Do I need a Door Pillow in my Harvestright Freeze Dryer?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Lots of people asking: Why didn't I get a door pillow with my Harvestright Freeze Dryer? I am really getting accustomed to running mine without! Make sure you check out our NEW products in the store! www.freezedryingsupplies.com

[@tech-mediasvc]

Can I buy your medium door pad since you are not going to be using it anymore? Thanks!

[@sv3931]

@@tech-mediasvc For real! I'd buy one (med) too. Anyone will to sell?

[@mellyf6954]

Yes..looking for a pillow myself... called HR and they do not have any to purchase.

[@tkcdac]

Saw your shirt. Are you a Mason?

[@margaretmoon7154]

I am 80 years old. Yes you can teach an old dog new tricks. I grow my own vegetables and can them but lifetime is only 5-6 years. I want to leave my children usable food for when it hits the fan. I just finished setting up my freeze dryer. Wish me luck. I am off to look at the good stuff on your site.

[@Mountainmonths]

very nice!

[@sweetcasiopea2080]

Mine came without a pillow, which they informed me wasn't needed. However, I subsequently had to make one as water condensed on the outside of freezer door as long as it was running, and made a very large puddle on the floor. I did not compare dryer run time , so was happy to see in the video the it actually decreased run time. Thank you for your very informative videos.

[@WthrLdy]

Exactly why I run mine with a pillow. In the few months of the Spring and early summer that it is humid, but not miserably hot out, we don't run the AC. But there is enough humidity in the air to cause a condensation issue without the pillow.

[@rickwatkins7285]

I just bought one of these units, with the oil free pump. We are just learning to play with this great Modernist Cuisine instrument. The pillow is simple thermodynamics. There is more thermal conduction without the pillow. That being said, from what I can see with the pillow, is that there is greater risk of losing a batch due to poor vacuum seal. Thank you for going to the effort to evaluate.

[@petenelson8136]

Love the side by side comparison, and how you made sure the only variable was the pillow. Very scientific approach. Love this channel as I'm considering buying a freeze dryer and this channel has shown me what all is involved in freeze drying.

[@michaelwright1602]

I bought some plexiglass at Home Depot yesterday, and will be cutting it to fit the opening. That way, I can use thermometers to check the internal temps of the food without opening the door, and to ensure the process is working, along with weighing each tray. There is a video on YT that explains how to, and the benefit of doing this. And the plexiglass does cut down on the condensation on the door.

[@theprofit8473]

I just got mine about a month ago and did a cycle with out the pad , had a panic and called harvest right. They told me they don’t include these anymore due to it interfering with the seal. They only thing I have noticed is the top shelf moves towards the door about an inch.but still freeze dries. Your videos are so informative and was my main source when investigating before buying.👍

[@monana8706]

I found that my FD developed condensation on the door without a pillow that usually results in a small puddle under the door. So, I will continue to use the pillow for less mess and quicker drying times.

[@EarthlyVibes]

Me too

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

It's good to hear experiences from both pillow and no pillow

[@mrbyamile6973]

I live in Colorado, we have around 20 or 30% relative humidity, not much issue with condensation here.

[@Gasp7000]

@@mrbyamile6973 : In the north east, we often have over 50% humidity, so it will be an issue, I’m sure. We are finally just starting to use our FD.

[@cyndidame1721]

I forgot to add my pillow on a run, and I had a lot more condensation on the outside of the door. I prefer to use the pillow.

[@brucezietlow4324]

Wondering what changes harvest right made on these freeze dryers? Takes longer to freeze dry and compensation is greater.

[@brucezietlow4324]

🤪 condinsation

[@jacobmartinez5559]

Mine does not give liquid option and whether it's bell peppers or watermelon it takes 30 + hours it honestly is a bit fustrating right now!, hopefully I'm praying once we have a good few months of preparerd foods I won't feel like it's not worth it it takes days to do 10-15 apples we purchased because we are a large family wanting to lessen the need for our two large deep freezers and extra frig but at this rate Im needing all these things be cause of the slowness of the process I could handle the small batches if the time need for each small batch was so much our household of7 5young kids seem easier to just eat fresh and can ...

