Nesco Canner Vs. Presto Digital Pressure Canner | Should I Return the Presto?

[@fayeadamson896]

I have the 2 Careys and I'm very happy with them..The presto just doesn't sound as good as they are...The only thing I noticed is that you didn't mention using the brown feature to warm the jars up in the Carey...I think that is a great feature...The Presto looks so big and I'm 77 so I can't lift heavy things as much...I really enjoyed your video! Made me especially happy that I bought the carey's...

[@StockingMyPantry]

Thanks so much for sharing. And good point on not mentioning the brown feature to warm the jars. I do that as well, but just didn't mention it in this video. I love that feature because I heat the water and warm the jars at the same time. Once they are warm, I just turn off the canner and leave the jars in the hot water with the lid on, so the water and lids stay hot. I like the flexibility of how it works in the Nesco/Carey canner, because I'm not stuck with a set amount of time like you are with the Presto.

[@belindadunne4312]

The Presto is just too expensive and as you mentioned already it is way too big for me as well. I have a Nesco and am seriously considering getting a second one or a Carey, whichever is a better price. That way, I can do two small batches at the same time and do not have to wait for the canner to cool down to process the second batch. I love this channel!! 🎉 😃

[@StockingMyPantry]

I love having two! Most of the time, I just use one, but sometimes I find that I have more than can fit into one canner load, and it's nice being able to run two canners at the same time. Thanks so much for your kind words about my channel, Belinda. You made my day!

[@belindadunne4312]

@StockingMyPantry 😀 I borrowed the idea of having two from your video. It's a pleasure to share encouraging words and you offer quite a lot of help to us newbies. It takes a lot of time to create these videos and edit them. So, thank you!!! 😊

[@StockingMyPantry]

@@belindadunne4312 Wow, someone who understands how much work it is to make videos. :) You're a blessing!

[@laurakiffmeyer9221]

I watched Rose Red Homestead and was very glad I had chossen Nesco as far as safe food preperation

[@StockingMyPantry]

I love RoseRed Homestead! I am happy with my Nesco, for sure.

[@Simplelifepreps]

She is the reason I purchased my Nesco. Her scientific testing was amazing!

[@StockingMyPantry]

@@Simplelifepreps I agree 100%! I love the way dove deep into how the canner works and her results when testing the canner. I already felt it was safe, but her testing helped confirm what I already believed.

[@wendyellis6402]

I use the “brown” feature on my Carey to warm my jars. I could buy 2 Careys for the price of the Presto. Also, I use my Carey to pressure cook turkey carcasses for stock, strain, wash, then use it to pressure can my stock. I just love it.

[@StockingMyPantry]

Lately I have really gotten into heating the jars using the brown function. I know some people like the WB function for that, but I prefer brown, since I don't have to set a time. It kind of depends on how hot I want the jars to be. If I'm cold packing, I feel like putting them in a sink full of really hot water is sufficient, and then I run hot tap water to fill the canner. But for sure, there is a lot of flexibility with the Nesco/Carey canners. I definitely think having 2 Carey/Nescos is a better use of funds, because you can run just one if you are doing a small batch, or run two if you need to do more. I did end up returning my Presto just today. I would consider a Presto, but if I was going to buy one, I'd get the larger one so I could double stack. Otherwise, the increased capacity of the regular Presto compared to the Nesco/Carey just isn't worth it.

[@sheilasullivan2960]

@@wendyellis6402 I didn’t know you could do that

[@robininva]

We just bought the Presto….and have our first batch of beef strips going now. Thanks for this review. It’s my only canner….so I’ll make it work. Thanks so much.

[@StockingMyPantry]

I'm sure you'll enjoy your new canner! Many, many people love it.

[@justjoan8677]

I have a Nesco Canner that I love. Recently I have been wondering about the Presto but the cost was holding me back. Your review was just what I needed. When we are out in our camper I do take the Nesco along. I love to make jam from roadside stand purchases. Nothing like a tasty jar of jam on a winter day to remember our summer vacation.

[@StockingMyPantry]

Glad it was helpful! I love that you can take the Nesco along in your camper. What a great idea! Besides the jam, you can potentially make some meals in jars. You can cook a few meals at a time and not have to worry about refrigerating them. I am considering buying the 17-quart Presto because it's enough bigger to matter, but it's so darn expensive. It's hard to justify the cost when you get so much for your money with the Nesco.

