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For folks that do a lot of preserving, a chamber vacuum sealer can process large batches of foods quickly and easily, saving you time and money.
The VacMaster VP210 is a chamber model that’s suitable for home and commercial use, and provides the customizable settings needed to achieve professional results every time.
With features that conventional models can’t provide, the VP210 easily packages dry and moisture-rich foods without any fuss. And it has the powerful performance needed for heavy, continuous use.
VacMaster VP210 Chamber Vacuum Sealer available on Amazon
Ideal for small cafes, food trucks, large families, homesteaders, and preppers, it powers through large garden and orchard harvests, hunting and fishing catches, and bulk purchases of dry goods, grains, and meats. And it’s also the perfect solution to packaging moisture-rich foods like sauces, soups, and stews easy.
Here’s what we’re covering in this review:
- Chamber Models Features
- Operational Settings
- Construction and Details
- Favorite Features
- Overall Rating
Chamber Model Features
The fundamental difference between chamber and conventional units (the compact, countertop ones) is that with conventional models the package remains outside the machine and air is removed from the bag only.
With chamber models, the pouch is placed inside an internal chamber – which makes it possible to a seal a liquid-filled bag without displacing the liquid.
The reason for this is because atmospheric pressure is being removed from the chamber as well as the pouch, so no pressure is being placed on the bag or its contents. This also creates a much higher level of vacuum than conventional models, 27-29Hg compared to 24-26Hg.
They also have powerful, air-cooled pumps so they can operate for extended periods of time without the need for long cooling periods after each pouch is processed. And a chamber model has greater versatility in program settings as well.
These features make then considerably larger and heavier than conventional models, and more expensive as well – but a worthy investment if you need a workhorse.
Now let’s move on and look at what the VP210 offers within its myriad of settings.
Operational Settings
A large red power switch is located on the left side of the machine is used to turn the machine on and a corresponding symbol on the control panel illuminates to indicate when power is activated.
‘Vacuum’ and ‘Sealing’ functions are selected using the ‘Set’ button, and times for each are adjusted using the Up/Down arrow buttons – increase or decrease times to ensure the correct pressure and the most secure seal.
The ‘Cooling’ function is set in the same way.
For quicker processing, use the included filler plates – these plates occupy space in the chamber so less air needs to be removed. To accommodate larger pouches, simply remove the plates as needed.
Use the ‘Stop’ button at any time during the vacuum process to immediately close the pouch.
A convenient feature is that the VP210 will always retain the most recent settings in memory, so there’s no need to reset with each use.
Once settings have been chosen, a filled bag is placed inside the chamber with the edge along the seal bar, then the lid is closed. The compressor will start as soon as the lid is closed and automatically holds the lid shut until processing is finished. Once done, the lid opens automatically.
Please note that the ‘Lid Lock’ feature is used for storage only and should never be used while the machine is in operation.
Construction and Details
The control panel is located on the front of the unit and features soft-touch buttons with customizable settings for each mode.
Indicator lights illuminate to display each process, a digital timer shows the chosen function or cycle time in seconds, and a large indicator gauge displays pressure inside the chamber.
The dry, two-cylinder pump is maintenance-free (no oil required) and provides plenty of power for continuous use.
A 10-inch heat bar uses a double wire for a wide, secure closure and is removable for easy cleanup.
The clear lid allows viewing while food is being processed and the stainless steel body and chamber give rugged resilience and makes cleanup easy with just a soft, damp cloth.
Puncture resistant polyethylene pouches are BPA-free and FDA approved, and can be boiled, frozen, microwaved, refrigerated, or used for sous vide cooking.
It measures approximately 14 x 20 x 15 inches with a chamber size of 11.25 x 15.25 x 5 inches. The maximum pouch width is 10 inches and it weighs 72 pounds.
The VacMaster VP210 comes with a one-year warranty to be free of defects in materials and workmanship.
Favorite Features
- The VP210 produces a high vacuum level of 27 to 29Hg.
- It operates with a fast, start to finish cycle time of 20-60 seconds.
- Packaging liquids and moisture-rich foods is simple and fast.
- Constructed of high-quality stainless steel.
- It includes accessories of filler plates, a maintenance kit, and 75 assorted pouches.
- Can be used for continuous, high-volume packaging without the need for cool down periods.
Foodal’s Rating
The VacMaster VP210 gives the speed and efficiency of professional performance in your home or small business. Efficient and maintenance-free, its fast, reliable processing gives great time-saving value.
- Vac Performance
- Ease of Use
- Construction Quality
- Warranty and Support
Summary
Besides cost, the only downside for this unit is the relatively short 1-year warranty. For its price, we'd like to see another year or two. If you are not ready to spend the dollars to purchase a chamber model, you may want to consider the Weston Pro-2300 as a well-built alternative.
Where to buy? It's available from:
Superb at packaging liquids and large volumes on a continuous basis, it’s a smart way to preserve foods for a small restaurant or deli, catering trucks, recreational sportspeople, hobby farmers, large families, and home grain-millers.
However, it’s size and weight mean it isn’t easy to move and needs a permanent location to stay in. If you don’t have a dedicated spot for it, consider picking up a sturdy trolley with casters to roll out of the way when not in use.
Check prices and read customer reviews on Amazon now!
Do you folks have any questions or comments about the VP210?
Drop us a line in the comments below. And if you are into milling your own flour, be sure to read our guide on grain mills – a machine like the VP210 is a superb companion for long-term storage of raw grains and processed flour.
Still trying to decide on your vacuum sealer options? Check out Foodal’s complete buying guide now!
Photos courtesy of VacMaster, writing © Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details..
About Lorna Kring
Recently retired as a costume specialist in the TV and film industry, Lorna now enjoys blogging on contemporary lifestyle themes. A bit daft about the garden, she’s particularly obsessed with organic tomatoes and herbs, and delights in breaking bread with family and friends.
