BioChef Arizona Sol 6 Tray

Before we start pls note that the brand Vitality4Life & product BioChef have either ceased trading or are very much limited in trading activity as web links & social media are no longer active. This review may still help as comments are likely relevant for similar products such as the Devanti comparable range of OEM / ODM dehydrators. Purchased a… Read more

BioChef Arizona 6 Tray dehydrator in 2019 as - Reviews available at the time were largely positive - Appeal of digital control over time & temp - Airflow design with rear intake & top exhaust vents promised more even drying - Cube shape cavity & rectangular racks are easier for food placement & space utilisation

Over a period of 6 years the unit was frequently used to dehydrate herbs, fruit & veg, meats & fish all home grown, wild caught or shop bought during peak season.

Pros. - Drying racks seem to be a decent grade of 300 series stainless. No corrosion & dishwasher safe. - Good drying performance. Fan motor & heating element have performed faultlessly with no issues. - Ease of use. Digital control panel and display work fine & offer seamless wipe down to keep clean. - Plastic body is relatively light & easy to handle for what is otherwise a large bulky cube.

Cons. - Plastic body eventually becomes brittle after prolonged heat exposure with so far minor cracking & fractures. - Clear plastic (acrylic?) door also becomes brittle & cloudy over prolonged use. Managed to purchase replacement for broken door but may no longer be possible given unknown status of brand & supplier. - Drip tray is quite thin & deteriorating. Shallow design can allow spills into the cavity. Too flimsy for dishwasher so soak & handwash only. - Interior cavity has ribbed mouldings on sides & bottom surfaces. These mouldings stiffen the otherwise large flat plastic panels and also provide slide supports for drying racks. Issue is the slide action is not smooth & instead can be quite sticky making rack install & removal difficult. - Mouldings trap dirt & food particles and prevents easy wipe cleaning. For dried on dirt & spills we have to incline the BioChef over a sink, scrub surfaces with toothbrush & detergent, flush and rinse with warm water taking care to avoid wetting motor & electricals in back of unit.

Not unhappy with the 6 years lifespan thus far but would prioritise improved design & materials for eventual future replacement.