Solar Dehydrators: A DIY Solution For Preserving Crops

Over the years, the solar dehydrator has been experimented with and modified in various ways. The group found that the dehydrator resulted in higher drying temperatures by adding a double layer of glazing. Single glazed dehydrators still performed optimally, only operating with slightly reduced temperatures to the double glazed counterpart. 

Scanlin and others also experimented with utilizing reflectors (aluminum foil, mirrors, reflective mylar) to gather additional solar energy into the system. By adding a vertical reflective wall on the drying chamber, they saw slight increases in the temperatures inside the system and even more from a single reflector mounted at the bottom. Side-mounted reflectors were also experimented with, showing a significant rise in temperature at the cost of needing more attention to adjust the solar dehydrator throughout the day. They concluded that single reflectors were the best option when adding additional solar power to your system.

On top of experimenting with gathering more sunlight, the group also delved into what made the best absorber within the dehydrator's collector chamber. They found that galvanized steel lath painted flat black produced a higher temperature in the drying chamber than the initially tested aluminum screen layers. However, steel lath can be harder to work with more expensive. The researchers also found that two to three layers of the screen or painted steel lath were more than enough for the dehydrator to work effectively. This discovery was contrary to their original design of five layers. Additional layers did add extra heat absorption, but at an increased cost.

Now, there are dehydrators for sale at various stores. But the majority of the products you will find for sale at retailers will be exclusively for powered dehydration and require an outlet. The price-point for a plug-in dehydrator will vary depending on the quality and functionality of the product. With standard dehydrators ranging from $60 to over $500, there are various options for every household. The DIY dehydrator is comparable to a higher-end product in material cost. They offer similar drying space and max temperature ratings. However, they are nowhere near as compact as the paid-for options.

Making a Solar Dehydrator may not be the top of a gardener's to-do list. Still, in my opinion, the long-term benefits of owning one outweigh going without one. By extending the use of your crops into the winter months, you are reducing your grocery consumption when it would typically be picking up. While a different appeal than their fresh food counterparts, dried food and herbs have a place in the kitchen, from baking to soup making.

Whether it be for cost or space, starting with a manufactured dehydrator may be how you want to first dabble with extending the life of your harvest. But if you have the time and space, taking advantage of the natural processes of a solar dehydrator will do the same job, with only the sun's light.