What it means
Instant calls this Overheat Protection. When the temperature sensor finds the inner pot too hot, it shuts off the heat and shows the message. Depending on the model, the display says Burn, Food Burn or OvHt. Instant says the cooker does this five times before it shuts off and returns to Standby.
What to check, in order
- Cancel and release the pressure
Cancel the programme and release the pressure the way your manual describes, keeping your hands and face away from the steam release. Open the lid only once all the pressure is gone and the float valve has dropped.
- Look at the bottom of the pot
Lift the inner pot out onto a heat-resistant surface. Starch or food stuck to the bottom can stop the heat spreading, which is what usually sets this off. If it has scorched, move the food to another dish and clean the pot.
- Add thin liquid
Instant's minimum for pressure cooking is 1 cup (250 mL) for a 3-quart pot, 1½ cups (375 mL) for a 6-quart, 2 cups (500 mL) for an 8-quart and 2½ cups (625 mL) for a 10-quart. Thicker sauces need an extra cup of thin liquid.
- Deglaze after sautéing
Scrape up anything stuck to the bottom of the pot before you pressure cook.
- Check the seal, then restart
The steam release must be set to Sealing and pushed fully down on its post. Check the sealing ring and float valve too, then put the pot back, close the lid and start again.
When to call an engineer
If it keeps showing with enough thin liquid and a clean pot, contact Instant Brands Customer Care.
Good to know
- Instant names sugary recipes, thick tomato or cream sauces, pasta dishes and food left stuck on the bottom after sautéing as the usual triggers.
Checked against
- Instant Pot: frequently asked questions
- Instant Brands: Instant Pot's overheat (Burn) protection
- Instant Pot UK: Duo Plus with Whisper Quiet user manual (PDF)
Last reviewed September 2026. Manufacturers update their pages, and your manual is the final word.