The Push & Clean Test: With the lid off and cold, use a pen to gently press the indicator pin from the underside. Does it slide up and down smoothly? If it feels sticky or jammed, food starch is gluing it down. Soak the lid in warm, soapy water and scrub around the pin with an old toothbrush.
Check the Tiny Silicone Boot: Flip the lid upside down and look directly at the bottom of the indicator pin. There should be a tiny rubber/silicone cap or O-ring hugging it. If this piece is missing, torn, or dislodged, steam escapes right past the pin instead of lifting it.
Check for Main Steam Leaks: Ensure the large main rubber gasket ring inside the lid isn't stretched, cracked, or dry. If steam is hissing out from the sides of the lid, the pot can never build enough pressure to force the indicator up. Also, make sure you are using at least 1 to 1.5 cups of liquid and starting on
High Heat to lock the seal.
If that little silicone boot or the main gasket is dry-rotted, search Amazon or eBay for your cooker's brand name + "replacement safety valve" or "gasket kit." They usually run about $8-$15.
