Harvestright XL Freeze Dryer Review -- You're Going to Want to See This!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

**The New Pro Model XL has 7 trays!!! When I ordered this they came with 6 trays!**

[@HabitualButtonPusher]

Be interesting to see a kilawatt meter hooked up for an entire cycle so we can the the total energy use for the XL. Pretty impressive unit.

[@gigihenderson8567]

Anyone have a line of a kilowatt meter that can handle the Nema plug? I haven’t found one yet, so would appreciate ideas, thx.

[@bradgriffin1665]

They should cut the trays in half lengthwise, two trays per slot. That would help with freezer space and fitting them into a dishwasher.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Something to think about

[@lujlp]

Or 1/3 size, three to a tray on 3, two to a tray on the other three

[@TheRealBatCave]

​@@lujlphave u seen the new 7 tray xl?

[@lujlp]

@@TheRealBatCave no

[@TheRealBatCave]

@@lujlp its the same just 7 trays now fit in it

[@resourcefulgirl]

Thanks for the side by side comparison. I'm new to freeze drying and have the large. I planned the room, electric, and even my upright deep freezer around the large Harvest Right. I think the prep work is considerable with the large. The XL would be so much more. I love my FD but all of the prep before and after the product is completed takes some serious dedication. I even made sure my island countertop was extra large to accommodate for prepping and packaging the food when I built my house.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

You are correct! Even the difference for prep from a medium to large is significant. The XL is perfect for large batch though. It definitely requires dedication and more planning in many ways.

[@Bluebarnpastures]

We got our XL a few months ago - it is our first freeze dryer. We initially thought it might be overkill to get the big one but we love it. Absolutely no regrets. The reason we decided to go with the XL is because we have a large family. We have 11 kids, four are married, and we are friendly with the in-laws. We share the XL freeze dryer with everyone. We haven’t had any issues with people not being able to fill all the trays. They always come prepared to get as much food freeze dried as possible. The trays don’t fit in our big upright freezer, which really surprised me, and they are awkward to clean, but those are minor inconveniences that we are able to work around. It’s been a real blessing for us so far.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Wow. Sounds like that XL is really getting some good use

[@thegoodoldways]

Good jealous! We have 2 large freeze dryers and would love this also. Crazy about freeze drying. You’ve taught us so much. Thx.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Thanks for your support

[@nancyseery2213]

Being able to see this new XL in your video is so helpful. The side by side really shows all of the differences and knowing that it need a special electric circuit is a real game change for most people. The amount of food to have a whole load is amazing, but also more than I can produce from my garden at one time. Based on all of the information you have shown in this video, I can now truely judge the size of freeze dryer that would best suit my needs. Thank you for all of this information, so well presented!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Don't forget that the new "pro" models have an extra tray as well. So the med now has 5 trays and the large has 6!

[@gigihenderson8567]

I had a layaway of a large, and called to upgrade to XL, but between this video and in your book, where you talked about deciding just how much food you think you will use, I opted back to the Large. I’ll be sharing with friends and I think it would be a challenge for folks to fill an XL tray.

[@FtLivingRoomHomestead]

Just bought 2 of these for my business. Thank you so much for this indebth overview. I am so excited to get started making great things!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dsbennett]

I always appreciate your complete and concise reviews. Thanks. I see a couple of reasons why this might not be a good choice. (1) How long it will take to bag up that much freeze-dried food when you're trying to beat the clock in humid climates? (2) Will you always have enough for a full load?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Both good points

[@Reggaeshark.]

You can buy a 30 or 50 pint dehumidifier

[@duncanb.a.s2886]

I am so excited to get an XL Freeze Dryer. I have a farm and produce a lot of my own food, most of it actually, and I was always thinking of getting 2 or even 3 large freeze dryers, now with the XL one I am really focused on getting one.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

You will benefit huge from an xl. Congrats on your self sustainability! That's awesome!

[@MrOiam]

I noticed in one clip you had a fan cooling the vacuum oil pump. The reason you may need the oil to attend the temperature of over 212° is to boil off any water that is accumulating in the oil. We do the same thing with their automobiles you need to regularly run your engine long enough to attain 212° to illuminate the water from condensation and preserve the engine and oil

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

It's more for air circulation on mine. I do agree with you though. The pumps are designed to run in extremes.

