Harvest Right Freeze Dryer Reviews

I bought my first Harvest Right freeze dryer a few years ago, mostly out of curiosity. I was amazed by how simple it was to use and how incredible the results were — fresh food transformed into shelf-stable goodness with all the flavor and color intact. What started as an experiment quickly turned into an obsession.

Fast forward to today, I now own three XL units, and they’ve become the backbone of my business. The machines perform consistently and efficiently, and I’m still in awe every time I pull out a perfectly freeze-dried batch. Harvest Right really bridges the gap between home and professional use — their dryers are easy enough for beginners but powerful enough for serious production.

What really sets them apart, though, is their customer support. Every time I’ve needed help — from technical questions to setup advice — their team has been responsive, kind, and genuinely invested in my success. That kind of support gives me the confidence to keep scaling and experimenting.

Freeze-drying has completely changed how I think about food, and Harvest Right made that possible.

What used to take 40 to 60 hours to freeze-dry now takes over 160 continuous working hours to finish a single batch. Harvest Right customer service stated that this is “normal” and that there is nothing they can do.

This is a new machine that I recently purchased, and I have completed fewer than nine batches. There are no vacuum leaks or visible damage.

I deeply regret purchasing this unit from Harvest Right and I do NOT recommend buying any of their machines, as they offer no real warranty and very poor technical support.

We unfortunately had to get our HarvestRight sent back and fixed after only a couple years of use. We did not use it very often and it still went bad. The oil less pump failed and the freeze dryer itself had issues as well. We have been very disappointed in the quality of such an expensive item. We had to buy a new pump, we went with the premium oil pump this time, and we had to pay for shipping to and from their facility.

Because we don't use the freeze dryer very often we thought that it would have lasted longer than it did, and we almost didn't get it fixed because of the shipping expense and cost for the new pump. If it fails again we will not be fixing it or purchasing another one. The whole process has taken a few months to get it figured out, the HarvestRight is currently being shipped back.

Some things we have been happy with are the customer service responsiveness and courtesy. The use of the two-year warranty for the freeze dryer was very useful because it paid for the needed fixes. They also had all of the packaging and delivery of the product set up for us to make shipping it a little less painful.

I have owned Harvest Right Freeze Dryers for years now, and have been pleased with the performance, and the product that I have been able to freeze dry. Recently had an issue with a vacuum error. I contacted Customer Service/Tech support. They scheduled an appointment with a tech, and I was sent videos that suggested possible solutions, and then received a call back to go through the process to resolve the problem. I am very happy with Harvest Right Products, and their Tech Support.

So far Harvest Right has really shown up. The equipment was very well packaged. The delivery was easy to schedule. The size seems to be perfect, although we have only done the test run so far. We had trouble with the seal and vacuum cycle on our first test run and were frustrated to have to trouble shoot immediately, but Luis was knowledgeable and kind and called on time.

He also took the initiative to "make things right," which I don't often see these days, and he offered a compensating gift to acknowledge the need to call in for support so soon after receiving the equipment and after having invested so much financially.

My Harvest Right freeze dryer is the best thing I have bought in a long time. It is easy to set up and use. I recently had a problem with it. The Tech Taiya worked with me over several days while I was testing things and doing things requested. In the end the issue was resolved and I'm back freeze drying again. The Tech was very friendly, helpful and patient while we worked things out over the days. I would recommend a Harvest Right freeze dryer to anyone that was looking for a freeze dryer. Excellent machine and friendly customer service.

I can't say enough good things about the Harvest Right Freeze Dryer! It has completely transformed the way I store food for long-term use. Whether I'm preserving garden produce, creating ready-to-eat meals, or storing emergency food, this machine delivers professional-grade results right from my home.

The quality of the freeze-dried food is outstanding – it retains flavor, color, and most importantly, nutrition. I’ve freeze-dried everything from fruits and vegetables to full meals, and the results are consistently impressive. It’s also incredibly satisfying to know I’m reducing food waste and saving money over time.

Setup was straightforward, and the touchscreen interface makes operation easy, even for beginners. I also really appreciate the customer support from Harvest Right – they've been helpful and responsive whenever I had questions. Denisha had me back using my freeze drier in less than a week when issues occurred. She follow-up on and walked me though every step.

Yes, it’s an investment, but it’s one that pays off quickly if you’re serious about food preservation. I highly recommend the Harvest Right Freeze Dryer to homesteaders, preppers, gardeners, or anyone who wants more control over their food storage.

Worth every penny!

