I love your honest explanation.. and I believe in your Freeze Dryer Units. For many years now, I hesitated to buy the "other one" 😅 I don't know why, .. I hesitated.. Couldn't not put my finger to it,.. why I wont buy the "other one".. 🤔 And now I know why.. after your explanation Thank you for explaning it, to us all. I love to buy your Freeze Dryer Unit. But.... there is 1 flaw. I don't think your Freeze Dryer Unit, could be deliverd to Europe, because the difference in voltages. Europe.. and most countries has a 230 voltage. Europe, has no household freeze dryer units to sell.. that is worthed to buy. I really hope.. in future, your company will also deliver freezer dryers, too Europe. I wish you and your company all the succes you deserve. Take Care and God Bless You all.. 🙏🌞🌺
I hadn't heard of you before this video, but I was planning on buying from one of your competitors. The sheer fact that you've engineered your machine to be repaired at home makes you an easy choice, made in the USA makes you the only choice.
The fact that when I went to your website and looked at parts and found pages upon pages of every single little part made me decide you guys win, this is what I want in a company, sell me something good, and when I need to fix it, let me fix it. I dont need a freeze dryer right now, but a man can dream cant he?
We just bought a HR XL. We are in the market for two more units. I'll be buying Blue Alpine. This is a great find for us. Thanks for putting in the quality people have been looking for.
I do think you are filling a hole in the market for home freeze dryers. Thank you for making this video and product and engineering it in a fashion to beat the competition based on pure competency in your industry. I feel that the market for this will increase in the next 5-10 years. I am not quite in the position to afford one of these machines quite yet, but I am rooting for you big time and I hope you continue to provide the aspects of the product that the other company fails to meet in a decent manner (build quality and customer support). I will 100% be a customer in the future. Thanks for your work in this field.
I am set for delivery on July 10th so I'm really excited. I got the medium one like you have there. I've got to get a cart to put it on in the next couple of days. Thank you so much!!
Hello from Wisconsin! This is one of the best product explanation videos I've ever seen. Have some engagement. If and when I pull the trigger on a freeze dryer, it will be a Blue Alpine.
Thanks for breaking down the comparisons. I have been in a fb HR group for the last few months to get a better understanding of the process and it seems like there is a lot of issues with HR and their customer support across the board. This lead me to do more research of other brands. I appreciate how you explain what makes the Blue Alpine on the leading edge.
I have had a HR for two years and everything he says is 100% correct. As far as the comments on FB about HR customer service; I have had great service and my issues handled quickly. I have put many after market parts on my HR like hoses, clamps, stainless pipes, stainless valve, self sealing silicone tape, ETC...There are a lot of NOT very bright people that are in those FB groups; there is a LOT of misinformation as well. If I had to buy again I would definitely buy from Blue Alpine..
Hey!… So glad to find your company and can’t wait to purchase one of these machines. I’m hearing good things… Also, why turn off comments to your other videos? It doesn’t look great for the company and it doesn’t allow us to share with each other in the knowledge and information that we’re all learning about your company. You guys seem great and I’m excited… But part of the journey and the fun on these RUclips videos is learning from the community. If you’ve got nothing to hide and I don’t think you do… Let us talk amongst ourselves!😃👌🏻🙌🏻
We don't turn off comments on our other videos. We love engagement! Let us know which video you are seeing like that and we will change it. Thanks for being apart of our community and for the comment!
I think they did that more for convenience. That way they can keep up with comments on one site instead of multiple. That's what I think anyway. I know it's what I would do so no comment is missed. 😊
heckyeah! We own two HR Large units and have been dragging our feet on purchasing an XL. We need something "more" but we have such a love-hate relationship with HR. The quality control between their units is absurdly bad and while their tech support is always friendly, they are generally clueless to the nuances of their own products, it seems. I see the Blue Alpines are on preorder for Large units and will be watching you folks closely. I like your style; the emphasis on industry-standard parts instead of braised connections and proprietary sized components. I have a feeling your QA process is going to be better, too. Really excited!
A very knowledgeable review. You hit all the points I have been wondering about. I am going to try to sell my medium HR unit and purchase one of your units.
I just got notified this morning from HR that they have a new "PRO" model coming out. I am liking what I am hearing about your model and it's differences, thanks for explaining about the downsides of the oil-less pump! It's good to hear why you should go with an oiled pump. I'm been on the fence about one of these for awhile.... Competition always makes the market a better place!
Is there a reason comments are disabled in the newer videos? It really hurts discussion. I know youtube sometimes does it automatically. Could you consider turning them back on? Thank you!
Our Blue Alpine has been an excellent investment and has been a real workhorse. The customer service is superb, as are the training videos and the telephone advice for a variety of questions. It is a great investment and head and shoulders above the other products out there. Great company, great people!
Perfect! this just made my decision so much easier! straight forward! I have been going round and round on which brand to buy. thanks I will check out your site now. 🙂
OK, so your comments are turned off on the latest video from about five hours ago. Please make the large where the side walls are interchangeable or something where you can choose whether to use the five trays or the three trays I know my money is going to be budgeted on anything I do but I don’t want to be limited on what I can do. And looking and watching for free start for a year finally getting close to where I’m ready to make that purchase and just came across your information today. I like a lot of the information you have given and the science behind it. But I know I will not buy two units for different types of freeze drying. I love the fact that you’re going to use standard trays that makes it easier to find other types of accessories or molds or shapes to put in. That was absolutely awesome and a reason that even though I found this video less than an hour ago and the other ones I’ve watched I will be sending it to some other people that I know we’re also wanting and trying to budget for a freeze dryer. I also love the fact that I’ve already gone to your website and you have a layaway program. Would love to know if you have veterans discounts or other kinds of things like that.
