Top 35 best dryers for vegetables and fruits

Drying helps preserve plant products for long-term storage, preserving maximum benefits in the preparations. Equipment has been created that does this quickly and easily - a dryer for vegetables and fruits. It is worth understanding the operating principle of such devices, their distinctive features, and understanding which model is the best.

Why do you need a dryer for vegetables and fruits?

A dryer for vegetables and fruits allows you to carefully dehydrate food for long-term storage without loss of beneficial qualities, taste, or appearance. Thanks to the optimal temperature conditions and air circulation, it is possible to dry mushrooms, garden herbs with medicinal herbs, and fruits and vegetables in a short time. Also, using a dehydrator, you can prepare crackers, marshmallows, and get preparations in the form of dried meat and fish.

6 best inexpensive dryers for vegetables and fruits

Domestic and foreign manufacturers of household appliances offer both professional and household dehydrators for home use, and the latter work no worse than expensive devices. Vegetables, mushrooms, herbs, fruits turn out perfect.

Kitfort KT-1902

An inexpensive drying device from the famous Kitfort brand, designed for home use.Most buyers are attracted by the low price of the dryer, electronic control and the presence of a timer that allows you to dry food for up to 72 hours. It is very convenient to use due to the display on the front panel indicating the time remaining until the end of cooking. Using membrane buttons, programs are set, modes and temperatures for fruits, meat, and vegetable preparations are set.

Auto shut off after cooking.

High-quality parts and assembly significantly increase the service life.

Various drying modes.

Possibility of adjusting the height of pallets.

STARWIND SFD1510

A 150-watt electric dryer will look great in any kitchen. Compact dimensions allow storage in a drawer, and the classic design will fit perfectly into any interior. The transparent body allows you to control the process and monitor the stages of preparation. The device is suitable for drying and drying products, including meat and fish. Instructions with recipes and recommendations will allow you to prepare dried and dried preparations.

The presence of 5 trays allows you to simultaneously dry several types of products.

Removable trays are easy to clean and wash away the juice remaining after vegetables, berries, and fruits.

Possibility of setting suitable temperature and time.

The heating element is protected by a metal disk, increasing safety.

Affordable price.

Scarlett SC-FD421015

A multifunctional device with a bright design is suitable for drying vegetables, dill, parsley, preparing dried fruits, and preparing dry-cured products. An additional set includes a special tray for marshmallows.

Capacious plastic trays in the amount of 5 pieces allow you to simultaneously dry up to 3 kg of food.

Beautiful dryer design.

Temperature adjustment: minimum degree 35, maximum – 70.

Due to the power of 250 W, the drying process requires a minimum of time; useful substances, including vitamins, are preserved in the dried products.

The built-in fan prevents mixing of odors.

Agroplast Sukhovey M5

Electric convection dryer in a metal casing. Pallets made of opaque plastic easily hold 3.5 kg of components; they can be filled with mushrooms, fruits, pieces of meat or vegetables.

Bright design.

A durable metal case, reliable, high-quality parts are the key to a long service life.

The temperature regulator allows you to select the most suitable mode for each specific type of ingredient.

The manufacturer took care of users by providing an auto-shutoff function. Just set the timer and the dryer will turn off automatically after the set time.

Rotor Altai SSH-022

A drying device in which you can prepare dried fruits, dry mushrooms, and herbs. The best dryer, according to most, is a budget option. Reliable case, manufactured using stainless steel. The interior consists of a powerful heating element, an automatic temperature control lever and a fan. Convenient trays made of food-grade plastic with a capacity of 20 liters, easy to remove and clean.

Compact dimensions - minimal working space is required to install the dryer.

Fast drying of fresh and frozen food thanks to 500 W power. Dehydration is carried out thanks to the air flow passing through all compartments.As a result, moisture is completely removed from the components, while most of the vitamins and minerals are retained.

Quiet operation.

High quality build.

Automatic operating modes that can be changed if necessary.

Spectrum-Pribor ESOF -2-0.6/220 Veterok-2

An excellent dryer, equipped with a temperature regulator and protection against possible overheating. Due to its large capacity, the dryer can guarantee high productivity - up to 12 kg per use. This is the best dryer for your home.

