If you’re a beekeeper, the chances are that you’ve already invested in some honey extractors at some point in time. This is because being an apiarist or a beekeeper also means that you can produce and harvest honey as a crop. A honey extractor is an essential contraption that is both simple to use and easy to operate. If you have not invested in one, this article will help you choose the best one for your needs.

How to Use a Honey Extractor

Basically, you just have to load it up, and it can do its job. In detail, this is how the process is done:

First, you harvest the honeycombs once they are full. These combs will then be carefully placed into the baskets or containers inside the extractor’s drum. Next, switch on the extractor, and it will extract the honey using a centrifugal force.

This will process the honey, and it will be subsequently transferred from the comb to the walls of the drum. Afterward, the honey will pool at the bottom of the drum and be acquired through the honey gate.

Benefits of Using a Honey Extractor

What makes this equipment such a valuable addition to a beekeeper’s workshop is the amount of working time. Instead of breaking the combs into chunks and scraping the honey off manually, you can use a honey extractor to achieve better results.

Another benefit of an extractor is that after the honey can has been taken, the beekeepers can still retrieve the honeycombs. Therefore, you can return it to the bees, which will, in turn, reuse it to store more delicious honey.

Efficient Honey Extractors you can Invest In

To make the most out of your beekeeping experience, you need the right honey extractor. Here are some of the best honey extractors on the market.

1. GOPLUS Manual Honey Extractor and Separator

If you’re a beginner, you need a reliable companion like the GOPLUS Manual Honey Extractor. This extractor is specially designed for starting beekeepers, thanks to its easy-to-use controls.

Its rotating crank handle is convenient, and it features a tangential design that is quite efficient. Plus, the extractor is easy to operate, and the included instructions can help you assemble it with ease.

With a stainless steel build and a built-in separator, this is a great product that will last for years. It also features a plastic lid that prevents debris and lets you monitor the extraction process.

Pros:

• Honey separator
• Includes carrying handle
• Clear plastic lid
• Easy to assemble and disassemble
• Slim design for easy storage

Cons:

• Not suitable for commercial use

2. HARDIN Professional Honey Extractor

You don’t need to break the bank for some top-grade equipment in your shed. HARDIN Honey Extractor provides professional-quality features for small-time beekeepers. For example, it has clear Plexiglas covers for easy viewing, and its stainless steel design allows for easy cleaning.

It is easy to use and features a tangential design. This extractor also features a honey gate for easy drainage without spillage.

Pros:

• It comes with an optional leg/stand for comfort
• Easy to use, extract and offload
• Features honey gate
• Easy to clean
• Clear Plexiglass cover

Cons:

• The honey gate may be low for some
• The plastic handle may not last long

3. VIVO Stainless Steel Honeycomb Drum Honey Extractor

Beekeeping and honey processing can be easy with the right tools on your side. VIVO’s Honey Extractor is built precisely with comfort and efficiency in mind, thanks to its honeycomb drum shape. The extractor holds up to 8 frames, allowing for more honey extracted in little time.

It features a 3-legged tripod steel stand, plastic handle, clear Plexiglass lid, and a honey gate that is well elevated.

Pros:

• Durable stainless steel frames
• Grooved plastic handle for easy cranking
• Simple to assemble and clean
• Great value for money

Cons:

• Leg stands are fragile
• Not suitable for heavy-use