I was just researching freeze dryers and honestly had only heard of "the other company that shall remain nameless", and when I found you and saw that you are in St. Anthony, I couldn't click fast enough. I'm in Boise... Lol. I'm looking to purchase in the next 6 months or so as I'm heading to the panhandle to be closer to my pesky grandkids and I plan on having a good size garden that we will be preserving, and we definitely want to make freeze drying part of the game. The kids want to do ice cream and candy of course 😂, while I just want to have food on the shelf for my family in case things really get crazy. I have to say, I absolutely love you and the way you do your videos! When you say "anyway" I laugh because it makes you sound human and approachable instead of like a salesman that just wants my money. I'll let you know when I'm ready to order but at this point, I'm going with you guys. I like the size of your large machine, I like the fact that you are close to me, I've heard nothing but good things about Blue Alpine and I especially like the feeling that I'm buying from a family and not a conglomerate. Maybe I'm old-fashioned but "first impressions" matter- I have good friends in the St Anthony/Ashton area and I've never met anyone from there that weren't good people. ❤ *** I also like the fact that you take into consideration that sometimes we might need an extra tray or a filter "right now", not a week from now when it ships, and you've tried to make sure that most bits and pieces can be purchased locally and quickly. Keep up the good work guys, we need more companies with a heart. ❤😊
That's so good to hear! We do our best and I'm glad we could make a good first impression. We'll be ready to help you out when you are ready to get one. In the mean time, just let us know if you have any questions! :D
OK this is all interesting and fine but it’s totally like over my head I would be more interested in seeing the ins and outs of the machine itself and the differences in the machines and it’s parts instead of talking about all the numbers and all that.
I'm sold. Been trying to decide on who to go with and I really like the fact that not only did you solve any issues with your units, you solved the issues that the competition is having. What is the time line for availability?
Very informative, nice comparison, excellent user-friendly and cost effective solutions. You've got my attention! I do have a 2 questions: 1. I noticed in my research that the competitor's problems with leaks were also due to use of cheap hardware, versus brass, particularly drain valves and pump release valves. Do you use brass? Also, 'they' had a proprietary oil for the pumps. In your overall very appreciated and honorable market-friendly design choices as in trays and filters, what oil do you recommend?
I changed all my hardware (drain valve) to stainless. I figured out the drain valve fails due to metal shavings that were left from the factory. The metal shavings came from drilling and or self tapping screws. As far as oil even the Harvest Right can use other brands, they just push their oil. I use Harvest right oil, because I can pick up at my local Tractor Supply.
As an industrial tech I prefer relays to solid state….can get them anywhere, easy to diagnose and replace…they have a long service life. Solid state to me means it will be maintenance free until the plc or card fails then very expensive to repair.
🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:00 *🇺🇸 Freeze dryers by Blue Alpine are made in the USA, setting them apart from competitors predominantly made in China.* 01:40 *🔄 Blue Alpine's freeze dryers feature robust construction with superior thread sealants, preventing leaks common in other units using ineffective methods like Teflon tape.* 03:19 *🌊 Blue Alpine's innovative feed through design undergoes rigorous testing, ensuring longevity without leaks.* 04:05 *🔌 The use of standard silicone hoses enhances user-friendliness, allowing easy replacement without specialized tools.* 05:22 *🛒 Blue Alpine's freeze dryers accommodate standard 9x13 trays, providing convenience and accessibility to users.* 05:52 *📏 Blue Alpine's medium-sized unit offers approximately 25% more capacity than competitors' units at a comparable price.* 06:20 *⚙️ Blue Alpine utilizes solid-state controls over relays, enhancing reliability and extending operational lifespan significantly.* 08:19 *🍬 Rapid freeze-drying capabilities enable Blue Alpine's units to process candies like Skittles in as little as an hour, outperforming traditional methods.* 09:11 *🔧 Blue Alpine opts for oil pumps over oil-less pumps due to their longevity and resistance to degradation from food contaminants.* 11:15 *🌬️ A built-in blast cooling fan accelerates freeze-drying, potentially reducing cycle times significantly.* Made with HARPA AI
How many runs can be done before the oil needs to be changed in the pump? How many decibels is the pump when it's running? What brand of oil is recommended or that can safely be used in your pump? Is there a dryness sensor that regulates the processing times dynamically or are the times preset and don't change? Will the heater stay on at the end of a cycle if it finishes and I am not right there to attend to it, say it finishes in the middle of the night or before I can get home from somewhere? Can a freeze dryer be purchased without your pans, sealer, mylar bags and for how much?
I have brand X and I always wondered why the vacuum isn’t filtered instead of the oil, also the power switch on brand X is in the back , why? And the drain tube also on the left in the rear. How about the valve to drain in the front but route the hose out the rear. And the power switch also in the front. Linked your video to others that are interested , wish you made them when i was looking. Great job go USA made.
OK I have a harvest right and a Cube. Harvest right is great except after a few years there is o support. I haven't had the Cube long enough to find out how their support lasts. So far it is good. I think the thing that aggravates me the most is I spend so much money and get the machine and find it doesn't live up to the hype and if I return it it will cost almost as much as the purchase price. I would love to actually observe one in action and talk to others who own this machine. I am sure I won't find anything but positive reviews on the site. I will check the size of the trays and see how the volume compares to the HR and Cube. The trays seem small.
I have a HR too, which stays at my daughter's house. We have had no issues to speak of and it's been doing well for the past 2-3 yrs now. But I'm going to look more into this Blue Alpine.
I am really interested as well on the real world views of this FD. If anything, the more competition the better. I hope the cube, HR, and this new company makes the FD ecosystem better!
Great Video! Thank you. I can’t wait to see some reviews. Let me borrow one and I’ll be happy to make some videos 😁. Good luck with your new company and hat looks like a fabulous product.
What do you thing about cross contamination from the pump. I've been told buy a freeze dry company that they recommend a $10 000 oilless pump to avoid contamination and for 24hour running ?
We bought a large unit from "that other company," and have had challenges with holding vacuum. If your unit had been available when we bought it, we would likely have bought it. But unfortunately that wasn't an option. So, can you sell into this market a kit of replacement parts to refit freeze dryers from "that other company" so their vacuum is more reliable? Fittings, hoses, etc. It still may not make the other company's unit be as good as your unit, but it would serve the broader customer base, and generate a lot of good will toward your brand (and future whole-unit sales)... especially for people who can't afford to get rid of their other unit altogether at least at present. I appreciate hearing your thoughts on this idea. I'd buy the kit (depending on the cost of course...)