Due to the transparent body of the dryer, you can see at what stage of preparation the ingredients are.

Good capacity allows you to prepare food in large quantities.

Silent operation makes it possible to cook at night.

240 W of power is enough for quick and even drying.

The ability to lay out the components on 6 baking sheets included in the package allows you to simultaneously prepare fruits, vegetables, and dry mushrooms.

6 best convection dryers for vegetables and fruits

Convective type models differ in that the trays inside the dryer are placed horizontally. This position promotes air circulation between the compartments, which allows fruit and vegetable cuts to dry evenly. A rating of the best dryers has been created.

BelOMO 8360

The work is carried out due to air convection; this principle of operation promotes uniform drying. The hot air flows from the outer edge to the center, then flows up and out through the vent on the lid.

Heating element protection provides additional safety and silent operation.

Spacious sections process a large amount of fruit.

High power of 500 W and 4 automatic modes not only dry food, but also prepare pastilles and yogurt.

Under the influence of infrared rays, the bactericidal property of the components is revealed.

The set includes 5 trays for drying, one for pastilles. If desired, you can purchase separate trays, the device easily holds 8 pieces.

REDMOND RFD-0159/0172

A modern model capable of processing up to half a bucket of fruit in one turn on. The cuttings for drying are conveniently placed on 5 transparent trays, which dry for 7-10 hours. The Redmond dehydrator pleases with its capabilities, in addition to traditional drying, there is a function for drying meat, poultry, fish, you can also easily stock up on pastilles and natural yogurt.

Silent fan.

Fast cooking.

Convenient functionality.

The presence of a timer allows you to work without human intervention.

The presented color range will allow you to choose the best dryer, which will become a decoration of the kitchen.

Polaris PFD 2605D

This model is presented by the Swiss brand Polaris, which has established itself as the best manufacturer of high-quality and reliable household appliances. Compact dryer, interesting design solution, parts resistant to damage: body, baking sheets, durable plastic is used in their production. The model has protection against accidental overheating, making it one of the best among analogues. In vegetables, dried fruits, the taste is preserved.

The convection heater promotes better circulation of the air flow inside the device.

Ease of use thanks to the built-in electronic panel.

High-quality and durable material increases the service life of the dryer and reduces the risk of breakdowns.

There are 5 trays inside the case, which can be turned over if desired, rearranged to the lower or upper tier for uniform drying.

Silent workflow, timer with countdown option.

VolTera 1000 Lux

One of the most popular dryer models, most users prefer the VolTera 1000. It works efficiently, serves reliably and for a long time, and is inexpensive. I am pleased with the wide functionality of the device. It has the following capabilities: drying sliced ​​vegetables and fruits, drying pieces of fish and meat, creating yogurt with marshmallows.

High-quality dehydration is achieved through a high-quality plastic body and thermally insulated lid.

The presence of a thermostat, you can choose to set the temperature from 30 to 60 °C.

Air flows are distributed evenly throughout the interior space.

The set includes 5 standard trays, 2 separate sheets: for drying herbs, for creating marshmallows from berries and fruits. The device can be expanded to 15 tiers by purchasing additional trays.

Uniform drying is achieved due to additional airflow that comes from the sides and top. This technology is considered the best for dehydrating components. Provides cool air flow.

ThermMix Household electric dryer 5 pallets

The ThermMix electric dryer is a simple household equipment with a mechanical control type. The manufacturer offers a choice of bright body colors. The all-metal housing is responsible for reliable operation.For high-quality dehydration - convective drying with a heating element and fan. In the front part there is a button that turns on the drying and a lever that regulates the temperature. The chamber can dry up to 18 liters of food at a time.

Reliable protection that responds instantly in an emergency.

Vertical loading allows you to place 5 pallets inside, made of coated metal.

The solid body prevents cracks and breakages, as often happens with plastic models.

The dryer, despite the absence of most functions, performs the task - dried fruits retain their color, taste, and benefits.

