Review of the Nesco Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer: A Kitchen Essential
Vacuum sealing has transformed food storage, allowing us to preserve freshness and flavor while minimizing waste. The Nesco Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer is a notable contender in this market, promising to deliver an efficient and user-friendly experience. This review will explore the features, performance, advantages, and potential drawbacks of this vacuum sealer to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your kitchen needs.
Key Features of the Nesco Deluxe Food VS-12
Optimal Performance
Equipped with a robust 130-watt motor and a double vacuum pump capable of achieving 25.1 InHG, the Nesco VS-12 ensures maximum air extraction. This feature is particularly beneficial when sealing larger food items, where air retention can lead to spoilage.
Variable Settings for Versatile Use
The unit offers three distinct settings: dry, moist, and double. This versatility allows users to tailor the sealing process based on the type of food being sealed. Furthermore, the option to choose between normal vacuum pressure and gentle pressure is a game changer for sealing delicate items without crushing them.
Easy-Lock Handle and User Interface
The easy-lock handle is designed for one-handed operation, making it simple and efficient to use. The straightforward manual operation mode ensures that even novice users can quickly get the hang of it.
Double Heat Seal for Added Security
One of the standout features of the Nesco VS-12 is the optional double heat seal. This feature enhances the sealing strength, particularly for moist or liquid-based foods. It alleviates concerns about air leaks, a common issue with traditional vacuum sealers.
Built-In Storage and Bag Cutter
This model includes built-in storage for vacuum sealer bags, which helps keep your kitchen organized. Additionally, the bag cutter conveniently allows users to create custom bag sizes, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency.
Included Accessories
The vacuum sealer comes with two bag rolls (one measuring 8.6” x 9.85’ and another 11.8” x 9.85’), providing a great starting point for your vacuum sealing adventures.
Performance Insights
Ease of Use
User feedback consistently highlights the Nesco VS-12’s ease of use. Many reviewers have praised its straightforward operation and effective sealing capabilities. Compared to other models, such as a higher-priced Food Saver, the VS-12 has been reported to perform equally well, if not better, in some cases.
Durability and Reliability
While some users have expressed concerns over the longevity of the sealing gaskets, many have noted that replacement gaskets are readily available and affordable. Regular maintenance of the device, such as avoiding storage with the lid clamped down, can extend the lifespan of the seals.
Versatile Applications
From sealing fresh meats to preserving dry goods, the versatile settings and strong suction make the Nesco VS-12 suitable for a wide variety of applications. Its ability to handle both moist and dry foods efficiently has received positive remarks from users.
Noise Level
Reviews indicate that this vacuum sealer operates quietly, making it suitable for kitchen environments where noise may be a concern.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Strong Performance: Excellent suction power and air extraction.
- Versatile Settings: Three sealing settings and gentle pressure option.
- User-Friendly Design: Easy-lock handle and built-in bag cutter.
- Double Heat Seal Feature: Enhanced sealing for liquid and moist foods.
- Affordable Replacement Parts: Gaskets are inexpensive and easy to replace.
Cons
- Gasket Longevity: Some users report the gaskets may wear out every 6-9 months, necessitating replacement.
- Slightly Bulky: The unit can feel a bit larger compared to other models, which may be a consideration for those with limited counter space.
- Non-Removable Drip Tray: Cleaning the drip tray can be inconvenient as it’s not removable.
Overall Rating: 4.3/5
After considering the features, user experiences, and performance, we would rate the Nesco Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer a 4.3 out of 5. While it excels in many areas, the durability of the gaskets and the bulkiness of the design are notable downsides.
Ratings Breakdown
- Performance: 4.5/5
- Ease of Use: 4.7/5
- Durability: 3.8/5
- Value for Money: 4.3/5
- Design: 4/5
Conclusion
The Nesco Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer is a solid investment for anyone looking to enhance their food preservation techniques. Its combination of power, ease of use, and versatility makes it a staple in modern kitchens. While it may require occasional maintenance in terms of gasket replacements, the overall performance and functionality make it worth considering for your food storage needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long do the gaskets last on the Nesco VS-12?
