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Old 07-07-2008, 02:27 PM   #7 (permalink)
microfarmer
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Location: Zone 9 Sack-o-tomato, CA
Zone: CA zone 9b
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Default Re: Food Dehydrators

Quote:
Originally Posted by Richard View Post
Given the amount of time sun-drying takes and the quantity of fruit ripening in that period, I would need a minimum of 500 square feet of solar drying space. The cost of materials to build a unit that size capable of keeping varmits out exceeds the price of a large electric dehydrator ($125) and the electricity to operate it over a 10 year period ($240). However, I'm always interested in learning about less expensive options!
I won't need to put them in the sun for that. Tomorrow it will be 104 with less than 20% humidity. I just need door size screens to lay the fruits out on, and stack them with airspace between them. Some mosquito netting will keep out the bugs. The cat will keep away the critters. Heck, I can even dry them in the shade with that heat... No electric or other costs beyond the screening and frames.

When life gives you hot lemons, dehydrate them!!
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Quote:
Originally Posted by pitangadiego View Post
There is no excuse for still having grass. I haven't mowed in 20 years. With all that space, I could plant another 100 bananas.
My new hero...
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