T-fal 22 Quart Pressure Cooker Canner Review
Massive 22-quart capacity with 3 adjustable PSI settings delivers safe home canning and 70% faster batch cooking.
The T-fal 22-Quart Aluminum Pressure Cooker and Canner is the ultimate solution for home preservers, large-family cooks, and serious meal preppers who need massive capacity combined with precise pressure control. This substantial pressure canner accommodates up to 7 quart-sized jars or 20 pint-sized jars simultaneously, transforming marathon canning sessions into efficient afternoon projects. The 3 adjustable PSI settings (5, 10, and 15 PSI) provide the flexibility to safely pressure can low-acid foods like vegetables, meats, poultry, and seafood while also offering standard pressure cooking at ideal levels. Constructed from durable lightweight aluminum with excellent heat conductivity, this canner reaches pressure quickly and distributes heat evenly across gas and electric cooktops. Two included cooking racks enable multi-level canning and cooking, while the comprehensive recipe booklet with USDA-approved canning guidelines ensures safe, successful preservation. For families preserving seasonal harvests, hunters processing game, or anyone cooking massive batches for large gatherings, this canner delivers professional canning capability at home.
Key Features
- Massive 22-Quart Capacity: Holds 7 quart jars or 20 pint jars simultaneously—process large batches in single sessions
- 3 Adjustable PSI Settings: Choose between 5, 10, or 15 PSI for safe canning of any food type and varied cooking needs
- USDA-Approved Canning: Meets safety standards for pressure canning low-acid foods (vegetables, meats, poultry, seafood)
- 70% Faster Cooking: Dramatically reduces cooking time compared to conventional methods while preserving nutrients
- Durable Aluminum Construction: Lightweight yet sturdy design with excellent heat conductivity for efficient operation
- Dual Cooking Racks Included: Two racks enable multi-level canning and cooking for maximum capacity utilization
- Compatible with Multiple Cooktops: Works efficiently on gas and electric ranges (not induction)
- Precision Pressure Gauge: Easy-to-read dial gauge monitors exact pressure for safe, reliable operation
- Multiple Safety Features: Over-pressure plug, locking lid, pressure regulator ensure worry-free canning
- Recipe Booklet Included: Comprehensive guide with USDA canning charts, times, and tested recipes
- Stay-Cool Handles: Secure, comfortable grip for safe transport when handling large batches
- Polished Aluminum Finish: Attractive appearance maintains cleanliness and professional look
- Essential for Self-Sufficiency: Perfect for preserving garden harvests, farmers market finds, and bulk purchases
- One-Year Warranty: T-fal backs quality construction with manufacturer warranty coverage
- Affordable Value: Professional canning capacity at fraction of cost of specialized canning equipment
What We Like
- Massive 22-quart capacity processes 7 quart jars or 20 pint jars per batch
- 3 PSI settings provide flexibility for any canning or cooking requirement
- USDA-approved for safely canning low-acid foods like vegetables and meats
- Two included racks maximize capacity for multi-level canning efficiency
- 70% faster than conventional cooking saves hours during batch processing
- Lightweight aluminum construction makes handling easier than steel canners
- Excellent heat conductivity ensures quick pressure buildup and even heating
- Precision pressure gauge provides accurate readings for safe operation
- Multiple safety features deliver peace of mind during extended canning sessions
- Comprehensive recipe booklet includes USDA-approved canning guidelines
- Works on gas and electric cooktops for versatile kitchen compatibility
- Perfect for preserving seasonal harvests and processing bulk purchases
- Affordable investment compared to specialized canning equipment
- Stay-cool handles ensure safe transport with heavy loads
- Trusted T-fal brand with decades of pressure cooker expertise
What Could Be Better
- Not compatible with induction cooktops (aluminum construction limitation)
- Dial gauge may require periodic professional calibration for accuracy
- Large size requires significant storage space when not in use
- Learning curve for beginners new to pressure canning process
- Aluminum may discolor with acidic foods (doesn't affect function or safety)
Verdict
