First Impressions of Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator
The Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator arrives as a formidable titan in the world of food preservation. Its stainless steel construction and dual-zone capability scream commercial-grade efficiency. This isn’t your countertop dehydrator; this is a serious piece of equipment for those committed to large-scale food preservation.
My journey to this particular dehydrator began with a problem: the need to efficiently and effectively dehydrate large quantities of wild game jerky, fruits harvested from my orchard, and vegetables from my garden. My existing small dehydrators simply couldn’t keep up with the volume. I craved a solution that would not only handle large batches but also allow for precise temperature control for different food types simultaneously.
The unboxing experience was akin to witnessing the arrival of a meticulously crafted appliance. The sheer size was imposing, a testament to its 136 square feet of drying space. The stainless steel finish radiated durability and cleanliness. The build quality was immediately apparent. It was a far cry from the plastic housings of smaller, consumer-grade units.
I considered several other large-capacity dehydrators, including models from competitor brands. However, the Excalibur’s dual-zone functionality and reputation for consistent temperature control ultimately swayed my decision. The ability to dry different products at different temperatures simultaneously was a major selling point, saving time and energy.
My initial reaction was a mixture of excitement and slight intimidation. The Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator felt like a professional tool, a serious upgrade from my previous equipment. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator involved a massive batch of venison jerky and a simultaneous load of apple slices. The jerky required a higher temperature for safe drying, while the apples needed a lower setting to retain their color and flavor. I set one zone to 165°F for the venison and the other to 135°F for the apples.
The dehydrator performed flawlessly, maintaining consistent temperatures in each zone. The venison jerky was perfectly dried, with a satisfying chew and rich flavor. The apple slices were evenly dehydrated, retaining their vibrant color and natural sweetness. The ease of use was remarkable. The front access control panel made setting the temperatures and timers a breeze.
There were no major issues, but the unit’s size required some logistical planning. Finding a suitable location with adequate ventilation was crucial due to the heat output. The initial run produced a slight metallic smell, which dissipated after a thorough cleaning, as recommended by Excalibur.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of near-constant use, the Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator has proven to be an absolute workhorse. I’ve dehydrated everything from herbs and vegetables to large batches of fruit leather and even raised bread dough with remarkable consistency.
The durability is exceptional. There are no signs of wear and tear despite the heavy use. The stainless steel trays and interior are easy to clean, resisting stains and odors. The removable front door and back door make deep cleaning a simple process.
Compared to my previous experiences with smaller dehydrators, the Excalibur is in a different league. It handles larger volumes more efficiently, delivers consistent results, and provides unmatched control over the drying process. It has significantly reduced the time and effort required to preserve my harvests.
Breaking Down the Features of Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator
Specifications
The Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator boasts impressive specifications tailored for commercial or high-volume home use.
- Manufacturer: Excalibur
- Material: All stainless steel construction, interior and exterior.
- Trays: 42 stainless steel trays with BPA-free mesh screens. This translates to a massive 136 square feet of drying space.
- Dimensions: 30 inches wide, 71 inches high, and 30-35 inches deep.
- Weight: A substantial 535 lbs.
- Power: 3750-5000 watts.
- Temperature Range: Adjustable thermostat from 70°F to 180°F.
- Timer: 99-hour digital timer with adjustable fan delay, alarms, and integrated beeper cycles.
- Fans: 8 – 6.5-inch fans for even air circulation.
- Controls: 2 Computerized Digital Read-Outs. Ethernet controls are also available.
These specifications are crucial for performance. The stainless steel ensures hygiene and durability, while the large capacity allows for processing significant quantities of food. The precise temperature control and timer guarantee consistent drying results, critical for food safety and quality.
Performance & Functionality
The Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator excels at its primary function: dehydrating food efficiently and consistently. The dual-zone feature is a game-changer. It allows me to dry different types of food with varying temperature and humidity requirements simultaneously.
The temperature control is incredibly accurate. I have verified it with independent thermometers. The Excalibur maintains consistent temperatures throughout the drying process, crucial for preserving nutrients and preventing spoilage. The hyperwave technology and horizontal parallex drying ensure even drying across all trays, eliminating the need for frequent tray rotation.
The 99-hour digital timer is a valuable asset. It allows me to set the dehydrator and forget about it, knowing it will automatically shut off when the drying cycle is complete. The automatic cool down & shut off feature is a great safety addition, preventing scorching of the food at the end of the cycle.
Design & Ergonomics
The Excalibur’s design prioritizes functionality and durability. The all-stainless steel construction is robust and easy to clean. While the unit is large, the convenient front access control panel makes operation straightforward. The removable rack weldments add to the ease of cleaning and maintenance.
The weight of 535 lbs means this isn’t a portable appliance. It’s designed for a permanent location. Despite its industrial appearance, the design is surprisingly intuitive, with a minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator is built to last. The stainless steel construction is resistant to corrosion and wear. The high-quality components ensure reliable operation for years to come. With proper care and maintenance, this dehydrator should provide a long service life.
Maintenance is relatively simple. Regular cleaning of the trays and interior is essential to prevent the buildup of food residue. The removable front door and back door make this process much easier. The fan motors may require occasional lubrication, as specified in the Excalibur manual.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator comes standard with 42 stainless steel trays featuring BPA-free mesh screens.
While there are no specific “customization options” in the traditional sense, the stainless steel trays are compatible with parchment paper or silicone mats for drying sticky foods. The availability of Ethernet controls for state of the art custom computer process controls allows for some level of customization for the experienced user. Excalibur also offers replacement parts, ensuring longevity and repairability. The front door dampers increase humidity.
Pros and Cons of Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator
Pros
- Exceptional capacity with 136 square feet of drying space. Perfect for large-scale food preservation.
- Dual-zone functionality with independent temperature control. Allows simultaneous drying of different food types.
- Consistent and accurate temperature control. Ensures even drying and prevents spoilage.
- Durable all-stainless steel construction. Built to withstand heavy use and provide long service life.
- Easy to clean and maintain with removable doors and rack weldments. Simplifies the cleaning process.
Cons
- High price point. A significant investment compared to consumer-grade dehydrators.
- Large size and weight. Requires a dedicated space with adequate ventilation.
Who Should Buy Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator?
The Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator is perfect for:
- Commercial kitchens and restaurants.
- Small farms and orchards.
- Serious home gardeners and food preservation enthusiasts.
- Preppers and survivalists who want to store large quantities of dehydrated food.
This product is not ideal for:
- Casual dehydrators who only need to dry small quantities of food occasionally.
- Individuals with limited space or budget.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality power surge protector due to the unit’s high power consumption. Extra silicone mats can be handy for drying sticky foods.
Conclusion on Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator
The Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator is a top-of-the-line appliance that delivers exceptional performance and durability. While the price tag is substantial, the value proposition is clear: this is a professional-grade tool that will provide years of reliable service.
The dual-zone functionality, precise temperature control, and large capacity make it a game-changer for anyone serious about food preservation. If you need to dehydrate large quantities of food regularly and demand the best possible results, the Excalibur is worth the investment.
I personally recommend the Excalibur Excalibur 2 Zone Commercial Dehydrator without hesitation. It has transformed my food preservation efforts, saving me time and money while providing high-quality, shelf-stable food. Take the plunge and experience the difference a truly professional dehydrator can make!