Q: Can I use a running car battery (12 volt) to connect the Control Box battery clips?
A: Yes, if you use a vehicle battery while the vehicle is running, you can charge several MiteZapper frames one after the other. We have found it effective to connect the battery clips to a jumper cable that is connected to a vehicle battery. Care must be taken to ensure safety.

Q: What is the smallest 12 volt battery I can use?
A: You can use a 12 volt battery that has a minimum of 35Ah (amp hours), these batteries weigh approximately 20 pounds.

IMPORTANT: Proper care MUST be taken to ensure the battery contacts DO NOT touch each other.

Q: What are the dimensions of the MiteZapper® frame?
A: 19" x 9.125" - approximately the same dimensions as a standard hive frame. The MiteZapper® fits most standard size hive boxes including Langstroth, Mann Lake, and Dadant.

Q: How many MiteZapper® frames do I need?
A: You need one MiteZapper® frame per colony.

Q: How many Control Boxes do I need?
A: You only need ONE control box. You simply connect the Control Box to each colony one at a time for approximately 8 minutes each.

Q: Does the MiteZapper® fit medium super boxes?
A: Yes, simply install the MiteZapper® as you would on the top super (on a two brood chamber setup). You will need to remove the frame below, to allow the MiteZapper® to extend down into the bottom super. We suggest you install a wood filler panel. Do Not drive screws or nails into the MiteZapper® frame. We will have a plastic filler panel available for the 2012 season.

Q: Which hive box should I install the MiteZapper® in?
A: The MiteZapper® should be installed in the brood chamber box. If you have two boxes for the brood chamber, then install it on the 2nd (top) one. Also, NEVER install the MiteZapper® above a queen excluder. If you are using a queen excluder, it is OK to install the MiteZapper in the bottom brood chamber.

Q: After installation of the MiteZapper®, how long should I wait before I perform my 1st "zapping?"
A: Usually about 21-25 days after the bees have drawn the foundation. Please refer to the Owner’s Manual for detailed explanation.

IMPORTANT: During initial setup check the MiteZapper® frame to ensure at least 70% of the brood is sealed.

Q: How often do I need to perform the treatment?
A: You will need to perform the treatment or "zapping" process every 21-25 days during the drone rearing season. Depending where you live this will vary. Here in Michigan USA, we perform the zapping approximately 5 times per year. We suggest that you use the MiteZapper® throughout the entire drone rearing season.

Q: How long does it take for the MiteZapper® to kill the varroa mites?
A: The mites will be killed during the zapping process. Within 24-72 hours you will see the dead drones/mites outside the colony.

Q: Does the MiteZapper® kill the mites inside the sealed brood cells?
A: Yes. That is what makes the MiteZapper extremely effective. The MiteZapper® gets to the source of the problem, where varroa mites reproduce.

Q: After the drone rearing season is over, do I need to remove the MiteZapper® ?
A: No. you can leave it in the hive box. The MiteZapper® has been designed to remain in the colony year round.

IMPORTANT: After each treatment, you will need to snap the protective cap onto the frame connector. The protective cap is weather proof and will ensure the terminals in the connector are protected from the environment.