Apifum 23 - fumigator for Varroa treatment

APIFUM 23 – Professional Fumigator for Effective Varroa Treatment of Bee Colonies

Varroosis caused by the Varroa destructor mite is one of the most important problems a beekeeper must address throughout the year. Timely, properly performed, and uniform treatment of bee colonies is, according to the veterinary recommendations of the State Veterinary Administration, essential for successful overwintering of bees. APIFUM 23 is a modern and reliable fumigation device that helps distribute the active substance evenly throughout the hive. Thanks to its well-thought-out design, it saves time in the apiary, requires no compressor or complex preparation, and allows comfortable work with a focus on safe treatment of bee colonies.

Practical Advantages for the Apiary

The improved APIFUM 23 model is based on the requirements of everyday beekeeping practice. The device is developed, assembled, and tested in the Czech Republic, ensuring high quality control, precise workmanship, and long service life. Compared to many cheap imported alternatives, it offers stable performance and an accessible solution for regular use in the apiary. The innovative design with a rotating tube allows the use of both classic paper fumigation strips with applied medication and fumigation tablets. The simplified construction also facilitates cleaning and regular maintenance after use.

The package includes a practical set of adapters, allowing the fumigator to be easily adjusted to different hive types. APIFUM 23 can be used through round hive entrance discs of standard diameters, through the hive entrance, and with modern hives such as Lyson or Flugo types, for which a special rectangular adapter is included. The integrated fan blows smoke with the active substance into the hive under pressure, promoting even distribution of the medication among the bees, including parts of the hive that are harder to reach with ordinary passive smouldering.

Quick Operation Without a Compressor or Cables

Working with the APIFUM 23 fumigator is simple, fast, and physically undemanding. The device is powered by just one standard D/R20 battery, so there is no need to carry heavy rechargeable batteries or use extension cables. The operating principle is based on forced intake and blowing of smoke into the hive. A paper strip or tablet with medication is inserted into the opening of the aluminium tube according to the medication manufacturer's instructions. Once lit, the medium smoulders and the powerful fan distributes the smoke evenly throughout the hive. One bee colony can be treated in approximately 1 to 2 minutes using this method.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Use

For the best fumigation results and long service life of the device, follow the recommended procedure. Before starting the treatment, thoroughly seal the hive and leave open only the opening through which you will fumigate. Always follow the instructions for the medication used and current veterinary guidelines.

1. Insert the included battery into the fumigator.
2. Briefly press the switch to verify the fan is running, then turn the device off again.
3. Select the appropriate adapter for the chosen hive entry point and attach it to the fumigator.
4. Seal all other openings in the hive, including the hive entrance, if you are not using it for fumigation.
5. Insert the fumigator with the adapter into the prepared opening in the hive. The standard working position is horizontal; if needed, the device can also be used vertically with the aluminium tube pointing upward.
6. Insert a paper strip with medication or a fumigation tablet into the aluminium tube. Keep the medium only at the end of the tube.
7. Light the strip or tablet. Never push the burning medium deeper into the device – the fan will draw the smoke in on its own. This protects the motor and internal components from overheating.
8. Turn on the fumigator.
9. After approximately 1–2 minutes, the medium will burn out and the medicated smoke will be dispersed throughout the hive.
10. Carefully remove the fumigator and immediately seal the opening used for application.
11. Allow the medication to take effect for approximately 30 minutes, unless the manufacturer of the specific product specifies a different procedure.
12. Tap out the remains of the burnt medium from the fumigator and let the device dry briefly, as the burnt strip or tablet may be slightly damp.
13. Repeat the same procedure for the remaining hives in the apiary.
14. After the fumigation season is over, remove the battery from the device to prevent leakage, and thoroughly clean the fumigator.

Cleaning and Maintenance of the Fumigator

To ensure the fumigator works reliably over the long term, it is necessary to regularly remove deposits and tar produced during combustion. For routine cleaning, use a narrow, longer brush dipped in warm water with ordinary dish soap. Carefully clean the internal screen through the combustion tube. Never rinse the device under running water, as this could damage the motor and electronics.

For more thorough post-season cleaning, the fumigator can be easily opened. Remove the application adapter and peel off the adhesive strip between the aluminium section and the motor body. Carefully separate the two parts, clean the interior, and after drying, press them back together. Then seal the joint with a new adhesive strip.

Important Safety Warnings

APIFUM 23 is not intended for burning sulphur wicks or sulphur tablets. Sulphur generates very high temperatures and aggressive combustion by-products when burning, which can permanently damage the interior of the device and the fan. Damage can also occur if the medication burns too deep inside the fumigator. Therefore, always keep the lit strip or tablet only at the end of the aluminium tube and do not push it all the way to the safety screen.

Technical Specifications Overview