MARTA MFD-8018PS

Eight-level model, the set includes 8 standard trays for fruits and vegetables, and 3 collapsible trays for preparing dough, yoghurts, and other fermented milk products. Trays designed for drying herbs, nuts, meat and fish are provided. The Martha dryer is equipped with a rotary regulator for setting the temperature within 35-70 degrees.

The electric dryer is assembled from parts for the production of which food-grade heat-resistant plastic is used.

Power of 600 W, vertical airflow promotes uniform dehydration of more ingredients.

Low noise level, not exceeding 41 dB, thanks to the built-in fan, constant circulation of hot flow inside the device is ensured.

Adjustable sections that rise and fall by 2-4 cm, this is necessary when drying whole fruits and vegetables.

Having a yogurt maker, you can easily prepare a homemade drink, the desired mode, timer and temperature can be set.

5 best infrared dryers for vegetables and fruits

Infrared dryers promote a more natural drying process. Thanks to this, the products retain their beneficial properties. It is worth considering the rating of the best models.

Gemlux GL-IR500

Small size, modern design, and functionality make the infrared dryer model the best among similar equipment. The case is matte, made of high-strength plastic, a panel with a display where programs are set to help dry food. The popularity of the device is due to its high build quality, comfortable use, fast and high-quality preparation of dried fruits, dried herbs, vegetables and mushrooms.

The device includes 5 grids, a tray for making marshmallows and yogurt.

It is used in two versions: automatic and manual mode, the latter option is suitable for lovers of experiments.

Automatic programs with which you can easily dry, cure, and sterilize components.

Presence of a timer and setting of reverse calculation.

Use of solar and shade drying of products.

Radio plant Dachnik-4

The dryer from a Russian manufacturer in the form of a metal cabinet is equipped with compartments in which tubular emitters are installed. Inside the device there are grilles made of stainless steel.

At the very top there is a baking tray that helps dry the components, and at the bottom there is a compartment for garbage. Floor-standing device with a long warranty period of 10 years. The dryer is suitable for industrial purposes; it is irrational to purchase it for home drying.

The mechanical thermostat knob allows you to set the mode for each type of product.

The device is distinguished by moderate energy consumption with a large load of products.

The resulting dried fruits have excellent taste and aroma, and retain their beneficial properties.

Absolutely silent cooking process.

Handles that make it convenient to carry the device if necessary.

Thermmix ESP-5

The 300 W electric convective dehydrator is one of the best models for home use. Excellent for drying mushrooms, vegetables, fruits and berries. 5 plastic sections with a diameter of 35 mm can hold up to 5 kg of products. Most users like the simple design and ease of use, as there are no large number of buttons that can easily get confused.

On the front there is information about the drying time, the optimal temperature that will be required for each of the ingredients that can be processed. The dryer starts to work using the switch, after which the indicator lights up.

The presence of three temperature modes to select the degree for a specific product.

The overheat protection function reduces the risk of breakage and fire, which means it makes cooking safe.

It is possible to regulate the air flow.

Gentle, environmentally friendly drying, ingredients lose no more than 3% of nutrients.

Durability is ensured by a durable plastic case and a metal base, which is equipped with a heating element with a fan.

L'EQUIP IR-D5

One of the best dryer models from the Korean manufacturer. The high-quality plastic body with rounded edges looks stylish. The set includes 5 lattice trays and 1 tray for collecting crumbs.

There is a fan at the back that helps distribute the hot air evenly, maintaining an optimal level of humidity.

A built-in mechanical filter is responsible for cleaning the air inside the device.

User-friendly control panel and digital display for ease of use.

Automatic operating mode, but if desired, you can set the time manually.

Combines two drying modes: convective and infrared.

Despite the high performance of 500 W, the dryer operates silently.

Dachanik-2M

This model is presented in the form of an infrared drying cabinet for processing fruits and vegetables and other plant ingredients. The chamber is blown by ceramic infrared lamps. The power of 480 W is enough to dry 5 kg of food. Two spacious grating trays made of food grade stainless steel. Perhaps this is the best option when you need to easily process a lot of fruit at home and stock up on vegetables for the winter.

Processed products do not lose their integrity and retain their nutritional value.