[@SBrinkley2326]

Rebecca, I have both canners and really like both of them. (I also have the Presto stove top canner, too)The one thing that I have trouble with the Nesco is keeping the pressure regulator in the exhaust position while it builds up heat/pressure. There have been a couple of times that the regulator "slips" down into the pressure canning position while it is still venting and I have to start the process all over again. On the Presto it prompts you to put the regulator on after the venting process. The next time I use the Nesco I am going to try venting without the regulator on the canner. I use the warm up cycle as part of the heat up/ vent cycle when doing cold pack. I don't think it takes any more time than starting with a Nesco cold canner to get to the 10 minute venting. I have had both canners going at one time and don't really see that much difference in total times. Hope this helps! Thanks for your informative videos.

[@StockingMyPantry]

I really appreciate you sharing your experience, especially since you have both. I have had a similar problem that you described with the Nesco, but just with one of my Nescos. I looked at the regulator on the one i have a problem with, and when I look at the underside, I can see that it's not lined up the say way as the one I don't have a problem with. I'm guessing that is the same with the one you have. I plan to buy another regulator, now that I've looked at it closely and see the difference with the one that sometimes slips into the airtight position. It's been more than a year since I bought that canner, so can't really return it, and since all else is well, it makes sense to buy another regulator. I'm glad to hear that your warm cycle on the Presto doesn't take you longer than using your Nesco. Thanks so much for sharing your experience. I really appreciate it!

[@belindadunne4312]

I wonder if the problem you are describing happens due to the heavier weight of the green regulator? I'm just above sea level therefore I use the black regulator and have not had this issue pop up. But then again it could be that some canners do it and others don't for no particular reason. I'm considering getting a second Nesco and I'll be sure to pay attention to the regulator once I get the new unit. I'm glad you mentioned this problem because I did not know it was even an issue. Thanks! 👍🏻👍🏻

[@StockingMyPantry]

Belinda, thanks for sharing your thoughts. I think that it has to do with the way the metal part (on the "inside" of the valve) is positioned. I had one that I had a similar problem with, and I tried to figure out what was causing it. I turned it upside down and compared it with the green one I don't have an issue with. It's hard to describe, but I can see the difference in the way that they are aligned. Sadly, I've had the second canner for more than a year, so no replacement option, but I think I should call them as ask to buy a new green valve. I suspect that will solve the problem.

[@StockingMyPantry]

I hope you're able to get a second one, Belinda! Keep an eye out for them on sale. They are often around $110 or even a bit less sometimes.

[@belindadunne4312]

That makes total sense. I just pulled the trigger and got the Carey canner for the price you mentioned. I think I'll be canning beans next, so it will come in handy because we eat a lot of beans. 😊 ​@StockingMyPantry

[@susanruzicka2555]

I believe that 2 Nesco/Carey products are the best answer, unless you think you really need a third. I think you were correct about the size and weight of the Presto and that every year , to me, it would get bigger and heavier. I also thought that the Presto was really tall, too tall for my cabinets. Love what you do on your channel.

[@StockingMyPantry]

Susan, such a great point about the canners getting heavier each year! In the "old days" a lot of seniors gave up canning, because it was just too physically demanding. I feel that these electric canners help solve that problem. But the bigger and heavier they are, the less they make sense. I appreciate your kind words. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@deborahcoe935]

I have 1 Nesco and 2 Presto electric canners. I love the Presto canners. I’ve had issues with the Nesco and haven’t used it since I bought my first Presto. I also have the Instant Pot Max and it is great, the only drawback is you can only can pints or smaller.

[@StockingMyPantry]

Thanks for sharing your experience, Deborah. I'm sorry to hear you had issues with the Nesco. I know that some have had issues, with some dying even after just a few uses. Fortunately, in spite of heavy use over 4 years, I've had no issues with mine. Luck of the draw, perhaps? In reading reviews, I've also seen some people have had a horrible experience with the Presto, so I guess it can happen with any digital device. I have heard great things about the Instant Pot Max and really wish I bought one when they first came out, because they are no longer being made. I was considering the IP Max and the Nesco at the same time. One thing that tipped the scales for me with the Nesco instead of IP Max is that I called Instant Pot support, and they told me the IP Max couldn't be used for low acid food. Having said that, I know that a lot of people do that successfully, and I know that RoseRed Homestead has run her own tests. But at the time there was not much out there about the IP Max, so I went with the Nesco. I'm just glad we

[@JeannetteShoreland]

I also use the Presto electric canner and the IP Max. The Max is a technological gem, but as you say, processing 4 pints per cycle may be too limiting for those with a large garden. Although I do not own a Nesco electric canner, I have watched Stocking My Pantry use her Nesco to can some very nice items. All 3 of the top-rated canners are safe if one follows directions; cost, canner size & weight, and ease of use are the deciding factors.