[@rce2553]

I just purchased a medium freeze dryer from my local Tractor Supply store it did not have the pillow. In addition to that it had the old pump even though the website advertised the unit as having the newer premier pump. So this week I’m going to be on the phone with customer support to get it worked out. Thank you sir for the quality videos and information, you have help in the decision to make the leap into freeze drying. I bought it from TSC because they had it on hand, on sale ready to go. I will be checking out your store soon for accessories.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

It sounds like your tractor supply has been sitting on that inventory for awhile.

[@rce2553]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity Yes they must have had some older units, But it came with the 3/8" vacuum line so it had to of been newer that 2019. Also Harvest Right sent the premier pump in 3 days time of calling them. So I'm ready to run the bread burn in cycle. It all worked out great, their customer service is excellent.

[@greyballer1671]

New freeze dryer. Your dividers are so awesome!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Good to hear! Hard to imagine Fding without now

[@SilentWatcher594]

Seems to me that an elastic frame pillow could be created to place on the OUTSIDE of the glass door for added insulation,,,instead of the inside. I don't know if condensation would still occur, but it definitely would not risk a vacuum problem. Maybe I will get creative and see what happens. I'll let you know!!

[@jdsbees3257]

That’s the information I’m currently looking for, and what brought me here. Seems to me an elastic frame pillow, like you’re talking about, would be just as efficient, as far as helping maintain even temperature inside the vacuum chamber, with the added bonus of being able to remove it, to peel inside. I just got my machine, did the initial bread run today, and trying to absorb as much information as I possibly can. One thing about an outside pillow, if humidity is an issue, the inner surface may need to be of an absorbent material. I think I’ll break out the sewing machine tomorrow and see what I can come up with. I’d appreciate any advice or suggestions you may have come up with since this post. BeeguyJ

[@onedazinn998]

Thanks for this video. My husband didn't see a way to use our pillow, but having watched people put them in I knew it was "supposed" to be used but in the manual it doesn't tell you to use it! When I run it without the pillow I have excess moisture dripping down on the floor and on top of the seal ring....so I'm guessing we need to try using it. This is a 2020 model that we just setup now due to illness past 3 yrs. I had no idea the seal ring came off so easily, so I'll tell my husband to watch this. ;) Thanks a bunch!

[@karengallinoel6367]

I appreciate your pillow test. I don't think I will get one. I'm a beginner so I will be tuning in for help.

[@ozarkarky]

I think the main difference is your environment. If your freeze dryer is in a controlled environment with low humidity it probably doesn't have a lot of effect. But if your freeze dryer is in an environment with relatively high humidity then you're going to have a lot of condensation on the door, and the resulting puddle beneath it.

[@davemarshall1794]

Yes! We just got our freeze dryer and ran our first two batches over the weekend. The puddle underneath was unexpected and unwelcome.

[@sv3931]

@@davemarshall1794 Same here. So I called HR and asked to buy one & they told me that the pillow has nothing to do with condensation. That doesn't really comport with comment sections on FD videos. HR says it's just humidity in the air. My FD is in the kitchen, with a fan, and refrigerated A/C. Admittedly, I do live in a med-hi humidity zone (spring & fall) but drought-ful summers.

[@sassyherbgardener7154]

@@davemarshall1794 I just watched a YT video on how a guy made a simple insulating piece to go around the rubber seal on his freeze dryer door. His channel is SchoolReports. I am making one this week for my condensation leak drip.

[@danoesq2]

I just got their newer model and was wondering about that. Thanks for clearing that up.

[@MrBiron1]

I was a bit annoyed not getting my pillow but. I just use the extruded polystyrene cut a hole in thefor the handle the stick into and I just shove it on top of the Plexiglas it saves me a hour. Bonus is when it's in vacuum I pull it off and watch

[@rowdoyoumakethebubblesr8200]

What is that?

[@gentlehouse1632]

The polystyrene is on outside of the door?

[@MaliPendragon]

Can you provide a picture of what you did? It sounds interesting.

[@peggye.5454]

Thanks for the great videos. I’ve had my medium FD since 2017 and the pillow has never been very “snug”. Have never had a 29 hour run! Almost always 40+ hours no matter what I’m freeze drying. HarvestRight has been absolutely no help in this regard. After 135 loads I started getting vacuum errors, changed pump, didn’t help got a 8cfm pump which helped for a couple of runs but dryer is still shutting down after 30 minutes of 1st dry cycle even though the gauge on the pump is at maximum vacuum. We’ve checked everything but just get a run around from HR. You and other owners on YT have been much more helpful. Thanks again.