[@koenrad]

Just ordered 2 thanks for the review!

[@2fathomsdeeper]

One thing that HR should put out is a tray set of small and medium trays for doing smaller batches. Say for a large machine, 2x small trays and 2x medium trays with mats and covers for them. The XL could be 3x of large, medium, and small. On buying a new freeze dryer, get at least 2 extra sets of trays! Then you have one set drying, one in the freezer, and one in the wash. Minimum table space for a large dryer is 34"x6'. I went with 4' with mine and there's not enough table space. Though, I did want to put my pump on the shelf under the table, but the hose wasn't long enough. For parchment, buy a roll and cut it down with a table saw to proper width for your trays. For poking berries, find a needle type meat tenderizer. Use it on frozen berries. Never use Windex, or alcohol on the plexiglass door. It will cause crazing (micro cracking) which can lead to an implosion. On a large at vacuum, there's 2429 pounds (1 1/4 tons) of pressure on that door. Any cracking could lead to disaster! On the 4Patriots/Prep4life machine, the square chamber is going to metal fatigue at the corners. I watched a video of one going into defrost, and the amount of ice cracking was incredible. Just the amount of cracking in the video was more than I've heard since I got my machine. It comes from expansion and contraction of the walls of the chamber due to heat and pressure. A round chamber will spread those stresses out, but a square chamber will focus the stress at the corners. Metal fatigue in those corners will cause cracking and possible implosion. And with the internal oil free pump, wait until they have to overhaul the pump! Also, the position of the computer is going to lead to condensation problems. That's why HR moved it to the top.

[@bmack03]

Ty for your comment! Prep4Life was on my list but I just saw it is equal to a medium HR so “too small” for us in my mind. I never even thought about the fatigue due to being a “cube” so I am marking it off my list due to that alone. So happy to have come across your comment!

[@juliea9661]

I have a large and 3 sets of trays. I can find it challenging to prepare AND then package all that food. Unless it’s a liquid like milk, or blended raw eggs. That’s fast to fill trays. Your vid makes me satisfied with my large. Would be great for commercial, though.

[@davidcarson7897]

That thing is a beast! I love my medium though. As much as I want one I think for now at least my medium will do fine. That is awesome though. Thank you for the walkthrough!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Our pleasure. Happy Freeze Drying!

[@egochecker]

Just order my XL last week cant wait for it to get here! Thank you for the discount

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

You will love the XL

[@egochecker]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity can't wait it will be her on the 6th

[@kimberlybenienministries2715]

THANK YOU! I am looking forward to ordering a few of these and I will use you affiliate link; AND I am patiently waiting for your accessories. Thank you again for an information packed video. God bless you.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Awesome, thank you!

[@kellymccauley5726]

We just put an xl on layaway last week, now rethinking that. Really want the capacity but not being able to put trays in freezer or oven is a major concern. Was thinking of using multiple silicone pans and just set on trays but would be so much wasted space since there are no sizes that really utilize that tray size. Is this a feasible idea and if so are you planning on producing silicone pans that will be a perfect fit for HR XL trays? And if you weren't already thinking it could you hook a girl up with a free set for giving you the idea😊

[@spencernoyes7054]

So I watched this video before I made my decision on which to buy. Opted to go to the large because I didn’t want to do wiring at my house. Come to find out the new Larges also require a dedicated circuit NEMA 5-20 plug. Should have done my own research

[@garybenaszeski3465]

Sold, we are serious gardeners with a dozen fruit trees and a small (1/4 acre ) vineyard. We have had a large for several years and for about two and a half months run the large almost 24x7 and can not freeze dry everything we would like too. Hurry up with the dividers 🙂keep up the good work!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

You will increase your productivity 2x on freeze drying! Dividers are coming but will take time. We manufacturer in a small town in the USA, so things are a little slower.

[@freezedryfyi]

It's crazy this is a commercial unit but it isn't stainless paint like the large. We had a big issue with our large and getting it approved for commercial use. Trying to find a freezer that'll take those trays and a deep sink to clean the trays, this requires many upgrades and expense beyond the XL itself.

[@nanpac3699]

@freezedryfyi3557 Would you mind sharing what issue/trouble you had with your large FD? I want a FD for personal use, but might also use it for commercial use to make the most of the "idle" time. (I haven't decided on which size might work for me.)