Infrared radiation promotes better drying, since the components are not exposed to strong heat.

Stainless steel baking trays are hygienic and environmentally friendly; the products are not affected by foreign substances, which happens with plastic.

Processing of raw materials takes place at temperatures from 40 to 70 degrees, the exact degree is selected for each type of vegetable.

6 best heating dryers for vegetables and fruits

Heating-type dryers are distinguished by the fact that they have only one heating element. Fan and various modes are not provided in these devices.

Kitfort KT-1912

The advantage of this model of convection dryer is expressed by continuous drying for 72 hours, 5 spacious trays and a handle that regulates the temperature. Ease of use due to the ability to install trays at different levels, which means you can dry products of any size.

The power of 250 W is quite enough for home use.

Long cooking time, this contributes to better drying of fruits and preservation of taste in vegetables.

Compact and modern design.

A combination of low price, reliability and quality.

The presence of a powerful heating element and a fan that evenly distributes the heated air flow throughout the chamber.

Convenient functionality with a regulator built into the front panel, with its help the temperature is set within 35-70 degrees.

Kitfort KT-1918

The 380 W electronic dryer is made of plastic. Reliable, functional, equipped with a built-in fan responsible for uniform drying of food.

The ability to adjust the height of the pallets, there are 5 of them in a set, made of transparent plastic.

Convenience in operation is provided by a timer, thermostat and shutdown indicator.

The presence of a display allows you to constantly monitor the process and track the remaining time until the end of cooking.

Thanks to a powerful heating element and fan, air heated to the required temperature is evenly distributed over the entire area of ​​the chamber, affecting each compartment and tray. The air flow goes from bottom to top - helps better dehydration.

EKSI EKD 10

A powerful large-sized dryer used for industrial purposes, for example, for drying dried fruits in enterprises and in trade.Reliable housing made of stainless steel, high performance, drying area occupies 1.5 square meters. m. Model EKSI EKD 10 is presented by an Italian manufacturer. The power of the device is 1000 W; it is irrational to use such a dehydrator for home purposes.

Drying large volumes of food at one time.

Excellent equipment, providing 10 trays for drying fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, flowers, grates covered with nickel-plated iron.

Timer that runs continuously for up to 12 hours.

Overheating protection function.

Airhot FD-16GR

Rotary dryer from a well-known Chinese manufacturer, a leader in the production of kitchen and industrial equipment. Airhot products are in demand all over the world, including dehydrators.

The Airhot FD-16GR model is made of stainless steel, which increases its service life and reduces the risk of breakdowns.

It is distinguished by its large size and high performance.

Uniform drying is achieved by a special mechanism in the form of a rotating grid.

The presence of a thermostat to set the optimal mode for each individual product, starting from a minimum of 40 degrees and ending with a maximum of 90.

A 16-tier drying chamber allows you to process the maximum number of products. Grilles are supplied as a set.

Marta MT-1945 White Pearl

Another model from the Chinese brand, which ensures uniform drying of products thanks to the convective type of heater and vertical airflow. The device is compact, looks modern, and is inexpensive compared to similar devices. The dryer will become a real assistant in preparing fruits and vegetables for the winter.

Durable parts made from food-grade plastic with heat-resistant properties; they do not contain harmful components.

Thanks to the rotary regulator, you can quickly and accurately select the appropriate heating degree.

Adjustable removable sections allow you to handle components of any size.

Using a temperature range from 40 to 70 °C, it is possible to select the optimal mode for each type of product: berries, fruits, mushrooms, thereby preserving nutritional elements in them.

LUMME LFD-105PP

In this dryer model, you can harvest herbs, prepare dried fruits for compotes, baked goods, dehydrate meat and fish products, and dry vegetables. The case, in the production of which heat-resistant food-grade plastic was used, does not deform at high temperatures and does not emit odors.

Small size, compact, does not require much space for installation.

Durable housing and high-quality parts guarantee long service life.

Availability, average price category.

The set consists of 5 plastic pallets that can hold up to 20 liters of products for processing.

A power of 200 W is not considered high, but the performance is enough for household purposes, and there will be enough preparations for the whole winter.