[@mmkucharczyk81]

what i found out is that your food is to moist.and that error i get some times .when that happens just hit more time

[@leeludallas7069]

hello, i just found your channel today. i received my med harvest right FD the other day. i noticed it DID NOT come with a pillow. so, this video was very informative. i have my FD in the house. im PRAYING its not too obnoxiously loud b/c its in the breakfast nook, lol. but some of the digging I've done people are saying that in a high humidity environment i should have the pillow. however, my house runs around 73 degrees, im in SE Florida. i will def order the tray dividers once ive learned hoe to use my new machine

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

They have not shipped with pillows for a couple years now. It can be helpful for condensation in humid environments. Air-conditioned houses or a dehumidified room can also be helpful. There is a lady on our facebook page that sells pillows if you still find that you need one.

[@Mr_elc]

TYSM! I was wondering what the pillow was and why it was missing

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Budget cuts i guess😂

[@coonassprepper5243]

HR originally said it causes stress on the door and could over time cause cracking. now they no longer say that. Mine didn't come with a pillow. and there is no way to really test it except time is going to be the real test. One thing I have noticed is the condensation on the door which causes dripping of water on the floor. It also drips water during the defrost cycle.

[@carolclarkson4859]

I have had my freeze dryer for 5 years and rarely use the pillow. It doesn't seem to make a difference. I can't imagine how it would reduce stresses on the door.

[@addamaniac]

Would love to see the energy usage between the two batches. Was surprised you didn't have the killawatt set. Since you did a great job of removing other variables, this would have been a great use for it.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I am not able to find a meter that will work with the large freeze dryer

[@mattc7820]

Davagain, that's not correct, differences in the temperature (due to a change in the thermal transfer with & without a pillow) will change the current draw on the refrigerant compressor. It will be a small change, but it will not be insignificant.

[@wordsofhis1799]

Awww, man.... My freeze dryer is due to be delivered next week, and I hope I get a pillow! That's the only pillow talk that I get anymore.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

😂 Harvestright no longer sends a pillow with their orders

[@liannemitchell2279]

I'm not surprised that it takes longer without since it's not as insulating so likely takes longer to get to the initial freeze. Especially as it hasn't vacuum sealed the door yet. I've also seen comments on the facebook pages that after a few years, the relatively fast temperature changes can damage the door and it cracks. For me, I leave it off if I put something in that I'm worried might explode or expand than I want. I get a lot of condensation around the door and and rubber ring that I don't get with the pillow. I kinda feel like HR just took an easy, cheap way out. First they started only making one size which is why some don't fit properly, which is why people have a hard time with not getting it in right and having the seal not work. Then they'd complaints about that so decided not to supply it. I just expect that in a few years, lots of people are going to end up needing new doors. If I buy another one and don't get a pillow, I'll make one myself. For now, they have a monopoly on the machines so it's not like you can go to a competitor that does supply them.

[@jsigmo]

I always wonder how nasty the batting in these pillows gets. Normally, it's a no-no to use porous materials in a food processing or prep area because they're difficult to keep sanitary. I also wonder if the pad would cause excessive carryover of odors between batches. Try doing a batch of onions, and then a batch of something bland. Try this with and without the pillow. What about making an insulating pad that snaps onto the outside of the door, so you can take it on and off, and not have it be inside of the freeze dryer? That seems more sanitary, and allows you to peek in any time, and remove it entirely once the vacuum process begins. I see no reason not to insulate the door from the outside.

[@OvcharkaShepherd]

Counting the days until my unit arrives. Inspired by your videos!!!

[@davidscott1897]

I would buy a pillow if it was in your store. I live in a high humidity environment and condensation runs down the door. Thanks for making good on the no suck kit that was accidently overlooked on my last order. I will be ordering again.

[@cookiestehl7907]

Did that cause a little malfunction? I’m having the humidity issue now

[@devonraney5170]

A lot of people have mentioned condensation, I agree with them but want to add the pillow aids in a barrier between the food and any water drops that fall from the gasket when I first open the door. I live in a humid place and always have water drops on the gasket and even tho I wipe it off first there are still a few drops that fall when the door opens. I like having the barrier to make sure non land on the food somehow.

[@devonraney5170]

@@TheOfficialArthurMorgan I’ve done that, it still drips. And it’s extra wear and tear on the gasket

[@devonraney5170]

@@TheOfficialArthurMorgan ya I mean I guess we’re doing it differently. Mine doesn’t really come off without a tight snap back and then the water falls off. No biggie there are more than 1 way to achieve something.

