Best dehydrator and vacuum sealer?

[Chicky2]

Mods, if this is not the correct place, please move...

I am wanting to invest in a dehydrator and a vacuum sealer w/our tax return. Any recommendations? Seems like I remember hearing that a dehydrator needs to have a fan? Is that correct?

[dogmom327]

Best dehydrator IMO is the Excalibur although I've also heard great things about the Sausage Maker brand. I found my Excalibur on Craig's List for way less than a new one so check there first. The Excalibur has lots of space and runs efficiently. You also can monitor individual trays of stuff without having to take the whole thing apart.

I really like my Food Saver vacuum sealer. I've had it for 7 years and it's on it's way out so I'm planning to get another one.

[Norasmomma]

We just got a Foodsaver that was the model from Costco for Christmas. It is awesome. I really do love that thing. You also will want to buy extra rolls of plastic(another good Coscto deal).

[Coconut Chronicles]

Originally Posted by dogmom327

Best dehydrator IMO is the Excalibur

I agree! Pricey but worth it.

[Denvergirlie]

Originally Posted by dogmom327

Best dehydrator IMO is the Excalibur

Me too!

I bought mine on eBay, 10 year warrenty reconditioned, free shipping, still it was an investment. Can also use to make yogurt and sry our sourdough starters too.

[annettemarie]

Moving to Mindful Home Management

[lmonter]

Hubby got me a Nesco American Harvest GardenMaster dehydrator for Christmas this year (for a bit less than the price on that link, but with all those goodies like the trays and such included!). So far I'm groovin' on it, but haven't had a chance to break it in yet besides a batch of herbed noodles. Hubby did a ton of research, and says this one won't warp, dry out/separate (like wood framed ones can) or anything. Plus I can throw all the trays in the dishwasher, which can be a bonus.
The only drawback is that it sounds a little like a jet engine when on (much like our old dishwasher!), so it'll hang out in the den, basement or garage depending on what we're dehydrating.

As for vacuum sealer... :