While the initial cost might seem steep, keep in mind the long-term savings and the value of preserved food. It’s an investment in self-sufficiency and food storage security. You can read my full cost analysis of the Harvest Right freeze dryer here.
The size of the freeze dryer you decide to buy is where cost analysis comes in handy. Different sizes of freeze dryers have different payback periods, and their costs and variable operating expenses vary.
Are freeze dryers energy-efficient? While freeze dryers consume energy during operation, they can be cost-effective in the long run by reducing food waste and allowing for bulk food preservation.
When you get the right blend of these, you can find a reliable freeze dryer that will stock your pantry with a massive shelf life for decades. Below, we break down what each of these features means for the freeze-dryer models that set themselves apart.
Each of our picks comes in different sizes and weights that affect how they can be used and where they can be placed.
For those ready to tackle these considerations, the Harvest Right freeze dryer will reward you with efficient long-term food preservation and a solid emergency food reserve.
You can download the calculator in Excel format over on our Patreon page for free if you are a paid TruePrepper Patreon member, or for a low fee. We do update the calculator occasionally for updated costs, but the Excel download will give you Perfeito control over the formulas and all the cells.
Many times you’ll see first-time freeze dryer owners accidently missing a set-up step or routine maintenance, and service technicians can quickly get them back up and running.
The Harvest Right freeze is an obvious fit for gardeners, homesteaders, and preppers. But here are some other people who might benefit from owning a freeze dryer:
Freeze dryer energy and maintenance costs are negligible compared to the cost difference between sizes, so running a small or medium freeze dryer longer is usually much cheaper than running a large or XL freeze dryer in short bursts.
While Amazon is a known established e-commerce platform for many products, there are some issues you need to note.
Other brands, like Harvest Right, want you to contact them to make sure you get the correct parts and know how to install them. There are pros and cons for both service approaches. Maintenance parts are available at most manufacturer’s websites.
It also doesn’t take very much time if the Buy Now freeze dryer has ‘candy mode’ like our picks. Ranging between 30 minutes to 2 hours per batch makes it easy to process a lot of batches at once.
If you are going trekking, or hunting in the deep woods, you need to be mindful of every ounce of weight you are carrying. The extra weight of dehydrated or canned food can be a deal breaker.