6 best dryers for vegetables and fruits with metal trays

Metal trays included with dryers are considered more reliable, durable and safe. Most users pay special attention to this point when choosing.

Kitfort KT-1911

A reliable dryer with a modern design at a reasonable price from a Russian manufacturer.The popularity is explained by the presence of a durable body made of metal, a wide temperature range, and a timer with the ability to set the time from 30 minutes to a day. This is the best model in its segment, characterized by high-quality materials, quiet operation, and uniform drying.

Simple control via touch panel.

Ability to turn off using a timer.

Durable housing with handles on the sides for easy transportation of the device.

During the process, warm air circulates throughout the chamber, affecting each ingredient separately, without mixing odors.

Alvin SU-1

A large dryer is not suitable for every kitchen, but it can process a large number of products. There is a temperature regulation function, protection against possible overheating during the drying process. Vortex air currents dry fruits and vegetables efficiently and evenly. Technology helps preserve the benefits of products.

The dryer is equipped with several functions that allow drying, heating and defrosting.

Reliable operation thanks to the metal housing and high-quality parts of the device.

High performance achieved with 800 W power. Long service.

RAWMID Modern RMD-10

An expensive convective electric dryer is considered the best in its segment. This is due to its modern design, uniform drying, 700 W power, and excellent equipment. The device is supplied with 10 steel pallets, trays and nets (9 pieces of each type) intended for storing marshmallows, seeds, and herbs. The trays can be adjusted to any height if necessary.Uninterrupted operation, high-quality drying, and easy use make this model one of the best among similar competitors.

Spacious, you can simultaneously place trays inside for drying fruits, processing liquids, and preparing crackers.

The presence of a timer that runs from 50 minutes to a day.

Uniform drying of products, both in height and width.

There are automatic modes and useful functions, including maintaining the temperature of cooked ingredients.

Ergonomic use.

Oberhof Fruchttrockner B-53

Reliability, quality, functionality - the German Oberhof Fruchttrockner B-53 dryer meets these qualities. Performs several actions at once: provides uniform drying, prepares yogurt with marshmallows, and cures meat. Moreover, it does this while preserving the beneficial properties, taste and aroma of the ingredients. Overheating protection is responsible for safety.

Uniform drying.

Functionality in the form of temperature control and timer.

Quick and easy cleaning due to the non-stick coating of the trays.

Availability of 10 pallets.

The device is controlled by touch buttons, the process is controlled using a display that indicates the temperature and remaining cooking time.

Gemlux GL-FD-635S

The electronic dryer from Gemlux will be the best purchase for lovers of dried berries and fruits. On the front there is an electronically controlled LCD display; the device is additionally equipped with a timer for 99 hours of continuous drying.

Decent design, finished in matte black with a clear glass door on the front.

6 horizontal tiers made of stainless steel.

There are 2 fans installed inside the device, which promote accelerated dehydration.

A heating mode is provided that maintains a certain degree in the chamber, thereby eliminating the risk of possible dampening of the finished product.

Allows you to set any temperature from 35 to 75 degrees in 1 degree increments. This means that it is possible to select the exact mode for each ingredient.

Steba ED 6

Powerful dehydrator, 800 W performance more than most similar ones. Temperature adjustment from 30 degrees, intended for drying herbs, to 76 - for vegetables with fruits and berries. The timer adds ease of use; you can set your own drying time. Suitable for home use, for preparing dried fruits in canteens and cafes. The power is quite enough to process a sufficient amount of products.

Clear electronic control, display with main information at the very top of the dryer.

A set of 6 trays allows you to dry components without mixing components; the trays are made of metal, which increases their strength as opposed to plastic.

Compact, the device does not take up much space, it fits well in a kitchen drawer.

The dryer has a stylish design; there is a glass door in the front, which makes it possible to control the process of preparing dried fruits.

6 best dryers with marshmallow tray

Not every electric dryer has a marshmallow preparation function. Models are presented that include a special tray and a book with recipes for preparing fruit dessert.

