E3 appears during preheat or shortly after cooking starts; unit beeps and cancels the program.

Safety first: Unplug the cooker and allow it to cool. Do not add water to a hot dry pot suddenly, as this can warp the pot.

• Check food and liquid level: Ensure you are using the minimum liquid level recommended in the Black+Decker manual for pressure or rice modes. Very small quantities can cause rapid overheating.
• Inspect inner pot: Remove the pot and check for warping, dents, or a domed bottom. A warped pot will not sit flat on the heater plate and can cause hot spots. Replace the pot if it rocks or spins easily.
• Clean heater plate: Wipe the heater plate to remove burnt-on food or oil that can insulate the sensor. Ensure the surface is smooth and clean.
• Improve ventilation: Make sure the multicooker is on a hard, flat surface with several inches of clearance on all sides. Do not operate it inside cabinets or against walls.
• Reset thermal device (if present): Some models have a manual-reset thermostat accessible from the bottom. With the unit unplugged and bottom cover removed, look for a small button on a round thermostat attached to the heater plate. Press gently to reset if it has tripped.