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Honey Extractors

How Honey Extractors Work

The honey extraction process is straightforward but highly effective. First, the beekeeper loads the frames containing honeycomb into the basket or drum inside the extractor. Depending on the type of extractor, the frames may be positioned radially or tangentially.

When the extractor is activated, either by a hand crank or an electric motor, the basket begins to spin rapidly. The centrifugal force causes the honey to be pulled out of the comb cells. Radial extractors allow you to extract honey from both sides of the frame at the same time, while tangential extractors require you to flip the frame to extract honey from the other side. Once the honey is extracted, it collects at the bottom of the extractor and can be drained through a honey gate into jars or containers.

This process allows you to harvest honey more efficiently while protecting the integrity of the wax comb. This means the bees can reuse the comb, saving them time and energy when rebuilding the hive.

Mann Lake HH284 40 Frame, HH826 48 Frame, and HH170 189 Frame Honey Extractors

Manual and Electric Honey Extractors for Sale

When selecting a honey extractor, the first decision you’ll need to make is whether you want a manual or electric model.

  • Manual extractors are operated by turning a hand crank, giving you full control over the spinning speed. They’re more affordable and ideal for small-scale beekeeping operations. While they require more physical effort, they allow you to handle the honey extraction process at your own pace.
  • Electric extractors use a motor to spin the frames, making the process faster and easier. They are more efficient and ideal for larger-scale honey extraction. Many electric models come with variable speed settings, allowing you to adjust the rotation speed based on the type of honeycomb you're working with.

Another important consideration is whether you need a radial or tangential extractor. Radial extractors allow honey to be extracted from both sides of the frame at once, making them more efficient for larger operations. Tangential extractors require you to flip the frame to extract honey from both sides, but they tend to be more affordable and are a great choice for smaller beekeeping setups.

Mann Lake HH163 Motorized and HH165 Manual Honey Extractors

The size of the extractor also matters. Extractors range from small two-frame models for hobbyists to large commercial-scale units capable of handling up to 80 frames at a time. If you have a small number of hives, a two or three-frame model may be enough. However, if you have a larger operation or plan to expand, a high-capacity electric extractor will save you time and effort in the long run.

Featured Mann Lake Honey Extractors

Mann Lake HH163 4/8 Frame Electric Honey Extractor

HH163

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Mann Lake HH165 Hand Crank 8/4 Frame Radial Honey Extractor

HH165

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HH913 24 Frame Radial Mann Lake Honey Extractor without Auger

HH913

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HH926 48 Frame Radial Mann Lake Honey Extractor without Auger

HH926

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Mann Lake HH162 Easy Extractor Combo Hand Crank Honey Extractor

HH162

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Mann Lake HH130 Plastic Two Frame Honey Extractor

HH130

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Frame Capacity 8 shallow / 4 deep 8 shallow / 4 deep 24-frame 48-frame 2–3 frames 2 frames
Type Electric Manual Electric Electric Manual Manual
Radial / Tangential Radial Radial Radial Radial Tangential Tangential
Key Features Compact, versatile basket Compact, versatile basket Tapered bottom with center drain Side discharge design Simple hand crank, small scale Lightweight plastic, easy to use
HH813 24 Frame Radial Mann Lake Honey Extractor with Auger

HH813

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HH200 6/3 Frame Motorized Mann Lake Honey Extractor

HH200

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Mann Lake HH280 18/9 Electric Honey Bee Extractor

HH280

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Mann Lake HH825 Horizontal 80 Frame Commercial Honey Extractor with tables and pump

HH825

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Mann Lake HH824 Horizontal 40 Frame Honey Extractor with Tables & Pump

HH824

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Frame Capacity 24 frames 6 shallow / 3 deep 18 shallow / 9 deep 80 frames 40 frames
Type Electric Electric Electric Electric Electric
Radial / Tangential Radial Radial Radial Radial (Horizontal) Radial (Horizontal)
Key Features Auger-assisted honey flow Motorized, medium capacity Mid-range, electric motor Commercial scale, integrated tables Large scale, includes tables & pump

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best method of honey extraction?

The best method of honey extraction is by using a honey extractor, which uses centrifugal force to remove honey from the comb without damaging it.

How long does honey extraction take?

Honey extraction takes 15 to 30 minutes per batch, depending on the extractor type and frame count.

How do honey extractors work?

Honey extractors spin frames rapidly, using centrifugal force to pull honey from the comb.

How to tell if honey is ready to harvest?

Honey is ready to harvest when the comb is capped with wax and moisture content is around 18%.

What is the best type of honey extractor?

Radial electric extractors are the best for large operations, while manual tangential extractors are ideal for small-scale beekeepers