Operating instructions

4
TEMPERATURE GUIDE
For your convenience, a colorful temperature guide has been affixed to your Excalibur® unit.
Following this guide will ensure the use of proper temperatures when drying foods. If the
heat is too high, the food may “case harden” which means it will feel dry on the outside; yet
inside, it is still moist. If the heat is set too low, drying time and use of electricity is increased.
Timing
The individual foods listed on pages 8 - 12 is the approximate amount of time needed
to dehydrate each food. Drying times, however, are enormously dependent upon multiple
factors. These factors include the amount of humidity in the air, the moisture content of the
food being dried and the method of preparation.
Humidity: Air must be kept in motion. Stagnant air will soon take on as much moisture as
it can hold, and then drying will no longer take place. Drying must be a continuous process
so the growth of micro-organisms is prevented. Check with your local weather service to
determine the day’s humidity level. The closer the humidity is to 100%, the longer it will
take for your food to dry.
Moisture Content: The actual amount of water in the food you are drying is also a major
consideration. Remember, water content of a fruit or vegetable can vary due to growing
season rainfall and environmental factors, as well as the ripeness of the food.
Slicing: Uniform slicing is the last factor contributing to the length of the drying cycle.
Successful drying is only possible if the food you are drying is properly sliced, (not more
than 1/4" thick) and spread evenly in a single layer on the drying trays, successful drying
should be yours!
Cleaning
Your machine is easy to clean, both inside and out. Wipe with a damp sponge and warm
soapy water, and rinse well. The trays can be cleaned simply by placing them in the top rack
of the dishwasher. The tray’s removable mesh inserts can be cleaned by soaking them in
warm soapy water and then wiping them down with a damp sponge. These inserts allow air
to fully circulate around the food and the construction of the trays also prevents moisture
from being trapped on the underside of the pieces. Therefore, the most even drying possible
is attained.
Your dehydrator has been equipped with a removable door. This solid door prevents light
from fading the colors or withdrawing nutrients from the food as it dries. Treat your door
carefully to prevent it from getting scratched. To clean, use a damp sponge or soft cloth only.
TEMPERATURE
Temperature
The thermostat range is 85° to 155° F.
Turn thermostat clockwise to desired temperature setting.
On units with a 26 hour timer, the Timer is on the on-off switch.
Consult the drying times pages 8-12 for timing information.
The 5 & 9 tray units without a timer have the on-off switch in the thermostat.
Turn counter-clockwise for off.
In order to select timed operation, turn knob to desired time setting. While timing, the knob
will indicate remaining time.
Timer
OFF
TIMER
2
4
624
85155
95135
105125
115
822
1020
1218
1416