Lighting the Smoker

The smoker is probably what I was most anxious about beekeeping. However, I discovered that using it isn’t as difficult as I had anticipated.  It’s highly unlikely that I’ll ever need it, but just in case the first thing I do each time is make sure the hose is turned on and ready to go if needed.

I didn’t have time to search my property for dried pine needles so I bought a couple things online to give a shot for lighting it. I found some pellets and burlap. I decided to try the burlap first. It’s extremely easy to light the burlap and it burns slowly and has so far smoked longer than I’ve needed it.

After I finish using the smoker, I place it in a tin can, close the lid tightly with the handle, and allow it to extinguish itself inside.  Other options to safely put the smoker out is to dump the contents into the tin can and add water or adding water directly to the smoker.  I avoid using the water when I’d like to use the remaining burlap for next time.

I haven’t tested the pellets yet because the burlap is performing so effectively, but I plan to give them a shot eventually. When I do, I’ll update you on the results.