How Often Should You Replace a Pressure Cooker Sealing Ring?

Instant Pot's official Duo user manual states it plainly: "Sealing rings stretch over time with normal use. To keep your product safe, replace the sealing ring every 12 to 18 months" — sooner if you notice stretching, deformation, or damage before then.

What speeds up replacement

Frequent use, high-acid or oily foods, and not fully drying the ring between uses all accelerate wear. If you cook multiple times a week, lean toward the 12-month end of that window; occasional users can often get closer to 18 months.

Signs it's time regardless of the calendar

See our guide on shrunk, cracked, or non-sealing rings — any of those mean replace now, not later.