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Weight vs gauge #943658

Asked August 28, 2026, 2:48 PM EDT

I am at 1100 feet and have an all american canner. From what I find, I need to use the 15lb weight, but 11 lbs of pressure. This means the weight will not wiggle, is that ok? The book that came with my canner said it is supposed to wiggle three to four times a minute. thank you,

Josephine County Oregon

Expert Response

Hi Bobbie, 

You need to use the weight at the 15 PSI setting because you are above 1,000 feet. If you had a dial gauge canner, such as a Presto, you would use 11 PSI instead. Weighted gauge canners do not allow for "fine tuning" in the same way that dial gauge canners do, and every elevation over 1,000 feet requires use of the 15 lb weight. 

Your weight should definitely rock or wiggle, however. If it is not rocking, then either your steam vent is clogged, or you have not achieved high enough pressure for steam to start releasing. 

This video from All American demonstrates the correct "jiggle" you will see on your weight when the pressure has gotten high enough for you to start your processing time. 

Thanks for using Ask Extension!

Jared

Jared Hibbard-Swanson Replied August 28, 2026, 8:21 PM EDT

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