Strong chemical or plastic smell during first few uses that does not dissipate over time.

Safety first: Ensure good kitchen ventilation when testing.

• Initial cleaning: Wash the inner pot, lid, and gasket thoroughly before first use.
• Water boil test: Run several cycles with only water and a bit of vinegar to flush odors.
• Inspect for discoloration: Check plastic parts near the heater for browning or melting, which indicates overheating.

If the smell remains strong and plastic parts show heat damage, discontinue use and replace the affected components or the entire unit.