Any sort of sustainable food plan that involves a garden and/or fruit trees needs a good dehydrator. This in conjunction with some canning and some animal protein can get you through any low production season.Here is a solar dehydrator that uses a solar heat collector and dc powered fans to push hot air through the dehydration chamber. I built without plans and based the size of the solar collector on how the beer cans would fit in when stacked up. The fans aren’t needed, but can improve the air flow. They use so little wattage; they can run off of a small 10-15w solar panel. Or you can plug them in.
Step 1: Sizing the Solar Collector
Gather some aluminum cans of your choice, measure the boards based on the sizing of the cans and the number of rows you’d like. My box was 117cm x 69cm. I used a variety of different can sizes. I also used a treated lumber since this will be sitting outside all of the time. I used 2×4’s for the entire construction.
Step 2: Build the Frame
Based on the size of your collector, build the dehydration chamber frame so that the collector can lean up against it as seen in the finished picture and be mounted on the inside of the frame.
Step 3: Roof Supports and Solar Collector Mounting
Cut 2 diagonal beams for the roof mount and make a cut in the 2×4’s on the solar collector to allow it to notch into place as seen in the picture.
Step 4: Solar Collector Bottom and Air Vents
Next you’ll need to make a bottom. I used DensGlas, an outdoor rated gypsum board. Then you’ll need to add your vents. You want air to move freely so don’t put vents where there are going to be cans in the way. If you use fans, you’ll want to cut holes based on the shape of fan you use.
I used “CoolerGuys” dual blower computer cooling fans from Amazon. They’re variable speed and built to be used in a hot environment so I thought they would be good for this application.
Step 5: Trays and Side Support Crossbeams
Add your tray guides and side support beams. These trays can use whatever you heart desires: screen, mesh, grating…wood slats. Get creative.
Step 6: Filling the Solar Collector
I took a piece of corrugated roofing, cut it to size and painted it black and put it in the solar collector. Then I painted all the cans black and began stacking them. Be sure you do not block air holes.
Step 7: Electric Fan Installation
These are “CoolerGuys” dual blower fans from Amazon.com. They have a speed regulator. These come with an AC adapter but these can also be ran off of DC. I’ve connected it to our Solar system running the Aquaponics. They only use a few watts. A little 10-15 watt panel should run these just fine.Step 8: Complete the Solar Collector and Attach the Roof
Place a piece of Plexiglas or regular Glass over the chamber. Then screw on the roof. I used an extra piece of metal roofing we had laying around. I didn’t put a smoke stack on the roof. The roof gap allows good air flow. Be sure when you finish to use screen on the gaps between the roof and the wood for bug protection..Double check your construction. Now you’re ready to put on the walls and door!
Step 9: Finished
Here is the finished solar dehydrator. I used Densglas sheathing for the walls. It’s staying outside, so I’m glad that I overbuilt this a bit. It’s larger than most because I wanted the option to dry massive amount of herbs and teas all at once. In addition we grow lots of stevia.
We’ll see how full I can fill it when making jerky and other more high moisture content foods.
Hi everyone , can anyone suggest where I can purchase Social CBD CBD Topical Muscle Rub 250mg?
I am usually to blogging and i genuinely appreciate your site content. This content has really peaks my interest. I am going to bookmark your internet site and keep checking choosing info.
What’s all the hype about: CBD Honey Sticks Sour Blue Raspberry 10 Pack by JUSTCBD and 1000mg Delta 10 THC Peach Rings Gummies by JUST DELTA. I am struggling to find the official site! thank you xox
Does anyone know what happened to Dimepiece LA celebrity streetwear brand? I am unable to proceed to the checkout on Dimepiecela site. I’ve read in Women’s Health Mag that they were acquired by a UK hedge fund for $50 million. I have just bought the Dimepiece Red Flags Unisex Long Sleeve Tee from Amazon and absolutely love it xox
Has anyone shopped at Vape Hub Ecigarette Shop located in 284 N Haywood St #A?
I love these I am going g to make them