I am a newbie but when I pour from the presto to the pouring pot as long as I have color, fo and containers ready i don't have to heat mine but I keep a pot of boiling water on the stove to clean things as I am working anyways so if I need a little heat I stick the bottom of my pot in there for a few!! You will love your presto!! I do mine and can't imagine waiting on the stove again!! Good luck!!