Your Ultrex pressure cooker sits unused in the cupboard while your family eats another rushed takeout dinner. You’ve heard pressure cooking saves time and money, but without the manual, that intimidating metal pot seems more hazard than help. Whether you scored a second-hand stovetop model at a yard sale or inherited an electric unit missing its instructions, mastering your Ultrex pressure cooker unlocks fast, flavorful meals that transform weeknight cooking.
This guide walks you through every step of using both stovetop and electric Ultrex models safely and effectively. You’ll learn the exact water levels, timing, and safety protocols that turn tough cuts of meat fork-tender in under an hour and make dried beans ready for dinner without overnight soaking. Understanding how to use Ultrex pressure cooker properly is the key to unlocking these time-saving benefits while avoiding common hazards.
Identify Your Ultrex Model Before Cooking
Before firing up your cooker, determine which type you’re working with. Ultrex pressure cookers come in two distinct configurations with completely different operating procedures that affect how you use Ultrex pressure cooker safely.
Stovetop models feature a visible pressure gauge on the lid and require manual heat adjustment throughout cooking. These typically have an 8-quart capacity and resemble traditional pressure cookers sold at Walmart and Home Depot under the Presto brand association. They operate with mechanical pressure control you must monitor closely.
Electric models, specifically the Innova 08347, operate at 120V/1500W and lack any visible pressure indicator. Made in Korea and distributed by Innova Inc., these units use a wobble vent system for pressure regulation rather than traditional gauges. Check your unit’s label for the model number—stovetop models show capacity measurements while electric units display the Innova 08347 designation along with voltage specifications.
Stovetop Ultrex Water Levels and Setup
Getting started with your stovetop model requires precise water measurement—too little creates dangerous pressure buildup, while too much results in soggy food and messy overflow. Proper water levels are critical when you learn how to use Ultrex pressure cooker effectively.
Water level rule: Never exceed 2 inches of water in your cooking vessel. This measurement changes based on food quantity, so adjust accordingly. For vegetables, use 1-1.5 inches water. For meats and beans, stick closer to 2 inches maximum. Always verify this measurement with a ruler before cooking.
Pre-cooking checklist:
– Inspect the sealing ring for cracks or wear
– Check that the pressure valve moves freely
– Verify the lid locks securely without gaps
– Confirm your recipe’s required pressure level (typically 10 pounds)
Position your cooker on the largest burner for stability. The base should sit flat without wobbling—any tilt affects pressure distribution and cooking safety.
Stovetop Pressure Cooking Process
Heat Up Phase for Proper Pressure
Start with HIGH heat for exactly 10 minutes. This brings water to a rapid boil quickly, creating initial steam pressure. You’ll hear bubbling sounds and see steam beginning to escape from the vent.
What to watch for: A steady stream of steam indicates water has reached boiling. If no steam appears after 10 minutes, check that your lid is properly sealed and water level is adequate. Never walk away during this critical phase when building pressure.
Pressure Build and Cooking Timing
Once boiling, reduce heat to LOW immediately. This prevents scorching while maintaining pressure. Flip the pressure valve closed and set to 10 pounds pressure for most recipes. The cooking time starts when pressure reaches 10 pounds, not when you first close the valve.
Cooking times that work:
– Vegetables: 30-45 minutes (potatoes, carrots, squash)
– Meats: 45-60 minutes (chicken thighs, beef stew meat, pork shoulder)
– Beans: 45-50 minutes (pinto, black, kidney—no pre-soaking needed)
Set a separate timer once pressure is achieved to avoid overcooking. Proper timing is essential when you learn how to use Ultrex pressure cooker for perfect results every time.
Safe Pressure Release Methods
Natural release: Turn off heat and let pressure drop naturally for 10-15 minutes. Food continues cooking gently, perfect for meats and beans. This method prevents texture issues that occur with quick release.
Quick release: Carefully open the pressure valve using a long-handled spoon. Keep hands and face away from steam vents. Use this method for vegetables to prevent overcooking, but only when recipes specifically call for it.
Critical warning: Never attempt to force the lid open. If pressure remains, the lid will resist opening—this is a safety feature, not a malfunction. Understanding how to use Ultrex pressure cooker properly means respecting these safety mechanisms.
Electric Ultrex Innova 08347 Operation
Component Check Before Electric Cooking
Your electric Ultrex lacks visible pressure indicators, making component inspection crucial before each use. Unlike stovetop models, you must rely entirely on proper component function when you use Ultrex pressure cooker electric models.
