What I presume was happening was that condensation was building up on the cooling coils between the insulation and the chamber and freezing. When I finally turned the FDer off it took 3 days for the ice buildup to melt and slowly soak through the insulation and drip onto the counter.
. We have some really great 'techy' type guys here who are, as they have been exploring the FD mechanics and sharing that in their posts, writing what is turning out to be a 'troubleshooting manual' for us less capable folks.
After the 3rd cycle I had hit my 20 cycle oil limit so it was time to change the oil. This time I took the time to add a flush port to my pump. When I replaced the plumbing with larger diameter brass and a cutoff valve I did not think to add the oil flush out port.
Finding used freeze dryers isn't easy. That's because most people who get them consider them a long-term investment. As such, they hold on to them for years. However, a used freeze dryer or two sometimes makes its way onto the market.
One oil free pump. The oil free vacuum pump can be used with any size freeze dryer. They are quiet, fast, and easy to use. The Harvest Right oil free vacuum pumps do not require oil changes and do not require regular user maintenance.
Agree entirely on the fittings! After many emails and phone calls to HR, some advice that didn't pan out, and some parts replacement, the unit is back in business! Turns out it was the wire passthrough for the heater wires.
One of the many joys of having a working freezer is the potential that it holds. While cooking may not be everyone’s forte, saving time usually is, and this is one of the benefits a freezer affords. By scheduling particular days and reserving them exclusively for the preparation of a week’s worth of meals, you’ll save not only a significant amount of money, but time.
I have one of those hand held heat guns (inexpensive from HF), but I was afraid of accidently burning the insulation. My gun gets very hot! I do the same technique with a fan, shock the ice and listen for the cracks as it separates from the chamber wall.
Or, if you’d rather get some more quality reading before shopping, here are some articles I wrote to help you get that research bug itch scratched.
This product does not come standard with a new freeze dryer order. Current customers with an older model freeze dryer will need an adapter for the oil free vacuum pump. Harvest Right will provide the adapter free of charge.
Removing water quickly is very important because the longer a harvested plant or compound retains water, the higher the chance it has of spoiling, losing nutrition, and losing potency.
There are 3 ports on the chamber that I made slits in the plastic to get around and taped them up once around them. Do not tape to the insulation. Tape only to the vapor barrier plastic. It doesn't take long, just be careful. After the plastic is in place and secure around the chamber I sealed the Buy Now plastic to the back of the front and back panels using the packing tape. All the way around the front and back of the chamber to completely seal the chamber from outside air and humidity.
Presumably you have one of the medium sized units that is used for dried flowers, taxidermy etc - those are most common on the market. Lab supply places have very small ones for scientific samples. Food oriented freeze dryers tend to be factory sized.
Whether you're a pharmaceutical professional or a dedicated home user, this freeze dryer meets your needs with precision and ease. Its pharmaceutical-grade capabilities ensure the highest standards of product preservation, maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of your pharmaceuticals.