I bought a xl harvestwrong afew months ago. I'm on my 2nd freeze dryer and this one is sh!t to will not freeze dry any food. There customer service is a joke there machine are a bigger joke!
I want the larger size. I think he said 9x13 5 tray, for a medium size. How about a 13x24 tray size for your LG. 5 or 6 tray ok. Or to save room as they are all rounded tray 1 and 5 9x24 and trays 2,3,4 13x24?
Considering that you understand the need to to sell accessories when i might have those already - Will you sell a unit without the pump - I have a pump already. Its the 7 CFM NVAC.
@@te5844 from HR, "About Us - Harvest Right freeze dryers | Harvest Right™ | Home Freeze Dryers | Freeze Dried Food Storage. Every Harvest Right Freeze Dryer has been designed, engineered, and tested in our manufacturing facility in Salt Lake City, Utah."
Yes you should have a dedicated 15 amp breaker for the medium. In reality it doesnt need to be dedicated, however you really cant have anything else plugged into the circuit when the freeze dryer is running.
Harvest Right Freezers are just the 'generic' freezer dryers made in China. You can start a company, order 200 freeze dryers from China, and slap your own brand on them. Of course, then it's up to you to maintain customer service, and Harvest Right SUCKS at that.
Okay ... so there was some interesting information, but how am I supposed to amortize/depreciate the cost over time without a price for the capital investment? [Please see the accounting department if you don't understand any of this vocabulary.]
Hi 🙂, I am patiently waiting for my order of a medium Blue Alpine to be delivered. Cant wait! I have a question. Do you or anyone here have a suggestion of a good appliance to do the grinding, crushing of the finished products that we would like to store in a powder form? When my BAFD gets here, I will be ready to roll day one! I have ingredients for meals stocked , storage containers/bags etc. Sooo looking forward to it.
Having one is great and if the quality is good, then that's wonderful Have had so much trouble with the Harvest Right, I tell everyone to avoid buying one of those.
So why are there no handles or recessed finger holds in or on the cabinet? Lifting these products is like picking up a small refrigerator filled with concrete. No problem for a fellow in his prime, but try it after you age another 35 years. How about offering an aftermarket add-on handle kit? You claim those extruded aluminum corners are super heavy duty. Perhaps handles could be fasted on the angular corners of the top side.
@MGillDesign Yes, two people are needed to lift them up, but why not make it an easier task? Why follow the herd by using the same design? 🤔 I hear the same complaint from many other owners of these FD units. Offering options nobody else has helps make a product more sensible to own. But what would I know, I just use one on a daily basis. Your product is definitely worth considering. It's nice to see some competition in this space to force improvements in the quality. However, customer service will make or break any product irregardless of quality. Offering a better warranty would be another leg up since it reflects the manufacturer's confidence in their product. Just matching the competitor's warranty fails to spark the purchaser's confidence. The shape of the cabinet holds no value. It's what's inside that matters. The Soild state components are a great feature. 👍
@@briarpalek9254 No, i get what you're saying. I tried to pick it up by myself too, and was hoping to be able to. But the Blue Alpine is wider and slanted edges, make it hard for one person to get a grip on it. I had an HR previously, and managed to grip it and pick it up by itself, but it wasn't a pleasant experience. To me, i think that having handles on these freeze dryers may not be a good idea, because they are delicate machines. And also, for one person, bending over to grab the handles and lift up, is still a tough/awkward task. When i was able to get help from a 2nd person, i couldn't believe how lightweight it felt... it was like lifting a mid-lightweight moving box. Because the weight was evenly distributed between the 2 of us.
@MGillDesign actually handles would be great for a two person lift as well. So I guess the comments that were made about the strength of the extruded aluminum frame parts being ridgid enough to possibly drive a truck over was a goofy thing to say. Otherwise, they could hold a self tapping screw with no problem. Oh well, I guess the fantasy was a nice one. Have a wonderful day, and best of luck with your products!
I think the handles would work with the extruded aluminum. I just didn't think they would be a good idea for "one" person trying to lift. You'd be hunched over, trying to grab the handles of a very heavy item, and too many risks of losing your balance, and/or dropping it (especially on your foot). It just doesn't make sense (investment wise) as a company, to put that money into handles (for a product that expensive, and risk too many customers trying to pick it up on their own) and damaging it. I could imagine the number of buyers, who would file false claims of a damaged freeze dryer, because they accidentally dropped it. Have a good one. We can agree to disagree. I like your idea, it's just risky... and encourages more customers to try lifting it by themselves (when even with handles, they still need 2 people). It would put the product and company at risk.@@briarpalek9254
it's a medium unit, and a little smaller than the HR medium trays, but the tradeoff is that Blue Alpine's 9x13 trays can be easily replaced and purchased anywhere (for cheap). Compared to the competitor's 7.5x18 medium trays which can only be bought through them. And you're getting 5 shelves on the Blue Alpine versus only 4 on the medium (competitor) unit.
Looks like they already have. Addressed all the weak points and if they have any kind of customer support, they will bury harvest right. By the way, I own a harvest right. Screen was bad out of the box and had to be replaced. NowI am i tracking down leaks. Still waiting for a response on my support ticket. No freeze drying for me!
HR copy...NOT Hr doesn't use a blast fan in the chamber...doesn't seal leaks, doesn't have the cooling capacity, doesn't pull a good vacuum after about 20 uses, takes half again longer to run a batch, built out of screwed togethe sheet metal without a solid frame....on and on...@@Mostruggles
If you look at the two you'll see they look nothing a like and the point of this video is to list the differences. There are others in the market that look like a direct copy of the HR, just not this one.
@@SchoolReports Well for home Use in the USA there is only Harvest Right that is mostly Chinese and the couple others are 100% Chinese. if you buy anything with Chinese part like the Relay Boards for Harvest Right Freeze Dryers buy lots of extra's ( maybe 4 of them) because soon parts will be unobtainable from China for anything once the war's start!!
@@mfb6310 Three of them are definitely what I would consider to be commercial size machines. Link to list - docs.google.com/document/d/1Vwd2qyLkY40uXd1SkEapru7hW7h2SFeG3wedl9LfO88/edit?usp=sharing
There's only one company using relays for heaters, Harvest right Literally everyone else uses Solid state relays because only idiots would use relays to control electric heaters.
