How to Use a Household Autoclave: Instructions from Uteho

How does an autoclave work?
Instructions

Products for Autoclaving:

Autoclave "A16 electro" (Universal)

9700 UAH

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Canning Lid for Autoclave SKO 82 mm (50 pcs)

300 UAH

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Twist-off Lid for Autoclave 82 mm (50 pcs)

350 UAH

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Autoclave Instructions

Autoclave — not only a device for safe preservation but also an excellent kitchen assistant that makes the process of preparing homemade canned goods quick and convenient.

The instructions for the autoclave are relevant if you decide to use a household autoclave for canning. Watch the video or read the article below, where we discuss the main steps of using the autoclave. This information will help you easily master the basics of using an autoclave and see that it is actually very simple to operate.

First of all, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the main parts of the autoclave to understand how it works.

Main components of the autoclave

Body: Made of stainless food-grade steel or black metal, depending on the model.
Handles: For convenient transportation.
Pressing lid with bolt clamps: Ensures a tight seal on the autoclave.
Manometer: To monitor pressure.
Thermometer: To monitor temperature.
Safety valve: Provides protection.
Nipple and ball valve: Used for pressure regulation.
Heating element (TEN): For electric models.
Jar stands: Allow for proper placement of containers inside the autoclave.
Drain valve: For convenient water drainage.
Control unit: Only for electric models, consisting of a thermostat and temperature sensor.

Preparation for Use

The first step in using an autoclave is proper preparation. You can use any type of container for canning: jars with regular lids (SKO), euro jars with twist-off lids, retort pouches, or tin cans.

Loading the products: Pre-prepared products are loaded into jars or retort pouches, which are then evenly placed on the stands inside the autoclave.
Adding water: Pour room temperature water, which should cover the jars by 2 cm above.
Closing the lid: Tighten the pressing bolts crosswise to avoid misalignment.

When should initial pressure be created?

For preserving in jars with SKO lids, the pressure needs to be raised to 1 atmosphere, which can be done using a pump through the valve. However, if you are using twist-off jars or retort pouches, creating initial pressure is unnecessary, which greatly simplifies the process. That’s why we encourage everyone to switch to twist-off lids.

Preserving Process

The autoclave is ready for use. If it is an electric model, insert the temperature sensor into its socket and set the parameters on the thermostat. After that, the autoclave will operate autonomously: it will automatically reach the set temperature, hold it for the necessary time, turn off, and start cooling. Meanwhile, you can go about your business.

For gas models, you must constantly monitor the temperature and pressure by referring to the readings on the pressure gauge.

For example, at a temperature of 110°C, the pressure in the autoclave should be:

within 3.5–4.5 atmospheres if initial pressure was created;
within 1.7–2.5 atmospheres — without initial pressure.

Cooling and Opening the Autoclave

After the sterilization process is complete, wait for the autoclave to cool down before opening:

For jars with standard SKO lids and retort pouches, the autoclave should only be opened when the temperature drops to 30°C.
For euro jars with twist-off lids, opening is allowed at 60–70°C.

Always release excess pressure before opening, and ensure the pressure gauge reads zero.

Safety!

It is important to follow safety rules when using the autoclave:

Do not touch the hot surfaces of the device.
Do not open clamps and valves while the autoclave is operating.
Do not release pressure earlier than required by the temperature conditions, depending on the container you are using for preservation.

Finishing the Process

After preserving, do not forget to drain the remaining water through the drain valve. Also, dry all parts of the autoclave thoroughly. Proper storage of the autoclave, following the recommendations in the instructions, will significantly extend the device’s service life.

Avoid autoclaving problems by following our tips!

Using a household autoclave is easy! And if you still have questions, you can always refer to the "Frequently Asked Questions" section or leave a comment. Thank you for your attention, and enjoy preserving with Uteho!

22.08.2024

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