[@deborahcoe935]

@@JeannetteShoreland I do wish Instant Pot would come out with a larger version. I like that it displays the processing temperature.

[@deborahcoe935]

@@StockingMyPantry I find it interesting that Instant Pot said it couldn’t be used for high acid foods because my instruction book has directions for pressure canning high acid foods. I find it safe with the internal temperature readout. When I process high acid foods the temperature ranges from 242° to 248° consistently.

[@StockingMyPantry]

@@deborahcoe935 I wonder if at the time I was checking on it, it was newer and they hadn't done as much testing? I kind of wish I had bought it AND the Nesco, because I love my Nesco, but I'd also like to have the IP Max. I have seen some used ones on places like eBay, but from sellers with no reviews. So, I don't want to risk it. But I wish I had one!

[@TammyJones-nr6bl]

I love my Presto! You can bypass the jar warmer cycle by pushing the arrow forward button. I also only add 3 quarts warm water from the tap. I don’t see anywhere to add boiling water to the canner. My Presto has been simple and I have put up a lot of food with it. My family loves it. I thought about getting another, but due to expense maybe I will try a Nesco. 😊

[@StockingMyPantry]

Thanks so much for sharing, Tammy! I especially appreciate the info on skipping the warm cycle, as others have said that you can't skip it. I can't remember if I saw the boiling water thing in the longer manual or the quick start. I'm glad to hear that's not essential! I do think you'd enjoy the Nesco, though it can be hard to change from one type of canner to another (no doubt part of the reason I'm unsure about the Presto!). From a price perspective, you can't beat the Nesco or Carey. Both are exactly the same, so get whichever one is at the best price. Here are the current prices on Amazon: Nesco: amzn.to/4cqejqj (currently $127) Carey: amzn.to/4c95ktL (currently $110 - and they are the exact same canner!)

[@StockingMyPantry]

Hi Tammy, I just wanted to follow up with this. The instructions to boil the water on the stovetop are indeed in the actual manual, but not on the quick start guide. So that makes sense that you would miss it, because it seems all the important instructions should be on the quick start guide. Either way, I'm glad to hear it's worked well for you, in spite of not heating the water on the stovetop.

[@naturewatcher7596]

Very good review and comparison of the both canners. And the idea to have 2 Nesco for the price of 1 Presto sounds appealing. :)

[@StockingMyPantry]

Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed it. I have considered buying the larger Presto digital canner since I can do a lot more at a time with it, but it's so darn expensive compared to the Nesco, it's kind of hard to justify the purchase.

[@cynsim]

I just recently found your channel and it's so funny that your thoughts on electric canners mirror my own almost exactly. One thing you didn't mention about the Presto is that on "Rose Red" the Presto failed at canning meat sauce even after lengthening time. I prefer steam canning to waterbath, so I only use an electric canner for pressure canning. Other than that I am in complete agreement with you.

[@vickikenton5439]

I hadn’t heard that about Rose Red’s sauce. Are you able to find that video & link it here? I have been using this canner as well as an all American, but the stovetop one is inconvenient due to the microwave that is over my stove!

[@StockingMyPantry]

Thanks so much for sharing! You make a good point about RoseRed Homestead. I love her! Some people take issue with her test of the Presto, because she used more meat than the recipe called for. But yes, I had that in the back of my mind as well. Speaking of RoseRed Homestead, I recently re-watched a video of hers on how to make your own steam canner. I had a lightbulb moment of how you can do the same process in the Nesco (in a way that is different from what most people who steam can in the Nesco do). So now I feel more comfortable with steam canning in the Nesco, since I now know how to do it in a way that fits with how the USDA says to steam can. I've made a video on it, and will publish that soon. So stay tuned! Glad to have a likeminded person on board!

[@StockingMyPantry]

I think this is it - though I'd have to watch it all the way through to know for sure: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpWTiJynn9-KY8U. If it's not right let me know and I'll see if I can find the right one.

[@cynsim]

I have a stove top steam canner that I use for waterbath canning. Like you I was uncomfortable using the Carey/Nesco for something not approved by the manufacturer

[@cynsim]

@vickikenton5439 "SMP" has a link below in the replies. Safe canning everyone 🙏 ❤️

[@leslieorth3602]

I just bought a Nesco before I watched your video. thanks! i now know I made the right choice.

