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 Ours is now an outdated model with only 4 trays.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 complete cycle typically requires 20-36 hours depending on water content and food density, resulting in perfectly preserved items that retain their original shape, color, and nutritional profile.
A reliable vacuum pump is essential for creating the low-pressure environment necessary for sublimation to occur. High-quality vacuum pumps designed specifically for freeze-drying can significantly impact the speed and effectiveness of the process.
The capacity of the freeze dryer isn’t necessarily how much you can fit inside, but also includes how long it takes to freeze-dry a batch. The vacuum pump, condenser, and compressor strength can all make a difference since they reduce process time rather than increase vacuum chamber size.
You won’t find a freeze dryer cheaper or smaller than this option, but it still boasts the quality and effectiveness of our other picks. Even inferior models from new freeze-dryer manufacturers cost more than the Small Harvest Right.
Unfortunately, there have been instances where some unauthorized or unreliable retailers have damaged the reputation of trusted platforms, as seen in the review below.
Freeze dryers are generally safe but should be used where you can properly ventilate them. You’ll need to use the correct power supply (usually at least a 10A circuit) to prevent any electrical hazards.
The freeze dryers profiled above represent the state of the art as far as home freeze drying technology is concerned. Use the information get more info in this guide to help you make an informed choice about which one is right for your particular needs.
There aren’t very many companies who sell a freeze dry machine for home use. In fact the only company we found is Harvest Right. They are starting to become more popular as people want to be less dependent on the Government and supply chain for their food.
Freeze dryer energy and maintenance costs are negligible compared to the cost difference between sizes, so running a small or medium freeze dryer longer is usually much cheaper than running a large or XL freeze dryer in short bursts.
When compared to purchasing premade freeze-dried food, processing an emergency mix twice per week on your own Home Pro Medium model should see an investment payback of 20 weeks, according to our freeze dryer calculator. There are many assumptions here that you can see in our calculator section below- but we estimated conservatively when needed.
Whether you’re a homesteader preparing for winter, a small business owner looking to create more product offerings, or simply someone who values the convenience of long-term food storage, freeze-drying offers amazing benefits.
While we’re very data-oriented, a freeze dryer does afford you much more flexibility than store-bought freeze-dried food. If you want more control over your food, then a freeze dryer will certainly let you make your food the way you want it.
The size and weight of a freeze dryer is more of a consideration for setup and placement rather than a measure of it’s performance.