The T-fal 22-Quart Aluminum Pressure Cooker and Canner is the essential tool for serious home food preservation and large-batch cooking. The massive 22-quart capacity transforms canning from an all-day marathon into efficient afternoon sessions by processing 7 quart jars or 20 pint jars simultaneously. For gardeners with abundant seasonal harvests, hunters processing game, or families buying produce in bulk at farmers markets, this capacity difference is genuinely life-changing. The 3 adjustable PSI settings (5, 10, 15) provide the flexibility to safely can any food type following USDA guidelines—from delicate fruits at lower pressure to low-acid vegetables, meats, poultry, and seafood at required higher pressures. The lightweight aluminum construction offers surprising advantages: excellent heat conductivity means faster pressure buildup and more even heating than heavier stainless steel canners, while reduced weight makes handling large batches more manageable. The two included cooking racks enable smart multi-level utilization, maximizing your efficiency by stacking jars effectively. The precision pressure gauge provides accurate readings essential for safe canning, while multiple safety features including an over-pressure plug and locking lid ensure worry-free operation during extended sessions. The comprehensive recipe booklet with USDA canning charts removes guesswork from processing times and pressures. Yes, it requires substantial storage space and isn't induction-compatible, and the dial gauge may need periodic professional calibration, but these considerations pale against the transformative capability this canner provides. For families committed to food preservation, self-sufficiency enthusiasts, or anyone regularly cooking for crowds, the T-fal 22-Quart Canner represents an affordable gateway to professional-level home canning that pays for itself after just a few preservation sessions while providing years of reliable service backed by T-fal's one-year warranty.
FAQ
How many jars can it hold?
The 22-quart capacity accommodates up to 7 quart-sized jars or 20 pint-sized jars in a single batch using the two included racks. This substantial capacity means fewer batches and more efficient use of your time during canning sessions. The racks allow for two-tier stacking to maximize space utilization.
What are the 3 PSI settings for?
The three pressure settings offer flexibility for different canning and cooking needs: 5 PSI for delicate foods and recipes requiring gentle pressure, 10 PSI (standard pressure cooking) for most cooking applications, and 15 PSI for safely canning low-acid foods (vegetables, meats, poultry, seafood) following USDA guidelines. This adjustability makes one canner suitable for all preservation and pressure cooking needs.
Is it safe for pressure canning?
Yes! This T-fal canner is USDA-approved for pressure canning and meets all safety standards for home food preservation. The ability to reach and maintain 15 PSI makes it suitable for safely processing low-acid foods that require high pressure to eliminate botulism risks. Follow the included USDA canning guidelines for safe, reliable preservation.
Does it work on induction cooktops?
No, the aluminum construction is not compatible with induction cooktops. However, it works excellently on gas and electric ranges including coil, smooth-top, and ceramic cooktops. The aluminum's superior heat conductivity actually provides advantages on gas and electric by heating more quickly and evenly than steel.
Why aluminum instead of stainless steel?
Aluminum offers several advantages: it's significantly lighter (easier handling when full), heats faster (shorter time to pressure), conducts heat more evenly (consistent processing), and costs less. While it may discolor with acidic foods, this doesn't affect function or food safety. Professional canners often prefer aluminum for these practical benefits.
Do I need to calibrate the pressure gauge?
Dial gauges should be tested for accuracy annually, typically before canning season. Many county extension offices offer free gauge testing, or you can have it professionally calibrated. Accurate pressure is essential for safe canning, especially when processing low-acid foods where precise pressure prevents bacterial growth.
Can I use it for regular pressure cooking?
Absolutely! While designed for canning, it excels at pressure cooking large batches of stews, soups, stocks, beans, and tough cuts of meat. The 70% time reduction and massive capacity make it perfect for meal prep, feeding large families, or cooking for gatherings. Simply use the appropriate PSI setting (typically 10 PSI) for standard pressure cooking.
What comes included?
The T-fal 22-Quart Canner includes the aluminum pressure canner pot with lid and pressure regulator, two cooking/canning racks for multi-level processing, a comprehensive recipe booklet with USDA-approved canning charts and pressure cooking recipes, and a one-year manufacturer warranty. Everything needed to start canning safely right away.
How long does it take to reach pressure?
Time to pressure varies based on load size and starting temperature, typically 15-25 minutes for a full load. Aluminum's excellent heat conductivity means it reaches pressure faster than comparable stainless steel canners. Once at pressure, processing times follow standard USDA guidelines based on food type and jar size.