Freeze drying fresh garden produce using the Harvest Right Freeze Dryer greatly extends the shelf life of the food we harvest compared to traditional food preservation like canning and freezing. With Mylar bags and jars of freeze dried foods on the shelf, it saves on freezer space and we no longer worry about losing valuable frozen food during power outages. A Large Harvest Right Freeze Dryer would be helpful for times of abundant harvesting.

However, the 5-Tray Medium unit is sufficient for a family of four. We enjoy making healthier crunchy snacks of vegetables, especially cucumber chips. This unit is made of quality material and came with everything needed to get started. The Home Freeze Dryer Owner's Manual and Guide to Freeze Drying were easy to follow making the initial set up less intimidating. The touchscreen is user friendly and guides you through its operation.

Additionally, we're grateful for a prompt, knowledgeable Customer Support Team when questions arise. After two years of use it's still running smoothly. The Harvest Right Freeze Dryer is proving to be our most valuable food preservation tool.

For years I’ve researched the freeze drying process and finally was able to make a purchase in 2024. First, if you are considering it, don’t wait!

HarvestRight was the first company to have made a home version that is simple to use and works great, and now includes wi-fi accessible dongles to monitor the process remotely.

While I had done some canning in the past, I am no longer interested in canning as this freeze drying process is almost as simple as “set it and forget it”. This process is much more versatile with what you can freeze dry at the same time, including fruits, vegetables, meats, desserts and full meals.

Freeze drying has also become more acceptable and there are communities on the web that share recipes, suggestions, how to, and tips, as well as plenty of accessories for easy use. It’s also fantastic for preserving the garden, home prepping for emergencies, travel and hiking snacks, dog food with real meat/veggies, and elimination of refrigeration use by having shelf stable products.

HarvestRight is also available for support on any topic or questions or if you encounter any issue.

And as an fyi, given our very large garden and harvest, I actually have a second one now. So don’t hesitate if you have been thinking about it. It’s well worth it.

Harvest Right as a company? I can no longer give the company 5 stars but I'm trying to hang in there. I had 2 machines for my home candy business and they BOTH died at the same time. once was fully covered under warranty and they handled this one like a dream. The other had been giving me problems since I got it, but as it was my first freeze dryer I didn't know yet what was normal and what wasn't. it is NOT normal for your medium freeze dryer to trip the breaker on a regular basis.

And when you are POSITIVE that it is the machine because you've tried 3 different circuits, and unplugged everything else from those circuits, and they GASLIGHT you and say it must be the circuit and basically I'm definitely wrong, don't back down. By the time the fan fully failed on my medium machine it was out of warranty and I had to pay almost $400 in shipping to send it back for repairs (which took about 2 months).

They did cover the parts and labor under their 3 year warranty for refrigeration parts but it should have all been covered. If they didn't gaslight me "99% of the time, the customer has something on the circuit they don't realize" I would have saved a lot of money.

The fact that BOTH of my machines died at the same time is not a good sign. I purchased a third to stay in business but definitely paranoid based on my experience that I'll be having more issues soon.

I bought a Harvest Right freeze dryer almost 5 years ago, with an oilless pump, and it's been a fantastic machine! Always working as it should, even though it was kept in the garage (so it was subject to summer's heat and winter's cold). I never had any problems until a few weeks ago, when the screen stopped working. We called HR, completed troubleshooting, ordered the part, received it quickly, installed it, and it went right back to working like before. The tech was patient, knowledgeable and helpful. I appreciate the high quality of the machines coupled with excellent customer service. Yes, it's a pricey investment, but it's an investment that will offer you years and years of dividends in the form of food that, when packaged correctly, will last you a crazy number of years. It's been so great to be able to pull out our favorite meals and have it ready in minutes. My only regret is that I cannot afford to buy several more machines. Thank you, Harvest Right!

The freeze dryer is great. I've enjoyed using it. However, after a month and a half I needed help with changing the oil in the pump. A pump part is not working as it should. After 6 calls to talk to 6 different reps about what to do with the malfunctioning part, they said they'd only help me if I wrote a review on every platform they sent me a link to.

This is why I'm writing a review here--because it's the only way to get help with the part. The customer service is the worst I've ever encountered. I told them the review would not be positive and they said they didn't care as long as I wrote the review.

