C8
Instant Pot Pressure Cooker
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
C8 means the inner pot detection has failed — either the pot isn't seated correctly, isn't the right type, or the detection sensor has failed.
Lift the inner stainless pot out, wipe the heating plate underneath, and reseat the pot firmly.
Make sure you're using the original Instant Pot stainless steel pot, not a glass or non-stick pot of the wrong size.
Most C8 events clear with a clean reseat.
Affected Models
- Instant Pot Duo
- Instant Pot Duo Plus
- Instant Pot Ultra
- Instant Pot Pro
- Instant Pot Smart
Common Causes
- Inner pot not seated flat on the heating plate
- Wrong pot installed (wrong size or type)
- Food or liquid under the pot blocking sensor contact
- Pot detection sensor failed (rare)
- Heating plate dirty
How to Fix It
-
Cancel the program and unplug.
Press Cancel.
Unplug the unit.
Wait 5 minutes for any residual heat to subside before lifting the inner pot. -
Lift the inner pot out.
Use the handle holes on each side to lift the inner pot straight up.
Don't tilt or scrape it across the heating plate.
Set it aside on a heat-safe surface. -
Wipe the heating plate.
Look at the metal disc the inner pot was sitting on.
Wipe it clean with a dry cloth.
Any food crumbs, water drops, or sticky residue interferes with the heating contact.
Don't use water — the heating plate has electrical components nearby. -
Verify pot model.
Look at the inner pot — is it the original Instant Pot stainless steel insert that came with your unit?
Aftermarket pots, the wrong size, glass inserts, or non-stick pots may not be detected correctly.
Use the original or a proper Instant Pot replacement matching your model size. -
Reseat firmly and reset.
Place the inner pot back into the unit so it sits flat on the heating plate.
Push down gently to confirm full contact.
Plug the unit back in.
Try the program again.
C8 should be gone if the pot is now correctly detected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a glass pot in my Instant Pot?
No — only the stainless steel insert that came with the unit (or a proper Instant Pot replacement) is approved.
Glass and ceramic pots have different thermal properties and may not heat correctly.
They also may not be detected by the pot sensor and trigger C8.
Why is C8 more common after the dishwasher?
Dishwasher detergent can leave a thin film on the pot bottom that interferes with sensor contact.
Dry the pot completely after dishwashing and wipe the bottom with a dry cloth before reinserting.
Most C8 events after dishwashing clear with this simple step.