[@StockingMyPantry]

Awesome! I'm sure you'll love it! If you have any questions about how to use it, feel free to ask. You may also want to check out my videos about how to use the Nesco. Here's a link to the playlist: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gX3SdZx_rKp1hs0

[@Kat.Williams]

I'm 74, single and living in a mobile home with limited space. I have a Nesco and an Instant Pot Max and since I have only me to can for, I would never buy the Presto due to the fact that it's heavier, larger to store and only does one function which is can. At least the Nesco will allow me to pressure cook a turkey for instance. So for my situation, between the Nesco and IP Max, I feel that my canning needs are covered. Not sure this helps, but I think you are also covered with the two Nesco canners. Adding that I wish It was easier to totally remove the lid from the Nesco like the IP Max, I know it can be removed, but it's not easy and I could see me breaking something.

[@StockingMyPantry]

Kat, thanks for sharing your experience. I can relate on so many levels! It sounds like we have a lot in common, even though I'm married and we live with my 92-year-old mom. We moved into her mobile home a few years ago, and since it was her home, she had all her stuff. She did the best to make room for us, but there isn't a lot of room to spare. After she passes away, we'll move to a condo, also with little room to spare. I've never been super strong physically, especially when it comes to upper body strength. So going bigger and heavier isn't appealing. I completely agree with you about the lid on the Nesco. The instruction manual does give tips for removing it, and when I follow the instructions, it is easier to remove. But they have no instructions for putting it back on. I'm still trying to get the hang of that. If I ever figure out a nifty trick for that, I'll make a video, for sure. I'm glad you got the IP Max before they discontinued them. I would love to have one, but they are hard to find, and only available used, which I'm a bit leary of. So, I'll probably just stick with Nesco/Carey, which I've been very happy with - except for the lid. :)

[@Kat.Williams]

@@StockingMyPantry Love your channel, you are very calm when canning....unlike me 😺

[@StockingMyPantry]

@@Kat.Williams LOL. Thanks for the laugh, but even more for the kind words. So, the other day I canned honey ginger carrots, and I was spilling stuff all over the place. And yes, I filmed it, mess and all. I have to keep it real, lol. Stay tuned for that one, which will to live a few weeks from now.

[@Kat.Williams]

@StockingMyPantry Funny that you would bring that up. I have carrots in my refrigerator and the recipe is on my counter to can exactly the same thing. I'll be following RoseRed Homestead's recipe. She put all the ingredients in the jars first before putting in the carrots. Looking forward to doing it, not looking forward to the peeling of the carrots, though. Will watch your video when it posts 😺

[@StockingMyPantry]

@@Kat.Williams interesting timing! I put the carrots in up to around more than half the jar, then the other ingredients and topped off with carrots. Not sure that helped, as the liquid all just went to the bottom anyway. Or on my table. :) Thanks for your support. I hope your carrots turn out great. I'm sure they will!

[@dianevessels2632]

My daughter-in-law purchased that pressure canner. We both love it.

[@StockingMyPantry]

So glad to hear that! It's always good to get other perspectives on it, and I appreciate you sharing your experience.

[@matthewmaclellan_]

I absolutely think everyone should buy whatever they think is best for them, so I'm not criticizing anyone for buying/using the Nesco. You raised good points. I personally feel safer using the Presto, mostly because they have a reputation and long history with pressure canning. Nesco/Carey are previously unknown in the canning space, though of course have made kitchenware. I know OSU has been testing the Presto canner and doesn't so far have any concerns. I don't trust Rose Red's testing, but I know you and maybe other people like her. So that's my reasoning for going with the Presto. It's a shame the other study that used the Nesco they didn't seem to run it properly. Some people can fit 5 wide mouth quarts and the manufacturer says as long as it fits it's OK. I don't "skip" the jar warming cycle (which you can do) because I feel it would heat the jars up too quickly. I just fill the jars and insert them before the jar warming cycle so everything heats up evenly together. I don't know anything about Nesco's customer support but Presto has been VERY accommodating and generous with any customer support needed that I've observed (personal experience, but also FB groups, etc). They are really standing behind the canner and helping with any issues.

[@StockingMyPantry]

Thanks so much for your thoughtful comment, Matthew! I understand about the Presto reputation. My first canner was a Presto (stovetop), and I would buy Presto again. I do think it's a little shady the way that they give the impression on the box that the canner is USDA approved, which makes me distrust the company a bit. (I do know they don't actually say that, but they give that impression, and because of that, a LOT of people believe it to be true. The bottom line is they worded it in a way that is technically true, but gives the wrong impression. That move seemed out of step with what I expect from Presto, and caused me to trust it less. Not so much the safety, but the overall ethics of the company.) In the end, I decided to return the canner, because in my opinion, it simply does not have enough going for it to make up for the price difference. Having said that, I am keeping my eye out for the 17-quart one to go back in stock, because the extra capacity in that one may be worth it. I haven't really needed Nesco support often, because I've never had any problems in the 4 years I've owned them. I have called a couple of times with questions, and gotten good support. I do think it's great that Presto has an official Facebook group, which Nesco does not. I was in it for awhile when I was considering keeping the canner, and will rejoin if I decide to buy the 17-quart model. The bottom line is that I don't think people can go wrong with either option, and it is great that there are easier ways to can that don't require as much babysitting as stovetop canners. Thanks again for sharing your experience with the Presto.