Yeah... I'm seeing that issue now, on mine. Mid Batch Heater Failure.... smh... You sound like you know electric components. Could the existing Harvest Right relays ever be swapped out for better quality? Or would they have to redesign the whole freeze dryer?
@@MGillDesign Its pretty easy to change actually, the HR relays are triggered by either 5v or 12v, i forgot. you could use any other relay or device that takes the same input. It would be hard to get the same form factor and put it on the board, but you could just relocate it somewhere else in the machine and use wires connecting to the original relay input.
come on now, Everyone across America has been dealing with personnel shortages, material shortages. This is a small start up company, up against multi-billionaire power grabbers.
At 8:19 the machine shows the Temp for Fruit is 120°F, which is 49°C. How can it be FREEZE DRYING if you heat things like in a dehydrator ?!? You are selling a vaccum enabled dehydrator, NOT a freeze dryer ?!?
There are multiple steps. It first freezes the product in a vacuum. The heat is used to transition the ice straight to a vapor, bypassing the water phase. It's not a dehydrator.
I've got mine, and if you look inside, you can see that the control/interface components are shielded by a plastic protective covering material or hood.
@MGillDesign I find a potty mouth very childish and incredibly unprofessional. I spent 35 years flying airliners. I'm sure all the 'adults' I flew would have loved to listen to a potty mouth over the public address system. I want my eye surgeon to sound as filthy as a 3rd grade-educated truck driver. 👍🏻
@@MrPancake0825 i guess i'm just able to put it in context. Out of the dozens of videos on this channel, (and hours of content/tutorials), this is the only occurrence, and i appreciate that they were honest and raw, in how they felt (in the 5 years of money/research) trying to come up with a great product. And it's barely audible... sounds like he says shiz ton of research. This one (unedited), true expression of emotion doesn't bother me. Had it been on every video, (or more than once in a single video), then maybe i'd feel like you. Being on an airflight, working as an employee (pilot/attendant) for an employer is different. You are under a contract and expected to act and speak a certain way. Based on what your employer requires. He is his own boss/owner, so it's a little different. And to be honest, yours is the first comment complaining about it, out of 150 comments. And It hasn't stopped people from buying the machine.
I don’t really understand what you’re talking about harvest right the largest brand in the US is made in America. So what you’re saying is there’s nothing different from you versus your competitors.. you should build software that would allow customers to just push a button and have it perfectly freeze dry each item so you click strawberries it freeze dry strawberries, you click candy and what type it freeze drives it perfectly that’s what would make yours better than others
We are working on that functionality actually. And all the We have talked to multiple vendors from HR as well as people that have worked at HR and they are Designed in the USA but they are Made in China. They just get them off a boat in a box and ship them out. Even their website now says only designed in the USA.
Best selling point for me . Made in the USA
We are super satisfied with our new Blue Alpine after two months of usage. All our questions have been answered immediately and thoroughly. Thanks!
Thanks for the positive feedback! :)
I love your honest explanation.. and I believe in your Freeze Dryer Units.
For many years now, I hesitated to buy the "other one" 😅
I don't know why, .. I hesitated..
Couldn't not put my finger to it,.. why I wont buy the "other one".. 🤔
And now I know why.. after your explanation
Thank you for explaning it, to us all.
I love to buy your Freeze Dryer Unit.
But.... there is 1 flaw.
I don't think your Freeze Dryer Unit, could be deliverd to Europe, because the difference in voltages.
Europe.. and most countries has a 230 voltage.
Europe, has no household freeze dryer units to sell.. that is worthed to buy.
I really hope.. in future, your company will also deliver freezer dryers, too Europe.
I wish you and your company all the succes you deserve. Take Care and God Bless You all.. 🙏🌞🌺
I hadn't heard of you before this video, but I was planning on buying from one of your competitors. The sheer fact that you've engineered your machine to be repaired at home makes you an easy choice, made in the USA makes you the only choice.
That's what made my decision easy too. The fact that it's better made & AMERICAN made is always going to be my first & ONLY choice.
The fact that when I went to your website and looked at parts and found pages upon pages of every single little part made me decide you guys win, this is what I want in a company, sell me something good, and when I need to fix it, let me fix it.
I dont need a freeze dryer right now, but a man can dream cant he?
That's good to hear! We do our best and for sure we will be here when you do need a freeze dryer! :D
We just bought a HR XL. We are in the market for two more units. I'll be buying Blue Alpine. This is a great find for us. Thanks for putting in the quality people have been looking for.
Appreciate the nice comment, thank you!
I do think you are filling a hole in the market for home freeze dryers. Thank you for making this video and product and engineering it in a fashion to beat the competition based on pure competency in your industry. I feel that the market for this will increase in the next 5-10 years. I am not quite in the position to afford one of these machines quite yet, but I am rooting for you big time and I hope you continue to provide the aspects of the product that the other company fails to meet in a decent manner (build quality and customer support). I will 100% be a customer in the future. Thanks for your work in this field.
Thank you for the comment!
This is amazing. I will be buying one once i get a job, i love the blue color too
Cant wait to buy one
I am set for delivery on July 10th so I'm really excited. I got the medium one like you have there. I've got to get a cart to put it on in the next couple of days. Thank you so much!!
Hello from Wisconsin! This is one of the best product explanation videos I've ever seen. Have some engagement. If and when I pull the trigger on a freeze dryer, it will be a Blue Alpine.
Awesome! Happy to hear that. Let us know if you have any questions in the meantime.
Using a pid to control the process and made in the USA is what sold me. Best of luck in your new venture.
Thank you!
Thanks for breaking down the comparisons. I have been in a fb HR group for the last few months to get a better understanding of the process and it seems like there is a lot of issues with HR and their customer support across the board. This lead me to do more research of other brands. I appreciate how you explain what makes the Blue Alpine on the leading edge.
