Abstract: The present invention provides a steamer system and method for efficiently steam cooking or heating food items and avoiding unnecessary usage stoppages or delays. The steamer system comprises an enclosed cooking space cavity, a water boiling apparatus for generating steam, a drain system, a power source, a processor, a display, and a graphical user interface accessible by a user via the display. The steamer system further comprises a series of water detection sensors positioned within the water boiling apparatus water reservoir at progressively higher points and electrically connected to the system processor. When a first water detection sensor is fouled, the system processor is configured to relinquish control to a second water detection sensor and initiate a shut down clock to allow limited continued use of the steamer before cleaning. If a third water detection sensor senses water at any time, the steamer system shuts down.