Back in 2022, we purchased a medium sized freeze dryer. After a year plus of use, the dryer's touch screen began to give us problems. I wouldn't accept touch commands very well. Called Harvest Right and immediately the parts to rectify the problem (a new touch screen and new circuit boards for installation). I was up to the challenge since I had an electronics background. The problem was fixed immediately. This week (9/25), I called Harvest Right to indicate a problem with achieving a good vacuum. They helped me re-adjust the vacuum chamber door and and as a bonus, I was able to update the software on my machine, all with the help of an able tech by the name Arlette Perez. She was patient and well-trained in her job. I'm running a new batch of fresh strawberries right now.

absolutely love my Harvest Right freeze dryer! In just the first week of using it, I made $600—it’s been such a great investment. About three weeks in, my unit accidentally fell off the table, and I was amazed at how durable it was. The only thing that broke was the glass on the door. I reached out to Harvest Right, and their customer service was excellent—they sent me a brand-new door right away with no hassle.

The machine itself is powerful, reliable, and clearly built to last. Between the money I’ve made, the quality of the freeze drying, and the outstanding customer support, I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. Highly recommend!

I've owned my large Harvest Right Freeze Drier for six years. It has worked well for the most part.

But 21 days ago the thermal couple on the heater tray assembly went bad.

I'm very disappointed in the technical/ customer service in trying to resolve my issue.

It took 21 days and numerous emails and a whole lot of frustration on my part, not to mention 21 days of downtime and lost revenue, only to be told that they no longer stock parts for my year model. Finally, they said my only solution would require buying a whole new shelving unit for approximately $500, when all I needed was less than $100 for a thermal couple and heating pad.

In closing based on how they, as a company, have treated this customer. I have to say they're customer service was terrible. It starts by sending their customers in need of technical help to third-party overseas operators who attempt to solve their problem. Then if that doesn't work, they initiate a service ticket, and if you're lucky, you'll get to talk to someone inside the company in Utah...but only by email. You'll chase that email back and forth for days. And if you're lucky, in my case, after 21 days of downtime, you'll get to talk to someone actually on the phone.

Once on the phone, we hashed out all the issues quickly, and while I'm disappointed in their final solution to fix my problem, it appears we just might have it solved. But not inexpensively as it should and could have been. They had a chance to take care of this customer fairly and reasonably, yet their answer was a 21-day delay and a $415 shelving unit. Oh, wait, they may give me $100 in store credit, if I'm kind enough to take the time to fill out five different online reviews for them. But I'm still waiting to hear if the owners will approve that.

While the technical supervisor dropped the ball in providing timely technical service and forced 95% of communication in the form of repeated emails, in the end, the final solution was achieved in a 15-minute telephone conversation.

While dealing with him was frustrating, he finally really changed course and became helpful.

As to the owners of this company and the policies they design, and led by...the level of customer care after the sale of $5,000 machines. I remain pretty disappointed. Does Harverst Right make a quality Fredze Drier...I'd say it's average. Another company has emerged that I believe makes a better design, higher quality freeze-drier for the same price. And they've earned accolades for having excellent customer care and technical help.

In short, I'm left with the feeling that Harvest Right makes an average machine. But when it comes to customer care and technical help, they're more interested in pushing products into customers' hands and making sales.

And as to supporting products they've sold, they'd rather hide behind overseas phone operators, making it nearly impossible to reach someone in Utah.

If you decide to buy the Harvest Right brand, and I'm not saying you shouldn't. But buyer beware that the owners seem to be more interested and just selling their machines. Rather than providing efficient, easily reachable solutions and helping the customer in mind.

I wonder if, after they see these reviews, they'll let me use the $100 store credit towards my shelf? Lol

I warned them it wouldn't be a positively glowing review and they encouraged me to be honest. So here you go. Harvest Right please get your customer service act together. I own my own business too, and my customers mean everything to me. Without my customers, I have no business. The trouble with companies, such as Harvest Right, that seem to have set their eyes and goals on expansion, is that they must also have a plan to have a level of customer care that can meet the needs of that expansion. Harvest Right have you forgotten to protect your prior customers?

Thanks Jeff

Good and bad but not unhappy so far. Bought a brand new medium FD from Tractor Supply in 2023 when we finally got it hooked up, it didn’t work properly, after weeks of trouble shooting and sending it in to the company twice for diagnostics. Harvest Right agreed to replace the FD with a refurbished one. The FD worked for about 15 runs over the next two years before having more issues the unit went through another round of diagnostic testing over 3-4 weeks to figure out why there was a vacuum failure. Eventually, the logs showed that the vacuum pump failed and the unit was good. So it appears that my original FD unit was junk and now the pump went bad after 15 or so runs… I am buying a refurbished oil pump to replace of this one and thankfully the FD unit is still working and I’m looking forward to getting the replacement pump in the coming days so I can finally put this behind me and get busy freeze drying all the things I can for a well stocked food storage. I will say even though it took weeks sometimes to get an answer for these technical issues… the teams worked hard to keep me updated along the way and was very helpful and kind. I appreciate the calmness when I felt overwhelmed when the issues arose. I’m thankful for the companies willingness to find solutions and make it right for the customer. Money spent on the FD is quite hefty and I was feeling defeated with 2 issues, but I’m happy we figured it out and solutions were offered.

