Got questions about Harvest Right freeze dryers? We've got the answers to the most common questions asked on the Internet about Harvest Right freeze dryers. Whether its freeze dryer specifications, to technical usage, or tips, we answer the Internet's burning questions about Harvest Right freeze dryers.
Step 1: Select a spot for your freeze-dryer.
Place your freeze-dryer on a level surface, and make sure that its vents are not blocked by anything. Dryers can be placed in kitchens or other small spaces, but if you have more room, it may be better to put it somewhere with more space.
Step 2: Examine at your freezer-dryer's door.
Checking the door and the gasket is an important part of keeping your dryer running smoothly. The gasket is a rubber seal between the inside of the dryer and the door, and it needs to be clean and free of gaps. You should also check the inside of your door for any dirt or grime. This just needs to be a quick check so that you can make sure that everything is in good shape.
Step 3: Set up the vacuum pump.
Note: Skip this step if you have an oil-free pump.
The vacuum pump is the most important part of your freeze-dryer. It sucks out all the moisture from your food and helps it to freeze faster. To set up your pump, first you'll need to remove the red cap that covers the glass display. Pour in oil until it reaches the center of the glass display, then replace the cap.
Step 4: Attach the hose to the freeze drier.
To connect the hose to the freeze drier, first screw in the hose in the connection on the dryer and pump. Hand tightening is enough and using tools to tighten further risks damage to the dryer. Also, Harvest Right doesn’t recommend using any tape on the connections—it can cause problems for the O-ring seal.
Step 5: Plug the dryer in and turn it on.
Interface will light up when you turn it on. Take note that I means on and O means off. You can click the button on the back of the pump to turn it on and off.
Step 6: Install the insulator pad in the door.
This pad is placed between the door and the shelves. It should fit nicely between the gasket and the shelves (but take careful not to get it trapped in the door).
Step 7: Shut the door
This one is really simple. Just shut the door and make sure you close it tightly, and don't force it or you'll break it.
Step 8: After closing the drain valve, place the hose in a bucket or drain.
Close the drain valve on your freeze dryer. This will prevent any water from leaking out of your machine and making a mess. Next, place the open end of your freeze dryer in a bucket or directly into the drain so that all of the water can be collected and disposed of easily.
Step 9: Check the door seal with the pump running.
The pump creates a vacuum within the dryer, which should help the door seal nicely and snugly. If there are any parts of the gasket that don’t seal properly have a quick check why, as it may be that something small is obstructing it.
Step #10: Turn on the dryer for a test run.
Make sure the dryer is completely dry inside. Then select ‘functional test’ and press ‘on’ to begin. Leave it working for 30 minutes, after which the pressure should be below 500 mTorr.
In addition, consider freeze-drying a batch of moist bread during your initial test run, and spritz vinegar around the tray to eliminate the mild odor of a newly manufactured freeze dryer.
If your first run doesn't work, make sure the door seals well, the hose connections are tight, and the drain valve is shut. Any difficulties in forming a vacuum are most probably related to minor gaps in the seals.