[@OnlyNaturally]

Thanks for sharing this! Hubby bought me a Presto off an auction website for a steal, and I've been hesitating using it, as it did seem like it took more steps, plus it's HUGE, compared to my Carey, and a lot heavier. I've decided to sell it and get a 2nd Carey. Don't care for some of the things you painted out, and the size has made it a No-go for me. Oh well, he tried!

[@StockingMyPantry]

It sounds like you have a very considerate husband! And you are right - he tried - which is a lot more than many husbands would do. I'd say he's a keeper. But the Presto? Maybe not, haha. I don't want something super heavy, or large, and it just doesn't seem like the Presto has enough going for it considering the higher cost and size without much more capacity. I love having two Nescos, and if anything would buy a third Nesco/Carey, if I wanted to get crazy. :)

[@pjd2709]

I had two (1 Carey & 1 Nesco of which I forgot I had) Canner, then I purchased the Presto Digital canner,...? So I gave my Nesco canner to a couple with children, I still haven't used my Presto canner as yet!

[@StockingMyPantry]

I'll look forward to hearing what you think of it once you try it! Do you still have your Carey as well?

[@dorothy9276]

If you return the Presto would you purchase a third Nesco? Right now I small batch but I could see the benefits into you having 2 canners. Love your videos, they've been so informative.

[@StockingMyPantry]

Hi Dorothy, thanks for your comment and kind words. As of right now, I wouldn't purchase a 3rd Nesco. However, I believe that Mr. Carey stated in a FB group that they are working on a new version, and should that happen, I'd probably buy it. I would also buy another one if one of the ones I have broke, because I really do love them.

[@paulwilliams200]

I bought a Carey/Nesco canner several years ago. It worked perfectly for 1 canning session. The next time I planned to use it, it was COMPLETELY Dead. Fortunately Amazon reimbursed me fully. Two years ago I bought the Presto Digital canner which I love for canning 7 x 750ml (7 1-1/2pt) jars. A few months ago I bought another Nesco Canner, purchasing a 4 year protection plan (I never normally do this) for the canner. It has now worked flawlessly for 4 canning sessions. I like the fact that you are able to select either 10 or 25lbs psi with the Nesco, and it is good for smaller batches because of its smaller size. I am not sure what the canning pressure/temperature of the Presto actually is?!? My stovetop 23qt Presto Induction canner works perfectly on my induction cooktop, and my 16qt regular Presto canner works perfectly on my 1800w solid cast iron plug-in hotplate. I have no plans to part with any of them because each fulfills different situations/functions admirably.

[@StockingMyPantry]

Paul, thanks for your thoughtful comment. So sorry to hear you got a dud with your first Carey/Nesco. I'm glad that you were reimbursed. I had to smile about your comment about buying the protection plan. I normally don't do that either, but I can't blame you! I haven't had any issues with mine. My first one is about 4 years old. It's the type that has the detachable cord, which they no longer make. I do like being able to choose which valve to use based on altitude. If I understand correctly, the Presto temp is based on 15 pounds of pressure. Great for those in a high altitude, but it could potentially overprocess food if you're in a lower altitude. I'm glad to hear that your Presto for induction stoves is working for you. That's great to know, in case I ever buy an induction stove. I'd love to hear more about your hot plate. I'd love more option for cooking besides my stove, so if you don't mind, please let me know the brand. It sounds to me like you have things well covered! And it makes sense to keep them all. I still have my Presto 16-quart stovetop canner, but I haven't used it much, if at all, since getting my Nesco canners. But I want to hold onto it, "just in case." It's good to have multiple options.