Required components:
– Wobble vent: This small weighted piece regulates pressure through gentle rocking motion
– Internal probe: Either P500D or KIS 200SLS model maintains electronic pressure control
– Locking lid mechanism: Must click securely into place before operation
Daily inspection routine:
– Clean the probe area with a damp cloth to remove food residue
– Ensure wobble vent sits level and moves freely
– Check lid alignment—any gaps indicate improper sealing
– Verify the power cord shows no damage or fraying
Electric Model Cooking Steps
Step 1: Plug into standard 120V household outlet only. Extension cords reduce performance and create safety hazards. The Innova 08347 operates at 1500W and requires direct connection.
Step 2: Add food and required liquid (minimum 1 cup for most recipes). Unlike stovetop models, electric units require less water due to their sealed environment.
Step 3: Secure lid completely. You’ll hear a distinct click when properly locked. Without this click, the unit won’t operate—a critical safety feature.
Step 4: Press power button and select cooking time. The unit operates at preset pressure—no manual adjustment needed. Start timing from when the unit begins its pressure cycle (usually indicated by a change in sound from the wobble vent).
Common Ultrex Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
Overfilling disasters: Filling past the max line creates dangerous pressure levels and food spray from vents. For stovetop models, never fill above 2/3 capacity for foods that expand (rice, beans) or 1/2 capacity for foaming foods (pasta, oatmeal).
Insufficient liquid failures: Both models require adequate liquid to create steam pressure. Stovetop needs 1-2 inches minimum, electric needs 1 cup minimum. Dry cooking damages the sealing ring and prevents pressure buildup.
Heat level errors on stovetop: Maintaining HIGH heat throughout cooking creates excessive pressure and potential safety hazards. Always reduce to LOW once pressure is achieved—this is non-negotiable for safe operation.
Electric model confusion: Users often wait for a “ding” or visual indicator that doesn’t exist. The Innova 08347 cycles silently—set your own timer based on recipe requirements. This is why learning how to use Ultrex pressure cooker properly matters.
Maintenance and Safety Protocols
Daily Care Routine
After each use:
– Wash inner pot with warm, soapy water
– Clean wobble vent thoroughly (electric models)
– Check sealing ring for food particles or damage
– Dry all components completely before storage
Weekly maintenance:
– Remove and inspect sealing ring for cracks
– Clean pressure valve with pipe cleaner
– Check electric cord for damage
– Test lid locking mechanism functionality
Universal Safety Rules
Never exceed maximum fill lines marked inside the pot. These prevent dangerous overflow and ensure proper pressure circulation. Following these rules is essential when you use Ultrex pressure cooker regularly.
Keep face and hands away from steam vents during pressure release. Use long-handled utensils to operate valves safely. Steam burns are the most common injury with pressure cookers.
Regular component inspection prevents failures mid-cooking. Replace sealing rings annually or when visible wear appears. A damaged seal is the number one cause of pressure failure.
Troubleshooting Common Ultrex Problems
Stovetop Model Issues
Steam leaking from sides: Lid isn’t locked properly or sealing ring is damaged. Remove from heat, release pressure completely, and reseal lid. Replace sealing ring if problem persists.
No pressure buildup: Insufficient liquid or valve stuck open. Check water level and ensure pressure valve is closed. Clean valve mechanism thoroughly before next use.
Food scorching on bottom: Heat too high or insufficient liquid. Reduce heat to lowest setting once pressure is achieved and increase liquid for next attempt. Always deglaze the pot before adding ingredients.
Electric Model Solutions
Unit won’t power on: Check outlet functionality and ensure lid is properly locked. The Innova 08347 has a safety switch preventing operation without secure lid placement.
Wobble vent not moving: Unit hasn’t reached pressure or vent is stuck. Check liquid levels and clean vent thoroughly. If still stationary after 15 minutes, probe may need cleaning.
Undercooked food: Increase cooking time by 10-15 minutes. Electric models require longer times than stovetop due to lower operating pressure. Always allow for natural pressure release to finish cooking.
Mastering how to use Ultrex pressure cooker transforms your kitchen efficiency dramatically. Start with simple recipes to build confidence, then progress to complex dishes. The time savings from turning 2-hour stews into 45-minute meals makes learning these techniques invaluable. Keep this guide handy for reference, and soon pressure cooking becomes as routine as boiling pasta. With proper knowledge of how to use Ultrex pressure cooker, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality meals with minimal effort while keeping your kitchen safe.