[@devonraney5170]

@@TheOfficialArthurMorgan weird, I’ve had mine a couple years. Maybe they’ve started making them slightly larger now but mine is really tight and hard to get off.

[@marceld6061]

From the comments it sounds like most people who want the pillow live in humid climates like I do. I can't see how the pillow aids in the freeze drying process itself but is intended to be an insulator to keep the door warmer so moisture in the air of the room won't condense on the surface. I read a couple of comments that I found interesting and will give a try. Both involve having a thermal break on the outside of the door. One being a pillow on the OUTSIDE and the other involves a rigid foam panel cut to size. Maybe another product idea for your store? Even simply selling patterns for DIY.

[@angelrob17]

I’m too lazy at the moment to go dig through my notes, but the pre-freeze was also noticeably faster with the pillow. I never do identical loads, so thanks for this test! As always, very informative.

[@KLU421]

I ordered a custom pillow from the woman in Florida. Even though I may not need it, it looks pretty! 😁. My room is pretty humid, even with the air on, so I'll continue to use it. Ordered the dividers, can't wait to get them! Thanks

[@brichter4669]

I saw her website yesterday and was considering buying a pillow. Have you received it yet? If so, do you like it? I just received my FD and it didn't come with the insulating pillow. I haven't used the FD yet. Reading that people are having an issue with condensation around the door, I may go ahead and purchase one.

[@readypetequalmers7360]

is there a link to this store?

[@KLU421]

[e-mail]

[@KLU421]

I love it!

[@bernardr.6868]

Thanks, we are on solar and I appreciate knowing this. Ours came with the pillow thankfully.

[@audreygoodell2219]

Just ran my first test batch of bread per instructions. I had no pillow but there was quite a bit of frost on the door during the process.

[@Bullfrog0302]

I fd with out the pillow,, I noticed more moisture on the door I'm keeping the pillow

[@JimmyDevere]

Just received my FD last week. No pillow yet it was in the pictures which is part of the description. They need to send me one free of charge asap! 1hr a half per batch is a big difference when multiplied by 200 batches a year. That's 300 hrs per year! Not to mention the condensation and possible door cracks from rapid cooling/heating cycles.

[@tech-mediasvc]

Exactly

[@henkvanderklok]

If you process and freeze dry in a room kept at a lower temperature (say 53 degrees F) you don't really need the pillow. The cold room also speeds up the freezing, costs less energy, and colder air carries less humidity, so after freeze dry less moisture gets back into the food.

[@jimmylittle9393]

OOooOOoo those tray dividers are clever!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

👍

[@valeria2930]

You are awesome. Mine FD is coming in soon. Can't wait. Question. So they are uncooked pizza rolls? Thinking of my grandkids. I am on whole foods plant base diet. Its torture having junk food taking up my freezer and frig in case they come over. On a whole foods plant base diet my frig is prime real-estate. I'm hoping this freeze dryer will help with my diet as well. Great job on your videos. They should put you on their payroll.

[@rmojo23]

I would be interested if you tried the reflectics bubble insulation instead of the pillow.

[@billhatcher2984]

I was wondering how you were going to rehydrate the pizza rolls but I guess you don't have to just have a couple of drinks of water looks good bet my grand kids would love them

[@lindajordan6498]

Kind of like having the freeze dried ice cream sandwiches LOL

[@bornonthebayou7926]

I've had sealing problems and I like to be able to see the product during the process. No more pillow.

[@sv3931]

Is it medium? Wanna sell?

[@moniqueberthault4154]

I love my dividers. Smart and practical design. Where can we find more of your detailed recipes ??? Thank you !

[@sparrowmoses48]

One comment said about the interior of the pillow getting nasty -- aren't they a 100% moisture proof covering? * I'm thinking this: attach a temperature strip to the middle inside of the door. Record it at various times during the process, with and without pillow. Doesn't the machine tell you how cold it is inside? Write that and times down, too. Compare. Oh, and kWh for each

[@CannaNoir]

The dividers you make look AMAZING! I'll definitely be ordering some! They are going to help a LOT!

