VIVOHOME Electric Food Dehydrator VH1182-WH User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the VIVOHOME Electric Food Dehydrator. This appliance is designed to efficiently remove moisture from various foods, preserving their nutrients, flavor, and extending their shelf life. Please read this manual thoroughly before operation to ensure safe and optimal use of your dehydrator.

Image 1.1: The VIVOHOME Electric Food Dehydrator, showcasing its 8 transparent trays filled with colorful dried fruits and vegetables, with the digital control panel visible at the base.

2. Important Safety Instructions

To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury, always follow these basic safety precautions:

• Read all instructions before using the appliance.
• Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
• To protect against electrical hazards, do not immerse the cord, plugs, or the appliance base in water or other liquid.
• Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
• Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before putting on or taking off parts.
• Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner.
• The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may cause injuries.
• Do not use outdoors.
• Do not let the cord hang over the edge of a table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
• Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
• Always attach plug to appliance first, then plug cord into the wall outlet. To disconnect, turn any control to "off", then remove plug from wall outlet.
• Do not use the appliance for other than intended use.

3. Product Overview

3.1 Components

• Main Unit Base with Digital Control Panel
• 8 Stackable Drying Trays
• Top Lid
• Fine Mesh Plastic Sheet (for small items like herbs)
• Silicone Tongs

Image 3.1: Diagram illustrating the dehydrator's dimensions (32cm x 26cm x 25.4cm) and showing the included fine mesh sheet and silicone tongs.

3.2 Key Features

• Powerful Drying Capacity: 400W drying power with constant airflow for efficient moisture removal, preserving up to 97% of vitamins and minerals.
• Precise Digital Control: Easy-to-use digital panel for setting temperature (35°C to 70°C / 95°F to 158°F) and timer (1 to 72 hours).
• Adjustable Trays: 8 large food-grade trays that can be rotated 180° to create two different heights (3.2 cm and 2 cm) for various food thicknesses.
• Durable and Safe Materials: Constructed from BPA-free plastic with food-grade plastic trays. Operates quietly.
• Easy to Clean: Detachable design with dishwasher-safe trays (Note: fine mesh sheet and silicone tongs are hand-wash only).

Image 3.2: Visual representation of the dehydrator's powerful 400W drying capability and 360-degree air circulation for uniform drying.

4. Setup

1. Unpack: Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Retain packaging for future storage or transport.
2. Clean: Before first use, wash the trays, lid, fine mesh sheet, and silicone tongs in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry. Wipe the main unit base with a damp cloth.
3. Placement: Place the dehydrator on a stable, flat, heat-resistant surface. Ensure there is adequate ventilation around the unit. Do not place it near heat sources or flammable materials.
4. Assemble Trays: Stack the desired number of trays onto the main unit base. Ensure they are correctly aligned. You can adjust tray height by rotating them 180 degrees for either 3.2 cm or 2 cm clearance.
5. Connect Power: Plug the power cord into a standard electrical outlet.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Food Preparation

• Wash: Thoroughly wash all fruits, vegetables, or herbs.
• Slice: Slice food into uniform pieces (approximately 0.5 cm / 0.2 inches thick) for even drying.
• Pre-treatment (Optional): Some foods, especially fruits like apples or bananas, may benefit from pre-treatment (e.g., lemon juice dip) to prevent discoloration.

Image 5.1: A visual guide to the dehydration process: 1. Wash and slice food, 2. Load trays evenly, 3. Set time and temperature, 4. Enjoy dried food.

5.2 Loading Trays

• Arrange food in a single layer on each tray, ensuring pieces do not overlap. This allows for optimal airflow.
• For smaller items like herbs, use the fine mesh plastic sheet on a tray.
• Stack the trays and place the lid securely on top.

Image 5.2: The 8 stackable trays demonstrating their adjustable heights (3.2 cm for thick slices, 2 cm for thin slices) by rotating them 180 degrees.

5.3 Setting Temperature and Time

The digital control panel allows for precise adjustments:

• Temperature Range: 35°C to 70°C (95°F to 158°F).
• Timer Range: 1 to 72 hours.

1. Press the SET button to toggle between temperature and time settings.
2. Use the < and > buttons to adjust the desired value.
3. Once settings are confirmed, the dehydrator will begin operation. The fan and heating element will cycle automatically to maintain the set temperature.

Image 5.3: The digital control panel with recommended temperature and time ranges for various foods: Herbs (35-40°C), Fruits/Vegetables (54-60°C), and Meat (54-70°C).

5.4 Recommended Dehydration Times and Temperatures

Note: Drying times can vary based on food thickness, moisture content, and ambient humidity. Check food periodically for desired dryness.

6. Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and extends the life of your dehydrator.

1. Unplug: Always unplug the dehydrator from the power outlet and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.
2. Trays and Lid: The drying trays and lid are dishwasher-safe. Alternatively, wash them in warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry.
3. Fine Mesh Sheet and Tongs: These accessories are not dishwasher-safe. Wash them by hand in warm, soapy water, rinse, and dry.
4. Main Unit Base: Wipe the exterior of the main unit base with a damp cloth. Do not immerse the base in water or any other liquid. Ensure no water enters the fan or control panel area.
5. Storage: Once clean and dry, store the dehydrator in a cool, dry place.

Image 6.1: A hand cleaning a detachable dehydrator tray under running water, highlighting the ease of cleaning and labor-saving design.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

VIVOHOME products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For warranty information, technical support, or customer service inquiries, please refer to the contact information provided with your purchase or visit the official VIVOHOME website.

Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.