What if you could save more, waste less, and keep your ingredients fresher without any extra work? Sounds good, right? Well, a vacuum sealer does just that, making it an essential for serious food businesses. So, if you're serious about buying a vacuum sealer, keep reading—because in this guide, we'll tell you how to choose the right one, from the types of vacuum sealers to what YOU should buy!
1. Decide on the Type of Vacuum Sealer
First ask yourself: What type of vacuum sealer suits your business needs? There are two main types:
- External Vacuum Sealers: Look, these are the classic, home-friendly machines where you place a bag outside the machine, and it sucks the air out. They’re usually smaller and more affordable. So, they are great for small businesses with moderate usage.
- Chamber Vacuum Sealers: For high-volume needs, chamber sealers are always the way to go. Unlike external sealers, these are made for heavy-duty, continuous sealing. The bag is placed inside a chamber, and the machine removes the air from the chamber itself, creating an airtight seal. If your business deals with liquids or high-demand sealing, this is likely for you.
So, which type fits your business? If you’re running a restaurant with daily use and need to seal soups, sauces, or even marinated items, chamber vacuum sealers are better. For smaller operations or less frequent use, an external sealer should do the trick.
2. Look for Durability and Build Quality
We understand that Vacuum sealers are an investment, so you want a machine that can handle the demands of your business. A sturdy, reliable model with a stainless-steel body is generally a good indicator of longevity. Models with plastic bodies may be cheaper but tend to wear down more quickly in a high-use setting.
That’s why we always recommend the Sammic SE-410 Vacuum Sealer, with a 10 m³/h capacity and 370W power. It’s the perfect vacuum sealer for any business, with a durable steel body and a double seal. What more could a business ask for?
Also, remember to keep an eye on the machine’s heat bar and sealing strip. The sealing strip should be strong enough to create an airtight seal consistently, and the heat bar should be able to handle repeated use without overheating or burning out.
3. Check the Pump Power and Speed
The power of the vacuum pump plays a big role in how fast and efficient the machine is. For larger volumes, look for a machine with a double-piston pump or even an oil pump (often found in chamber sealers). These pumps are stronger and allow you to vacuum-seal large batches more quickly.
A powerful pump means quicker sealing, which is great when you’re handling high-volume sealing. Look for the pump’s vacuum strength rating (measured in Hg or mbar)—the higher, the better.
4. Bag Compatibility and Cost
One commonly overlooked aspect is:
Not all vacuum sealers work with all types of bags. Chamber vacuum sealers can typically work with any plastic vacuum bag, which can save you on bag costs since chamber bags are often cheaper.
On the other hand, external vacuum sealers often need special textured bags with channels that help remove the air. These bags can be more expensive, so it’s worth checking if the sealer you're considering supports more affordable or bulk-buy bags.
5. Consider Maintenance and Ease of Use
If your team is going to be using this sealer every day, then ease of use and maintenance are definitely important. Look for features like a clear, intuitive control panel and adjustable vacuum strength settings. Some models even offer pre-set programs, which can simplify the process and help staff adapt quickly.
Also, maintenance can make or break a vacuum sealer’s lifespan. Chamber sealers with oil pumps may require occasional oil changes, so it’s worth considering how comfortable you or your staff will be with minor upkeep tasks. On the other hand, dry pumps are usually maintenance-free, though they might not be as powerful for heavy-duty needs.
6. Don’t Forget Noise Levels
It may seem like a small detail, but the noise level of a vacuum sealer can impact your work environment, especially if you’re running a busy kitchen. Chamber vacuum sealers are generally quieter than external ones, which can be important if you’re sealing items during operating hours.
7. Look for Warranty and Customer Support
Investing in a quality vacuum sealer is a smart business move, but the thing is, even top-quality machines can face issues. So, always look for a sealer that comes with a solid warranty and reliable customer support. A good warranty is often a sign of a trusted brand and will give you peace of mind, especially when it’s such a business-critical tool.
Wrapping up:
Well, a good vacuum sealer can make a world of difference in running a food business smoothly. That’s why I’d recommend the Sammic SE-410 Vacuum Sealer. With its solid steel body and double seal, it’s built to last in a busy kitchen. Investing in a quality model like this is a choice that pays off in the long haul.