[@julipersm4371]

I wished we were given this as the other customers I purchased with the advertisement of one so not happy with the buy one if wanted one an ket me try an play with it

[@brichter4669]

Just received our FD and it didn't come with a pillow. Now that I see people are having condensation issues around the door without a pillow, I am concerned. I purchased several items from your supply store and received them. Wish I could have ordered the dividers from you, but I have already purchased similar metal dividers from a different vendor. Thank you for sharing your videos. Am learning a lot from them and joined your FB group. Looking forward to doing lots of freeze drying.

[@danielghoganjr]

you keep creating things that i have to buy. Keep up the good work!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Ha! There are more products coming !

[@pamevetts5057]

I like the pillow because of the condensate on my gasket of every load. I am able to dry off the gasket prior to removing the pillow. One drop on a tray could cause a disaster. Thanx for your study.

[@Jimbojam]

I like the pillow. it insulates the freeze dryer and doubles as a knee pillow at night. you know you want to try that out now

[@allenanthony2651]

the divider is a great idea!

[@arnoldreiter435]

i have the small model received it with no pillow and it works just fine. i like that i can see how the food is during the process. Pillow or no pillow is not a problem unless you make it one. Do what works for you. Brian will you be making the dividers for the small dryer? i would buy a set.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

We don't have plans for the small as of now

[@bc24roxy4]

it is harder to find supplies for the small one. I just got mine and it is the small FD. I found a website that John in Bibs on YT uses. they are stainless steel dividers. frozenright.com and they have the dividers for small freeze dryers but they are $56 plus $20 for shipping. they have the tray grates too but not in small. would love some of those

[@lauran6184]

I always thought the pillow was to protect the plexiglass from constant extreme temps. Makes it last longer

[@ploveforeveryours]

I always used my pillow, tried for the first time on my last run, and my plexiglass door has a bunch of micro cracks all inside it now 🥺

[@lauran6184]

@@ploveforeveryours aww that stinks. Sorry to hear that.

[@Linda-dw8wd]

I think you are correct. I may look into making a plexiglass shield. Saw one KZbinr do it and makes more sense bc you can still see.

[@AdmiralPreparedness]

I got mine with the pillow. It does not fit as I expected it to. I'll keep using it as the edge does not have condendation around it with it in during a cycle. Cheers! ALWAYS BE PREPARED

[@billholder253]

Just saw this video on vacuum packing using Havest Right Freeze Dryer & the Mylar freezer bags. It is similar to the video you did the same way, but this has an added option. It appears to be a game changer in sealing bags. Take a look & search KZbin for video named "vacuum packing Mylar in a freeze dryer" by Evan Rowell. I know you will get a lot of information from Mr. Rowell. Hope this comments is of help to the freeze drying community.

[@MaliPendragon]

Thanks for this tip Bill. I like Evan's approach to make a Much tighter vaccume seal using the Harvest Right freeze dryer. Excellent tip!

[@phyrewillow6463]

Thanks for the video! Answered my question. 👍

[@sheilastringfield3463]

Aggghhh! My order I made last week just shipped! I def would have ordered this dividers had they been available.

[@sv3931]

Me too

[@timwatson1544]

1 hr and 22min. Is a significant amount of time and electricity saved. I think i would use it. Or buy one. Where can i buy one?

[@monana8706]

PS: Love the new dividers! Will check them out!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

They are a game changer. It has been really tough staying tight lipped about these the last few weeks!

[@jameshaines789]

In regards to whether the “pillow” is or isn’t beneficial isn’t necessarily food quality but time and energy consumption. The pillow could potentially reduce loss of temperature in its heat or cooling cycles. Put an energy consumption gauge on it with accurate timing… It would also be interesting if you used an accurate laser temperature meter and take potential “loss” readings on each heat/cooling cycle at the door where the pillow rests…

[@xemptynester3449]

It could prevent the door from cracking.

[@jameshaines789]

@@xemptynester3449 I think you may have something there. Although it’s only superficial we have what appears to be scratches, probably due to the extreme temperature changes.

[@TaraTechTutor]

Those dividers look amazing. Adding them to my wish list for when I get my freeze dryer. I'm getting closer! Thanks for another great video.

[@ThirteenKidsLater]

I’ve had my freeze dryers since 2015. In the past month I’ve tried running them without the pillows and the primary difference I have noticed has been faint spider web type cracking in the inside of the plexiglass door. It does nothing threaten the integrity or function of the door….yet…but it is a definite change. I have gone back to using the pillows in mine.

