Looking for suggestions for a food dehydrator

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FL-NC

FL-NC

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My "presto" dehydrator from wally world heat element doesn't work any more. So now it is a poorly designed fan that serves no function. Thus, I need a replacement. All I use these things for is the occasional batch of venison jerky. Of course, I didn't realize there was a problem until after I had done all the prep work on the meat, plugged the thing in (heard the fan humming) then checked back several hours later to damp, cold meat. So now I'm trying to finish it in Mrs. Fl-NC's oven in her kitchen. So what's the verdict on a brand/model number, and source? Not looking to spend a fortune, but want something that will last more than a couple years/couple batches of jerky. (BTW, the one I bought on late night TV from RONCO worked for decades, and like a dummy it was culled when we moved, because "I'll just get a newer better one when we get settled in".
 
I'm looking at a Hamilton Beach model with adjustable thermostat 100-160 degrees, 500 watts, 5 trays, $59 delivered, Is this good? Doesn't Hamilton Beach make decent stuff?
 
FL-NC said:
I'm looking at a Hamilton Beach model with adjustable thermostat 100-160 degrees, 500 watts, 5 trays, $59 delivered, Is this good? Doesn't Hamilton Beach make decent stuff?
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Hamilton Beach is usually pretty good quality. I wouldn't be afraid of it. I have a round Sunbeam from mall-warts that does about what you're looking for. Although I've never done jerky with it.
 
Axis II said:
Nesco is pretty good. Stay away from the black ones rural king and a few others sell. Takes 2x longer and doesn’t seem to do it evenly.
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Bought mine and use it to dry peppers and herbs; adjustable temp settings and a lot of trays.
 
I have a 5 tray Excalibur brand. Adjustable temperature, timer built in. Square trays that fit more stuff. I’ve used it heavily for about 5-6 years now. Very happy with it.
 
FL-NC said:
I'm looking at a Hamilton Beach model with adjustable thermostat 100-160 degrees, 500 watts, 5 trays, $59 delivered, Is this good? Doesn't Hamilton Beach make decent stuff?
Click to expand...
Adjustable thermostat is a feature I wish mine had.
 
daniel craig said:
Adjustable thermostat is a feature I wish mine had.
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My Nesco's adjustable heat setting lists what each temp is best for - handy feature; also it blows hot air down, not up so it is consistent from top to bottom when using 6 trays
 
Well, I have a presto Dehydro with adjustable thermostat.

Disclaimer: mine has never had food in it, I only use it to dry brass. I have run it at least twice a month for 3 years and it still runs like new. It has been running almost continuously for the last week as I am trying to catch up.

This is not the cheap one, this set me back about $75. If it does I will buy another just like it.
 
I have a Ronco with an adjustable thermostat, but you can also use a regular oven if you want, or if the misses you let you. lol
 
I purchased 2 at Goodwill, one is round and has on and off and was between $3 & $4 and works good for brass, the other is square and has different temperature settings and ran a little above $5 and has made dried fruit and jerky. I would look at one with adjustable temps.
Another option is an air fryer oven, some have a jerky option
 
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