[@tracylitz1872]

​​@@StockingMyPantryHi there again. If using a stove-top Pressure Canner, you should consult your owners manual for the manufacturer's recommendation, and precautions as my Presto manual specifically states that they DO NOT recommend using their Pressure Canner on gas burners exceeding above 10,000 BTU's for safety reasons, and because it can cause damage to the Pressure Canner, and compromise the integrity of the Pressure Canner. I have done extensive research on the Internet finding similar information; which lead me to search for a portable gas burner or outside cook stove with low enough BTU's suitable for Pressure Canning, and only found one brand available that was only at 12,000 BTU's per burner which is essentially too high to meet the manufacturer's safety recommendations. I started questioning all of this after watching Rose Red Homestead's videos,as well as several of KZbin channels to which none of them mentioned the amount of BTU's of the burners they were utilizing. I'm all about SAFETY FIRST over cost and convenience! Just a friendly tip to do your research first than to always follow the crowd down the UNSAFE PATH. Just because it's currently working out fine for some people doesn't equal that will always be the case or that their/your Pressure Canner will not become permanently damaged down the road especially if you have invested in a high -end All American Pressure Canner! Canner's BEWARE!

[@StockingMyPantry]

@@tracylitz1872 great tips, thank you! The good news is, since buying my Nesco, I don't use a stovetop canner, though I still have one. Where I'll move to in Colorado, we have an electric stove. (We own a place there we are currently renting out while living in California with my elderly mom. We'll move back to Colorado after my mom passes away, and thus I know what my future living situation. When we bought our appliances, I specifically bought a coil top electric stove, because I wanted to be able to can. Do you know how hard it is to get those now?!)

[@tracylitz1872]

​@@StockingMyPantryNo. But I have an electric coil burner stove in my apartment here in the mountains in Montana, and I had heard that they were not ideal for canning on because people have stated, that they o not keep a consistent, and constant temperature like a gas stove does hence it sent me on a wild goose chase on the Internet trying to find alternative solutions. I had purchased a used 15 quart Presto stovetop Pressure Canner at a thrift store for under $10 in really good condition, and another Mirro Brand 23 Quart stovetop Pressure Canner in like-new condition at the same thrift store for $15 some time after purchasing the first Canner so I recently contacted the Presto Company to ask if the model number that I bought was compatible for using on an electric stove top, and on an induction cooktop, and they told me it could be used on both in addition to being used on a gas stove so no worries there after I had given up and purchased a Nesco Carey Smart Electric Pressure Canner. I went that route after adding up the cost for purchasing an outdoor gas cooktop burner stove, the cost of a small propane tank, and the inflated cost of the propane; which would have been well over $300 plus dollar's if I was actually able to find, and purchase an outdoor burner that had 10,000 BTU's or less so ad not to ruin my Pressure Canner and to safely conduct my pressure canning to which it was apparent, that an electric Pressure Canner was more economical, and a lot less work. I've only used my Carey Pressure Canner one time to date, and I found you in my search for tips on how to use my Carey Canner for warming up my Mason canning jars prior to filling them for processing. If you have a separate video on how to do this, could you please tell me the title of your video to search for or respond back with the link or instructions on how to do that, and what settings I would use on my Carey Canner ieg. Do you do this with the lid open or closed? What setting should be used (water bath? low pressure? or something else?) Time to heat them up? etc.?? TIA

[@StockingMyPantry]

I'm sorry that I'm just now seeing your comment. I do not have a separate video on warming jars in the Nesco. I'll add that to my list! But for now let me say that I like to use the brown setting. Put water in, put some water in the jars, and then hit brown, and start. You do not put in a time for brown. I close the lid, but you don't have to move it into the "closed" position. I do this as I'm starting to prepare whatever I'm going to can. The only downside is that I can't tell you the exact amount of time it takes. So I just check and see when the water is hot and the jars are hot, and turn it off. Leave the jars and hot water in the canner, and leave the lid closed. The water and jars will stay hot while you finish preparing whatever you want to can. I have also heard of people using the water bath setting, but for that you have to put in a time, so I prefer the brown setting for heating jars.

[@reader7788]

I kept an eye out and found a Presto for less than $200. Because I live at over 7,000 feet I use the Presto, the Nesco says that it should not be used at over 6,000 feet.

[@StockingMyPantry]

Great snag on the Presto! Just as an FYI, in the last few weeks it's been reported by Mr. Carey that testing has now been completed and the Nesco/Carey are now approved for up to 7600 feet. This is good news for me, because while I'm at 1650 altitude now, I plan to move to Colorado in the future. But the altitude thing is one reason I ordered the Presto - and then shortly thereafter, I learned about the testing that was just completed on the Nesco regarding altitude. I think they stated 6,000 feet before because it had only been tested up to that altitude, and thus didn't want to say that it was safe at higher altitudes. I hope you enjoy your new Presto!