[@Bee-Kind-Baker]

Thank you so much for this thorough review. Question please, Did you leave the pump behind the freeze dryer? It looked like it. With our 2 mediums , we were told to set the pump away from the FD, due to heat issues. We’ve decided to go ahead and get the xl. We’ve already sold the mediums. We’ll check out your cart. We’ve ordered dividers and parchment from you before. Will be keeping a watch for your lids. Our HR lids were very prone to cracking on the corners. Thank you 🌺

[@remedychef]

Nice video. Thanks 🙏🏻. What is the lowest temperature adjustment available for heating trays?

[@briarpalek9254]

We keep our medium running back to back cycles after the defrost has completed. We regretted not going with the large, but this XL version would be sweet. I fabricated an extra set of trays from some stainless steel sheet metal I had in my iron pile and would definitely do the same for this model. As has been pointed out making them in half lengths would be my choice as well. We have 4 sets of trays that we rotate so the down time is kept to a minimum. This XL is a monster and if I were just starting out knowing what we have learned, this would most definitely be my choice. Yes, the initial investment is considerably more than the medium, but this would have a much faster ROI if your doing any serious freeze drying.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

half trays would be nice!

[@petenelson8136]

Thanks for the review. Wow that's one big freeze dryer. I can't see myself ever needing to freeze dry that much food at one time, but then again I don't own a FD yet so ... I've been watching your videos for over 2 years now in anticipation of my FD purchase. My new house is being built and this is one of the appliances we plan on buying, just not sure what size, I'm leaning towards a large. We currently have 40 (4'x8') raised beds, and 45 (going to 60 this year) laying hens (and 5 roosters). We're also raising 2 pigs this year and will be getting 4 steers in 2026. I can see myself FD a bunch of eggs, and vegetables we raise in the garden (currently we do a lot of canning), just not sure how much the FD will be used with all the other food storage we already do.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I think once you start freeze drying 90% of your canning will go to freeze drying instead.

[@gigihenderson8567]

A couple of advantages of FDing is that, when properly dried and stored in mylar bags with O2 absorbers, the food will last over 20 years without any loss of quality. I also do canning, but in glass jars the quality goes down as it ages. Also FDed in mylar takes up less space than jars and cans.

[@gigihenderson8567]

I wonder if you could use the XL pump on a large FD

[@daotran2300]

Very informative video. Thank you

[@hmarc417]

This is just a funny Question... LOL... Just how many finished and unfinished kitchen filming sets, do you have in that one house?? LOLOLOLOL Found out that i have a few more weeks to wait before ordering but then you will be getting my order for the units and the add-ons, like a ton of extra trays and extra goodies. Thank you XL-EXCELLENT

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

We have moved around a couple times since starting KZbin. 4 kitchens since 2017 😂 We appreciate your support.

[@chelseal654]

This seems like a better application for people who farm. I definitely wouldn’t want anything bigger than a large, I couldn’t even get the XL trays in my freezer. If you have a big freezer and a lot of people to preserve for then I can see the appeal but this is probably not for most people.

[@richardsibley7374]

Bought the large after finding your channel, fighting off the frustration of this larger size comming on the market,$3600.00 later.

[@stevecorcoran9869]

Luckily, code in the US only requires 12 gauge wire for a 20 Amp circuit. Unless you have an almost new home most contractors used 12 gauge wire for everything for decades, except larger appliances (e.g. furnace, stove, AC etc.). If you are lucky enough to have a receptacle on a dedicated circuit (e.g. the circuit breaker only feeds that one receptacle), and you verify that 12 gauge wire was used, it is allowable to simply swap to a 20 Amp breaker and change the receptacle over to a NEMA 5-20 receptacle (looks like a regular outlet, except one slot is a t).

[@Sabrina1998]

Hi and thank you for this video. The only thing I have not figured out yet is how to clear out the scrolling text on the screen when it prompted me to change my oil. So I change my oil, but I have no idea how to clear it off the screen. Could you help me with that?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Depending on your software version, you can press different logos and things on the screen. There is a section that allows you to change the type of pump you have and reset the oil change reminder

[@LittleVillageHomestead]

We purchased the x large freeze dryer and we love it. I noticed yours has 6 trays and ours has 7 trays, however, both are x large so what is the difference?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

They sold a six when first released and now have added an additional tray

[@ClickinChicken]

I'm an ultra-friendly. This Video popped up on me. Enjoying his experiences. And remembered what you said. It's friendship. Same here Renae. Large freeze drier, 5 trays instead of 4. Don't look a gifted horse in the mouth.

