Have just been to Big W and bought the battery operated sealer it is called an ECO Vacuum Sealer it takes 6 AA batteries and comes with 3 reusable bags the cost was $59.97 they also have packs of 9 bags and the cost of those are $19.97 Hope this helps we are in S.A. so the price may vary in different states. thought I would open a new post for this in case it got lost in the other one as I know a few people were interested in it hope this is O.K. Helena.
Hi Jack, The bags are washable and you reuse them I think Ma said she has had the original bags for a year so when you work it out not so expensive as it seems Helena.
Dam! We bought one at a caravan show, it was about $150 and needs 240 volts. Carry it around but havent used it yet.
I have the Sunbeam one that's similar, I bought it with "frequent flyer" points that were about to expire (along with my "Easy Cook" turbo oven). I use it regularly and use the plastic rolls rather than the pre-cut bags. That way I can make the bags a size to suit and I also re-use them but you lose 2-3 cms each time they're opened.
The 240v types fully heat seal the bag, thus maintaining the vacuum over time. I've not used the type Ma has so I'm not in a position to make a comparison.
I'm interested in the type Ma has as it seems more convenient for the van.
I've been using mine for about 12 months now and I haven't had any trouble with the sealing component. They stay "shrink wrapped".
I don't loose anything off the length of the bag each time either so that's a plus.
I find it handy when you can freeze "flat" thus being able to get more into the freezer if you are going to be away from the shops for any length of time.
