H03 appears and the cooker stops heating or will not start a program.

Safety first: Unplug the unit and let it cool fully before touching internal parts.

• Check food and water level: Ensure you are using the correct minimum liquid level recommended in the Panasonic manual. Running the cooker nearly empty can trigger overheat protection.
• Clean the inner pot: Remove any burnt-on food from the bottom of the inner pot. A thick burnt layer can cause localized overheating. Use non-abrasive cleaners to avoid damaging the non-stick coating.
• Inspect heater plate: Wipe the central heating plate with a soft, dry cloth. Make sure there is no residue or discoloration that might indicate overheating.
• Check pot contact: Confirm the inner pot sits flat and stable. A warped pot bottom can cause hot spots and trigger H03.
• Sensor check: If H03 appears even with correct food and a clean pot, the NTC temperature sensor attached to the heater plate may be faulty. Access the underside of the heater plate, inspect the sensor and wiring for damage or discoloration. Replace the heater plate NTC sensor if readings are out of spec (requires multimeter and service data).