Hello,
First I wish to thank you for taking the time to do the review on the Harvest Right Freeze Dryer. It was VERY informative.
I do have two quick questions. Do you know if the vacuum pump is a single stage or a two stage pump? Also, do you think that a … oh, let’s call it a “Noise Muffling Box” could be built around the pump to help cut down on the noise? If so, do you think it would make much of a difference?
Thank you again for the review and for the wonderful website.
Respectfully – T.W.
Hugh Replies: The vacuum pump is a cartridge-type pump and does generate considerable noise. I also have a laboratory vane pump that is quite a bit quieter but much more expensive. I think it would be possible to build a noise muffling box, but you must make sure that there is sufficient air flow around the pump, as it does generate heat. The oil runs hot enough that it is uncomfortable to the touch when active. Originally, I thought about penetrating the wall with the pump lines, but then I realized that it was easier to place the whole unit in a place out-of-sight/out-of-hearing, since you don’t have to constantly monitor it.