[@BootsandBountyHomestead]

We just got our large unit in yesterday and they have upgraded the units now that the large has 6 trays!! Score for us! We put it on layaway in Oct with 5 trays and they changed the models to 6 trays 🎉 yay us!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Bonus!

[@sura2047]

Another great video with excellent information! Thank you!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Glad it was helpful!

[@EdBlack-]

What’re you looking at electricity wise for each batch? And or what you’re looking at cost wise to run that every 45hrs all month long.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

In the xl around $2-4 per load based on the US average electricity.

[@jeremiah6462]

So jealous. I have been wanting one of those, and you got one!

[@stevecorcoran9869]

Just out of curiosity, did you have to do a bread run on that monster before you did the veggies?

[@bjsdeb]

Good Morning. LOVE your videos. Excellent and so informative. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to do them. Our XL Freeze Dryer arrive about a week ago. We had to delay the set up because we have friends visiting for a week. Now that they left, we are finishing the set up after I get off work today. My question is: does it make a difference if the pump sits below the FD or do I need to set it on the same level as the FD? I have heard both are okay, but which way is the best. My question is, if we have to set it on the same level as the FD, it is okay to be in the rear of the FD? Thank you

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Mine is currently behind it with 3-4" from the back and plenty of clearance from the wall. I run my ceiling fans while the XL is operating to move air around as much as possible. You may want to get the opinion of HR, this is just what I have been doing. I have not noticed a temperature difference from the pump location as long is there is air circulation..

[@getsum697]

Yeah, I just bought the large and then they sent me an email stating they just came out with the XL...would have been nice to know that then. I asked if they would exchange...no answer! Side note, are you ever going to put your recipe book into hard copy? Don't dig the subscription thing and would like the book for power out conditions. Thanks and keep up the great work!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

We have had a hard copy available for a few months at www.freezedryingsupplies.com

[@getsum697]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity Just ordered that and the funnel with stand! Thanks

[@kevinjackson499]

Hi does the xl have candy mode? Have you used candy mode? I ad a medium and after a month the compressor started cycling and wouldn't cool the chamber was going to have to send to hr and was told would be about 3 to 4 weeks to get back and the candy batches where very inconsistent so i contacted the store i got it from and they where willing to take back and said it wasn't the first one to come back! I purchased another medium on 6/14/23 and it seems more inconsistent than the other one was i was running candy batch for 2 to 2.5 hr and this one 3 to 4 hr and some are still chewy but in short where going to start a small business and want to get the xl for that but hard to purchase when we have done had 2 that don't seem to work right any info you can share on these machines im also in your fb group and love the info there thank you

[@jeffwrightsman5265]

Any advice regarding using less than full trays? I understand trying to get the most out of each batch but other than efficiency loss, is there any issues with less than full trays in a batch?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

not that I have seen. Your times will be faster as well.

[@deannadormuth4265]

I’d prefer if they made this dryer wider than deeper. Wider trays. A video comparing the large and extra large would be nice but I definitely think I would do the XL. How much do you think it costs to run a full cycle of food? Not including food cost?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Depends alot on where you are freeze drying. The cost difference from California (or Canada) is much different than the Midwest or rocky regions. I would say plan on $5-10 for an XL cycle

[@mossymaple]

CAN YOU USE THIS VAC PUMP ON THE LARGE FREEZE DRIER? AND AM WONDERING HOW FAST IT WOULD GET A BATCH DONE WITH THIS 10CFM PUMP...??? IF YOU DID A VIDEO ON THIS TOPIC , IT WOULD GO VIRAL....

[@jesusislord1634]

Does your large freeze dryer ever fill the Chamber from front to back or just around three quarters full of ice? Mine never fills the chamber and is always around half full from the center to the back during drying cycle.

[@auntdayskitchen6315]

Other than the cost is there any other reason why you don’t use the oil free pumps? do they not work as good for instance?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

They require a full rebuild by harvestright every 2000-3000 hours. That requires shipping it to them and waiting. It's also loud and runs hot to name a few.