I have the Large 2022 version. We've done around 20 loads in the machine. When it works it works good. I have had two issues with it. The first was a refrigerant issue out of the box. I had to take the dryer to Salt Lake for them to repair it. The second was a very small leak under the lid. I worked with a very kind and knowledgeable employee who helped me find the leak and repair it with silicone. Just did a batch of grapes since the repair and they worked will. I do wish the 5.2 versions had the ability to connect to the WIFI but according to harvest right that won't be an option due to the circuit board limitations in mine. We do love to freeze dry though.

My adventure with Harvest Right Large Freeze Dryer.

I purchased a large model a few months ago and unfortunately it was a lemon. The condenser worked once and then quit. I contacted Harvest Right and Elle (Harvest Right technical support reseller agent II) and her team came up with the quickest solution was to exchange it at the retailer.

We did so, but unfortunately our 2nd one also had a failed compressor after 3 batches. Upon further investigation I discovered that they both had the same date code 2410, I’m assuming October 2024.

We again returned the freeze dryer and were hesitant to want to try again.

We decided to run out of state to visit relatives and while on vacation purchased one hoping for a different manufacturing date. I was pleased to see the date code on this one as 2504 and happily the unit is working as it should after 5 successful batches of fruit.

It was a bit of effort on our part to run around to different locations to purchase, repurchase, and unpacking and repackaging but we are now happily preserving our food as we had expected. Customer service was great and the working machine we currently have is easy to use and is producing a great freeze dried product. All companies have their lemons and I’m happy we didn’t let the 2 failed units keep us from making that last purchase.

5 stars for the last machine and for harvest Right’s customer service.

If we had stopped on machine one or 2 it would be 0 stars.

Time will tell if this one holds up but I am now very hopeful.

Six years strong

I’ve owned this machine for 6 years and recommend freeze dryers to my fellow gardeners, home cooks, busy parents, anyone who wants to make their own pantry snacks, anyone who wants to control & grow quantity of your families long term food storage, and anyone who has the goal to waste as little food as possible. You have control to creatively make this machine work for your busy & healthy lifestyle. With extra breast milk someone could make their own “formula” freeze dried powered breast milk. The machine is incredibly easy to setup, maintain and clean. If I could go back I’d buy a small or medium machine instead of the large. I often find myself with an empty tray and that feels like a reason I’ve ran the machine less frequently over the years. It’s pretty loud so don’t be offended by the hum when your machine is running. Plan ahead and you’ll be glad you bought this machine.

I bought my Harvest Right Large 6 tray a few weeks ago and have done several batches. Upon receiving my unit I registered the unit right away as indicated to do so. I placed my first batch of peaches in and started the machine and several hours later I looked inside the machine with a flashlight and saw the main internal cord/harness was under the tray insert. After the first batch was done, I removed the tray and found the wire chafed through the protective coating and had bare wires showing. It never shorted out and the peaches were delicious. I started the warranty process with Harvest Right and my assigned technician was awesome to work with. Took pictures of the back serial number, computer serial number (Found out they were different which caused more fixing later) and damage and they shipped me another brand-new cord. I will say disassembly and changing this cord is not for the non-mechanical folk as it entails re-pinning an multi-pin electrical plug, tearing top off and the right-hand side of the unit. I did find several screws which were not tightened when doing this process and one of the screws which held the circuit board on was not even in place and laying on top of the board which concerned me. All of these things were passed on to my warranty rep and they were top notch on getting this rectified on their end. The wrong serial numbers were rectified by my warranty rep sending me several new download files which were rebooted into the system via the USB port which rectified that issue. Even with all of these issues I will say I definitely would recommend their products and truly appreciate their care in rectifying any issues in regards.

The Stainless-steel trays have held up really well, but I would suggest you purchase the silicone tray inserts as it makes it a breeze to clean up afterwards. I also ordered the quick vacuum release on the air pump side. I would say you really don't need it though as you have your drain line which essentially does the same thing. Just make sure your drain hose is not submerged in water, or it sucks it all back into your machine. The use of the auxiliary relief on the pump side prevents this from happening. The Wi-Fi adapter is awesome. You can control your machine from wherever which needs no explanation. The 6 trays are more than enough for lots of stuff. If you don't plan on making huge batches of stuff, I would probably suggest the medium machine. Just my opinion.