[@xemptynester3449]

I have a machine from 2018 and I have the spider webbing from only about 4 loads without it. I wonder if they did research om the doors. I am concerned about using without the pillow. Has the door been improved? Is the plexiglass thicker or better quality? If those who don't have a pillow want one they can buy one from Betty on Betty's Freeze Frying Group.

[@mamak1967]

I have always used the pillow and have had that from day one

[@lizakin1274]

So when you mix the different foods, do the smells not effect the rest of the food in the other trays?

[@homesteadingwithapurpose9681]

Thanks for all the information.

[@EarthlyVibes]

🇨🇦🇺🇸 mine came with no pillow. I am noticing a fair amount of “sweating” on the outer part of the seal and on some batches, the front of the door drips with condensation. Anyone else experiencing that?

[@Drum3Matrix]

I notice the condensation as well but I don't think it creates any type of issue.

[@tech-mediasvc]

Absolutely, a lot of condensation without it here in TN. Plus, the unit will wear out quicker since it has to run longer. Not a prudent choice!

[@carolclarkson4859]

The sweating will happen either way. This will happen more when it is humid.

[@sv3931]

*@Carroll* Yes. I had quite a puddle this morning.

[@SilentWatcher594]

Yes,,,getting some condensation on the outside of the door seal,, and a little on the outside of the glass door. I just lay a folded kitchen towel underneath the door. It catches any drips. Then same towel to wipe the seal before opening the door. A minor inconvenience.

[@starrmiller8737]

My unit gets delivered next week. From reading through comments I definitely want a pillow. Can someone share with me dimensions of a medium pillow so I can make one? Thanks

[@susansmith574]

13 1/4 inch circle

[@DeathclawJedi]

Watched you for a couple of years now been subbed for about a year. How is it this is the first time it registered in my mind that you sold stuff for help with freeze drying too!?!? Life getting in the road I guess. To busy and focused on feeding my cattle or fixing fence or everything...! Going to go check out your products right now! Edit your Oxy absorbers are less expensive than the ones I currently buy. Next time I need some you've got my business. Probably going to get the dividers too.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

We have lots more new stuff coming in the next couple months! Thanks for your support

[@tech-mediasvc]

Thank you for this video. I had requested this in another video comment after I received no pillow. As I expected, the time is extended for each batch which causes unnecessary wear and tear on the unit, and will cause the FD to process less batches before it wears out. Of course, this is good for HarvestRight because they have less phone calls for support and have now added “planned obsolescence” to the product, which increases their profit. I know you are an affiliate, so it is in your best interests to tell people that HarvestRight is who you should listen too. I for one, will be adding a pillow to also help with condensation issues here in South. Thanks again!

[@tech-mediasvc]

Just an update, This is the reply I received from an email I sent to HR asking if they could provide me with test results showing the lack of the door pad would not extend the run time and wear & tear on the FD unit. Unfortunately, they seem to have avoided the question: “Hi there, thank you so much for contacting us! The sales team was correct. We have discontinued the door pad. When we did have them, all they were used for was to help insulate the machine. After our engineers did a lot of testing, we found that they were essentially useless so we decided to stop carrying them. We also learned that the door pads were causing more issues than not! A lot of vacuum errors were because of that pad. It was a fairly recent decision to discontinue them which is probably why you are still seeing them in videos online."

[@walterackermann4040]

@@tech-mediasvc ..

[@19TheDan]

My thoughts on this are, its less than a 5% difference between the two. Meaning that it most likely doesn't do much if at all. I come from dynoing cars, it take 3 runs in the same environment and I've seen anywhere from 2% to 10% fluctuation. No 3 tests are the same. If it was like 5 hours or even 3 hours difference I would say it helps. But I believe that if you did a few more runs it would vary between the 2. With pillow shorter on some and Without pillow would be shorter as well. Unless you saw like 15% difference in power usage as well I would say the results are far too close to call.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I agree

[@jameshuett2559]

Love the dividers.

[@welderprincess133]

So the question I have is, what made them think they needed the pillow in the first place and why do they now think it is unnecessary?? Is this really a supply issue? Because it just coincidentally happened during covid and all the supply disruptions 🤷‍♀️

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I think the main reason is they got tired of people calling them with "user error" questions.

[@Drum3Matrix]

They needed a pillow in the first place to help with outside condensation on the door and seal. The pillow didn't affect the freeze drying of the food though.