The gaskets typically last between 6 to 9 months, depending on usage. Replacement gaskets can be purchased affordably online.
2. Can I use other brand vacuum bags with the Nesco VS-12?
Yes, the Nesco VS-12 is compatible with various brands of vacuum sealer bags, providing flexibility in your choice of supplies.
3. Is the drip tray removable for easy cleaning?
Unfortunately, the drip tray is not removable, which can make cleaning a bit more challenging.
4. How does the pulse feature work?
The pulse feature allows you to control the vacuuming process, making it ideal for sealing softer foods or liquids without crushing them.
5. Is the Nesco VS-12 noisy during operation?
No, many users have reported that the Nesco VS-12 operates quietly, making it suitable for use in various kitchen environments.
FindsbyK –
I have complete faith in this device and the brand behind it. It seals flawlessly, helping you save time, money, and food!
Ben M –
I used it for the first time yesterday, and it was just what we needed. It performed perfectly.
James C. –
I’ve placed my order! While this isn’t a full review just yet, I wanted to share my thoughts. After thorough research, I decided on this brand and model. Many users highlight its impressive features, but some have noted that the seal can wear out over time. Fortunately, the seal is replaceable, and there are guidelines on how to use the device to prevent seal damage. I’ll be testing it this week and will update this review periodically.
Robert J Davies –
I bought it a while ago and it hasn’t disappointed me. It’s still working well.
veronica fernandez –
This sealer is fantastic! It’s user-friendly and provides strong suction. It seals bags effectively and is simple to clean. While it’s slightly pricier than some other options, I believe it’s worth the investment. I highly recommend this product to others.
Thomas Behrendt –
This Food Sealer is fantastic and delivers on all its promises. I particularly appreciate the manual suction mode and the double-seal feature. However, there is a drawback: the gaskets tend to wear out after 6-9 months and lose their sealing ability. To extend their lifespan, it’s best not to store the sealer with the lid clamped down, but they will eventually need replacement. The good news is that replacement gaskets are available on Amazon for around $12 for two sets. I just installed a new pair, and it’s working wonderfully. If the new gaskets last beyond six months, I’ll consider it a bonus. Overall, it’s a well-priced sealer, but be prepared to budget for gasket replacements every year or two.
Ben M –
With grocery prices being so high, feeding a family of five can be quite expensive. To save money, we switched to buying whole chickens, bone-in skin-on breasts, and whole pork loins instead of pre-packaged meat. On weekends, I break down the larger cuts I find on sale, create simple marinades and special dinners, then vacuum seal and freeze them for later use. This way, we always have plenty of dinner options without needing to plan meals in advance.
The Nesco vacuum sealer is excellent. There is a bit of a learning curve with bag placement and sealing marinades, but I got the hang of it after a few tries. It operates quietly and performs well; I mostly use the double seal function and typically stick to the auto vac/seal setting.
One downside is that the drip tray isn’t removable, which makes cleaning a bit more challenging, but it’s really not a major issue for me. Once you learn how much liquid to include in the bags and the right length to cut them, you’ll find that liquid rarely gets sucked into the tray. It also helps to fold the open end of the bag over itself by at least three inches for a clean sealing area.
I do wish it came with a vacuum container hose, but I’ve noticed that these hoses are often included with sets of containers.
Juan Nuncio –
I purchased a $200 food saver vacuum system, but this one is much better and easier to use. It outperforms my previous purchase in both quality and functionality, and it’s more affordable as well. This product is worth every penny, especially for packing seeds and fresh meat, thanks to its double sealer system and improved vacuum feature.
