switch to the Keep Warm mode (Note: Only if the Keep Warm function is turned ON, otherwise the cooker will revert to Standby mode once cooking completes).
Pressure is not building—why not?
To build pressure, the Lux requires liquid to generate steam. The amount of liquid is dependent on the quart size.
- 3 Quart – 1 cup (250 mL / 8 oz) water-based liquid
- 6 Quart – 1.5 cups (375 mL / 12 oz) water-based liquid
- 8 Quart – 2 cups (500 mL / 16 oz) water-based liquid
Liquids should have a thin, watery consistency so enough steam can be generated to cook under pressure. These liquids include cooking sauces, wine, beer, and stocks.
Note: Oils and oil-based sauces do not have sufficient water content, and do not account for the required liquid volume.
Use a pressure cooking Smart Program:
- Manual (Pressure Cook)
- Soup/Broth
- Meat/Stew
- Cake
- Egg
- Rice
- Multigrain
- Porridge
- Steam
Ensure the steam release handle is set to the Sealing position for pressure cooking Smart Programs. If it is not Sealed, pressure will not build. For additional troubleshooting, please go to www.instantpot.com/troubleshooting
How do I stop a Smart Program once it has begun?
Press Cancel to end a Smart Program at any time.
How do I know which settings to use for my dish?
Refer to the User Manual provided with the Lux. If working with an Instant Pot® recipe, please follow the instructions indicated.
Note: All recipes use High Pressure as default, unless otherwise. The Lux operates exclusively under High Pressure.
The steam release handle is loose, is this normal?
Yes, when positioned properly the Steam Release handle should sit loosely in order to pivot under pressure.
Are there any foods one must be cautious of, or that cannot be prepared in the Instant Pot pressure cooker?
Yes, we recommend caution with foods such as applesauce, cranberries, pearl barley, oatmeal or other cereals, split peas, noodles, macaroni, rhubarb or spaghetti as they can foam, froth or spatter and can clog the anti-block shield, steam release valve, float valve or steam release vent. When preparing these types of food the inner pot should not be more than 1/2 full and a trusted recipe should be followed.
Note: Regular cleaning of the Steam Release Handle, Float Valve and Anti-Block Shield is important to avoid food debris from interfering with their function.
COMPONENTS
What accessories are included with the Lux Series?
3 & 8 Quart:
- Stainless Steel (18/8) Steam Rack without handles, keeps food out of the cooking liquid in the inner pot, easing steam generation and dispersal
- Condensation Collector to be placed at the rear of the cooker base
- Rice Paddle for fluffing and scooping rice
- Soup Spoon for ladling liquids
- Rice Measuring Cup
6 Quart
- Stainless Steel (18/8) Steam Rack without handles, keeps food out of the cooking liquid in the inner pot, easing steam generation and dispersal
- Rice Paddle for fluffing and scooping rice
- Soup Spoon for ladling liquids
- Rice Measuring Cup
What is the Float Valve?
The float valve and attached silicone cap are necessary when pressure cooking. The float valve, once popped up, seals in steam to create pressure.
Note: The Lux 3 & 6 quart models have a short float valve with a hollow top. Try moving it up and down before use, to see what it looks like in the UP (pressurized) position, and the DOWN (depressurized) position.
Does the Float Valve need to be removed?
Yes, the float valve and silicone cap must be removed from the lid every few cooking cycles for cleaning, or whenever there is visible food debris or residue.
What is the Condensation Collector for?
The condensation collector catches excess liquid, preventing it from spilling onto the counter.
Note: The Lux 6 Quart has been designed in such a way that the condensation collector is not required.
What is the Anti-Block Shield?
The Anti-Block Shield is the round component with 6 holes on the underside of the lid. The Anti-Block Shield prevents food particles from blocking the steam release valve/handle.
Does the Anti-Block Shield need to be removed?
Yes, the Anti-Block Shield must be removed and cleaned after each use, especially following the preparation of foods that may spatter.
Remove: Using your thumb, push the side of the Anti-Block Shield towards the lid rim and lift up with some effort. The anti-block shield should pop off.
Install: Position the Anti-Block Shield in place and push down until it snaps into place.
What is the Steam Rack for?
The Steam Rack is used on the bottom of the inner pot when steaming vegetables or to elevate dishes from of the liquid in the inner pot. This helps in generating steam, as well as with internal heat dispersal.
What is the quality of the stainless steel Steam Rack?
The steam rack it is made from food grade 304 (18/8) stainless steel, compliant with FDA food safety standards.
Is the Instant Pot Sealing Ring safe?
The Instant Pot silicone sealing rings pass UL, FDA and LFGB tests for safety, including food safety.
The sealing ring is an integral part of the Instant Pot safety features. The sealing rings have been designed, engineered, and built with the optimal material to achieve the hardness and strength required to withstand high-pressure force during electric pressure cooking.
The use of third party sealing rings will void the warranty, and may cause the cooker to malfunction, risking damage to the cooker as well as personal injury. Only use genuine Instant Pot sealing sings.
How do I remove odour from the Sealing Ring?
The Instant Pot sealing ring is made from food grade silicone. Silicone may pick up food odors during cooking. To remove the odor, try the following:
- Steam Clean – add 2 cups of water or white vinegar and cut-up lemon rind, run the Steam program for 2 minutes with the sealing ring in position. Then, allow the sealing ring to air dry.
- Place the sealing ring in the dishwasher. High temperature and strong detergent will remove the majority of smells.
- Soak the sealing ring overnight in white vinegar, lemon juice, tomato juice, or bleach. Then, run it through the dishwasher.
- Store the sealing ring in a plastic bag with dry coffee grounds or baking soda.
Alternatively, you may wish to have one sealing ring for savory foods and another for sweet foods.