[@StockingMyPantry]

@@tracylitz1872 Tracy, it's in a manual that was published in 2023. (The PDF is on the website.) But Mr. Carey has now tested it at higher altitudes, up to 7600 feet. So it was fine all along, but hadn't been officially tested at the higher altitude until recently. Or perhaps he felt it needed more rigorous testing. At any rate, it has now passed extensive testing at higher altitudes, which makes me cheer!

[@tracylitz1872]

That's great because I had not heard that. Originally I thought the altitude that I'm at was a little over 6,000 feet but I Googled it this morning and my altitude is actually 4,882 feet above sea level here in South Central Montana in the Rocky Mountains. I guess I got confused with checking the elevation on the mountain peaks nearby. Doesn't matter because I still need to use the green pressure regulator valve of 15 lbs.of pressure. I'm located not far from Yellowstone National Park. I was considering sending my Presto Canner to one of my dear friends in another state because she has a gas stove, and thinking, that I originally could not use it on my electric stove until I contacted the Company and learned otherwise. Now I'm considering purchasing a Carey or a Nesco Canner for her, and keeping the Presto stovetop Pressure Canner in case the grid goes down or we lose power. I would just have to get a propane tank, fuel, and try using my camp stove if need be in a worse case scenario. Shipping has gotten expensive so it may be more economical to just purchase a new digital canner for her since she's afraid of pressure canner's. I've found my Carey to be very easy to use once you get past the intimidation & fear factor. It may be smaller than the Presto Precise Digital Pressure Canner but I still think that it's fairly big, and heavy. Those 6 quart Insta pot Max Pro's look to be smaller than the Carey/ Nesco Canner's (3 quarts less) for apartment living, and limited space & storage but you certainly can't beat the lower price of the Nesco/ Carey Pressure Canner vs. the Insta pot, and the Nesco name has a great reputation, and has existed for years over the Insta pot although I do like that the Insta pot has a stainless steel inner cook pot over the Carey/ Nesco having a brushed aluminum inner pot. I'm on the prowl for a used one but cannot justify paying $180 for an Inst pot that achieves the same results but has 3 quarts less capacity, and more digital bells, and whistle features over the Carey/Nesco brand, and can process a smaller amount of jars at a time. I watched one of Rose Red Homestead's videos on the comparison of the Presto Precise vs. the Insta pot Max, and I don't recall her saying if the Insta pot Max had the option to do water-bath canning like the Carey & Nesco, and the Presto Precise Canner's do.

[@StockingMyPantry]

It sounds like you have really thought things through. I haven't used the Instant Pot Max so can't say for sure, but I think you can water bath can in it, just pints. (Pints only also for pressure cannig in it.) Unfortunately, the IP Max is no longer being made. I do think if you're buying primarily for canning, the Nesco/Carey is a better option. I agree with you, though, that I wish the pot was stainless steel.

[@DeniseLemke]

You can water bath can quarts in the 17 qt model.

[@DeniseLemke]

Of the Presto

[@StockingMyPantry]

Yes! I have considered getting that. But in this case, I had the 12-quart model, and that's not possible in the 12-quart. Also, at the time that I made this, the 17-quart wasn't available for several months. The good news is, they are available now, but I haven't yet decided if it's worth getting just to be able to WB can, since I can use the low pressure setting in the Nesco for quarts. I do like that with the 17 quart you can stack wide-mouth pints and pressure can more at a time.

[@bettydashkewich9513]

I just ordered a Nesco canner and I am now second guessing my choice. I have heard on other KZbin channels that the nesco can be very noisy during the processing time. Now I don’t know if that has anything to do with the required weight gauge, I would need to use the 15 lb gauge. Could you share your thoughts on this. Thanks.

[@SewingInTheMountains]

I love your videos but I am in disagreement with you on a few things about the Presto. There are ways to get around the jar warming. 1. You can run the warm jar feature without jars in the water. The canner is then warmed up for your jars if you are hot packing. If you are cold packing, just put warm water in the canner before putting your jars in and run the canner. If the water is warm it takes less time to heat up and then hit can. 2. I have never seen in my manual where I have to add boiling/hot water. That is what the jar warming function does when you don't add the jars. As said before adding hot water does decrease the time it takes for the warming function.

[@StockingMyPantry]

Thanks for sharing your perspective! I would have to find the part about adding boiling water, but since you have the canner, you are no doubt right about it! It's definitely not on the quick start guide, so whatever I read must have been on the complete manual.

