While the Instant Pot is an incredibly convenient appliance that spares me a lot of time every single day, it does run into problems once in a while. Thankfully, the appliance is able to signal what’s wrong by displaying error codes. These error codes can then be used to troubleshoot the device, making it much easier to find and solve the problem. Today we’re taking a look at the C1 error code, why it’s being displayed on your Instant Pot, and what you can do about it.
Have you tried clearing the error code to no avail? You’re not alone. I’ve been there too, and it’s quite frustrating as this error code can appear shortly after the device was purchased, or years after. I had it happen to me early on, which made me even more motivated to get it fixed.
Let’s start by looking at what the code actually indicates before we proceed to find a solution.
Instant Pots display the C1 error code when the unit’s central temperature sensor can’t be detected. This problem is usually caused by two things, it’s either a loose connection to the sensor or a connection problem caused by spilled food or liquid that’s made its way into the cooker, fouling the connection. Unplug the device and begin troubleshooting the Instant Pot.
This problem will, usually, be easy to fix and require little effort. But don’t quote me on that last part as there are exceptions to the rule and the stories about malfunctioning appliances that I receive never cease to shock me.
Why Is My Instant Pot Displaying C1?
The error code is most likely an indication of a hardware problem, as we stated above. Approaching a problem like this without expertise can be daunting, and that’s totally understandable. It’s wise to let someone else take a look at the appliance, preferably a technician of sorts. However, it is possible to check the Instant Pot’s hardware for obvious signs of damage on your own.
The C1 error code tells us that there’s a faulty sensor within the Instant Pot. The malfunctioning sensor stops the Instant Pot from working as intended. Instant Pot’s are fundamentally built to automate the process of regulating temperature, and though temperature also regulating inner pressure. This is something that the user would have to do manually with a regular pressure cooker. But if the sensors aren’t working properly, then that’s a huge problem and it basically renders the Instant Pot useless.
Here’s what you can do to get your Instant Pot going again.
How Do I Fix The C1 Error Code On an Instant Pot?
You should check if the device is still covered by the warranty before you begin the autopsy, as this may void the warranty.
Check the Sensor’s Wiring
By opening up the Instant Pot we get a better look at the sensor and the wiring surrounding the sensor. This can tell us more about the problem.
Unplug the device from the outlet before you start. You don’t want to get zapped.
- Remove the lid and the inner pot from the Instant Pot
- Turn the device upside down
- Unscrew the bottom cover from the Instant Pot
- Rotate the plastic cover and lift it off – a circuit and a set of wires should be revealed underneath
- The temperature sensor is located in the center. You can identify the temperature sensor’s wiring by it’s white heat-proof cover. These wires should run from the sensor to a white plug on the circuit board.
- Check the wires for damage and make sure they’re connected properly.
- Unplug the wires from the circuit board and check for food spill in the plugs then reconnect them.
- Clean the inside of the Instant Pot using a clean cloth.
- Blow-dry or let the Instant Pot dry overnight if there’s moisture on the inside.
Some users who have experienced this issue have opened up their Instant Pot only to realize that the wires had been unplugged from the circuit board, or were extremely loose. If that’s the case, just clip the white male to the white female on the circuit board and you should be good to go.
Contact Customer Support
If you can’t be bothered with the task of opening up the Instant Pot (which I totally understand) then I recommend getting in contact with customer support for more information. Instant Pot’s customer support has most likely received a bunch of phone calls regarding these error codes and they should absolutely be familiar with the issue. If your device is still covered by warranty, then this is probably where I would start.
Because the problem is (usually) a hardware problem that can be traced to the temperature sensor, Instant Pot should send you the replacement parts or ask you to send them the unit for further troubleshooting. If you have experienced this issue from the start or while the device was still relatively new, then there’s a possibility that it’s a manufacturing problem. You may have been given a faulty device.
In that case, they may send you a new unit.
Get the Instant Pot Checked
If the issue can’t be solved by the simplest of methods, then I think it’s wise to get the instant pot checked by a professional who can tell you what must be done. Having someone with a bit of expertise around is extremely useful when it comes to finding the right parts to replace, checking the device for damage, and hopefully fixing it.
Replace the Instant Pot
If you’ve grown very fond of your Instant Pot but can’t overcome the error code, then it might be a good idea to get the Instant Pot replaced. You could sell your current unit at a discounted price to someone who has the expertise to fix it and then purchase a new one for yourself. Depending on how long you’ve had your Instant Pot, it might or might not be worth the trouble. However, I don’t plan to give up on mine for a long time and I’ve had it for 5 years now.
How Do I Reset My Instant Pot?
You can try resetting your Instant Pot. This will overwrite your configurations and apply the default factory settings to the device. To do this, press and hold the Adjust button for 3 seconds when the Instant Pot is in the Off mode. This doesn’t “fix” the problem if it’s hardware-related, but it applies the default settings – which I believe is worth trying as part of the troubleshooting process.
Now, the method of resetting an Instant Pot may vary depending on the model. If this particular method doesn’t work for your Instant Pot I suggest that you use Google to find the proper method.
Bottom Line: Error Code C1 on Instant Pot
So, let’s wrap it up. The reason your Instant Pot is displaying the error code C1 is that the temperature sensor isn’t working as intended or can’t be detected by the Instant Pot. Fixing it can be as easy as adjusting the cables if you’re lucky, but if you’re unlucky you may have to get a completely new unit to replace the one you’ve got.
While I’ve fixed by Instant Pot’s using the steps I’ve mentioned above, I always recommend getting in contact with Customer Support beforehand. They may have some valuable information.