Freeze drying is one of the best ways to preserve food for long-term storage while retaining nutrients, flavor, and texture. While the process sounds complex, home freeze drying has become simple and accessible thanks to reliable equipment from trusted brands like Harvest Right. If you're ready to start freeze drying at home, here's a complete breakdown of the essential equipment and accessories you'll need.
1. The Main Machine: Your Freeze Dryer
The heart of your setup is the freeze dryer itself. Harvest Right offers small, medium, and large models to fit different households and needs.
Key features to consider when choosing your freeze dryer:
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Batch capacity (4–20 lbs depending on model size)
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Footprint (countertop or dedicated space)
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Built-in smart controls that guide you through each step
2. The Vacuum Pump
A freeze dryer works in combination with a vacuum pump, which creates the low-pressure environment necessary for moisture removal. Harvest Right machines come with a powerful pump, but you’ll have two options:
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Standard Oil Pump: Affordable, but requires regular oil changes and maintenance.
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Oil-Free Pump: A more convenient, low-maintenance option if you’re willing to invest a bit more upfront.
3. Stainless Steel Trays
Each freeze dryer includes removable stainless steel trays where food is placed. Having extra sets of trays can help you prep for back-to-back batches.
Pro Tip: Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
4. Mylar Bags and Oxygen Absorbers
Once the food is freeze-dried, you’ll need proper storage. Mylar bags are the gold standard for long-term storage because they’re airtight, moisture-resistant, and durable. Add oxygen absorbers to each bag to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life for up to 25 years.
5. A Quality Impulse Sealer
An impulse sealer helps securely seal Mylar bags. Many Harvest Right bundles include one, but if not, investing in a good-quality sealer is essential to protect your food.
6. Pre-Freezing Accessories (Optional but Helpful)
Although Harvest Right machines can freeze food themselves, pre-freezing your food in a regular freezer before loading can speed up the process and improve efficiency. Consider:
- Stackable freezer-safe trays
- Large baking sheets for pre-freezing batches
7. Maintenance Tools
To keep your equipment running smoothly, you’ll need:
- Vacuum pump oil (if using a standard oil pump)
- Oil filter and replacement filters
- Cleaning cloths and mild detergents for wiping trays and chambers
Pro Tip: Regularly draining and replacing the pump oil extends the life of your pump and ensures consistent performance.
8. Optional Extras
- Silicone mats for easy tray cleanup
- Jar attachments for vacuum sealing glass jars
- Additional storage containers like airtight buckets or bins for storing large quantities of Mylar bags
Starter Bundle Recommendation
If you're just getting started, look for freeze dryer bundles that include:
✅ Freeze dryer (small, medium, or large)
✅ Mylar bags and oxygen absorbers
Harvest Right offers these bundles so you can begin freeze drying without needing to buy accessories separately.
Get started now!
Getting started with freeze drying at home is easier than ever — as long as you have the right equipment. With a quality freeze dryer, a reliable vacuum pump, proper storage supplies, and basic maintenance tools, you’ll be well on your way to preserving food for years to come.
👉 Explore freeze drying equipment and starter bundles now at Juicerville.com and start preserving your food the smart way!