Originally posted by SaltwaterSlick
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Originally posted by SaltwaterSlick
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Here are a few considerations that may (or may not) temper your enthusiasm.
- The machine and pump are a constant noise, and are relatively loud. We have ours in the utility room, just off the living room, and we sometimes have to adjust the tv volume to overcome it…which adds to the overall noise level in the house.
- It puts off a bit of heat (and runs more efficiently in a cool environment.). We
don’t have an AC vent in the utility room (which is why we typically don’t close the door between the utility and LR to reduce the noise) and it’s noticeably warmer in that room.
- Each batch takes 24-50 hours (most are under 30 hours.) My machine runs almost constantly…when we’re home, save for the couple of hours between batches required to defrost the chamber. This adds to our electricity usage. I need to do some calculations, but I figure it’s costing $1.50-$2 per day in additional electrical costs (not counting increased usage required to keep the house cool.
- it’s quite a bit of work to plan and prepare each batch. I have two sets of trays, so I try to prepare and pre freeze the next batch while a batch is in the machine. Prefrozen, packaged vegetables are easy. Pre cooked meats and meals require, obviously, pre cooking. I prefer to sous vide most meats, which requires a bit of advance planning. I recently had to grind some venison (in my new 1 HP MEAT! grinder ) and then pre-cook it. On fattier meats, it’s recommended to cover the cooked meat with warm water, then let it cool so the fat solidifies on the top for removal before freeze drying. (I figured out that’s not needed with lean venison.) But, there’s still work required ahead of, and after, each batch.
- additional costs may include the cost of the food, Mylar bags (or jars) for LT storage, O2 absorbers, extra trays, pump oil, lids, tray dividers, etc.
I certainly have no regrets with my purchase, but I figure I should mentions a few things that might balance the equation for those considering making the investment.
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