[@sv3931]

@@Drum3Matrix I had a hefty puddle this am. Called them & was told the pillow doesn't affect condensation at all. •shrug•

[@starrmiller8737]

The masses shouldn’t have to suffer for user error of few.

[@welderprincess133]

@@starrmiller8737 how are the masses suffering over this?

[@basperry2420]

Brian, I have never seen you do a video about machine frosting up. My machine is brand new and it is frosting up and dripping water. I have not been able to use it and am now running diagnostic tests with Harvest Right Help Squad. How disappointing this is

[@MelissaOsten]

Do you have a video about the moisture meter that you use? What it is and how to use it? Thanks 😊

[@oscar33212]

The dividers have to slow the sloshing about while moving and loading your trays.

[@gaileudaly9457]

I have so much condensation on door. Think pillow would help with that? Wrote this before I read the posts below.

[@heidianderson9933]

We have the Harvest Right Pro Series XL model and it didn't come with the pillow since they've stopped including pillows with the newer units. My question is, can we purchase a pillow that will fit our HRFD? If not, what type of material and filling could I use to make one for our FD? Thank you.

[@omahanb1]

I just run the vacuum test for a few seconds to set the seal before I start the freeze dry. I tried milk but it tastes like defrost ice and machine metal.

[@amandaaskew7606]

I got my freeze dryer right after they quit sending out the pillows. I have friends who have pillows, and all of my loads seem to take 2 + hours more than theirs. I also like being able to see what is going on in the chamber, but the quicker dry time is valuable for several reasons.

[@Ldybugsrus-Nadine]

There is a video by school reports he shows how to make a plexiglss insert that insulates and allows you to still see inside.

[@amandaaskew7606]

@@Ldybugsrus-Nadine thank you!!! I will look the video up now!

[@dkheaton]

@@Ldybugsrus-Nadine Do you happen to have a link for this video you talk about? I could not find it. Thanks

[@Ldybugsrus-Nadine]

@@dkheaton kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6OrYol6prOcbpI

[@deltonsearles9832]

Did they take the pillow away because of the foam off gassing problem?? My last CPAP device removed it in a recall... possibly the same thing??

[@larrywebster3325]

My medium Havest Right arrived a couple of weeks ago with no pillow. I called them and they do not include the pillow any more. Too many issues with them and they said they're not necessary.

[@brucezietlow4324]

Don't get it? Pillows were design to help with the wear and tear on the freeze-dryer due to the vacum!?

[@carolclarkson4859]

They reduce the freeze time by a few minutes, but if used wrong can cause a vacuum error. They don't help with wear and tear.

[@TandBKount]

QUESTION RE: CART: What is the cart that you have the freeze dryer on and where did you find it? It looks so much nicer than the plastic one HR promotes. I just received my Small size HR FD and am currently keeping it on my counter.

[@Tracyann_]

I have the same question... my large freezer dryer seems to heavy for the polypropylene cart I purchased for it.

[@ok2x]

i believe that is a “uline steel push cart “ there are many brands that make them

[@TandBKount]

@Be_Great Thank you! I'll check it out.

[@barbaramandy8708]

Just got my FD and I'd rather have the pillow. They should have made it an option. Where can I get a pillow? I'm not on FB or MEWE.

[@xemptynester3449]

this information is from Betty's Freeze drying Group: " If you are interested in my custom color Harvest Right insulated door pads, email me at; [e-mail]" I hope that helps.

[@melindastraub8889]

I just got my medium freeze dryer. I have had condensation dripping off the rubber gasket around the door, I don't feel any cold air escaping from the door. I have yet to have a successful load of product. I currently have 3 trays of sliced apricots, 2 trays of raspberries and the machine is still saying "drying" at 45 hours..... suggestions?

[@cglazier100]

I just got my freeze dryer and we don't have a pillow since its new. However does your freeze dryer have moisture drip off the front and the seal around it has frost? Just making sure mine is ok. Also the front of the door by the end had frost all on the front. Wanting to make sure mine is working right. It took way longer to do the bread like you suggested for our first run before we start batches. It made me wonder if I needed a pillow or not.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

If you live in a humid climate, you will have condensation. Very similar to a cold drink in the summer. There is a lady in our Facebook group by the name of Joanne Logan

[@kathywind1584]

I live in Texas near the coast. I have a lot of condensation on the door. Because of the amount of water I have to put a bucket under the door. Will the pillow stop or slow down all the condensation that causes a mess on counter and floor.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

It does help but not completely.

