The LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer Made a Bold First Impression
For years, I’ve relied on external vacuum sealers, battling bag slippage, messy liquids, and inconsistent seals. Frustration peaked during last deer season when precious backstraps suffered freezer burn, prompting a desperate search for a better solution. Enter the LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer, a name whispered in hushed tones among serious meat processors and dedicated anglers. This commercial-grade machine promised to revolutionize my preservation game, so I had to see if it lived up to the hype.
The allure of a chamber sealer, specifically one capable of handling liquids and delicate foods without the usual fuss, was undeniable. Upon unboxing the LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer, I was immediately struck by its robust build. The stainless steel body and the substantial Lucite lid exuded quality and durability. It looked like a serious piece of equipment.
Compared to my old external sealer, the LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer felt like an industrial upgrade. I had considered the Avid Armor USV20 chamber vacuum sealer and the VacMaster VP215. However, the LEM’s advertised ease of use and the reputation of LEM products ultimately swayed me. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of anticipation; this machine was an investment.
Real-World Testing: Putting LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer to the Test
First Use Experience
My inaugural sealing session involved prepping marinated chicken breasts for a backcountry camping trip. This was the perfect opportunity to test the “Liquid” preset button. I placed the chicken in a bag, added the marinade, and positioned it within the chamber using the adjustable bag-holding rack. The hinged, lid-locking mechanism felt secure and provided a clear view of the sealing process.
I selected the liquid setting and pressed start. The machine quietly went to work. The air evacuated completely, without sucking marinade out of the bag – a common problem with my old external sealer. I was impressed with the cleanliness of the vacuuming process. The seal was clean, wide, and looked bombproof.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer continues to deliver consistent results. I have used it to seal everything from venison roasts after hunting season to delicate portions of flaky salmon after a successful fishing trip. There are no signs of diminished performance. The dual sealing elements provide a strong and reliable seal every time.
Cleaning is a breeze. The removable seal bar makes accessing any spills or debris simple. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes. It’s important to avoid abrasive cleaners, as suggested by LEM. This keeps the stainless steel body looking pristine. The LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer has significantly outperformed my old external sealer. It eliminates wasted bags and creates a superior seal that extends the shelf life of my stored food.
Breaking Down the Features of LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer
Specifications
The LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer boasts impressive specifications designed for heavy-duty use. It features a powerful 1/4-horsepower oil pump. This ensures consistent and reliable vacuum pressure for optimal sealing. The dual sealing elements (3mm & 1mm) on a 10 1/4″ bar guarantee a robust, airtight seal.
The machine also features digital controls to adjust vacuum pressure, seal time, and sealing temperature. These customizable settings provide precision for various food types. The LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer has three customizable preset buttons programmed for Meat/fish, Liquid, and Dry food. You can override these presets to fine-tune the seal according to your needs. A quick stop button halts the entire process immediately. This adds an extra layer of control and safety.
Performance & Functionality
The LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer excels in preserving food with an extended shelf life. Its chamber sealing technology ensures that all air is evacuated from the bag. This drastically reduces the chances of freezer burn and oxidation. The machine is exceptionally reliable. Its consistent performance makes it a valuable asset for any serious home processor.
The adjustable bag-holding rack inside the chamber helps keep bags in place during the vacuuming process. This prevents spills and ensures a clean seal. The digital controls are intuitive. The presets make it easy to seal common food items without needing to experiment with settings. A minor drawback is the size of the chamber. While it’s adequate for most applications, larger cuts of meat might require creative bag placement.
Design & Ergonomics
The LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer’s stainless steel construction exudes durability. It looks and feels like a professional-grade appliance. The Lucite lid allows you to monitor the sealing process. The hinged design and lid-locking mechanism add stability and prevent accidental openings during operation.
The machine’s footprint is considerable, requiring ample counter space for comfortable use. Its weight (around 70 pounds, I would estimate based on shipping weight) also makes it less portable. Therefore, this is not something you will move around the kitchen often. The controls are logically arranged and easy to understand, even for a first-time user.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction of the LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer suggests a long lifespan. The stainless steel body resists corrosion and is easy to clean. The oil pump is designed for continuous use, making it ideal for processing large quantities of food. Routine maintenance is minimal. The removable seal bar simplifies cleaning and replacing consumable parts like the Teflon tape.
LEM includes extra rubber seal/gasket and heat bars. They also include Allen wrench, Phillips screwdriver, flat screwdriver, and Teflon tape. This ensures you have the necessary tools and replacement parts readily available for repairs. The availability of replacement parts from LEM further extends the machine’s lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer comes with a starter kit of 40 – 6″x9″ bags and 40 – 10″x13″ chamber sealer bags. This allows you to start sealing immediately. The machine requires chamber-specific bags, which are widely available online.
While customization options are limited, the adjustable settings for vacuum pressure, seal time, and sealing temperature allow you to fine-tune the machine’s performance. It can be optimized for different food types and bag thicknesses. The machine is compatible with a variety of chamber sealer bags from different brands. However, it is crucial to ensure they are the correct size for the chamber.
Pros and Cons of LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer
Pros
- Exceptional Sealing Quality: The chamber sealing technology removes virtually all air, extending the shelf life of food and preventing freezer burn.
- Handles Liquids with Ease: Perfect for marinating meats, sealing soups, and storing fish in liquid immersion without messy spills.
- Durable Construction: The stainless steel body and heavy-duty oil pump are built to withstand years of continuous use.
- Easy to Use: Digital controls and preset buttons simplify the sealing process for various food types.
- Comprehensive Accessory Kit: Includes extra seal bars, Teflon tape, and a selection of chamber sealer bags to get you started.
Cons
- Significant Footprint: Requires considerable counter space and is not easily portable.
- Chamber Bag Requirement: Requires specific chamber sealer bags, which can be more expensive than standard vacuum sealer bags.
Who Should Buy LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer?
The LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer is perfect for hunters, anglers, serious home cooks, and anyone who regularly processes large quantities of meat, fish, or other perishables. It is also suitable for sous vide enthusiasts. This sealer also works very well for anyone looking to professionally package food items. If you value quality, durability, and superior food preservation, the LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer is an excellent investment.
Those who only occasionally seal small quantities of food may find the LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer to be overkill. The size and price point might not be justified for light users. A smaller, less expensive external vacuum sealer might be a better option.
A must-have accessory is a large supply of chamber sealer bags in various sizes to accommodate different food items.
Conclusion on LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer
The LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer has truly transformed my food preservation process. Its superior sealing quality, ability to handle liquids, and durable construction have made it an indispensable tool in my kitchen. The initial investment is significant. The long-term benefits of reduced food waste and extended shelf life more than justify the cost.
I wholeheartedly recommend the LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer to anyone serious about preserving food. It’s a game-changer. If you are tired of freezer burn and wasted food, it is time to take the plunge and experience the difference a chamber sealer can make. Upgrade your food preservation game today with the LEM MaxVac Pro Chamber Sealer!