What To Know
- Chamber vacuum sealers create a vacuum of up to 29 inches of mercury (inHg), which is significantly higher than edge vacuum sealers.
- Both chamber and edge vacuum sealers can be used for sous vide cooking, where food is vacuum-sealed and cooked in a water bath.
- If you plan on vacuum sealing large quantities of food or using the sealer frequently, a chamber vacuum sealer may be a better investment.
Vacuum sealers have become an indispensable tool for preserving food and maintaining its freshness. Two main types of vacuum sealers are chamber vacuum sealers and edge vacuum sealers. Understanding the differences between these two types is crucial to make an informed decision based on your specific needs. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of chamber vs. edge vacuum sealers, providing an in-depth analysis of their advantages, disadvantages, and applications.
Chamber Vacuum Sealers
Chamber vacuum sealers, also known as professional vacuum sealers, are renowned for their exceptional vacuum performance and versatility. They work by placing the food in a vacuum chamber, which is then sealed and a vacuum is created. This method ensures maximum air removal, resulting in a superior seal and extended food preservation.
Advantages:
- Powerful vacuum: Chamber vacuum sealers create a vacuum of up to 29 inches of mercury (inHg), which is significantly higher than edge vacuum sealers. This high vacuum pressure effectively removes almost all the air from the bag, minimizing oxidation and preserving food for longer periods.
- Versatile: Chamber vacuum sealers can accommodate a wide variety of bag sizes and shapes, including bulky or delicate items. They are ideal for sealing liquids, powders, and other non-solid items that edge vacuum sealers may struggle with.
- Durability: Chamber vacuum sealers are typically made of durable materials such as stainless steel and are built to withstand heavy-duty use. They are a reliable choice for commercial kitchens, restaurants, and individuals who vacuum seal large quantities of food.
Disadvantages:
- Higher cost: Chamber vacuum sealers are generally more expensive than edge vacuum sealers.
- Larger size: Chamber vacuum sealers have a larger footprint and require more counter space.
- Slower operation: The vacuuming process in chamber vacuum sealers is slower than in edge vacuum sealers.
Edge Vacuum Sealers
Edge vacuum sealers, also called external vacuum sealers, are compact and affordable options for home use. They work by sealing the bag around the edge and removing air through a suction tube. While they are less powerful than chamber vacuum sealers, they offer a convenient and efficient way to preserve food.
Advantages:
- Compact size: Edge vacuum sealers are smaller and more portable than chamber vacuum sealers, making them ideal for home kitchens with limited counter space.
- Affordability: Edge vacuum sealers are generally more affordable than chamber vacuum sealers, making them a budget-friendly option.
- Ease of use: Edge vacuum sealers are simple to operate with minimal setup required. They are suitable for occasional or light vacuum sealing tasks.
Disadvantages:
- Lower vacuum: Edge vacuum sealers typically create a vacuum of 15-20 inHg, which is lower than chamber vacuum sealers. This may result in slightly reduced food preservation times.
- Limited versatility: Edge vacuum sealers are best suited for sealing solid foods in pre-cut bags. They may not be as effective for sealing liquids or bulky items.
- Durability concerns: Edge vacuum sealers are often made of plastic and may be more susceptible to wear and tear compared to chamber vacuum sealers.
Applications:
- Commercial use: Chamber vacuum sealers are the preferred choice for commercial kitchens, restaurants, and food processing facilities due to their high vacuum performance, versatility, and durability.
- Home use: Edge vacuum sealers are a convenient and affordable option for home use. They are ideal for occasional vacuum sealing of solid foods and meal preparation.
- Sous vide cooking: Both chamber and edge vacuum sealers can be used for sous vide cooking, where food is vacuum-sealed and cooked in a water bath.
Choosing the Right Vacuum Sealer:
The best vacuum sealer for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the following factors:
- Vacuum strength: Chamber vacuum sealers offer a higher vacuum pressure for optimal food preservation.
- Versatility: Chamber vacuum sealers can handle a wider variety of bag sizes, shapes, and contents.
- Size and portability: Edge vacuum sealers are more compact and portable, while chamber vacuum sealers require more counter space.
- Budget: Chamber vacuum sealers are generally more expensive than edge vacuum sealers.
- Frequency of use: If you plan on vacuum sealing large quantities of food or using the sealer frequently, a chamber vacuum sealer may be a better investment.
Maintenance:
Both chamber and edge vacuum sealers require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
- Cleaning: Clean the vacuum chamber or sealing strip regularly with a damp cloth to remove any food residue or debris.
- Lubrication: Lubricate the vacuum pump or sealing strip as per the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent wear and tear.
- Bag replacement: Use high-quality vacuum sealer bags that are compatible with your vacuum sealer.
Summary:
Whether you choose a chamber vacuum sealer or an edge vacuum sealer, understanding their differences and applications is essential for making an informed decision. Chamber vacuum sealers provide superior vacuum performance, versatility, and durability, while edge vacuum sealers offer convenience, affordability, and ease of use. By carefully considering your specific needs, you can select the vacuum sealer that best meets your requirements and helps you preserve food effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Which type of vacuum sealer is better for long-term food storage?
Chamber vacuum sealers offer a higher vacuum pressure, which results in more effective air removal and extended food preservation times.
2. Can I vacuum seal liquids with an edge vacuum sealer?
While edge vacuum sealers can technically seal liquids, they are not as effective as chamber vacuum sealers, which can create a stronger vacuum and prevent liquid from entering the sealing mechanism.
3. How often should I replace the sealing strip on my vacuum sealer?
The frequency of sealing strip replacement depends on the usage and type of vacuum sealer. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidelines.
4. Can I use regular freezer bags with a vacuum sealer?
No, regular freezer bags are not designed for vacuum sealing and may not create an airtight seal. Use vacuum sealer bags specifically designed for the type of vacuum sealer you have.
5. How do I prevent the vacuum sealer from crushing delicate foods?
Place delicate foods on a tray or use a vacuum sealer with an adjustable vacuum pressure setting to reduce the force applied during vacuum sealing.