Kitfort KT-1904

Another device included in the rating of the best convection dryers.Modern design, electronic control and the ability to prepare various products, including marshmallows, add to the popularity of the device. Spaciousness due to the presence of 6 lattice trays made of metal, easy to clean. It is convenient to control the process through the tempered glass door.

A powerful fan creates uniform horizontal airflow across all pallets.

Thanks to horizontal airflow, odors inside the device do not mix.

Setting a suitable temperature with a range from 35 to 70 degrees helps you choose the ideal dryer for vegetables and fruits, the same goes for time, can continuously work up to 19.5 hours

Pastille preparation function with an additional tray included.

The metal case increases the service life.

AIRHOT FD-6G

Stainless steel is used in the manufacture of the AIRHOT FD-6G convection dryer. Equipped with the necessary set of functions, including setting the appropriate temperature. A performance of 500 W and the ability of the device to regulate the air flow help produce tasty, healthy dried fruits, dried vegetables and mushrooms.

The manufacturer includes 6 metal trays with the dehydrator.

Simplicity of mechanical control, anyone can handle turning it on and setting it up, and besides, the mechanics fail less often.

Excellent capacity, the device processes up to 36 kg.

A nice bonus is the ability to prepare marshmallows; there is a separate tray for it.

Gastrorag FD-1000

Convection type drying equipment. Features of the device are high power, mechanical control, durable metal case.Due to the high productivity, the working area of ​​the drying surfaces is 1.4 square meters. m, used for industrial purposes.

Drying of both whole fruits and fruit slices is used; the maximum speed of liquid removal from fruits and berries is achieved.

Possibility to prepare meat slices and fish chips.

Used for making crackers and homemade noodles.

Smooth and stable air flow ensures uniform drying of ingredients.

The dryer is equipped with a timer that sets the exact cooking time; at the end of the process it will turn off automatically.

Oursson DH5000D/RD

Compact dryer with electronic control, the panel is built into the lid, so it is convenient to read the information. Using the manufacturer's instructions, you can quickly find out the exact cooking time for each product allowed for drying.

The temperature adjustment function will help you set the optimal mode.

The presence of a built-in digital display simplifies use and adds convenience.

Sound notification and automatic shutdown eliminate the risk of drying out ingredients.

Light weight and quiet.

The device is easy to care for, all six trays are removable, so they are easy to clean, and the package includes a special tray for fallen crumbs.

Garlyn D-09

A functional model that will help dry food, produce homemade yogurt, and make marshmallows. Touch control helps set the time and temperature for a specific ingredient with maximum accuracy.

The presence of additional functions provides the opportunity to experiment and prepare new preparations.

A timer with control knob simplifies the drying process.

6 transparent plastic trays, thanks to the material it is possible to track the stages of preparation of dried fruits.

Equipped with a sound signal indicating the end of drying.

Additional protection will protect the device from overheating, as a consequence of breakdown.

Ezidri Ultra FD1000 Digital

This device has a 1000 W power unit at the bottom, on which the trays are placed. The kit includes 5 standard trays, a grid for small ingredients and a sheet for pastilles. If desired, you can purchase additional trays, the dryer can accommodate up to 30 pieces, but the drying time will increase. This is the best model for those who want to purchase a high-quality assembled device, dry products with maximum preservation of their nutritional, taste, aromatic qualities.

Powerful and roomy equipment, you can load up to 15 kg into it.

Uniform drying of products on any tier. Attractive design, control with buttons, digital display with basic information.

Durable ABS plastic is used in the manufacture of parts, which does not emit harmful substances.

What to look for when choosing a dryer

There are several recommendations that will help you choose the best dryer for preparing dried and cured products, fruit and vegetable preparations. When evaluating the model you like, it is important to consider the performance, quantity and quality of trays, and the functionality of the equipment.

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Shape

There are devices in the form of a cube and a cylinder. The former are equipped with retractable trays, which are easy to monitor.For the second, the components are laid out on trays, after which they are installed on top of each other, that is, it will not be possible to control all levels without disassembling the entire structure.

Dimensions

When choosing a dryer, attention is paid to size, but this parameter is important only in visual terms. Most users prefer compact models that can be easily installed in the kitchen.