[@auntdayskitchen6315]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity thank you for the information I think that makes a decision that’s gonna save me quite a bit of money upfront I’d rather change the oil every 20 to 25 uses.

[@LoanNguyen-zr3re]

Hey I have a question. I live in an apartment. Is it possible to have an electrician. One change the outlet to a 520? There’s also adaptors sold on Home Depot to covert? What do you think . I purchased the XL without realized the outlet things are different

[@nessasnook]

I am LOVING that XL but I get you on that freezer issues. Are you leaving that pump behind the XL? This is a GREAT video Brian!!! Thank you for sharing!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

It only works if you have the prep space, otherwise, it could be cumbersome. I will build something for the pump to sit on, right now i just have it behind and ventilated.

[@dsofarms]

i'm having problems with harvest right XL freeze dryer, have you worked on them?

[@k.p.1139]

Brian, I saw a couple of folks talking about drying bread, as the first run. When you are talking about cleaning before using, is that in lieu of running the bread cycle? Thanks.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I just thoroughly cleaned mine instead of a bread run. I wanted to clean mine inside and out anyway before doing a cycle.

[@brandicook910]

Well now I know not to get the extra large. I can't fit a bigger deep freeze where we are, and those trays are too big 😂 thanks for doing these videos!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

You got it. 👍

[@louisecolligan8729]

I really need an answer since I just purchased the XL freeze dryer and I have so much to learn. Can you show us how to use a moisture meter; what reading is desired for safe consumption of food , and what model is recommended? I’m sure there are others out there desirable of this information. Thanks.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

You will have better luck with a thermal imaging camera. You can visit our Amazon store for our recommended or search flir one pro

[@gigihenderson8567]

A really good way to know if your food is dry, is to weigh the trays using a gram scale. When the machine says it’s finished, before doing anything, take out each tray and note the weight in grams. Then put them back in for another 2 hours. Weigh them after that and if each tray has lost less that a gram or 2 at most, you know it’s dry… if they lost more than that, do another 2 hours. Repeat as necessary. If you are in a humid environment, you will want to get your product packaged and sealed asap. Good luck!

[@MrMcates]

Just received my X-Large . Wondering what do you set the. Target mTorr when in the custom settings

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I have not changed any setting other than raising my freeze temp up to so the vacuum pump will turn on a little sooner.

[@lyndabuchholz1216]

Looks like the vacuum hose is the size that came with my oilless pump! I will have to watch to see if they have one I can buy!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

The hose that came with it is similar to what I had with my original machine in 2017. I'm wondering if they will offer an oil less for the XL in the future.

[@lyndabuchholz1216]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity I bought mine in 2017 too so they should be the same. I have been looking at the vacuum pumps they use in dairy's. I would think they would work if the connections were the same or modified.

[@meCrystalp]

Does it not have the oil free pump option?.... or did you choose to go the route of changing the oil frequently?... if it was a choice, can you explain the reasoning on why you didn't want to go oil free?....However, if Harvest Right simply doesn't make an oil free pump for this size, do you know why?... Thank you for any info you can provide before I purchase one (I'll use your link)

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Oil less is not an option at this time. I still would have gone with the premier pump. Oil change every 20-25 cycles and it's a 3 minute process. Not a fan of the oil less pump anyhow. You will have to rebuild the internals every 2000-3000 hours. No oil, no lubrication and more heat

[@meCrystalp]

​@@thefreezedryingcommunity Thank you for responding... can you explain what "You will have to rebuild the internals every 2000-3000 hours. No oil, no lubrication and more heat" means?.... I'm a woman who has zero knowledge of mechanical verbiage, so i'm a little lost on the comment... So I have 5 Q's below .... 1. So when you say, rebuild every 2000-3000 hours......rebuild what exactly, the whole pump?... or just switch out a part, like you would a fuse? ... 2. and how difficult would it be? ...can a mechanic or mechanically inclined man do it, or would I have to send it to the manufacturer to be fixed?... 3. How much would that be to rebuild? 4. Also, how many cycles (on average) would 2000-3000 hrs be? ... I know you might do more than the average person, however, for example, how many uses do you get out of 2000-3000 hrs? 5. "no oil no lubrication means more heat" ... is this bad?... and if its bad, why would they even sell something worse for $1,500 more than what comes with it free?... sorry, I'm confused ... Any info you provide is greatly appreciated... and if you have already made a video that addresses any of my questions, can you give me the link so that I can easily find it... if not, is it possible "to make a video" to address the pros and cons of both types... Thank you ... ​

[@jallen2281]

If you touch the version number on your XL, what is the letter following the C? I also purchased an XL and mine is on version 5.4.24Cy and does not have the top middle and bottom tray temp displays 😐

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I'm not sure what the CY is, mine does not show that. The are continuously changing software and tweaks here and there to improve the product.

