A food dehydrator is a useful appliance for preserving fruits, vegetables, and meats. It removes the moisture from the food, allowing it to last longer without spoiling. While you can easily buy a food dehydrator from the market, making one from a refrigerator can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. In this article, we will guide you step by step on how to make a food dehydrator from a refrigerator.
Gather the Required Materials
To start the DIY project, you will need several materials to transform your refrigerator into a food dehydrator. Here is a list of items you will need:
1. A Refrigerator:
You can use an old refrigerator that you no longer need or purchase a cheap one from a garage sale. Make sure the refrigerator is in good working condition and has adjustable temperature settings.
2. Shelves or Trays:
You will require multiple trays or shelves to place the food on. These can be made from food-grade materials like stainless steel or BPA-free plastic. It is essential to have enough shelves to accommodate the amount of food you want to dehydrate.
3. Ventilation System:
To ensure proper airflow within the dehydrator, you will need a ventilation system. This can be achieved by installing a small electric fan inside the refrigerator. The fan will circulate the air and distribute the heat evenly, ensuring efficient drying of the food.
4. Temperature Controller:
Since a refrigerator operates at lower temperatures, you will need a temperature controller to increase the temperature for dehydration. Purchase a temperature controller that allows you to set the desired temperature accurately.
5. Thermometer:
A reliable thermometer is crucial to monitor and maintain the temperature inside the dehydrator. Choose a thermometer that can be easily read and provides accurate temperature readings.
6. Mesh Screens or Food Grade Netting:
To prevent food from sticking to the shelves or trays, you will need mesh screens or food-grade netting. These screens allow the air to circulate freely while preventing small food pieces from falling through the cracks.
Transforming the Refrigerator
Now that you have gathered all the necessary materials, it’s time to transform the refrigerator into a food dehydrator.
Step 1: Clean the Refrigerator
Start by cleaning the refrigerator thoroughly. Remove any spoiled food or lingering odors to ensure a clean environment for your dehydrator.
Step 2: Remove Unnecessary Components
Take out any shelves, drawers, or compartments that are not required for the dehydrator. This will create more space for the trays or shelves that will hold the food.
Step 3: Install the Ventilation System
Place the electric fan inside the refrigerator. You can either mount it to one of the walls or attach it to a shelf. Ensure that the fan is positioned in a way that it will circulate air evenly throughout the dehydrator.
Step 4: Modify the Temperature Control
To adjust the temperature for dehydration, you will need to modify the refrigerator’s temperature control system. Consult the manual of your refrigerator model or seek professional assistance to properly adjust the temperature settings.
Step 5: Add the Temperature Controller
Connect the temperature controller to the refrigerator’s power supply and place the temperature probe inside the unit. Set the desired temperature on the controller according to the food you wish to dehydrate. The temperature controller will override the default settings, allowing you to reach higher temperatures required for dehydration.
Step 6: Test the Temperature Control System
Before placing any food in the dehydrator, run a test to ensure that the temperature control system is functioning correctly. Monitor the temperature using the thermometer and make adjustments if necessary.
Using Your Homemade Food Dehydrator
With your homemade food dehydrator ready, it’s time to start preserving your favorite foods.
Step 1: Prepare the Food
Wash and prepare the food you want to dehydrate. Slice fruits and vegetables evenly to ensure consistent drying. For meats, cut them into thin strips or cubes.
Step 2: Arrange the Food on the Shelves
Place the food on the mesh screens or food-grade netting. Make sure the pieces are not overlapping to allow proper airflow. Arrange the trays or shelves inside the dehydrator, ensuring that there is enough space between them for air circulation.
Step 3: Set the Temperature and Time
Using the temperature controller, set the desired temperature for dehydration. Refer to a food dehydrator guide or recipe book to determine the appropriate temperature for different types of food. Set the timer according to the estimated drying time for the specific food you are dehydrating.
Step 4: Monitor the Drying Process
Regularly check on the food to ensure it is drying correctly. Rotate the trays or shelves if necessary to promote even drying. This will prevent any food from becoming overly dry or under-dried.
Step 5: Store Properly
Once the food has reached the desired level of dehydration, remove it from the dehydrator and let it cool down completely. Store the dehydrated food in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to maintain its freshness and extend its shelf life.
Conclusion
Making a food dehydrator from a refrigerator is a cost-effective and rewarding DIY project. By utilizing materials readily available and following the steps mentioned above, you can transform an old refrigerator into a functional and efficient food dehydrator. Enjoy the benefits of preserved fruits, vegetables, and meats all year round with your homemade food dehydrator.