I have had a HR for two years and everything he says is 100% correct. As far as the comments on FB about HR customer service; I have had great service and my issues handled quickly. I have put many after market parts on my HR like hoses, clamps, stainless pipes, stainless valve, self sealing silicone tape, ETC...There are a lot of NOT very bright people that are in those FB groups; there is a LOT of misinformation as well. If I had to buy again I would definitely buy from Blue Alpine..
Hey!… So glad to find your company and can’t wait to purchase one of these machines. I’m hearing good things… Also, why turn off comments to your other videos? It doesn’t look great for the company and it doesn’t allow us to share with each other in the knowledge and information that we’re all learning about your company. You guys seem great and I’m excited… But part of the journey and the fun on these RUclips videos is learning from the community. If you’ve got nothing to hide and I don’t think you do… Let us talk amongst ourselves!😃👌🏻🙌🏻
We don't turn off comments on our other videos. We love engagement! Let us know which video you are seeing like that and we will change it. Thanks for being apart of our community and for the comment!
I think they did that more for convenience. That way they can keep up with comments on one site instead of multiple. That's what I think anyway. I know it's what I would do so no comment is missed. 😊
heckyeah! We own two HR Large units and have been dragging our feet on purchasing an XL. We need something "more" but we have such a love-hate relationship with HR. The quality control between their units is absurdly bad and while their tech support is always friendly, they are generally clueless to the nuances of their own products, it seems.
I see the Blue Alpines are on preorder for Large units and will be watching you folks closely. I like your style; the emphasis on industry-standard parts instead of braised connections and proprietary sized components. I have a feeling your QA process is going to be better, too.
Really excited!
We are happy you want to be apart of our community! Let us know if you have any questions in the meantime.
A very knowledgeable review. You hit all the points I have been wondering about. I am going to try to sell my medium HR unit and purchase one of your units.
I just got notified this morning from HR that they have a new "PRO" model coming out. I am liking what I am hearing about your model and it's differences, thanks for explaining about the downsides of the oil-less pump! It's good to hear why you should go with an oiled pump. I'm been on the fence about one of these for awhile.... Competition always makes the market a better place!
Is there a reason comments are disabled in the newer videos? It really hurts discussion. I know youtube sometimes does it automatically. Could you consider turning them back on? Thank you!
We will get that fixed! Thanks.
Our Blue Alpine has been an excellent investment and has been a real workhorse. The customer service is superb, as are the training videos and the telephone advice for a variety of questions. It is a great investment and head and shoulders above the other products out there. Great company, great people!
Thanks for the positivity! Glad you hear you are enjoying your machine. :)
Just ordered the medium machine for making candy, can’t wait to try it out! 🎉😊
they're now delayed 3-4 months.
I have had issues with "other brand" i am going to have to get my hands on one of these. thank you!
Perfect! this just made my decision so much easier! straight forward! I have been going round and round on which brand to buy. thanks I will check out your site now. 🙂
I just purchased one. Can't wait to try it out!
me too.
Please do a RUclips review on it when you get it and try out
We purchased one yesterday too for our candy business, will be posting our use and video reviews soon too
OK, so your comments are turned off on the latest video from about five hours ago. Please make the large where the side walls are interchangeable or something where you can choose whether to use the five trays or the three trays I know my money is going to be budgeted on anything I do but I don’t want to be limited on what I can do. And looking and watching for free start for a year finally getting close to where I’m ready to make that purchase and just came across your information today. I like a lot of the information you have given and the science behind it. But I know I will not buy two units for different types of freeze drying. I love the fact that you’re going to use standard trays that makes it easier to find other types of accessories or molds or shapes to put in. That was absolutely awesome and a reason that even though I found this video less than an hour ago and the other ones I’ve watched I will be sending it to some other people that I know we’re also wanting and trying to budget for a freeze dryer. I also love the fact that I’ve already gone to your website and you have a layaway program. Would love to know if you have veterans discounts or other kinds of things like that.
Thanks for your feedback!
Give us a call for discounts that we currently have: 208-607-1722.
As a company starting out, having most of your videos where the comments are turned off looks quite bad.
I was just researching freeze dryers and honestly had only heard of "the other company that shall remain nameless", and when I found you and saw that you are in St. Anthony, I couldn't click fast enough. I'm in Boise... Lol. I'm looking to purchase in the next 6 months or so as I'm heading to the panhandle to be closer to my pesky grandkids and I plan on having a good size garden that we will be preserving, and we definitely want to make freeze drying part of the game. The kids want to do ice cream and candy of course 😂, while I just want to have food on the shelf for my family in case things really get crazy.
I have to say, I absolutely love you and the way you do your videos! When you say "anyway" I laugh because it makes you sound human and approachable instead of like a salesman that just wants my money.
I'll let you know when I'm ready to order but at this point, I'm going with you guys. I like the size of your large machine, I like the fact that you are close to me, I've heard nothing but good things about Blue Alpine and I especially like the feeling that I'm buying from a family and not a conglomerate. Maybe I'm old-fashioned but "first impressions" matter- I have good friends in the St Anthony/Ashton area and I've never met anyone from there that weren't good people. ❤
*** I also like the fact that you take into consideration that sometimes we might need an extra tray or a filter "right now", not a week from now when it ships, and you've tried to make sure that most bits and pieces can be purchased locally and quickly.
Keep up the good work guys, we need more companies with a heart. ❤😊
That's so good to hear! We do our best and I'm glad we could make a good first impression. We'll be ready to help you out when you are ready to get one. In the mean time, just let us know if you have any questions! :D
This is exactly what I was looking for. Looking forward to placing my order!
Do you have to run a dedicated 20amp circuit for this freeze dryer?
OK this is all interesting and fine but it’s totally like over my head I would be more interested in seeing the ins and outs of the machine itself and the differences in the machines and it’s parts instead of talking about all the numbers and all that.
Problem is, you don't have any of these units to buy. I need one asap and can't wait six months.
We have large units ready to be shipped in 1-2 days.
I'm sold. Been trying to decide on who to go with and I really like the fact that not only did you solve any issues with your units, you solved the issues that the competition is having. What is the time line for availability?
We have Large units ready to be shipped within 1-2 days. Mediums are a 12 week build time.
