Drying is one of the most effective ways to prepare food for the winter, it allows you to save the maximum amount of nutrients in food. With the advent of a wide variety of these devices, many buyers often wonder how to choose the right fruit and vegetable dryer and what parameters should be paid attention to. We will try to highlight the main points for you so that you can easily determine which dryer is best for you and which manufacturer you prefer.
Content
Dryer types
To choose a good dryer for vegetables, first, study the features of the operation of its various types - according to the type of operation, the devices are divided into four categories:
- convection;
- infrared;
- heating;
- "tablecloth".
All four types are connected to the electrical network, but the principle of their operation is different, now we will figure out in more detail which is better to buy a dryer for the house so that it meets all your requirements and consider all 4 types in more detail.
Convection
IN convection appliances the conditions for natural evaporation of water are created more efficiently. Vegetables and fruits are affected by the currents of hot and warm air. An electric heater (TEN) is responsible for heating, and the fan drives air. The advantage of convection models is a more affordable cost, but during the drying process, the appearance and taste of the products change.
Infrared
IN infrared unit rays are formed, with the help of which the products are heated and the water evaporates. Infrared dryers are considered economical and more efficient. In them, vegetables and fruits are dried at a temperature of 40-60 ° C, and after soaking, they acquire their original appearance, retain a greater amount of useful substances - this is the best model of the dryer.
Heating
Unlike convective models, in heating devices there is no fan. Drying of vegetables and fruits is carried out by heating the air to a specific temperature. Due to this principle of operation, drying is carried out evenly, but it takes more time.
«Tablecloth»
«Tablecloth»- a product made in the form of a flat infrared device. The main advantage of the model is convenient transportation, since it can be quickly rolled up. When vegetables and fruits are laid out on the dryer, they can get mixed up, since the “tablecloth” does not provide for the presence of pallets and tiers.
Features of choosing a dryer for vegetables and fruits
Dryers differ in many ways. How to choose a dryer for fruits and vegetables depends on the requirements for the device, its operating conditions and your personal preferences. Main selection criteria:
- power;
- capacity;
- type of control;
- body and pallet material;
- availability of additional functions.
A device with additional capabilities and design features can be used not only for harvesting vegetables, fruits, herbs, mushrooms, but also for meat and fish.
Power
Which one to choose a dryer for vegetables and fruits in terms of power depends on the features of its operation - the power of the model does not affect the quality of drying, the amount of time during which moisture completely evaporates from the product depends on it. The more powerful the device, the faster this process takes place. Also, power affects the level of energy consumption - devices with high power consume more electricity than low-power ones.
Separation of devices by power:
- Low power (200-250 W) - long-term drying, which takes about a day. This model is suitable for greens, fruits, infrequent use and processing small volumes.
- Average power (350-450 W) is the best solution. The device can be used for mushrooms and berries, in order to prepare blanks and treats (for example, for marshmallows). The machine can handle 5 kg of fruit in 10-12 hours.
- High power (from 450 W) - devices for frequent use and processing of a large number of products.
Capacity
The capacity of the appliance depends on its size and the number of pallets. Most of the models on sale differ in fairly compact parameters. Thanks to this, they can be conveniently placed in a utility room or directly in the kitchen. The average height of the device is 40 cm, width and depth - 35-45 cm. Larger models are also possible, while they differ in higher performance. However, such devices are preferable to purchase for industrial purposes, and not for home.
Control
In the device, the control can be of two types - electronic and mechanical.
Electronic control is considered more accurate and convenient. Thanks to the display and numerous sensors, you can monitor the drying process and make more accurate corrections.
Mechanical control is more reliable. Conventional switches are used instead of display and touch buttons.
Selection of body material and pallets
To choose the best vegetable dryer, check out the pros and cons of the materials used to make it. The device, including the body and pallets, can be made of two materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
- Plastic is lightweight and affordable. The plastic model is easy to carry from place to place. During operation, the body and individual parts do not heat up. High quality of plastic is important, otherwise toxic substances may be released during operation.
- Metal - large-sized units weigh quite a lot, which complicates transportation. The cost of metal products is higher. Heating of the case is possible during long-term operation. Also, the metal is characterized by durability and neutrality in terms of chemical reactions.
As for the pallets, the plastic elements can be easily washed, they are more convenient to use, but at the same time, they can crack over time. Metal pallets have a higher weight and good strength, but are more difficult to clean.
Professional advice! Pay attention to any unpleasant odors that may come from plastic when the dryer is running. This is a sign of poor quality material, you should not use such a device.
Additional functions
- number of pallets;
- temperature control;
- timer;
- power indicator.
Number of pallets
The number of pallets directly depends on how much food you can dry at one time. Pallets are special trays that hold food. In order to choose a dryer for vegetables and not be mistaken, remember that the ratio of the number of pallets and capacity must be selected optimally. With a power of 350 W, the most suitable number of trays is no more than 4-5. With less or more capacity, the capacity can be reduced or increased by 2-3 trays.
Expert recommendations! Workpieces placed on a large number of pallets in the appliance will not dry evenly.They have to be changed regularly, since the fastest processed products are located next to the heating element.
Temperature control
Temperature control assumes the presence of 2-3 temperature modes, between which you can switch during the operation of the device. Infinite temperature setting is also possible. When choosing a fruit dryer, it is recommended to give preference to a model with a smooth temperature change, since with the help of such a regulator you can choose the most suitable temperature for each specific product. In addition, it allows you to change the temperature regime directly during drying, which is also quite convenient.
Timer, on indicator
The presence of a timer makes it possible to monitor the duration of drying. So you can always track how much time is left until the end of the device.
The power indicator is most often presented in the form of a small light that lights up when the dryer is connected to the mains. Thanks to the indicator, you can find out whether the unit is working at a certain point in time or not.
Choosing a dryer company
When choosing, be sure to study a more detailed review of the vending model, customer reviews, in order to familiarize yourself with all its capabilities. If you are wondering which company to choose a dryer for fruits and vegetables, then the manufacturers presented below have the necessary characteristics and the necessary functionality:
- Saturn are simple and reliable devices designed to handle medium quantities of food. A great option for anyone looking to buy an inexpensive but good dryer in 2020.
- Mystery - units with electronic touch control, liquid crystal displays, timers, tray height adjustments.
- Zelmer - nice design, compact size and construction, additional functions.
- Binatone - electronic control, high quality plastic, additional functions - price-quality ratio.
- Veterok - Russian-made devices with additional functionality, roomy, mechanically controlled, quiet operation.
So decide which manufacturer to give your preference to, expensive but with a brand name or cheaper but not inferior in functionality and quality.
Rating of the best dryers in 2020
- Ezidri Snackmaker FD500
- Rotor Rotor SSh-002
- Tefal Fruit Air DF 1008
- Scarlett SC-420
- Polaris PFD 0605D
Conclusion
After reviewing all the recommendations and criteria, you can easily decide which dryer to choose for vegetables and fruits in 2020. As in the case with other kitchen and household appliances, it does not matter which company you buy the device - the main thing is that it has a high-quality assembly, the necessary functionality and satisfies all the needs in terms of preparing products.
