What Is an External Suction Vacuum Sealer?
An external suction vacuum sealer is a kitchen appliance designed to remove air from specially designed bags or containers using a hose. This action creates a vacuum seal, preventing food spoilage and freezer burn. It’s a practical tool for preserving freshness and organizing your pantry.
Unlike chamber vacuum sealers, these models don’t require a special type of bag. You can often use zipper-lock bags or other containers for storage. Many users find them a great entry point into the world of vacuum sealing for everyday food preparation and storage needs.
- An external suction vacuum sealer removes air via a hose.
- It works with various bags and containers, not just special ones.
- This helps keep food fresh longer and prevents freezer burn.
- It’s a handy tool for organizing your kitchen and reducing waste.
Ready to learn more about how this handy gadget works and if it’s right for your kitchen? Let’s break down the details to help you decide.
Understanding External Vacuum Sealers
You’re probably wondering how an external suction vacuum sealer actually works. It’s pretty straightforward, actually. Unlike some other types of sealers, this one uses a hose to suck the air out of a bag or container. This hose connects to the machine. You then place the open end of your bag or container over the hose’s nozzle. The machine creates a vacuum, pulling the air out. Then, it seals the bag shut. This process is designed to help your food last much longer.
How the External Suction Works
Think of it like a tiny, powerful vacuum cleaner for your food bags. The external suction model doesn’t have a chamber where you place the whole bag. Instead, you just expose the open end of the bag to the suction port. This makes it much simpler to use for a variety of items. The machine has a pump that creates suction. This suction pulls air out of the bag. As the air leaves, the bag collapses around the food. Once most of the air is gone, a heating element seals the bag. This seal keeps the air out.
The Suction Process Explained
The key to this type of sealer is the external hose. It’s designed to reach into the opening of your bag. When you press the seal button, the pump starts. You hold the bag opening firmly around the hose’s tip. You’ll see the bag start to flatten. This is the air being pulled out. Once the machine senses enough air is gone, it automatically moves to the sealing phase. A hot bar then quickly presses the edges of the bag together. This creates a secure, airtight seal. It’s a neat little piece of engineering for your kitchen.
Types of Bags and Containers You Can Use
One of the biggest advantages of external suction vacuum sealers is their versatility. You’re not limited to special, expensive bags. Most models work wonderfully with standard zipper-lock bags. You know, the kind you already buy for sandwiches or leftovers. Just make sure there’s a bit of extra space at the top of the bag. This is so you can place the suction hose inside. You can also find reusable silicone bags designed for vacuum sealing. Some machines even come with special attachments. These can connect to containers with vacuum ports.
Zipper-Lock Bags: Your New Best Friend
You likely have these in your pantry right now. Zipper-lock bags are a budget-friendly option for external vacuum sealers. The trick is to get most of the air out before you seal. You place your food in the bag, zip it almost all the way, leaving a small opening. Then, you put the open end over the sealer’s hose. The sealer sucks out the remaining air. Once sealed, you can finish zipping the bag for an extra layer of security. It’s a super easy way to keep things fresh. You’ll save money and reduce waste this way.
Other Compatible Containers
Beyond zipper bags, many external sealers can work with other storage solutions. Look for bags specifically labeled as “vacuum sealable” or “for vacuum sealers.” These often have a textured surface. This texture helps the air get sucked out more effectively. Some brands offer reusable vacuum seal bags made of durable silicone or plastic. These are great for the environment. They can be washed and reused many times. Always check your sealer’s manual. It will tell you exactly what types of bags and containers are recommended for best results.
Benefits of Using an External Suction Sealer
So, why should you consider an external suction vacuum sealer? The primary benefit is extending the life of your food. By removing air, you slow down the process of spoilage. This means less food goes to waste. It’s also great for preventing that dreaded freezer burn. You know, when your frozen meats get icy and tough? Vacuum sealing helps avoid that. Your food stays fresher, tastes better, and looks more appealing when you’re ready to cook it. It’s a win-win for your wallet and your taste buds.
Preventing Food Waste and Saving Money
Think about all the food you might throw away each week. Berries that go mushy, salad greens that wilt, or leftovers you forget about. Vacuum sealing can dramatically reduce this. By creating an airtight barrier, you stop oxygen from reaching the food. Oxygen is a major culprit in food degradation. Less spoilage means you buy food less often. You use what you buy more efficiently. This translates directly into savings on your grocery bill. Many families find they save a noticeable amount of money each month.
Keeping Food Fresh and Flavorful
The difference in freshness can be quite remarkable. For instance, herbs sealed this way stay vibrant. Deli meats don’t dry out. Even pre-portioned snacks for kids stay appealing. Freezer burn is a common issue with frozen foods. It happens when air comes into contact with the food, causing ice crystals to form. A vacuum seal removes this air. This protects your food from those damaging ice crystals. Your frozen fish, chicken, or vegetables will taste much closer to fresh when thawed. The flavor and texture are preserved much better.
Organizing Your Pantry and Freezer
Beyond food preservation, these sealers are fantastic for organization. You can create uniform packages of food. This makes stacking them in your freezer or pantry much neater. Imagine a freezer full of perfectly flat, organized packages instead of bulky, awkward bags. It’s easier to see what you have. You can also buy in bulk and portion items out. This is especially handy for things like oats, rice, pasta, or dried beans. Pre-portioning helps with meal planning too. You just grab a sealed bag, and you’re ready to go.
A Checklist for Getting Started
Ready to give it a try? Here are a few simple steps to get you started with your external suction vacuum sealer:
- Gather your food items and compatible bags.
- Place your food into the bag, leaving enough space at the top.
- Close the bag almost completely, leaving a small opening for the hose.
- Position the open end of the bag over the sealer’s suction hose.
- Press the seal button and let the machine do its work.
- Once sealed, store your food properly in the fridge, freezer, or pantry.
Conclusion
You’ve learned that an external suction vacuum sealer is your kitchen ally for freshness. It uses a simple hose to remove air from bags and containers. This action significantly extends food life and prevents freezer burn. Plus, you can use everyday items like zipper-lock bags. This makes it an affordable and practical choice for reducing waste and organizing your kitchen.
Ready to start saving food and money? Consider investing in an external suction vacuum sealer. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any plastic bag with an external vacuum sealer?
While many external vacuum sealers work with standard zipper-lock bags, it’s best to check your model’s manual. Some bags might not be designed to hold a vacuum seal effectively. Textured bags or those specifically labeled for vacuum sealing often yield the best results.
How much space do I need to leave at the top of the bag?
You generally need to leave about 2-3 inches of space at the top of the bag. This allows enough room to place the suction hose inside and create a tight seal. More space is better than too little, so your food doesn’t get crushed during the sealing process.
What’s the difference between an external suction sealer and a chamber sealer?
An external suction sealer uses a hose to pull air out of a bag, which can be made of various materials. A chamber sealer, on the other hand, places the entire bag inside a chamber where air is removed before sealing. Chamber sealers are often better for liquids but are generally more expensive.
How do I prevent liquids from getting into my vacuum sealer machine?
When sealing foods with moisture, it’s wise to place a paper towel at the top of the bag, just above the food line. This paper towel can absorb excess moisture before it reaches the sealing area or the machine’s components. For very wet foods, consider freezing them slightly first.
Are external suction vacuum sealers good for marinating food?
Yes, they can be very effective for marinating. The vacuum process helps to open up the pores of the food, allowing marinades to penetrate more deeply and quickly. You can place your food and marinade in a compatible bag, vacuum seal it, and let it rest in the refrigerator for faster, more intense flavor infusion.