How to Compare Vacuum Sealers
Vacuum sealers help preserve food and other perishable items by creating an airtight seal. In addition to sealing the bag, vacuum sealers suck the air out of the bag, leaving no air inside the bag to potentially spoil the perishable item. Depending on where you will use your vacuum sealer, and how much sealing you must do, compare the features and the prices of each vacuum sealer to make sure you buy the unit that best meets your needs. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Assess your vacuum sealer needs so you only compare the features you actually need. Occasionally using your vacuum sealer allows you to purchase a manual sealer. If you anticipate using a vacuum sealer on a regular basis, opt for an automatic vacuum sealer.
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Determine the benefits of home-style vacuum sealers. Home-style vacuum cleaners are small enough to store in your kitchen cabinet when not in use, and light enough that you can take them in and out of your cabinet with ease. Home-style vacuum cleaners also allow you to buy compatible bags in smaller quantities, so you're not out the cost of thousands of bags at one time.
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Know the features of commercial vacuum sealers. Chamber-style vacuum packers are popular in commercial applications because of their small size. Compare the bag style used with chamber style vacuum packers and the size so you know if you have room for it. Buy commercial vacuum sealers designed to handle your sealing load. Some chamber-style vacuum cleaners can seal hundreds of bags every day. If you plan to repackage food for sale, you need a chamber-style commercial vacuum sealer.
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Compare vacuum sealers prices based on the features available. As of 2010, home style vacuum sealers cost anywhere from $50 to $500. Commercial vacuum sealers cost significantly more depending on the size and the applications required. Expect to pay $1,500 to $5,000 per unit.
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Buy the right vacuum sealer for the job. Health department inspectors will not approve home style vacuum sealers for commercial use. If you run a restaurant or work in any food service industry, compare commercial vacuum sealers to ensure you comply with the law.
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Find bags compatible with your vacuum sealer. A high-quality bag has the appropriate texture, liner, fiber and channel to allow for maximum air removal during the vacuum sealing process. Compare prices for the bags required for each vacuum sealer to make sure it's a high quality bag and to determine its cost.
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References
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Comments
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Anonymous
Apr 19, 2011
I use a vacuum sealer that has an optional jar lid attachment. Jars are really handy for things you may end up using/rotating often. Cuts down tremendously on bag costs. There are also large containers with the vacuum sealer tops which I keep fridge foods in, it makes my salad greens and berries last twice as long!
