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How to Set Up Your Harvest Right Freeze Dryer
Installing and getting your Harvest Right freeze dryer up and running is the final and most exciting step towards preserving all your favorite foods. This Harvest Right Freeze Dryer set up guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring that your freeze dryer is ready to go for your first batch. Whether you're using the premier oil pump or an oil-free pump, these instructions will cover all the essential details to get you freeze drying smoothly.
At a Glance
Setting up your new Harvest Right freeze dryer is a breeze. Just follow these steps:
- Unpack and inspect your package
- Choose the right location
- Set up and connect the vacuum pump
- Attach the drain hose to the drain valve
- Power up the freeze dryer
- Clean the freeze dryer chamber and evenly spread out your food on the trays
- Test the freeze dryer with your first batch
- Monitor the process through the front screen
- Remove and check the quality of your newly freeze dried food
- Store your food in Harvest Right's mylar bags
Table of Contents
- Step 1: Unpacking and Inspecting Your Harvest Right Freeze Dryer
- Step 2: Choosing the Right Location
- Step 3: Setting Up the Vacuum Pump
- Step 4: Attaching the Drain Hose
- Step 5: Powering Up the Freeze Dryer
- Step 6: Preparing for Your First Batch
- Step 7: Starting the Freeze Drying Process
- Step 8: Monitoring the Drying Process
- Step 9: Completing the Process and Defrosting
- Step 10: Storing Your Freeze Dried Food
- Final Tips and Maintenance
Step 1: Unpacking and Inspecting Your Harvest Right Freeze Dryer
When your Harvest Right freeze dryer arrives, carefully unpack the unit and its components. You should find the freeze dryer unit, vacuum pump, vacuum hose, drain hose, and other accessories. Inspect everything to ensure there are no damages or missing items during shipping.
What's Included in Your Harvest Right Freeze Dryer Box?
Depending on the type of Harvest Right freeze dryer you purchase, your box will contain different items. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Home Freeze Dryers
- Premier Industrial Vacuum Pump
- Vacuum Pump Oil
- Oil Filter
- Stainless Steel Trays (set of 4 to 7)
- Guide to Freeze Drying
- Mylar Bags (50)
- Oxygen Absorbers (50)
- Impulse Sealer
Pharmaceutical Freeze Dryers
- Premier Vacuum Pump
- Vacuum Pump Oil
- Oil Filter
- Stainless Steel Trays (set of 5 to 8)
- Guide to Freeze Drying
Commercial Freeze Dryers
- Premier Industrial Vacuum Pump
- Vacuum Pump Oil
- Oil Filter
- Stainless Steel Trays (set of 9)
Step 2: Choosing the Right Location
Find a suitable location for your freeze dryer. It should be a flat, solid surface, ideally near a wall outlet. The area should be well-ventilated and free from extreme temperatures, like a kitchen or garage. Make sure there is enough space around the unit for proper air circulation, as this will help maintain the efficiency of the machine during the freeze drying process.
Step 3: Setting Up the Vacuum Pump
If you have a standard oil pump or the premier oil pump, ensure that the pump is filled with the appropriate oil before starting. Once that's done, connect the vacuum pump to the back of the freeze dryer using the vacuum hose. The oil level should be checked regularly, as maintaining the right level is crucial for the pump's longevity. If you're using an oil-free pump, you can skip the oiling step, making maintenance even easier.
Step 4: Attaching the Drain Hose
Next, attach the drain hose to the drain valve located at the back of the freeze dryer. This hose will allow the frozen water from the drying process to exit the machine during the defrost cycle. Place the other end of the drain hose in a bucket or a drain to catch the water. Ensure the hose is securely attached to prevent any leaks.
Step 5: Powering Up the Freeze Dryer
Once everything is connected, plug in the freeze dryer and the vacuum pump. Turn on the machine and wait for it to run a preliminary test cycle. This will help ensure that all components are working correctly before you start freeze drying your first batches of food.
Step 6: Preparing for Your First Batch
Before loading your first batch of food, make sure the freeze dryer chamber is clean and dry. Place the food on the trays, making sure not to overload them. The freeze drying process works best when the food is evenly spread out and not piled too high. Insert the trays into the freeze dryer, ensuring they fit securely.
Step 7: Starting the Freeze Drying Process
Close the door securely, ensuring that the door gasket creates a tight seal. The machine will begin to pull a vacuum in the chamber, initiating the freeze drying process. The initial freeze temperature will drop quickly as the unit begins to remove moisture from the food. Monitor the machine to ensure everything is running smoothly.
Step 8: Monitoring the Drying Process
Throughout the drying cycle, the machine will go through several phases, including freezing, primary drying (removing most of the moisture), and secondary drying (extra dry time to remove any remaining moisture). The screen will display the progress, and you can adjust settings as needed.
Step 9: Completing the Process and Defrosting
Once the drying cycle is complete, the machine will signal that your batch is done. Open the door carefully, as there may still be a slight vacuum inside. Remove the trays and check the food to ensure it is completely dry. If needed, you can run an extra dry time cycle.
After removing the food, start the defrost cycle. This will melt any frozen water inside the chamber and drain it out through the drain hose. Ensure the drain valve is open during this process to allow water to exit.
Step 10: Storing Your Freeze Dried Food
After the defrost cycle, your freeze dryer is ready for the next batch. Package your freeze-dried food in airtight containers, such as Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers, for long-term storage. Freeze dried food can last for years when stored properly, making it a great option for food storage and emergency preparedness.
Final Tips and Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your Harvest Right freeze dryer will ensure it continues to operate efficiently. For those using oil-based pumps, change the oil regularly to protect the pump. If you're using the oil-free pump, enjoy the reduced maintenance time. Also, keep the freeze dryer chamber and door gasket clean using clear alcohols to maintain a good seal.
With these instructions, you're now ready to start using your Harvest Right freeze dryer and begin the rewarding process of stockpiling your own freeze dried food storage.
Have any questions or would like to place an order? We'd love to help! Chat with our friendly customer service team by calling 1-844-945-3625, chatting in on our website or email us at customersupport@wildoaktrail.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
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