You need to choose a dryer that is suitable in height, width, and depth, focusing on the maximum load. Large 1000 W devices hold about 20 kg, devices up to 350 – up to 5 kg. The diameter of an average-sized device varies from 30 to 35 cm. The number of pallets that can be accommodated depends on the height.

Housing material

The dryer body can be in several versions:

• metal – strong, reliable and durable, but usually the devices are heavy, with poor thermal insulation properties;
• plastic - practicality, ease of assembly, easy cleaning, but cheap material can melt and cause an unpleasant odor.

There are also combined devices, for example, the body is made of metal, and the pallets are made of plastic.

Tray material

Pallets can also be metal or plastic. The former are considered the best, since plastic has the ability to absorb and emit odors. Naturally, if this is not a food option. Metal products are more reliable and durable.

Types of dryers

Dehydrators differ in their heating methods. The quality of drying, uniformity of processing, as well as the percentage of moisture that remains in the product upon completion of work depends on the specific type.

Heating

This type of device differs from the convective model in that it does not have a fan.Drying is carried out due to the heating element; the circulation of the warm flow through the compartments occurs naturally. Such dryers are also in demand, like their convective counterparts.

Convective

The working principle of a convection dryer is a heating element and a fan that create a warm air flow. It is aimed at circulating throughout the entire interior of the device. This promotes uniform temperature distribution throughout the chamber and forced removal of vapors to the outside.

Such models are considered the best when you need to dry components in a short time. They allow you to compactly arrange ingredients and preserve their beneficial properties. Dryers of any performance, size, functionality are presented. The only negative is the monotonous noise during operation.

Infrared

Such devices are considered the best, so their prices are quite high. The drying process in the device takes a lot of time, but at the same time useful elements and vitamins are preserved in processed products. The appearance of fruits and vegetables is not lost during dehydration; their flavor and aromatic properties are preserved.

Air supply method

There are differences in the location where the heating and ventilation equipment is installed. Air can be supplied:

1. With vertical airflow, air is supplied from below. Drying occurs naturally and evenly, regardless of the number of products that need to be processed.
2. A heating element with a fan in the upper part is also fed vertically, but drying is uneven. This is due to the fact that the air rushes upward, creating counter currents.When preparing fruits and vegetables, it is necessary to periodically change the location of the trays, regardless of whether they are located horizontally or vertically.
3. Horizontal air flow implies the presence of heating elements installed in the rear. This position ensures uniform heating and thorough ventilation of each tier, preventing mixing of aromas.

Devices with hot air sources in the rear wall are professional devices; they are often purchased for processing raw materials on an industrial scale. Accordingly, their cost is an order of magnitude higher than household dryers, but the quality is also at the proper level.

Power

Performance is affected by power. The higher the power rating, the more components the device can process at one time. When a hot stream arrives from the bottom, 350 W will be enough to completely dry berries and fruit slices.

If you need to process complex components, for example, fish, meat, then you should give preference to more powerful equipment. The best solution would be dryers whose power varies between 500-1000 W.

Useful area of ​​pallets

The key parameters are considered to be the number of trays and their usable area. The capacity depends on the obtained indicator. It’s easy to find out the data - you need to multiply the width by the length, this is how the usable area of ​​rectangular pallets is calculated.

The area of ​​large sheets is approximately 400x300 mm; in budget models, no more than 6 apples can be dried on a sheet.

Power consumption level

Electricity consumption is affected by power.Powerful appliances work faster, but also waste more energy. Before purchasing the model you like, you should read the instructions and find out the time it takes to dry, for example, fruit. This way the costs can be calculated.

Control

Several control options are provided. The first involves mechanics, when you have to install everything yourself. This option is reliable and durable. The electronics are convenient due to the touch keys, they are less likely to become dirty, and allow you to adjust the drying as accurately as possible. Electronic dryers come with a display on which all the necessary information appears, and without it.

Noise level

The noisiest dryers are considered to be convection dryers; the source of the sound is the fan, which is not able to operate quietly. There are quieter devices, usually the decibel level is indicated in the instructions. It is important to consider that devices operate differently even if their characteristics are identical.