Very informative, nice comparison, excellent user-friendly and cost effective solutions. You've got my attention! I do have a 2 questions: 1. I noticed in my research that the competitor's problems with leaks were also due to use of cheap hardware, versus brass, particularly drain valves and pump release valves. Do you use brass? Also, 'they' had a proprietary oil for the pumps. In your overall very appreciated and honorable market-friendly design choices as in trays and filters, what oil do you recommend?
I changed all my hardware (drain valve) to stainless. I figured out the drain valve fails due to metal shavings that were left from the factory. The metal shavings came from drilling and or self tapping screws. As far as oil even the Harvest Right can use other brands, they just push their oil. I use Harvest right oil, because I can pick up at my local Tractor Supply.
As an industrial tech I prefer relays to solid state….can get them anywhere, easy to diagnose and replace…they have a long service life. Solid state to me means it will be maintenance free until the plc or card fails then very expensive to repair.
🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation:
00:00 *🇺🇸 Freeze dryers by Blue Alpine are made in the USA, setting them apart from competitors predominantly made in China.*
01:40 *🔄 Blue Alpine's freeze dryers feature robust construction with superior thread sealants, preventing leaks common in other units using ineffective methods like Teflon tape.*
03:19 *🌊 Blue Alpine's innovative feed through design undergoes rigorous testing, ensuring longevity without leaks.*
04:05 *🔌 The use of standard silicone hoses enhances user-friendliness, allowing easy replacement without specialized tools.*
05:22 *🛒 Blue Alpine's freeze dryers accommodate standard 9x13 trays, providing convenience and accessibility to users.*
05:52 *📏 Blue Alpine's medium-sized unit offers approximately 25% more capacity than competitors' units at a comparable price.*
06:20 *⚙️ Blue Alpine utilizes solid-state controls over relays, enhancing reliability and extending operational lifespan significantly.*
08:19 *🍬 Rapid freeze-drying capabilities enable Blue Alpine's units to process candies like Skittles in as little as an hour, outperforming traditional methods.*
09:11 *🔧 Blue Alpine opts for oil pumps over oil-less pumps due to their longevity and resistance to degradation from food contaminants.*
11:15 *🌬️ A built-in blast cooling fan accelerates freeze-drying, potentially reducing cycle times significantly.*
Made with HARPA AI
How many runs can be done before the oil needs to be changed in the pump? How many decibels is the pump when it's running? What brand of oil is recommended or that can safely be used in your pump? Is there a dryness sensor that regulates the processing times dynamically or are the times preset and don't change? Will the heater stay on at the end of a cycle if it finishes and I am not right there to attend to it, say it finishes in the middle of the night or before I can get home from somewhere? Can a freeze dryer be purchased without your pans, sealer, mylar bags and for how much?
The oil change frequency depends on what you're vacuum sealing. More liquid it extracts the quicker the oil breaks down.
@@girlmastergeneral Ok, give me some basic examples and what you think should be expected based on your experience.
Great questions!!
They posted a video today explaining the Vaccum pump oil questions
I am thinking of getting a 2nd fees dryer. I like this unit. Is is on my short list. I hope they do well.
They won't disappoint you! :)
I have brand X and I always wondered why the vacuum isn’t filtered instead of the oil, also the power switch on brand X is in the back , why? And the drain tube also on the left in the rear. How about the valve to drain in the front but route the hose out the rear. And the power switch also in the front. Linked your video to others that are interested , wish you made them when i was looking. Great job go USA made.
OK I have a harvest right and a Cube. Harvest right is great except after a few years there is o support. I haven't had the Cube long enough to find out how their support lasts. So far it is good. I think the thing that aggravates me the most is I spend so much money and get the machine and find it doesn't live up to the hype and if I return it it will cost almost as much as the purchase price. I would love to actually observe one in action and talk to others who own this machine. I am sure I won't find anything but positive reviews on the site. I will check the size of the trays and see how the volume compares to the HR and Cube. The trays seem small.
I have a HR too, which stays at my daughter's house. We have had no issues to speak of and it's been doing well for the past 2-3 yrs now. But I'm going to look more into this Blue Alpine.
I am really interested as well on the real world views of this FD. If anything, the more competition the better. I hope the cube, HR, and this new company makes the FD ecosystem better!
Great Video! Thank you. I can’t wait to see some reviews. Let me borrow one and I’ll be happy to make some videos 😁. Good luck with your new company and hat looks like a fabulous product.
Do you ship to Canada? If yes how do you order?
Do you have an ETA on when you will have stock?
I have a hr and plan on getting one of these as a second.
Can you freeze dry flowers? Like Wedding Bouquets?
Yes you can!
Your mTtors are higher then industry standard. There are two other brands that use solid state relays.
First time I heard of this company. I live in Idaho and I am getting a HR delivered today. I wish I would have seen this sooner.
What do you thing about cross contamination from the pump. I've been told buy a freeze dry company that they recommend a $10 000 oilless pump to avoid contamination and for 24hour running ?
We bought a large unit from "that other company," and have had challenges with holding vacuum. If your unit had been available when we bought it, we would likely have bought it. But unfortunately that wasn't an option.
So, can you sell into this market a kit of replacement parts to refit freeze dryers from "that other company" so their vacuum is more reliable? Fittings, hoses, etc.
It still may not make the other company's unit be as good as your unit, but it would serve the broader customer base, and generate a lot of good will toward your brand (and future whole-unit sales)... especially for people who can't afford to get rid of their other unit altogether at least at present.
I appreciate hearing your thoughts on this idea. I'd buy the kit (depending on the cost of course...)
I bought a xl harvestwrong afew months ago. I'm on my 2nd freeze dryer and this one is sh!t to will not freeze dry any food. There customer service is a joke there machine are a bigger joke!
I want the larger size. I think he said 9x13 5 tray, for a medium size. How about a 13x24 tray size for your LG. 5 or 6 tray ok. Or to save room as they are all rounded tray 1 and 5 9x24 and trays 2,3,4 13x24?
“Shiz ton” lol
I have said those words many times
Stop with all the umms and ahhaas Great review, I like your ideas over the HR machine. The pump filter is a great idea .