[@briannawillis1877]

Do they still make this one? I can’t find the 6 tray XL anywhere

[@carolclarkson4859]

Wondering how much time is saved if pre-freezing the food?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

For most batches, I would guess 6-8 hours

[@Skeeg]

What device did you use for the energy measurement? 15amp devices are easy to find, but finding one for 20 amp has been a bit of a challenge. Thanks in advance!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

All 20 amp devices that I have found need to be wired into the machine. It's not worth tearing things apart for me. HR website says plan on about $4 per day. Not sure how accurate that is, but at least gives you an idea of what to expect.

[@michellethompson5315]

I have a large freeze dryer and it said we needed dedicated 20 Amp circuit.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

That's correct

[@farkasgabor4084]

in the uk it would cost me 35 pounds (this is only the electricity) to prepare the same amount with this machine. I was really excited but this is very very expensive

[@epixkwiks9875]

Can you use a 520 nema adapter if you don't have the outlet?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

The outlet would probably be less expensive than the adaptor.

[@monikabaraniec2589]

I just purchased XL and put all fruits not pre frozen...been freezing now for 17hrs..is that normal?

[@rosettaridge6446]

Sold! So glad I waited to purchase one! This model is amazing!!!!!!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

You will definitely want to prepare your work area. Everything about it needs space. Worth it once you run a HUGE batch though.

[@rosettaridge6446]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity Thank you for that. I am in the midst of doing renos downstairs and will factor your advice in:)

[@missycoates7188]

Thank you for this information!!!

[@heatherfonner]

🤷🏼‍♀️No one ever talks about the tables you put them on and were to get them, 😢 I'm so confused at all the dimensions and weights, I ordered my FD last Saturday through your link and it will be here tomorrow..can you please give a link for a table like your medium FD ??

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

The black rolling cart seen in my older videos came from Harbor Freight and was bilked up with plywood. I have a video on how to do it.

[@medhead964]

how much heat does does the large/xl put out? Like how much does it heat up a room, and how much ventilation should you have? Thanks, I'm sure you've answered these questions before... I didn't feel like searching.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

All freeze dryers put out a good amount of heat. Ventilation or at least air movement is always a good thing.

[@courtneyhenderson3474]

Are you going to make the x large tray lids available?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

We will do dividers first and trays next if demand is there

[@courtneyhenderson3474]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity thank you look forward to it

[@paulapaul525]

I have been watching videos about freez dryers lately and am trying to decide which one to buy. One feature on another brand is the ability to vacuum seal quart jars. That is vary appealing to me. It may be the deciding factor for my purchase. Is it possible and / or recommended to vacuum seal jars in a harvest right?

[@SharonRepici]

You can vacuum seal jars in the Harvest Right FD. Brian has a video.

[@carolclarkson4859]

An oxygen absorber does a better job than vacuum sealing....but you can do both with your harvest right.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

The "other" brand just has a button to seal jars. The same can be done with any freeze dryer

[@paulapaul525]

@Live.Life.Simple. it also has a shelf to put into the vacuum chamber to set the jars on. Having a button or setting to accommodate the feature in my mind shows an intentional thought or maybe even research has been put into it. Where with HR seems to be an afterthought or a hack. HR might want to consider developing that in their advertising. If I had not asked in this group, I may have gone with the other brand. Thank you for your reply.

[@markm.9865]

I just set up 2 of these XL's. Just running them now. My question is if I don't catch it when it's finished and refeezes for 6 to 12 hours. Does this add moisture back into the product. Do I have to do a more freeze time?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I would add more time if it sits for more than an hour or two

[@Reggaeshark.]

How have they been going?

[@brendajackson294]

That is really huge. it looks commercial for sure. Thanks for the great comparison video.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Thanks for watching!

