I own 8 of these machines. From smalls to XL, from home to pharmaceutical. The only one I don’t own is a scientific. Here is my experience. 1. They will break. I have the first Gen made back in 2017 still runs like a champ, got a new XL broke in the first 4 months of using it. Newer models aren’t built like the older ones. Next what size works for you, you can do that homework. Last I am going to keep buying freeze dryers for my business when it grows. But I’m looking at other brands out there. I heard stayfresh make a great machine, don’t own one (yet). But when I start selling off my harvest right machine I’ll let you know
All those videos on youtube seem to be sponsored in some way. Especially for prepping it should be very important how reliable and self repairable such a machine is but they all just talk about how amazing those expensive machines are. Also i guess they draw a lot of power and have to run for hours if not days. Nobody really wants to mention that.
I have had one for 2 years have had 3 replaced oiless pumps and now have to buy a new pump they are telling me that its the protiens that cause the pump failure and I should freeze dry apples??? cant survive on apples so Im not too happy with the quality of product and as an up note there are other freezedryers on the market now worth a look at
Just got a harvest right. I’m a little confused on when I need to throw an oxygen absorber in. If I’m doing skittles or candy jn s Mylar bag how long should it last without an absorber? If I’m putting candy or veggies I. Mason jars should I vacuum seal them or use an absorber or anything?
Candies doesn't require OA, sugar doesn't mold...just need to be 100% dry (not when machine say it is, weight the product, do weight check after it say it's done). In mason jara it's safe to put OA and seal it (pump the air out, there're hand pumps for it, or use vacuum sealer), some say it doesn't require OA if you seal mason jar...but it's better to be double sure it won't get bad.
OHHHH yah! The colder the better. Of course that means in the summer its going to suffer. You see, the machinery runs its butt off to maintain a vicious vacuum at seriously low temperatures. They need cooling. Mine is inside, and even so I have a healthy fan exhausting the cabinet and blowing across the vacuum pump. Keeping it cool is the rule.
Question : If you're putting the food in a 5 gallon buckets , why would you first put the food in bags and then into the buckets ?? If they're food grade buckets isn't that good enough ??
After much research, I’m finally getting one, but NOT Harvest Right! When half of the videos are on how to fix numerous problems, too much money for something that needs fixes and hacks just to make them work reliably. Personally, I will spend a little more and going to get a Stay Fresh. Compare the construction, fit and quality and there is NO comparison!
Don't tell your neighbor you have one of these, because when the pooh hits the fan, they will come for your freeze dry food! It is easier to bust the front door down than spending all the money and time getting food ready!
Probably do not buy from Harvest Right. These machines are more like prototypes and not ready for market. I have had constant issues and it is now a paperweight in my basement.
Well I had a very bad experience with this company. My new machine would not make a vacuum. Then started the things I was supposed to do to fic it. Find the tools, watch a video, make adjustments, and guess what...it still does not work. Thjere's more bs but they have refused to send a technician or refund my purchase--in spite of the guarantee--I do not recommend this machine.
A freeze dryer is well worth it . . . BUT NOT Harvest Right!!! Though they have been around awhile they No longer are the best buy or choice out there. Do your research there are other Freeze Dryers that are of higher quality and out perform Harvest Right with much less problems. Buyer Beware!!
They may outperform and be better quality...but that comes with double or triple price...and who would have that money ( when it's already hard to afford HR)? If you have freezedryer at the same price but better components...send links.
I would never buy another Harvest Right freeze drier. Issue after issue. I have Spent more time diagnosing issues than freeze drying food. If you value your time and sanity do not buy a Harvest Right.
Ive owned on for years. Always works as expected. Is a great machine for home use.
I own 8 of these machines. From smalls to XL, from home to pharmaceutical. The only one I don’t own is a scientific. Here is my experience. 1. They will break. I have the first Gen made back in 2017 still runs like a champ, got a new XL broke in the first 4 months of using it. Newer models aren’t built like the older ones. Next what size works for you, you can do that homework. Last I am going to keep buying freeze dryers for my business when it grows. But I’m looking at other brands out there. I heard stayfresh make a great machine, don’t own one (yet). But when I start selling off my harvest right machine I’ll let you know
All those videos on youtube seem to be sponsored in some way. Especially for prepping it should be very important how reliable and self repairable such a machine is but they all just talk about how amazing those expensive machines are. Also i guess they draw a lot of power and have to run for hours if not days. Nobody really wants to mention that.
I have had one for 2 years have had 3 replaced oiless pumps and now have to buy a new pump they are telling me that its the protiens that cause the pump failure and I should freeze dry apples??? cant survive on apples
so Im not too happy with the quality of product and as an up note there are other freezedryers on the market now worth a look at
which one would you recommend. I had heard nothing but good about Harvest right until I started watching videos.