How often should the Sealing Ring be cleaned?
It is not necessary to remove the sealing ring after each use. Remove the sealing ring and clean every 5 – 6 uses, or after preparing foods that spatter.
How often should the Sealing Ring be replaced?
The sealing ring is made from food grade silicone and is extremely durable. Under normal conditions it should function for 18 – 24 months. If you notice cracks or deformation in the sealing ring, or steam leaking from the cooker, it should be replaced.
Note: The sealing ring is porous and may absorb odors and colors. To avoid discoloration and odors, you may change the sealing ring every 6 – 12 months.
Can I use another brand of Sealing Ring?
No. Unapproved and unauthorized sealing rings are not manufactured, tested or certified by Instant Pot; as such, we are unable to confirm if they meet Instant Pot established standards. The use of third party sealing rings may have unexpected effects on your Instant Pot®, and will void the Instant Pot warranty. To avoid risking damage to your cooker, as well as to avoid personal injury, only use Instant Pot authorized sealing rings.
How do I reset the Lux to default settings?
For a full reset of all cooking programs and system settings, return the cooker to standby mode displaying OFF, then press and hold the Adjust key until the cooker beeps.
SAFETY
How many safety mechanisms are built in to the Instant Pot Lux?
The Lux is designed with at least 10 safety mechanisms.
What are the 10 safety mechanisms on the Instant Pot Lux?
The 10 safety mechanisms are described in full detail here – https://instantpot.com/10-safety-mechanisms/
How do I know when it is safe to open the lid?
Start by pressing ‘Cancel’. The LED will display OFF. Before opening the lid, make sure the float valve has dropped.
Do not open the lid if the float valve has not dropped.
Do not open the lid if it is locked and cannot be opened.
Do not force the lid open at any time.
Note: When opening the lid, the inner pot may adhere to the lid. This is caused by vacuum due to cooling. To release the vacuum, move the stream release handle to the Venting position.
What should I do if the float valve is stuck?
Move the Steam Release Handle to the “Venting” position. Once all the steam is released, gently tap the float valve down with a fork or chopstick.
How much liquid is required in the inner pot to pressure cook?
To build pressure, the Lux requires liquid to generate steam. The amount of liquid is dependent on the quart size.
- 3 Quart – 1 cup (250 mL / 8 oz) water-based liquid
- 6 Quart – 1.5 cups (375 mL / 12 oz) water-based liquid
- 8 Quart – 2 cups (500 mL / 16 oz) water-based liquid
Liquids should have a thin, watery consistency so enough steam can be generated to cook under pressure. These liquids include cooking sauces, wine, beer, and stocks.
Note: Oils and oil-based sauces do not have sufficient water content, and do not account for the required liquid volume.
Can I deep fry, pressure fry or broast in the Lux?
No. For safety reasons, do not attempt to pressure fry, deep fry, or broast in the Lux with oil.
Can I do pressure canning in the Lux?
There are two types of canning:
Water-bath canning is performed at 100°C / 212°F. Used for acidic fruits, tomatoes, pickles and jellied products.
The Lux can be used for water-bath canning. The Instant Pot® current product line is regulated by a pressure sensor instead of a thermometer; the altitude of your location may affect the actual cooking temperature.
Pressure canning is performed at 115~121°C / 240~250°F. Used for low acid vegetables, meat and poultry.
WARNING: Do not use the Lux 6-in-1 for low-acid pressure canning.
For more details, please refer to “USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning”.
Why is there an occasional clicking sound when using my Instant Pot?
The clicking/cracking sounds in the Instant Pot pressure cooker likely comes from one or more of the following sources:
- Water or moisture on the bottom of the inner pot
- Instant Pot pressure switch turning on and off during operation
- Friction between the lid and the housing created by expansion and contraction due to changing internal pressure and temperature
- The flat flexible pressure board under the heating element bending under pressure (this is normal).
- Food such as dry beans popping open during the Cook cycle
Can I place the Instant Pot on the stovetop or close to a heat source?
No, do not place the Instant Pot on or near a hot stovetop, gas range or electric burner. Do not place the Instant Pot on, near, or in a heated oven, as this will damage the cooker.
Note: Intended for countertop use only.
Why is water accumulating around the rim of the cooker base?
It is normal to have some condensation in the rim on the top of the cooker, especially during the cooling down period. If you have an excessive amount of water in the groove, there are two possibilities:
- The sealing ring is not seated properly
- The sealing ring requires replacement
Inspect your sealing ring for wear and tear, stretching, cracks, or deformations.
What does “OvHt” or “Burn” mean?
The Lux is built with a burn-protection mechanism. When a high temperature 140C/ 284F) is detected on the bottom of the inner pot, the burn-protection mechanism suspends heating to avoid food burning.
The only exception to the burn-protection mechanism is with food that has a very high starch content. For instance, if you add flour in your chili, the flour will sink to the bottom, solidifies at low temperatures and can block heat dissipation. In this situation, we suggest you add flour to the chili after initial cooking and perhaps cooking it for an additional one to five minutes to allow thickening of the chili.
What accessories are recommended for use with the Lux?
Instant Pot® recommends to only cook in the Instant Pot stainless steel or ceramic non-stick inner pots for best results. Other brands may not have the correct curvature to match the heating element. Accessories and parts not branded Instant Pot or recommended by Instant Brands Inc. may cause the cooker to malfunction, and will void the warranty.
My Instant Pot has stopped working, what should I do?
Start by referring to Troubleshooting, or to the Troubleshooting page in the User Manual provided with the cooker.
If you are unable to find your answer, contact the Customer Care Team by:
- Opening a Support Ticket
- Emailing support@instantpot.com
- Connecting with an agent over Live Chat
- Calling 1.800.828.7280
Product FAQs