I'd like to try dehydrating, but do not want to spend the money on a new one until I've decided I will keep at it. If I do, then I'll buy a nice one.
To make sure I don't ensure a bad experience, anything I should look for in particular in any given GS purchase? I hear a temp control is a must and that a timer is a very good thing, but is there anything else I should demand or avoid?
Registered: 02/03/06
Posts: 6800
Loc: Gateway to Columbia Gorge
You don't need a timer, but you do need thermostat/temp control. And a fan to distribute the warm air evenly. You go by when the food feels dry enough rather than by time--the time in recipes is very approximate. You can always set an alarm clock!
Edited by OregonMouse (05/21/1209:58 PM)
_________________________
May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view--E. Abbey
Agreed, fan is probably the most important thing, IMHO. Closely followed by a thermostat. I know folks who use one of those plug-in-your-outlet timer thingies, like you use for making your lights go on when you're not home.
Registered: 01/04/02
Posts: 1228
Loc: Eastern MA, USA
As OM says, yes, plug in the used dehydrator before buying it. I haven’t tried it, but have seen suggestions for placing some sort of a rheostat inline with the power cord as a temperature and fan speed control if the dehydrator has none of its own. I burned through 3 or 4 cheap-o models before purchasing an Excalibur via eBay. I love this dehydrator.
A possible substitute dehydrator is a hair dryer blowing into any box or bag, BTW. Been there, done that, on the road.
I haven't gotten my dehydrator yet, but do appreciate the advice given.
As far as it goes though Alton Brown on Good Eats did a DIY jerky maker using A/C filters and a box fan. the recipe is here but he says to dry it this way for 8 - 12 hours. It makes OK jerky, but I think I'll stick to using a commercial dehydrator.
Our long-time Sponsor, BackcountryGear.com - The leading source for ultralite/lightweight outdoor gear:
Affiliate Disclaimer: This forum is an affiliate of BackcountryGear.com, Amazon.com, R.E.I. and others. The product links herein are linked to their sites. If you follow these links to make a purchase, we may get a small commission. This is our only source of support for these forums. Thanks.!