Q&A: Test gauge before canning at home

Q. I’ve got a dial gauge pressure canner; can I get it tested in the extension office?

A. Yes, call 736-3724 to set an appointment to bring your canner lid in for testing. There is no cost; we will test your gauge and be sure it is accurate before you begin your home canning. Only dial-gauge canners need to be tested annually; if you use a weighted gauge canner, it does not have to be tested.

Q. How often should I change the gasket in my pressure canner?

A. Probably every three to five years, but it also depends on where and in what temperatures you store your canner. Before canning season, I highly recommend that you place 2 to 3 inches of water in your canner; lock the lid on the pressure canner and turn your heat on high. The vent hole should be open at this point.

Once the steam starts coming out of the vent hole, place the weight or petcock on the vent hole and bring the pressure gauge up to 10 pounds of pressure. Stay with the canner as you do this and observe if there is any leaking of water where the base of your pressure canner and your lid meet.

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