Canning Altitude Adjustment Calculator (Water Bath & Pressure)

Free interactive tool

Canning Altitude Adjuster

Adjust water bath processing times and pressure canner PSI for your elevation.

Process for—

Altitude band—

Always start from a tested recipe (USDA, NCHFP or a current Ball guide). If your recipe gives its own altitude chart, follow it instead.

How it works

Water boils at a lower temperature the higher you live, so jars processed by sea-level times can be under-processed in the mountains. Water bath canners compensate with extra time; pressure canners compensate with extra pressure. Enter your elevation and the time from your tested recipe.

How to use the canning altitude adjuster

Look up your elevation (search “elevation” plus your town).
Choose your canning method.
Enter the processing time from a tested recipe written for 0 to 1,000 feet.
Process for the adjusted time or at the adjusted pressure.

Frequently asked questions

How do I adjust water bath canning for altitude?

For most recipes add 5 minutes from 1,001 to 3,000 feet, 10 minutes from 3,001 to 6,000 feet, 15 minutes from 6,001 to 8,000 feet and 20 minutes from 8,001 to 10,000 feet. Some recipes give their own table; follow it when they do.

Does altitude change pressure canning?

Yes. Weighted-gauge canners use 10 psi up to 1,000 feet and 15 psi above. Dial-gauge canners step up from 11 psi in roughly 2,000-foot increments. The processing time stays the same.

Sources

Results are planning guides based on typical values. Always use a thermometer and follow tested recipes; for animal health questions, your veterinarian has the final word.

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