I have the round Nesco American Harvest Snackmaster Pro Dehydrator - fan on the top. My first one lasted 20+ years (used at least once a week, and non-stop during garden and apple season), so when I needed to replace it not long ago, I got another one just like it so all the extras (trays, Clean-A-Screen Sheets, Fruit Roll Sheets) I purchased over the years could still be used with the new one. The link below has some good general guidelines for choosing a dehydrator. When I teach classes on the subject, the majority of the people attending also have a Nesco. -Grainlady Here is a link that might be useful: National Center For Home Food Preservation - Dehydrator

I have an old Nesco Roaster I bought at a garage sale. It has the enamel porcelain and the inside is 11x15 inches. I think I could get a turkey in it. Do I have a 12 qt or an 18 qt? It doesn't say. Stamped on the bottom it says it was made in Granite City, Ill, and on the side is stamped the number 41E04044. The cord is rubber not braided. Any idea when it might have been made? It's white with a stainless top, bakelite handles, black porcelain, has a rack with sides you can lift and a little extra square tall pan with a lid for side vegetables, so I was told. Has the logo Nesco in script over a dial with numbers up to 400. I measured and I think I can even get my cast iron pan in there to bake cornbread. That's what I wanted it for, to bake. My regular oven is so big, why waste all that heat on that big space for a couple loaf pans. Can I use a silicone muffin pan in the Nesco or will it melt on the rack? Oh and I have seen people put water in the heatwell, under the cookwell, I was told it made for more even heating and to prevent damage to the enamel. But you don't want to do that, do you? If the water got through the heatwell seams it would get into the electrics.

I live in Wisconsin where the Nesco is a tradition. I believe it is made here or at least it was, who knows anymore, but it is a great device and I use it all the time. Just realize that it is not all things for everyone and you will be happy with your purchase. I first saw the Nesco in use at a friends house where Mom would cook with it a lot particularly game. So it has a lot of nostalgia for me. I make their chili recipe for the 6 qt a lot adapted a bit to my own tastes and people seem to enjoy it. It's great when it's too hot to use the oven. I own several 6 qt models and a 18 qt size which I use to cook for large family gatherings and for turkey. You'll want to experiment with it before you use it for an important family gathering or you may be disappointed. There is a technique for getting a turkey to brown correctly and if you don't do it right the turkey won't brown and may have a steamed taste. Still good but maybe not what you were looking for. On sale I have seen the 6 qt size selling for $25, buy one and support American industry and get a bargain to boot!

Hi Everyone...I ususally just 'take in' and enjoy all the wonderful advice you all give here. I just have to add my 2 cents along with a question to you. I also have a Hamilton Beach Crock Pot (6 qt). I bought it at Walmart and paid about $39, for it. It's wonderful and I use it almost every other week. There is just my husband and I now at home, but I usually make enough of whatever for a couple of meals >> Pot Roast/Pork Roast, etc. I love the fact, that when I set it up, and go about my day, when I come home, it's like 'Someone' Cooked Dinner. So for that part, I love it. NOW, my question. I just purchased a 20 qt Cooks Essential Electric Roaster with timer, from QVC. I haven't used it yet...I'm a little nervous. I'm thinking of using it as an extra oven for the Holidays. Not to do my Turkey in..but for other dishes. Can anyone give me some tips or advice, as to you using it this way? Will I be able to use my own casserole dishes to put in there (on the rack) and do I need to add water? Haven't a clue..the receipe book does not give enough details on this. Thanks so much, and once again >>> I love All your great advice to one another.