General
What are the built-in Smart Programs?
The Viva has the following built-in Smart Programs:
Soup/Broth, Meat/Stew, Bean/Chili, Cake, Egg, Slow Cook, Sauté, Rice, Multigrain, Porridge, Steam, Sterilize, Yogurt, Pressure Cook and Keep Warm.
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.
Why do you refer to Instant Pot as the Smart Cooker?
The Instant Pot® is a smartcooker because of its pre-programmed cooking instructions, useful for various food ingredients and cooking methods. As it remembers the last customization on each Smart Program, it can provide a more personalized cooking experience.
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® before you start preparing your delicious dishes.
Where can I purchase the Viva?
The Viva 6 Quart is available at QVC.
Is the Viva Series available outside of North America?
The Viva is currently manufactured in a 120V model and is available for purchase and use within the USA and Canada.
Is there an Instant Pot Store?
Yes! Visit www.store.instantpot.com for a full list of products, parts, and accessories.
Specs
In what size is the Viva available?
The Viva is available in 6 Quart.
What is the power of the heating element on the Viva?
Viva 6 Quart: 1000W
What is the power supply on the Viva?
The Viva operates at 120V~60Hz.
Note: The 120V models are designed for use in USA and Canada only. Use outside of those areas will void the warranty.
What are the dimensions of the Viva?
6 Quart
in: 13.39L x 12.21W x 12.48H
cm : 34Lx 31W x 31.7H
How much does the Viva weigh?
Viva 6 Quart: 11.84 lbs / 5.37 kg
Operating Functions
What is meant by ‘dual-pressure settings’?
The Viva has the capacity to cook at either High or Low-pressure. Because pressure is linked to temperature, a higher pressure results in a higher temperature.
What are the ranges of the High and Low pressure settings?
Low Pressure – 5.8 ~ 7.2psi (40kPa)
High Pressure – 10.2 ~ 11.6psi (70 ~ 80kPa)
How should the steam release handle be positioned when pressure cooking?
When pressure cooking, position the Steam Release Handle points towards “Sealing”.
How long after selecting the settings will the Viva start?
The Viva will begin 10 seconds after making your selections.
What is the Delay Start program?
Delay Start offers the option to postpone the cooking start time for up to 24:00 hours.
Can the Delay Start be used for all dishes?
The Delay Start setting is not recommended when cooking thick or foamy foods or food that spoil.
Delay Start can be applied to all Smart Programs with the exception of Sauté, Keep Warm, and Yogurt.
How do I turn the sound OFF and ON?
Sound OFF: Press and hold the “–” key for 3 seconds to turn sound OFF.
Sound ON: Press and hold the “+” key for 3 seconds to turn sound ON.
How does the Cancel button work?
The Cancel key ends a Smart Program at any time, or resets the cooker to default settings.
Can I make cooking adjustments after the cooking process has started?
Yes, you may make adjustments to the time, temperature, and pressure once cooking has started.
How do I stop a Smart Program after it has started?
Press the Cancel key to end any Program.
How do I turn the Instant Pot OFF?
Touch Cancel to ensure the cooker is in Standby mode.
Unplug the cooker when not in use, and before cleaning.
How many customizations does the Viva remember?
The Viva will remember 3 customizations within each Pressure Cooking Program with the exception of Rice, as well as, customizations made within Slow Cook Program.
How do I return to default settings for a specific Smart Program?
Press Cancel to ensure the cooker is in Standby Mode.
Press and hold the Program you wish to reset.
How do I remove all customizations and return all of the Smart Programs to default settings?
Press Cancel to ensure the cooker is in Standby Mode.
Press and hold Cancel for 5 seconds until a beep sounds.
Cooking
How long will the Viva pressure cook?
The Viva can pressure cook for up to 04:00 hours.
How much liquid is required in the inner pot when pressure cooking?
6 Quart – 1.5 cups (375mL / 12oz)
Liquids should be water-based and fairly thin 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.
How do I know which settings to use for my dish?
Refer to the User Manual provided. If working with an Instant Pot recipe, please follow the instructions indicated.
Note: All recipes use High Pressure as default, unless otherwise specified.
What pressure levels are available?
The Viva can operate at High or Low pressure.
What is the difference between Natural Release (NR) and Quick Release (QR) venting methods?