[@vloy3502]

How tall is the table you have it on?

[@michaelreyna1987]

Do u have a link for the table that the XL u have is on?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I purchased from amazon

[@skyt54]

Is that really the XL? I just bought one and it is only available in Stainless Steel, there are no black XL machines. The reason I ask is because the set up instructions are not written very well so I was hoping to find a video that explains how to work the settings on the LCD screen.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Yes this is an XL. When they were first released they came in black awhile and only had 6 trays.

[@skyt54]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity Thanks for your reply that helps. I wonder if you could answer another question. I just got the XL and it say to start the dryer and it will then ask you which pump you have, but when I started it it just started a freeze cycle. Harvest Right does not want to talk to you they say to fill out their question box on their site which I did and have not received an answer so I assume they are like a lot of companies who want you to buy their products and provide no support.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

@@skyt54 it's asks which pump you are using so the software can give you a rough estimate of when you will need maintenance

[@skyt54]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity It does not ask me which pump I have so I am not sure if I should just go ahead and use it or not.

[@benjaminsaxton6908]

Doesn't the website says it does 40-50lbs of food? I believe the video you said 23-30lbs? Was this said incorrectly, or can you let me know what I'm missing?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I bought mine when they first came out as a 6 tray. They are now 7 trays.

[@benjaminsaxton6908]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity Does the XL freeze and dry more efficiently so it cuts the time down. I typically will Freeze dried Beef liver and it takes 40 hours. Usually around 13#'s in a Large unit. Do you anticipate this working faster being commercial grade? Or just being able to hold more food?

[@GabrielMSandulescu]

On their web harvest is saying this could process 40-50lbs. Now I see only 25-30 could be process properly!

[@timothyharris1886]

Do you get XL vacuum leaks with that one?

[@1100wing]

Will you do a comparison of the Harvest Right to the new kids on the block soon, now that there are new kids in this game?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I haven't seen enough legitimate competition to justify spending $3-5k for a video yet. I'm sure competition is coming.

[@1100wing]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity I understand your investment and loyalty to HR but you could sell a couple of the HRs to buy the closest, up and coming, competitor to a head to head comparison.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

@@1100wing sell a couple? I only have 2 😁

[@1100wing]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity Oh. I thought you had a small, two medium and now the XL.

[@brandinelson9869]

Have you ever tried freez dry non scrambled eggs if not would you be willing to try it if not why not

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Yes I have. I have a video trying cracked whole eggs.

[@ncamp2126]

Now i feel like a peasant with my medium sized unit lol. Im good tho, i dont have a dedicated line of power

[@cavanroo]

How did you lift it onto the table?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

two people and determination😀

[@mrsochoa5147]

How is the XL working for you ? I have heard good and bad news on them 😕

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Good from me. It runs a lot less than my other dryers because it does sooooo much at a time

[@TrishHughes-g1q]

I have a new freeze dryer how do I set it for pre frozen

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

You do not need to change anything for pre-frozen food

[@caffeinedreamspod]

Do you do freeze dryer consulting for business owners?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I do not. You may find the FB group helpful as there are many freeze drying business owners on there. Retired at 40's Freeze drying Group

[@hysyanzrecords]

Wow.. definitely interested in one of these. My large ones are cool but I definitely need something with more capacity

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

40 cups capacity in the large, 90 in the XL. If you need more capacity, this has it!

[@TimBinns68]

Cycle time vs medium or large? That's important to me.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

It's relative to the amount of food being done. I have not had many cycles complete, but even if it takes an average of 40-50 hours, you are doing 2x or 3x the volume of food. I will try to share info as I get more.

[@TimBinns68]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity My thought was if the xl is worth it not being able to pre freeze trays. seems like work flow would be better with the large during harvest time, pre freezing one batch while drying another.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

@@TimBinns68 you could be right if you don't have a way to prefreeze. To or three sets of frozen trays ready to go is mighty efficient.

[@victorialw1]

You could probably prefreeze in something smaller and transfer it to the XL trays.

[@marlenestamm9461]

I was wondering can you freeze dry whole steaks, chicken breast, fish fillets?