I’m getting an XL this month and I’m so excited! Thanks for the helpful tips here!
Hope you enjoy it!
Do you like it?
Appreciate those practical tips. Super handy for a newbie like me.
Glad to hear it!
Could you also cover maintenance and cleaning aspects of the freeze dryer?
Sure, I'll talk more about that in a future video.
Just got a harvest right. I’m a little confused on when I need to throw an oxygen absorber in. If I’m doing skittles or candy jn s Mylar bag how long should it last without an absorber? If I’m putting candy or veggies I. Mason jars should I vacuum seal them or use an absorber or anything?
Candies doesn't require OA, sugar doesn't mold...just need to be 100% dry (not when machine say it is, weight the product, do weight check after it say it's done).
In mason jara it's safe to put OA and seal it (pump the air out, there're hand pumps for it, or use vacuum sealer), some say it doesn't require OA if you seal mason jar...but it's better to be double sure it won't get bad.
That is so cool! I need to get one
Can they be safely used in a garage where the temp is around 30 degrese
OHHHH yah! The colder the better. Of course that means in the summer its going to suffer. You see, the machinery runs its butt off to maintain a vicious vacuum at seriously low temperatures. They need cooling. Mine is inside, and even so I have a healthy fan exhausting the cabinet and blowing across the vacuum pump. Keeping it cool is the rule.
Thanks for sharing your experiences, subscribed.
Thanks for the sub!
I have heard they aren't reliable & break down more often is that true?
looks like several people have mentioned that about theirs in the comments
Had mine for years and its never ever broken down... or even complained. Lovin it.
Question : If you're putting the food in a 5 gallon buckets , why would you first put the food in bags and then into the buckets ?? If they're food grade buckets isn't that good enough ??
Food grade buckets still let in air. Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers won't let air in.
The buckets I use have rubber seals . @@PrepaheadPioneer
Were it me. I would install a five gallon bag into the bucket and then pour the food into the bag. When done, seal the bag, close the bucket.
I'd like to see more on how you start your business (where can you buy bags in bulk)?
Thanks for the feedback. We were buying them from Amazon, but we want to have our own custom bags designed, so we're looking on Alibaba.
Owning the XL machine would make it so much easier to start your own business, congrats!
I totally agree!
사고싶어용 한국으로 배송이 될까요
How does it compare to other freeze dryers in terms of noise level?
They all seem to be similar. It is a bit louder than a refrigerator running.
How long does it usually take to freeze dry a batch of candy?
It depends, but most of what we did was finished in in 24 - 30 hours.
After much research, I’m finally getting one, but NOT Harvest Right! When half of the videos are on how to fix numerous problems, too much money for something that needs fixes and hacks just to make them work reliably.
Personally, I will spend a little more and going to get a Stay Fresh. Compare the construction, fit and quality and there is NO comparison!
Can you freeze dried meat?
Yep, cooked or raw.
Starbursts and skittles are two of my favorites
Agree, both are excellent!
Can you freeze dry meats like chicken?
Yea, sure can. Raw or cooked.
Just got mine set up and also going to be running some candy :)
Awesome, best of luck!
I almost got the extra large.. should have LOL ....
Don't tell your neighbor you have one of these, because when the pooh hits the fan, they will come for your freeze dry food! It is easier to bust the front door down than spending all the money and time getting food ready!
Probably do not buy from Harvest Right. These machines are more like prototypes and not ready for market. I have had constant issues and it is now a paperweight in my basement.
which one would you recommend?
Well I had a very bad experience with this company. My new machine would not make a vacuum. Then started the things I was supposed to do to fic it. Find the tools, watch a video, make adjustments, and guess what...it still does not work. Thjere's more bs but they have refused to send a technician or refund my purchase--in spite of the guarantee--I do not recommend this machine.
A freeze dryer is well worth it . . . BUT NOT Harvest Right!!! Though they have been around awhile they No longer are the best buy or choice out there. Do your research there are other Freeze Dryers that are of higher quality and out perform Harvest Right with much less problems. Buyer Beware!!
I have 3. Never an issue and they run non-stop. Could be you just hear more about HR because they are the biggest seller of freeze dryers.
They may outperform and be better quality...but that comes with double or triple price...and who would have that money ( when it's already hard to afford HR)? If you have freezedryer at the same price but better components...send links.
I would never buy another Harvest Right freeze drier. Issue after issue. I have Spent more time diagnosing issues than freeze drying food. If you value your time and sanity do not buy a Harvest Right.
What brand do you recommend?