Please do consider to sell in other countries
Have you guys tested to see how much electricity the medium unit uses?
Considering that you understand the need to to sell accessories when i might have those already - Will you sell a unit without the pump - I have a pump already. Its the 7 CFM NVAC.
other company giving 500 discount would you consider this also
Your main competition is a US company called Harvest Right.
"Designed, Tested, and Serviced in America!....( built in China...)
@@te5844 from HR,
"About Us - Harvest Right freeze dryers | Harvest Right™ | Home Freeze Dryers | Freeze Dried Food Storage. Every Harvest Right Freeze Dryer has been designed, engineered, and tested in our manufacturing facility in Salt Lake City, Utah."
@@te5844 where did you hear that they are manufactured in China? This is misinformation
Do I need a dedicated breaker for the medium size freeze dryer? I'm trying to get ready for my delivery. Thanks!!
Yes you should have a dedicated 15 amp breaker for the medium. In reality it doesnt need to be dedicated, however you really cant have anything else plugged into the circuit when the freeze dryer is running.
Will you be making an EXTRA LARGE freeze dryer model?
Yes we will make an Extra large eventually. We are probably still a year away but we plan on it.
What's size of tray? Looks only half the size of my hr trays 😢
He says in the video, 9x13
What is the range of tray temperature
Hey Sorry for the late reply. The temp range is 0F to 150F.
would love to test one out I currently have Harvest Right and own a freeze drying business and they have not the best customer service
Harvest Right Freezers are just the 'generic' freezer dryers made in China. You can start a company, order 200 freeze dryers from China, and slap your own brand on them. Of course, then it's up to you to maintain customer service, and Harvest Right SUCKS at that.
@@beethistlewinery6682 wow. I have an HR, but am considering getting rid of it. For this.
@@beethistlewinery6682this is wrong information. They are built in the USA in their manufacturing plant in Utah...
Do you ship to the UK?
Would you be making a smaller model in the future?
Yes we plan on doing a smaller model eventually. This is probably a year or more away at the moment but it is definitely in the plans.
Can’t believe Idaho actually has freeze dryers made from potatoes
I can't wait for my large unit.
prices?
Okay ... so there was some interesting information, but how am I supposed to amortize/depreciate the cost over time without a price for the capital investment?
[Please see the accounting department if you don't understand any of this vocabulary.]
Can I put FD in my garage? I live in Colo.
I wish you mention the other companies by name
Hi 🙂, I am patiently waiting for my order of a medium Blue Alpine to be delivered. Cant wait! I have a question. Do you or anyone here have a suggestion of a good appliance to do the grinding, crushing of the finished products that we would like to store in a powder form? When my BAFD gets here, I will be ready to roll day one! I have ingredients for meals stocked , storage containers/bags etc. Sooo looking forward to it.
Idaho!!!
Go Idaho!
Having one is great and if the quality is good, then that's wonderful Have had so much trouble with the Harvest Right, I tell everyone to avoid buying one of those.
how much does it cost?
The current cost is $3095 for a medium and $3995 for a large.
Do you ship to uk
We do not yet ship to the UK but we are working on a 220v Version
So why are there no handles or recessed finger holds in or on the cabinet? Lifting these products is like picking up a small refrigerator filled with concrete. No problem for a fellow in his prime, but try it after you age another 35 years. How about offering an aftermarket add-on handle kit? You claim those extruded aluminum corners are super heavy duty. Perhaps handles could be fasted on the angular corners of the top side.
definitely need 2 people to pick it up. once i got a 2nd person to help, it was extremely easy.
but most freeze dryers need 2 people.
@MGillDesign Yes, two people are needed to lift them up, but why not make it an easier task? Why follow the herd by using the same design? 🤔 I hear the same complaint from many other owners of these FD units. Offering options nobody else has helps make a product more sensible to own. But what would I know, I just use one on a daily basis. Your product is definitely worth considering. It's nice to see some competition in this space to force improvements in the quality. However, customer service will make or break any product irregardless of quality. Offering a better warranty would be another leg up since it reflects the manufacturer's confidence in their product. Just matching the competitor's warranty fails to spark the purchaser's confidence. The shape of the cabinet holds no value. It's what's inside that matters. The Soild state components are a great feature. 👍
@@briarpalek9254 No, i get what you're saying. I tried to pick it up by myself too, and was hoping to be able to. But the Blue Alpine is wider and slanted edges, make it hard for one person to get a grip on it. I had an HR previously, and managed to grip it and pick it up by itself, but it wasn't a pleasant experience.
To me, i think that having handles on these freeze dryers may not be a good idea, because they are delicate machines. And also, for one person, bending over to grab the handles and lift up, is still a tough/awkward task. When i was able to get help from a 2nd person, i couldn't believe how lightweight it felt... it was like lifting a mid-lightweight moving box. Because the weight was evenly distributed between the 2 of us.
@MGillDesign actually handles would be great for a two person lift as well. So I guess the comments that were made about the strength of the extruded aluminum frame parts being ridgid enough to possibly drive a truck over was a goofy thing to say. Otherwise, they could hold a self tapping screw with no problem. Oh well, I guess the fantasy was a nice one. Have a wonderful day, and best of luck with your products!
I think the handles would work with the extruded aluminum. I just didn't think they would be a good idea for "one" person trying to lift. You'd be hunched over, trying to grab the handles of a very heavy item, and too many risks of losing your balance, and/or dropping it (especially on your foot).
It just doesn't make sense (investment wise) as a company, to put that money into handles (for a product that expensive, and risk too many customers trying to pick it up on their own) and damaging it.
I could imagine the number of buyers, who would file false claims of a damaged freeze dryer, because they accidentally dropped it.
Have a good one. We can agree to disagree. I like your idea, it's just risky... and encourages more customers to try lifting it by themselves (when even with handles, they still need 2 people). It would put the product and company at risk.@@briarpalek9254
That is an extremely small tray... are yall going to make bigger trays??
it's a medium unit, and a little smaller than the HR medium trays,
but the tradeoff is that Blue Alpine's 9x13 trays can be easily replaced and purchased anywhere (for cheap).
