What do we do with the dried output?
Many golf courses use the output mixed with chemical fertilizer. For everyday gardening or landscaping, mix the output with soil 10:1 to boost soil fertility and build up soil bulk. There are many applications for the output that can reduce, eliminate or even reverse disposal costs, but without those options the output can of course be placed into general waste or compost at 90% reduced volume and a lower cost than non-dehydrated food waste.
What about green waste?
Flowers, grass clippings and other soft/moist plant matter are particularly efficient at reducing in volume. Most green waste is acceptable except large wood cuttings and treated timber, and any plant matter that is already dried out (leaves, dead plants).
What can’t go into the machine?
Plastics, metals, medicines, large meat or rib bones, large seafood shells and crustaceans, all of which act as contaminants and may damage the machine.
How long does it take?
The dehydration process takes from 7 up to a maximum of 24 hours depending on machine size and waste composition. The machine stops automatically when its sensor detects the waste has reached 4~6% moisture content.
What about contamination such as plastics?
The machine operates at 183.2˚F/84˚C so it doesn’t melt plastics. Some contamination is acceptable, but discouraged as it can add to maintenance costs and time to clean out the machine especially if plastics get wrapped around the impeller. It is recommended to either open bags (including 'compost' rated bags) and deposit the contents into the machine, or to line food waste containers with paper (such a newspaper) rather than using bags.
Will the dehydrator count towards LEED building credits?
Yes - Installing a Hungry Giant Food Waste Dehydrator in your building will count towards the LEED Materials and Resources Solid Waste Management Credit 7 - Ongoing Consumables.