[@StockingMyPantry]

@SewingInTheMountains, just an FYI, and I double checked, and it does say to add boiling water in the manual in the instructions for water bath canning. Those instructions are not in the quick start guide. "They" do tell you to use the full-length manual first, and once you really know how to do it, to use the quick start guide as a refresher. But I'm guessing most people use the quick start guide from the start (in fact, I see that is what people typically recommend). It's understandable that people would miss the instructions about boiling water on the stovetop since that part is in the more detailed instructions. It's too bad they don't include that step in the quick start guide.

[@theresaclinton8078]

I have one of each. I’m very pleased with both. You may be better off to keep what you have now considering the availability of regular mouth jars. I have both.

[@StockingMyPantry]

Theresa, thanks for your input. I do see advantages to both. I haven't been able to buy regular mouth jars much lately, but I'm sure that will change. A part of me wants to keep it since I have already paid for it, and I know that a lot of people love it. I'm just thankful that electric canners are an option, because it sure does make things easier!

[@theresaclinton8078]

@@StockingMyPantry yes there are advantages to both. I could have gotten the 2 smaller but I thought it would be better to get one larger. I just couldn’t handle stove canners anymore. I do still have a water bath and a steam canner. Storage is always a concern to me. I hope you will be happy with whatever you decide to.

[@StockingMyPantry]

I totally hear you on the storage issue! I can still handle stovetop canners - at least I think so. But I haven 't used one for a few years, so I'm not sure. Upper body strength is definitely lacking, so I do prefer something easier to handle. I'm sure that regardless of what I decide will be fine, but it's hard to decide! I appreciate your support and kindness.

[@RhodaJayne]

I really don’t need a third canner but it looks nice. I think I read that shipping weight of the Presto was 22 pounds. I unboxed my instant pot max and it feels a bit heavier than my regular instant pot. Did you see the unavailable larger presto digital canner on their website? It’s humongous. I might be tempted if there was a big sale on it.

[@StockingMyPantry]

I did see the larger one! It still only accomodates the same number of quarts, but you can water bath the quarts. You can also fit more pints and half pints, with stacking. So I'm sure it's just the height that has been increased. The question is if it would be heavy and hard to manage. But it would be nice if you want to can on a larger scale, and still use an electric canner.

[@wendyellis6402]

When using the Carey on low pressure setting to water bath quarts, I can’t seem to find the applicable processing times.

[@StockingMyPantry]

My understanding is that you use the same time as you do for WB canning.

[@boeyone]

You can skip the jar warming by holding down the arrow button

[@StockingMyPantry]

That's good to know, thank you!

[@wendyellis6402]

Concerning the Presto Precise, my understanding is that it processes everything at 15 pounds. This makes me worry about over processing at lower altitudes. Is this correct?

[@StockingMyPantry]

From what I understand, that is correct. Pam of RoseRed Homestead mentioned that in a video, if I remember correctly. I will always be in a 15 pounds of pressure needed location, so it doesn't impact me, but I don't know I'd want that much pressure to be used by default if I were in a lower elevation.

[@RebeccaHayden-g1o]

In order to skip the warming of jars in the Presto canner hold the advance button 3 seconds and it will skip to the next process.

[@StockingMyPantry]

@@RebeccaHayden-g1o thanks@

[@cynsim]

If your viewers are interested in trying the Nesco/Carey and hesitate due to budget, Amazon has 6mo 0% if qualify. That's me, on a budget.

[@StockingMyPantry]

That's great to know! Thanks for sharing! I'll will pass on the info.

[@sheilasullivan2960]

I got a nesco and a cary off Amazon through affirm which helped me

[@StockingMyPantry]

@@sheilasullivan2960 that's awesome! I hope you enjoy your canners! Mine just beeped. :)

[@sheilasullivan2960]

@@StockingMyPantryI canned fresh green beans yesterday

[@EGGstravagantkitchen]

Why would you? I have four Nesco’s and I have wanted on. I thought they did 5 to 7 quarts but after watching your video I would have no desire for one. If they cost that much more and really don’t do that much more I would take it back.

[@StockingMyPantry]

Thanks for sharing your thought. I was really surprised that the Presto can only handle 4 wide mouth quarts. I love that you have 4 Nescos! I have put off buying more, but especially when they are on sale for just a bit more than $100, it is hard to resist!

[@michaelcarbone6101]

Nesco Canner 🏆

[@jeannedumphy1517]

I too , don’t see the benefit in the Presto over the nesco.

[@StockingMyPantry]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Jeanne. I'm glad I'm not the only one who is wondering about why people choose the Presto over the Nesco.

[@melissalopez959]

Not true you absolutely can bypass the warming jars in it and do cold cold cold pressure canning

[@StockingMyPantry]

Thanks for the info.