Every beekeeper knows that honey must be harvested dry to ensure its shelf-life and quality. Finding the honeycombs fully capped is a good sign, but it’s not enough on its own to guarantee certainty. You can’t rely on taste either; what tastes great today can ferment and spoil in a short time due to high moisture content. Excess water in honey can harbor numerous microorganisms, leading to spoilage. So, how do we determine moisture content? The simplest method is to use a honey refractometer. But how exactly do you use one, especially if you want to comply with the Honey Ordinance regulations, which state that honey must not contain more than 20% water?
What Does a Honey Refractometer Do?
In short, it measures the water content of honey.
More precisely, it determines the refractive index, which indicates how much a ray of light is bent before it hits the refractometer’s prism. This can be read on a scale that allows you to calculate the sugar and water content in honey using the commonly used unit BRIX.
A critical factor for accurate measurements is the ambient temperature. Therefore, modern handheld honey refractometers are equipped with Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC). You’ll often see ATC mentioned on websites and in user manuals. This feature allows for accurate, temperature-independent measurements within an environment, including the refractometer and the sample ranging from 10°-30°C. It eliminates the need for conversion tables that were previously required to for correct measurement errors.
How to Choose the Right Refractometer:
Not all refractometers are the same. Look for:
- High-quality materials: Metal construction and high-precision optical parts ensure durability. Fewer moving parts ensure measurement repeatability.
- Special scale with known data source: One relies on the scale for accurate readings. If the underlying data is unproven or unsupported, the reliability of your data is at risk to be compromised.
- ATC capabilities: Saves you from constant temperature checks.
- User-friendly design: Consider digital models for instant readings.
How to Calibrate a Honey Refractometer?
It’s quite simple, but it may take a few minutes of practice to overcome any apprehension. Don’t worry, you can’t break anything. All of our refractometers are pre-calibrated by specially trained personnel and are ready for use upon arrival. However, we always recommend that you perform a calibration when you receive your refractometer. First, to familiarize yourself with your instrument, and second, to make sure everything is accurate. This is also recommend at the beginning of each season, if the refractometer hasn’t been used for an extended period of time.
For calibration, you’ll need the clove oil we provide. This is a high-grade, laboratory-quality oil, not to be confused with clove oils from pharmacies or online retailers. The high quality and purity ensures proper calibration. Please note that clove oil, like all essential oils, may cause skin or mucous membrane irritation; this is normal with all essential oils. We recommend working in well-ventilated areas and avoiding direct skin contact. Also, the plastic prism cover should not come into contact with the oil to prevent damage from its corrosive properties.
The oil is used in conjunction with the supplied calibration block (glass block). Please refer to our user manual for calibration instructions. You’ll also need the included screwdriver, pipette, and microfiber cleaning cloth. Everything you need can be found inside the refractometer box and behind the foam insert.
Step-by-Step Calibration (if you’ve misplaced your user manual):
- Adjust the Ocular:
- Point the prism toward a bright light source (sun, lamp, flashlight) and take a first look through the ocular. You can also use our prism cover with built-in LED light especially in a dark environment.
- You can adjust the focus by turning the adjustment ring on the front of the ocular.
- The measuring scales in the circular field must be sharp and clearly visible.
- Consider the Temperature:
- Since handheld refractometers are typically calibrated by the manufacturer at a temperature of 20°C, your calibration should also take place at approximately this room temperature. The ATC range is between 10°C and 30°C.
- Apply the Clove Oil:
- Place a tiny drop of the clove oil on the polished side of the calibration block.
- Open the prism cover.
- Position the Calibration Block:
- Place the calibration block with the polished side (with the oil) on the glass prism of the refractometer.
- Gently press the block to ensure the liquid is evenly distributed without air bubbles.
- Close the lid over the calibration block.
- View and Adjust:
- Look through the ocular; you’ll see that the upper part of the field is blue and the lower part is white.
- The dividing line between the two areas must be exactly at 19.6% on the scale, which is the reference value when calibrating with clove oil.
- If it doesn’t, use the calibration screw to adjust. You’ll find it on top of the refractometer. Remove the protective cap first, then insert the screwdriver until you feel the screw.
- Complete the Calibration:
- Once calibration is successful, remove the calibration block.
- Thoroughly clean the measuring surface and the block with clean water and a lint-free cloth.
- Wipe with the supplied microfiber cloth. Done!
Note: Our honey refractometers can also be used for high-sugar solutions such as jam, ice cream, and syrup. However, the measurement procedure for honey remains the same.
Using the Honey Refractometer:
After calibration, you can start measuring. To get a good average value, it’s advisable to mix samples from several combs.
- Prepare the Honey Sample:
- The honey must be mixed and liquid, as crystals can alter the measurement result.
- If necessary, gently warm the honey to liquefy it.
- Apply the Sample:
- Place a drop of the mixed honey on the prism surface of the refractometer and spread it evenly.
- There should be no air bubbles after closing the cover.
- Adjust the Eyepiece (if not already done).
- Read the Result:
- If the scale is sharp but the dividing line is blurred or wider than it should be, the honey may have been applied too thickly or is too coarse.
- In this case, clean the prism and repeat the measurement.
- Validate the Measurement:
- To obtain a reliable result, measure different samples several times.
Did You Do Everything Right? Please Note:
- Cleaning the Prism:
- Clean the prism with clear water and a soft optical cloth.
- DO NOT immerse the refractometer in water. It is a precision instrument and is not waterproof.
- Drying:
- Thorougly dry the prism, the prism cover, and refractometer.
- Make sure the prism cover is completely dry, free of residue and lint.
- Use the supplied microfiber cloth for a final wipe.
- Warning:
- DO NOT use kitchen paper or paper towels. They are unsuitable for cleaning optical equipment and can scratch sensitive surfaces.
- Storage:
- After cleaning, store the refractometer in a dry, shock-free place with no significant temperature fluctuations.
Everything’s Great, But Can It Be Even Easier? Yes, It Can.
Digital refractometers give you the results in seconds at the touch of a button, just like a digital scale. You don’t have to adjust an ocular, worry about a light source, or learn how to interpret the scale. The measurement result appears as a number on an easy-to-read display. Done!
- Easy Calibration:
- Even digital refractometers require calibration, but the process is simple and quick.
- Portability and Convenience:
- These refractometers are battery-operated, allowing you to carry spare batteries and avoid dependence on chargers and power outlets.
- They’re small and lightweight enough to fit in a (not too small) pocket.
- An Investment Worth Making:
- As with any innovation or convenience, this luxury is reflected in the price.
- However, ARCARDA refractometers have proven to be very durable, so the initial investment pays off quickly.
In Conclusion
The use a honey refractometer is essential for any beekeeper serious about producing quality honey. By accurately measuring the water content of honey, you ensure compliance with regulations and prevent spoilage due to fermentation. Whether you choose a traditional handheld refractometer with ATC or opt for the convenience of a digital refractometer, understanding how to calibrate and use your instrument is critical.
If you have any questions or need further assistance with your refractometer, please contact us. Happy beekeeping!