Compared to the competitor's 7.5x18 medium trays which can only be bought through them.
And you're getting 5 shelves on the Blue Alpine versus only 4 on the medium (competitor) unit.
And, as I understand it, the Blue Alpine’s cooling system is larger, doing more in less time and with more efficiency.
LOL, so you basically just copied HR, let me know when you come up with your own design.
Looks like they already have. Addressed all the weak points and if they have any kind of customer support, they will bury harvest right. By the way, I own a harvest right. Screen was bad out of the box and had to be replaced. NowI am i tracking down leaks. Still waiting for a response on my support ticket. No freeze drying for me!
HR copy...NOT Hr doesn't use a blast fan in the chamber...doesn't seal leaks, doesn't have the cooling capacity, doesn't pull a good vacuum after about 20 uses, takes half again longer to run a batch, built out of screwed togethe sheet metal without a solid frame....on and on...@@Mostruggles
If you look at the two you'll see they look nothing a like and the point of this video is to list the differences. There are others in the market that look like a direct copy of the HR, just not this one.
Would you want to partner. I would love to try your machine and create yout use videos on using the machine for my new freeze candy machine. 😊
Protyping?
Sishton of money?
Darn. Ordered the other company. I wish I knew about this company first. Would have bought from a U.S.A company first.
Which other company? I have 13 companies on my freeze dryer manufacturer/supplier list.
@@SchoolReports Well for home Use in the USA there is only Harvest Right that is mostly Chinese and the couple others are 100% Chinese. if you buy anything with Chinese part like the Relay Boards for Harvest Right Freeze Dryers buy lots of extra's ( maybe 4 of them) because soon parts will be unobtainable from China for anything once the war's start!!
Wait, what? 13? All for residential use vs commercial or is it a mix? @@SchoolReports
@@mfb6310 Three of them are definitely what I would consider to be commercial size machines.
Link to list - docs.google.com/document/d/1Vwd2qyLkY40uXd1SkEapru7hW7h2SFeG3wedl9LfO88/edit?usp=sharing
@@SchoolReportsI only have 7 on my list. Can you share with the class.
Why do people want to buy a freeze dryer for candy? Skittles?
They usually have business. Sell them at Fairs etc
$$$
There's only one company using relays for heaters, Harvest right
Literally everyone else uses Solid state relays because only idiots would use relays to control electric heaters.
Yeah... I'm seeing that issue now, on mine.
Mid Batch Heater Failure.... smh...
You sound like you know electric components. Could the existing Harvest Right relays ever be
swapped out for better quality? Or would they have to redesign the whole freeze dryer?
@@MGillDesign Its pretty easy to change actually, the HR relays are triggered by either 5v or 12v, i forgot. you could use any other relay or device that takes the same input. It would be hard to get the same form factor and put it on the board, but you could just relocate it somewhere else in the machine and use wires connecting to the original relay input.
@@unknowndiver1855 Oh wow. thanks for the info. Still wish i would've waited for one of these better built freeze dryers. HR is a pain.
Solid state with high current? Good luck long term with that.
HR new machines all use solid state relays now
I need to see a woman's review. I'm a fan of the channel "Becoming a farm girl". She will break it down like no other.
Wait time is 3-4 months before it ships? C'mon guys. They are made here in USA!!!
come on now, Everyone across America has been dealing with personnel shortages, material shortages. This is a small start up company, up against multi-billionaire power grabbers.
At 8:19 the machine shows the Temp for Fruit is 120°F, which is 49°C.
How can it be FREEZE DRYING if you heat things like in a dehydrator ?!?
You are selling a vaccum enabled dehydrator, NOT a freeze dryer ?!?
There are multiple steps. It first freezes the product in a vacuum. The heat is used to transition the ice straight to a vapor, bypassing the water phase. It's not a dehydrator.
You will Soon Learn That your control is not in a good location, Moisture and water will inventively get into it. Not a good design.
I've got mine, and if you look inside, you can see that the control/interface components are shielded by a plastic
protective covering material or hood.
Was it necessary to say the "S" word? Classy...I don't want my "professional" talking like a long-shoreman.
most of the people who buy these machines are adults.
I think they'll be ok.
@MGillDesign I find a potty mouth very childish and incredibly unprofessional. I spent 35 years flying airliners. I'm sure all the 'adults' I flew would have loved to listen to a potty mouth over the public address system. I want my eye surgeon to sound as filthy as a 3rd grade-educated truck driver. 👍🏻
@@MrPancake0825 i guess i'm just able to put it in context. Out of the dozens of videos on this channel, (and hours of content/tutorials), this is the only occurrence, and i appreciate that they were honest and raw, in how they felt (in the 5 years of money/research) trying to come up with a great product.
And it's barely audible... sounds like he says shiz ton of research. This one (unedited), true expression of emotion doesn't bother me. Had it been on every video, (or more than once in a single video), then maybe i'd feel like you.
Being on an airflight, working as an employee (pilot/attendant) for an employer is different. You are under a contract and expected to act and speak a certain way. Based on what your employer requires. He is his own boss/owner, so it's a little different.
And to be honest, yours is the first comment complaining about it, out of 150 comments.
And It hasn't stopped people from buying the machine.
@MGillDesign Fair enough. Thank you for your opinion. You make some very good points....I am viewing this differently. God bless you.
@@MrPancake0825 blessings.
Made in America = Sold
Relays are not that bad. As long as they are replaceable.
A extra large commercial one is what one waiting for this definitely looks better than a harvest right.
If you added a mushroom recipe I bet you’d you a lot of cash custies
All the recipes can be changed you could dail it in for whatever you wanted.
I don’t really understand what you’re talking about harvest right the largest brand in the US is made in America. So what you’re saying is there’s nothing different from you versus your competitors.. you should build software that would allow customers to just push a button and have it perfectly freeze dry each item so you click strawberries it freeze dry strawberries, you click candy and what type it freeze drives it perfectly that’s what would make yours better than others
We are working on that functionality actually. And all the We have talked to multiple vendors from HR as well as people that have worked at HR and they are Designed in the USA but they are Made in China. They just get them off a boat in a box and ship them out. Even their website now says only designed in the USA.