We purchased a medium Harvest Right freeze dryer with the upgrade to an oil-free pump in early 2022. Ours is now an outdated model with only 4 trays.
The operation of a freeze dryer depends on the brand (and sometimes the model). Some brands require a lot of input, specifying exact freezing and drying times and temperature limits. Others have quick start buttons and pre-programmed recipes to get you going fast.
Using the S-blade attachment makes short work of chili peppers and turmeric, while the dicing function has been a life-saver when chopping huge batches of onion, carrot and celery to make mirepoix.
Simply press start on the touch screen and the patented Smart Freeze™ technology senses when it’s done.
How much space does a home freeze dryer require? Home freeze dryers typically have a footprint similar to a small chest freezer. Exact dimensions vary by model.
This bit of prior planning can turn what might seem like a big ordeal into a simple plug-and-play process.
The Large Freeze Dryer will freeze dry up to 16 pounds of food at a time, and more than 2,500 pounds of food over the course of a year. That is enough to keep a family of four well fed for at least six months.
Once that was sorted, setting up was straightforward following the included instructions. Our tip is to place the freeze dryer where the noise of the pump won’t disturb you and have a sturdy bench ready – ours is in the garage.
Logistics aside, this is a great choice for a couple or small family intent on being prepared. The food that emerges at the end of the process will keep for up to 25 years when buy medium freeze dryers sealed up properly in mylar storage bags.
Get the right advice the first time, avoid costly mistakes, and maximize your freeze dryer's potential.
Lastly, the drum and trays can get pretty cold, so don’t touch frozen surfaces with your skin to avoid injury or frostbite.
These testimonials are proof of why Trimleaf has become the go-to source for freeze dryers in copyright.
I took detailed notes on the problem, including my layman’s attempt to isolate the problem. I disconnected power, then removed the back and top. I was more than a little impressed at how well laid out the unit was, to include labeling items on the circuit boards.
Can I use a freeze dryer for non-food items? While primarily used for food, freeze dryers can also be used to preserve certain non-food items like flowers or documents.