[@chiefandprepper]

so for a cube of dried milk how much water did you add back to rehydrate?

[@bluewolf4915]

weigh the tray before and after to determine how much water was removed then add that much back.

[@juliewalker6068]

I just purchased my first machine and I was wondering what changed that you don't need the pillow anymore?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Hr decided that they were not necessary. I also think they got tired of people pinching them in the door and getting vacuum error codes.

[@hollybishop2095]

Was there a difference in the amount of ice buildup between pillow/no pillow?

[@2000freefuel]

OK so what about improvising with some pink foam board?

[@ThirteenKidsLater]

With a medium you may be able to do that. The large doesn’t have enough of a gap between the front of the shelves and the door to add even thin foam board.

[@juanitadafler7233]

My new one, right out of the box I can not get it to complete a vacuum freeze. I have all sorts of condensation around the bottom of my door, yes it's locked. What do you recommend for me to do?

[@starrmiller8737]

I’ve seen that some have asked the company to ship them one anyway and the answer was no but have anyone asked for compensation since the pillow was in the order description? Personally I think if they aren’t willing to either ship you one or compensate you, that is theft. If it’s in the order description it’s part of the cost and having to buy one made by someone else isn’t cheap. Seems like their customer service needs work.

[@tulipsmoran5197]

Here's the current "What's Included" list: Medium Freeze Dryer Premier Vacuum Pump Vacuum Pump Oil Oil Filter Stainless Steel Trays (set of 4) Guide to Freeze Drying Mylar Bags (50 ct) Oxygen Absorbers (50 ct) Impulse Sealer NO PILLOW

[@starrmiller8737]

@@tulipsmoran5197 Yes, they changed it AFTER I placed my order. My order description included the pillow but they still would not send me one.

[@anthonycassata5152]

We are new to this. We are waiting on our freeze dryer to be deliver to our house. I have been preparing and having everything ready so when it comes, we can get started. I have been working on a stand/cabinet for it, almost done, although I’m sure it will be an ongoing project as most of mine are. We opted for the large one. So I got the dimensions for it and the pump from the website, I plan on making a drawer for some of the accessories and the rest will be on the bottom of the stand. Having said all that, does anyone know what the overall dimensions of the sealer are? Any help would be helpful. Thank you Tony C.

[@ittaphei]

IDEA for video? Vacuum Pump Owner's Manual, page 06 item 5. Is there a white filter inside the Premier or just the original pump? I have Premier and don't see a white filter. Haven't seen anything in any videos.

[@lauraandersen6264]

Can I freeze dry tomatoes and green peppers together

[@jobethmorrison3689]

Mine didn’t come with a pillow. Is it normal to have some frost on the outside of the door gasket?

[@gregsmith9179]

I WASNT HAPPY WITH THEIR PILLOW SO I STUCK TWO PIECES OF PINK FOAM INSULATION FROM HOME DEPOT, HO DE. AND THEN SHAVED IT DOWN TO FIT SNUGGLEY AND IN MY MIND ANYTHING TO NET HEAT OR FREEZE THE FREEZE DRY ROOM IS A PLUS AND I NEVER SEE FROST OR A WET DOOR

[@camilleramirez8753]

We received ours today! Woohoo! Quick question. We are in Houston Tx, the only dedicated 20 amp is in the garage, but it is so hot and humid. Should I run a dedicated 20 amp inside my house instead? Thanks! Love your videos.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Yes, it needs to be in a climate controlled area.

[@camilleramirez8753]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity thank you so much!

[@brucejohnson1264]

Wait just a minute......The chamber has a vacuum, right? Insulation works by blocking and preventing the flow of air. If there is no air in the chamber, does the pillow actually provide any insulation value? It seems to me like it would only work when there is no vacuum in the chamber.

[@shawncoryell630]

You aren’t making the tray dividers for a small machine?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Yes, we sell all sizes. Select the size you need in the drop down menu

[@bobaloo2012]

I found the same thing, runs took 2 hours or more longer without the pillow insulating the door. I suspect a few idiot customers made problems for themselves and Harvest Right is just pulling a CYA move, it clearly has to help to insulate the door, a half inch of acrylic doesn't do much against -50 degrees.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Most likely easier to eliminate the pillow instead of dealing with 20,000 vacuum issues. You are probably correct.