[@j.79]

Yes, you can, but because of the thickness and the density of the meat it can take up to 60 hours, or even more, to do a batch. You can cut your steaks or chicken breasts about 1/2" thick to speed up the process, if you want to. We usually freeze dry our meat raw to keep all options.

[@marlenestamm9461]

@@j.79 Ty raw was what I was thinking. That way I could make different meals. I just wish I could afford a freeze dryer an had the space.

[@TheRealBatCave]

What do u think of the new 7 tray xl?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

To be honest, I am a little upset that I just purchased a 6 tray and 2 months later they are selling a 7 tray. However, even the 6 tray is amazing and a quick way to get a bunch of freeze dried food

[@TheRealBatCave]

​​​​​​​​@@thefreezedryingcommunity tray just came yesterday, the customize screen doesn't have the same options, the "extra freeze time" option is replaced with a "mTorr selection" (why i would need to set the mTorr and not the machine im not sure, the pump should just be bringing it down below 500) also mine is having an issue with temps, even if i set my dry temp to max 150, it has not been able to go above 130, i was also told this xl would have 3 temperature meters spaced every 2nd shelf like ur 6 tray has, giving me 3 temps on the display, there is only 1....also the space between each shelf is shorter so you wont be able to put as much products as high, ill do a another batch later and see if it acts the same way as this 1st candy batch. (Ive done all the initial tests, and the bread cycle 1st.) 1st impressions the 6 tray might just b better for the $ at least this early. Unless im just crazy and missing something lol. Great reviews by the way man, to the point in depth and all aspects. 👍

[@WesternNyBigfoot]

How much is that unit

[@richardsibley7374]

Enjoy your channel

[@egochecker]

I just bought the XL and it doesn't work! I can run it in candy mod but when trying to freeze dried doesn’t work! The compressor turns on for about 10 seconds and slams off! Called tech support they said it would take 5 days for someone to call me back. After paying $5000 and not work and tech support cant talk to you right then! Wouldn't recommend this company look other places! I also tried to leave a bad review on their site but has to get approved haha

[@PreppingAngel]

I don't see the link for the table. :(

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Sorry about that amzn.to/3KblqHZ

[@aimeepeltier4489]

My poor large runs non stop right now between defrost cycles. And that's just with candy.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Sounds like an XL may be in your future

[@cherylhausam9981]

Hopefully it doesn’t break Down after 14 uses.

[@raselalam4747]

I am Russel Alam from Bangladesh, can I do small business with this machine, how can I get the machine in our country, please tell me a little.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

You can easily run a small business with the xl, just need to contact harvestright. I believe they ship worldwide

[@PreppingAngel]

Idk, It just seems like HR doesn't listen to the customers. Why can't they make them wider and not as deep? I know it can be made that way. Why does HR do the trays so long and not wider. The length is quite cumbersome for say someone like me. Older (60) scrawny. I can handle weight but the length may be a problem without my son helping so I don't knock the ends somewhere and dump everything on the floor. lol

[@judd_s5643]

I’d think real hard on buying a machine that use square walled vacuum chamber, there is a reason virtually every vacuum/pressure vessel is round! Another point about the new kid on the block, is the internal “dry” vacuum pump is placed inside the cabinet adding to to the heat load the refrigeration has to deal with.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I think "the Cube" is the rebranded 4patriots machine. If it is, I would steer clear

[@PreppingAngel]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity Absolutely. I just did some research. Nice marketing but I really don't trust 4Patriots at all now. Editing my comment. It's not a viable machine. BUT I still wish HR would listen to the customers. lol

[@Lyotrade]

Wider and stackable up two units 🤔

[@gigihenderson8567]

If I had to guess, it’s because wider means a larger barrel shape, that may compromise the strength of the chamber. It would require a thicker gauge metal walls which ups the price and weight of the machine. On the other hand, making it longer means that they can use the same gauge and just add more freezer coils, etc. That’s what I think anyway.

[@tpen891]

I sent you a e-mail on my order but have not hear from your store.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

email is [e-mail] Please send another concerning your order. Also, check spam folder as your order info may have gone there.

[@tpen891]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity I just sent for the third time the information. Will keep a eye out for any reply.

[@vegasprepperone]

No bread run first run ???

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

No, I just cleaned inside and out

[@judithsears6032]

freeze drying gods????????

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

They have spoken, but only to people that do not make rude comments on You tube and Facebook.