Functionality

Functionality plays an important role in dryers; the more modern and expensive the device, the more capabilities it has.

Preparation of marshmallows

Pastila is prepared in a dryer on a flat silicone mold. Sheets are also used for these purposes. The fruit mass is laid out on them and removed inside the device for drying. The time required for complete readiness varies for each device.

Preparing yogurt

Special trays with sides have been created for yoghurts; the dishes are included in some models and are sold separately. Jars and containers of suitable size are also used. The dishes are placed on flat trays or sheets. It is important to take care of the height in advance so that the top trays do not come into contact with the lids of the cans.

Drying large products, mushrooms and meat

Tall trays have larger sides and are about 15 cm high. They are designed for processing large ingredients. The products are used when it is necessary to dry whole fruits, large pieces of meat or whole fish.

Drying finely chopped raw materials and herbs

It is preferable to dry crushed medicinal herbs and herbs from the garden on flat mesh trays. The raw materials are laid out on the surface in a thin layer, then the dehydration process will go faster.

Ease of use

According to most, the best dryers for the home are compact devices whose power does not exceed 500 W. They work quietly and hold a sufficient amount of food. It is advisable to have a timer, temperature regulator, and auto-off button. The set of these functions makes drying as convenient and easy as possible, without requiring constant monitoring.

Additional functions

Any modern dryer should have a set of functions. They improve work and relieve a number of tasks from a person.

It is also desirable that the device has a built-in technological hole; excess moisture obtained from juicy fruits and vegetables flows into it.

overheat protection

The function of protection against possible overheating is considered mandatory. It increases safety during drying operation. The device turns off automatically when a problem occurs.

Thermostat

The thermostat, with the help of which the desired temperature is set, the quality of dried fruits, their taste and benefits depend on it. The operating range usually varies between 30-75 degrees. The mode is selected taking into account the specific ingredient in order to prevent baking; the exact time is indicated in the instructions.

Timer

The timer is important because the drying process takes a long time and it is difficult to control cooking. It is desirable that the device turns off on its own after a specified period of time.

Sound indication of readiness

Alert signal is a convenient function, but not required. Especially if the device is equipped with a timer with subsequent shutdown. If there is none, then a sound alert will indicate that the drying process is complete.

Accessories

Accessories in the form of additional devices are most often included with expensive dryers from well-known brands with a worldwide reputation. But they can be purchased separately from the device.

Additional and/or spare trays, silicone mats

Most often, consumers prefer nets designed for drying small ingredients: chopped herbs, crushed medicinal herbs.

Special silicone-based mats for marshmallows are easy to use. They are also allowed to dry liquid or semi-liquid mixtures.

Instructions for drying various foods and preparing all kinds of dishes

Products intended for drying are taken 5 times more than what is needed in finished form. For each ingredient, the time is selected and the temperature is set:

• dehydration of fruits in the form of apples, peaches, pears - 60 degrees, 12-24 hours;
• raisins, dried apricots, rose hips – 60 degrees, 8-12 hours;
• carrots, eggplants, bell peppers – 60 degrees, 8-10 hours;
• mushrooms – 40 degrees, 5 hours;
• meat, fish – 60 degrees, 8-10 hours;
• fruit pastille – 60 degrees, 12-14 hours.

The time may vary slightly; it is better to refer to the instructions that come with the dryer.

How to choose a vegetable and fruit dryer for your home

There are several recommendations that will help you choose a dryer wisely. Important things to consider:

• volume, how many products are supposed to be dried;
• principle of operation, convection models are considered the best, safest, fastest, but also more expensive;
• power is selected taking into account the intensity of use; for a home, 350-500 W is enough;
• additional functions in the form of cooking marshmallows and yogurt increase the cost of the device; if you do not plan to use them, then you should not overpay.

When choosing a dryer, you should approach it responsibly; you need to decide what is more important - economy or reliability, long service life, taste and benefits of the dried product. If you want to buy a decent device, with a set of functions that simplify your work, then it is better to abandon budget devices, they will not work for a long time.

You should not purchase large drying equipment if workpieces are made occasionally. In this case, it is better to choose a compact but functional device up to 500 W.