Natural Release: Allows the pressure cooker to dissipate heat and pressure over time. This method must be used when cooking food that is thick or starchy, such as soups, stews or chilies, as well as, food that expands, such as beans and grains.
Quick Release: A continuous stream of steam will be released. This method is most commonly used when cooking vegetables, fish, eggs or other foods that may overcook during NR.
How do I know if I should use Natural Release (NR) or Quick Release (QR) to vent my cooker?
Please refer to the recipe.
Quick Release is used for delicate dishes such as custards and fresh vegetables.
Natural Release is used for meats chilis, stews, soups and grains.
Does the pressure level have any effect on non-pressure cooking Smart Programs, such as Slow Cook, Sauté, and Yogurt?
No, the pressure is only linked to the temperature in pressure cooking programs.
What is the maximum time for the Sauté Smart Program?
You can use Sauté for up to 00:30 minutes. After that time, the cooker will turn off to prevent overheating.
Should I use a lid when cooking with the Sauté Smart Program?
No, do not use the lid on the Sauté program. If you try to use the lid, there will be a warning sound. The Sauté time is set for a maximum of 30 minutes as a safety precaution.
What are the 3 settings within the Sauté Smart Program?
The Viva has 3 Sauté settings:
Less – Simmering, thickening, and reducing sauces and liquids.
Normal – Searing, sautéing meats and vegetables.
More – Stir-frying or browning meat.
When the cooker reaches the working temperature the display will indicate “Hot”. Add food to the inner pot and begin sautéing.
What is the maximum time for the Slow Cook Smart Program?
The Slow Cook Program has a time range of 00:30 minutes to 24:00 hours.
What are the 3 settings within the Slow Cook Smart Program?
The Viva has 3 Slow Cook settings:
Less – Use as a food warmer, or as a longer warm-water soak for beans, lentils, nuts and seeds.
Normal – Heats slowly, used with a longer Cook time. Equivalent to the Low setting on a traditional slow cooker.
More – Generally used with a shorter Cook time. Equivalent to the High setting on a traditional slow cooker.
How does the Instant Pot’s Slow Cook Smart Program compare to a traditional slow cooker?
Much like a traditional slow cooker, the Viva heats your dish over a long period of time which results in soft, tender, and easily pull apart meals.
What is the minimum temperature to pasteurize milk when making yogurt?
Milk must reach a minimum of 161°F (71°C) for pasteurization to occur.
What is the maximum time for fermentation of Yogurt?
Fermentation may be set to run for up to 99:30 hours.
How do I know if the Keep Warm program is ON or OFF?
The Keep Warm button will be lit.
How do I know the amount of time lapsed in Keep Warm?
The time on the display indicates how long your dish has been warming.
How long can I run Keep Warm?
The Viva can run the Keep Warm program for up to 99:30 hours.
What are the 3 settings within the manual Keep Warm Smart Program?
The cooker has 3 Keep Warm settings to maintain food at different serving temperatures. To select a temperature for Keep Warm, touch the Keep Warm field to toggle between Less, Normal and More.
Components
What accessories are included with the Viva?
Accessories include:
- Stainless Steel 304 (18/8) Steam Rack with handles to lift and lower food into the inner pot.
- Condensation Collector to be placed at the rear of the cooker base
- Rice Paddle
- Soup Spoon
- Rice Measuring cup
What is the quality of the stainless steel inner pot?
The inner pot is made from food grade 304 (18/8) stainless steel, and has a 3-ply bottom for even heat distribution. Compliant with FDA food safety standards, the inner pot does not have a chemical coating, and is dishwasher safe.
Can I use the inner pot from another Instant Pot?
Yes, as long as the quart size is the same, inner pots made by Instant Pot are interchangeable.
Why does the stainless steel have a rainbow or blueish-white stain after washing?
The discoloration 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 staining after hand or machine wash. This is common and normal in all stainless steel cookware and is safe to cook with.
To remove staining, add 1 cup of white vinegar to the inner pot and scrub the affected area with a sponge.
What is the purpose of the Condensation Collector?
The condensation collector catches excess liquid to prevent it from spilling onto the counter.
The Steam Release Handle/Valve is loose, is this normal?
Yes, the Steam Release valve should not lock tightly into the lid. It must fit loosely so it may pivot easily while under pressure.
What is the Anti-Block Shield?
