Food dehydrator

Food drying is a method of preserving fruit, vegetables and meats that has been practiced since antiquity.

[2] Food dehydrators require heat sources such as solar energy, electric power or biofuel.

As shown on the right, the trays most commonly have slits to provide more surface area between the food and the air.

The key to successful food dehydration is the application of a constant temperature and adequate air flow.

Transparent or translucent glazing allows sunlight to enter an enclosed chamber, which converts it to heat when it strikes a dark interior surface.

[6] A general rule is that, if you can grow a successful vegetable garden, then there is enough solar energy to dry the food you produce (some overcast, northern maritime climates are the exception).