B and T –
I purchased this sealer to replace my Food Saver, which I had used extensively for about 15 years, and the Nesco has been a great choice! It includes many features I loved about the Food Saver, such as a built-in cutter bar, a storage compartment for 8″ or 11″ rolls, and the ability to use my Food Saver Mason jar sealer attachment with the Nesco’s canister port. This is particularly important for me, as I vacuum seal dry goods and dehydrated vegetables/herbs in glass jars.
The Nesco provides various sealing options (normal, moist, double) and allows for regular or gentle pressure. While the double sealing feature does extend the sealing time, I haven’t experienced any leaks or loss of seal with either the normal or double settings.
However, sealing bags with the Nesco does take longer compared to my old Food Saver. Therefore, I strongly recommend using pre-made bags, as they save a significant amount of time when sealing large quantities of vegetables or fish.
The unit is primarily made of plastic, which gives it a lightweight feel, and its compact size makes it easy to store on a counter or pantry shelf. Overall, it seems well designed, even if it doesn’t feel particularly sturdy.
Gary O. Norris –
This product is outstanding in every way. For my initial test, I used a pair of 1/2” diameter foam earplugs placed in an 8”x10” bag. The sealing process took just 10 seconds, and the earplugs were compressed to under 1/8” thickness. The ratings for this Nesco sealer align perfectly with my experience.
Miguel Alejandro Torres Pesquera –
It’s beautiful, works exceptionally well, and is incredibly easy to use. Simply outstanding!
jeffraven –
I’ve tried a few vacuum sealers from Amazon, but this one truly delivers on its promises. It works seamlessly with various brands of sealing bags, and it’s simple to operate. The cutting tool performs exceptionally well, and I haven’t encountered any issues with the sealing heat strip. While it’s pricier than entry-level vacuum sealers, the investment is absolutely worthwhile. I hope it lasts me for many years to come.
David Nicholson –
I had a Food Saver that was around 20 years old. While it still functioned, it was beginning to show signs of wear. After thorough research, I decided on the Nesco vacuum sealer. I immediately put it to work sealing about 50 bags of venison sausage, snack sticks, pulled pork, and ribs.
It feels quite heavy-duty, though a bit bulkier than my old FoodSaver. I appreciate the stainless steel accents, and the suction power is impressive. The lid seal effectively keeps air from re-entering, especially when utilizing the pulse feature. After vacuum sealing, you can hear air rushing in as the lid releases. I love that it has a pulse vacuum option, which is perfect for sealing liquids or softer items without the risk of leakage or crushing. The double seal feature is outstanding—unlike my previous FoodSaver, where I had to double seal each end to minimize leakage, this one achieves a double seal with just one press.
Initially, I was concerned that the depth of the suction tray would require longer bags, leading to waste, but the slanted front edge alleviates this issue, making it manageable. I often purchase 50′ bulk rolls, which typically don’t fit in the storage compartment of most sealers. However, you can position the roll behind the sealer and feed it through the gap between the lid and under the cutter, which saves me the hassle of transferring material to a smaller roll.
Now, on to a few minor drawbacks: there’s a slight delay after closing and locking the lid before you can press a button; it’s relatively slow to seal; it has three sealing options, but it defaults to a single seal each time you turn it on, requiring two presses to select the double seal, which most users would likely prefer as the default. The buttons can be a bit finicky; just because you hear a click doesn’t guarantee it registered. The lift-up cutter arm can be hard to see when raised, and I often forget to lower it before closing the lid. The drip tray isn’t removable for washing, though it’s easy to wipe clean. While the sealer came with 8″ and 11″ bag rolls, the 11″ roll had wrinkles throughout, but these didn’t seem to affect the sealing process. The sealer sits a bit higher, which may necessitate longer bags, but elevating the front with an object can help. There’s no cancel button in case of issues, and you need to wait a short time between seals to allow the heat strip to cool down. I found that labeling each bag as I completed it provided just enough time to start sealing another without wasting any time.
Despite these areas for improvement, I still consider it a solid sealer and would recommend it to anyone seeking a reliable vacuum sealer with excellent suction and a genuine double seal.