The Anti-Block Shield is the round part 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 splatter. To 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 out. To install, position the Anti-Block Shield in place and push down.
What is the Float Valve?
The Float Valve and silicone cap are necessary when pressure cooking. The float valve, once popped up, seals in the steam which in turn creates pressure in your cooker.
Does the Float Valve need to be removed?
Yes, the Float Valve and silicone cap must be removed from the lid every 5-6 cooking cycles for cleaning, or whenever there is visible food debris or residue.
What is the Steam Rack for?
The Steam Rack is placed on the bottom of the inner pot when steaming vegetables, or to elevate dishes from the liquid in the inner pot when pressure cooking.
What is the quality of the steel of the Steam Rack?
The steam rack it is made from food grade 304 (18/8) stainless steel, compliant to 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.
Only use genuine Instant Pot sealing sings.
How do I remove food odors from the Instant Pot Sealing Ring?
The 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 usually remove the majority of odors.
- 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 ground coffee 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?
Clean the sealing ring after each use. However, it is not necessary to remove the sealing ring from the lid after each use. One should remove the sealing ring and clean following every 5-6 uses or if preparing foods that splatter.
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 be fine for 18 – 24 months. If you notice cracks, leaking or deformation in the sealing ring, it should be replaced. However, the sealing ring is porous and may absorb odors and become discolored. To avoid discoloration and odors, one may wish to change the sealing ring every 6 – 12 months.
Can I use a different brand of Sealing Ring?
No, sealing rings not manufactured, tested or certified by Instant Pot may have unexpected effects on your Instant Pot, and will void the warranty. Only use genuine Instant Pot branded sealing rings.
Safety
How many safety mechanisms are built in to the Instant Pot® Viva?
The Viva is designed with 10 safety mechanisms.
What are the 10 Safety Mechanisms of the Viva?
The 10 safety mechanisms are described in full detail here – https://instantpot.com/10-safety-mechanisms/
Pressure is not building—why not?
To build pressure, the Viva requires liquid to generate steam. The amount of liquid is dependent on the size.
- 6 Quart – 1.5 cups (375 mL / 12 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.
Ensure the steam release handle is set to the Sealing position for pressure cooking programs. If it is not Sealed, the pressure will not build. For additional troubleshooting, go to www.instantpot.com/troubleshooting
Are there foods that require special attention, or that should not be cooked in the Instant Pot®?
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 ½ full and a trusted recipe should be followed.
Note: Regular cleaning of the Steam Release Handle/Valve, Steam Release Pipe, Float Valve and Anti-Block Shield is important to avoid food debris from interfering with their function.
What should I do if the Float Valve is stuck during depressurization?
Turn the Steam Release Handle towards the “Venting” position. Once all steam is released, tap the float valve with a long utensil.
What does “Burn” or “Food burn” mean?
The Viva is built with a burn-protection mechanism. When a high temperature is detected on the bottom of the inner pot, a safety mechanism suspends heating to avoid food burning. This is indicated by the flashing code “Burn” or “Food burn”.
The only exception is with food that has a very high starch content. For instance, if you add flour to your stew, the flour will sink to the bottom of the inner pot, then solidify and block heat dissipation. For recipes that call for thickening agents, add them after the Cook cycle has completed. If required, you may cook the dish for an additional 1 – 5 minutes to activate thickeners.
How do I know when it is safe to open the lid?
Check the float valve has dropped down into the lid. The lid will be easy to turn and open if it is safe to do so.
- Begin by touching Cancel. The display will indicate 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
Why is there an occasional clicking sound when using my Viva?
The clicking/cracking sounds in the Instant Pot comes from the following possible sources:
- Water or moisture on the bottom of the inner pot. When inserting your inner pot ensure the bottom is dry and free of debris
- Heating element 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 a stovetop or close to a heat source?
No, the cooker is intended for countertop use only.
- 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.
What accessories are recommended for use with the Viva?
We recommend to only cook in genuine Instant Pot stainless steel or ceramic coated 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 Viva has stopped working, what do I do?
Start by referring to Troubleshooting, or to the Troubleshooting section in the User Manual.
If you are unable to find your answer, contact the Customer Care Team –
- Open a Support Ticket
- Email support@instantpot.com
- Contact an agent Live Chat
- Call 1.800.828.7280
Product FAQs