Why do I get an E1 error message when I try to use my Cooks Essential Electric pressure cooker

Not ever owning a pressure cooker, let alone the one you mention; and without a manual (that usually comes with an appliance) I can't really tell you. Unless of course if someone here has one of these and a manual they can access to tell you why you are getting an error message... so trisha, I guess you done have your manual any longer?

Tick

E1 is telling your pressure cooker needs to be reset. Take inset bowl out of cooker. Push down several times the button on the heating element. Then slam the cooker on the counter and bingo it works. Make sure pot is unplugged during this procedure.

Why do I get an E1 error message when I try to use my Cooks Essential Electric pressure cooker

E1 is telling your pressure cooker needs to be reset. Take inset bowl out of cooker. Push down several times the button on the heating element. Then slam the cooker (base down) on the counter and bingo it works. Make sure pot is unplugged during this procedure.

Sadly, that did not work for me. Hopeful I can try a couple more attempts since I'm not excited about having to purchase a new one.

You just need a new sensor. Download the manual here: https://www.manualslib.com/download/837987/Cook-S-Essentials-K41143-Epc-678.html
You can get a new sensor from the company or look on eBay or Amazon. Just get the part number and then get it from China.
Here are some manuals:
https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/custom/vgo/images/attach/pdf.gif486724867348674