// EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Hive Information
Is plastic bad for bees?
No, traditionally timber has been utilized to make hives as this is what was available. It can be argued that timber is the natural place for a beehive, but there are plenty of examples of swarms being extracted from plastic compost bins, inside plastic tanks etc. They will build their hive wherever they can find shelter.
Do Nuplas hives contain BPA or leech chemicals?
No, the Hives are made from Polypropylene (PP), which does not contain BPA or leech harmful chemicals. PP is used in many different forms in the food industry from packaging to preparation.
Will the Plastic go brittle in the sun?
The Nuplas Plastic Beehives have a UV rating of 30 years, as with many plastics used outside ie. Water Tanks. The Nuplas Hives will last much longer than timber hives.
How do I keep my boxes from slipping? Do you have straps?
Boxes are most slippery when new. There are two main methods to help with slipping. Em-Lock straps which at pulled tight around the entire hive or Spring Clips which clip boxes together from the ends.
Do the Nuplas hives produce as much honey as wooden boxes?
Yes, there is no difference between the Nuplas boxes and wooden boxes regarding honey production.
What about condensation?
When bees produce honey they encourage evaporation of moisture in the honey comb by fanning the hive and moving air over the comb in turn creating condensation. This does not happen anymore or less in a plastic hive. Timber hives soak up this moisture which can cause hives to become weak with disease. Nuplas Hives do not soak up this moisture and are non-porous, aiding in a healthier hive.
What is the difference between a Vented Base and a Standard Base?
Vented bases have become popular in the wake of pests around the world such as SHB and Varroa mite (not in Australia). Both of these pests thrive in warm moist environments. The Vented Base allows for more air flow, creating a dryer environment, which also aides in the drying of comb. Debris is also passed through the bottom board and not through the crowded entrance allowing hygienic bees to be more productive. This all aids in a healthier hive. Standard Base Boards are based on traditional methods of beekeeping that have been around for over 150 years.
What is the difference between the 10 Frame Rebated Lid and the 10 Frame Standard Lid?
The standard lid is similar to a timber lid in the way it sits on top of the hive and is held in place by a strap or clip. The rebated lid is common in places where it rains a lot or is very windy like NZ. It has a small rebate on the outside rim that fits over the top box stopping any water from entering the hive. Be aware that this inhibits the stacking of hives butted up against one another.
Do I need lifting cleats?
In many areas around Australia lifting cleats are on every box you see. They make for easier lifting by hand and some mechanisms need them in order to get a good grip on the box. The Nuplas lifting cleat also helps hold the box or lid on top with a small lip rising above the rim of the box.
Why is there only one entrance in the 8 Frame Base Board, but two in the 10 Frame Base Board?
Before making the 10 Frame Base Board we had the opportunity to speak to 100’s of Beekeepers from all backgrounds. We found that some would prefer a larger entrance than others. The opportunity to make the two entrances in the 10 Frame Base Board came after we had begun production of the 8 Frame Base Board.
Do I need to put a bottom foot plate on?
No, it is possible to use the base board without the foot plate. In some cases beekeepers prefer to leave the foot plate off when using pallets.
When will I need to use the hinged door?
When you are moving the beehive or in the case of a 10 frame if you wish to close down the entrance to one opening to allow better protection from intrusion. The door can be easily removed and kept in a safe place when not being used.
How do I brand the Nuplas hive with my ID number?
There is a an allowance for stamping on the box ends below the lifting handles. It is a flat surface under the lifting handles and can be branded with a hot iron, painted with a stencil or written on with permanent marker.
Are there instructions on how to assemble the hives?
Yes, you can view a series of hive assembly videos online or download the hive assembly instruction manual.
Are there instructions on how to fold up the Nuc Box?
Yes, you can download instructions here – Nuplas Nuc Instructions
Will I have to throw away all my timber equipment when using Nuplas Hives.
No, All Nuplas products are 100% compatible with all existing timber hiveware. Our system is based on traditional beekeeping methods and is easily integrated into your existing gear should you wish to test it.
Where can I see the Nuplas Hive?
Give us a call or contact us for more information. There are distributors in each state.
Payment Information
What Payment Methods Are Accepted?
We offer three types of payment methods, Paypal, Afterpay and Zippay.
Is Buying On-Line Safe?
We understand that secure online payments are important to customers and that is why we use only reputable payment solutions like Paypal, Afterpay and Zippay. If you don’t have an account with these services, then checkout as a guest using your credit or debit card securely through paypal at the checkout page.
Orders and Returns
How do I place an Order?
Ordering online has never been easier. Find the products you are looking for through our simple menu display or our easy to use search bar at the top of the screen (look for the magnifying glass) Add the products you wish to purchase to the cart. To view your cart at any time, see the shopping trolley at the top of the screen. When you have finished adding items to the cart, it’s time to hit the checkout button. This will take you to an order summary page where you can change the quantities, remove anything you don’t want and see the sub total of your order. Once you have entered your shipping information, it’s time to choose how you wish to pay and then the process is complete. You will receive a confirmation email once the payment has been successfully processed.
Do I need an account to place an order?
No. It is not necessary to have an account to purchase Nuplas Apiarist Supplies products online. You may process orders as normal without the need for logging into or creating your own account. However, for those who wish to keep track of their order history, retain their delivery information including addresses etc. we offer a secure ‘MY ACCOUNT’ login. This makes buying easier for those who wish to keep track of their order history and eliminate the need to enter the same shipping information over and over.
Who should I to contact if I have any queries?
We pride ourselves on customer service here at Nuplas Apiarist Supplies and are happy to answer any questions you may have concerning products, your order status or what the weather is doing locally. You can leave a message through our contact us page, email us direct [email protected] or call us at the office.
Please feel free to get in touch today.
How Can I Cancel Or Change My Order?
Oh no! You have just processed your order online and made a mistake; gave an incorrect delivery address, ordering the wrong size or just plain forgot to order something? Please do not worry yourself too much, we are human also and are here to help. Simply contact us as early as possible the next business day and we will do our best to correct any issues with your order. Call the office from 7am to 11am and we can guarantee your order will not leave without the changes.
How Do I Track My Order?
We use Direct Freight to ship most of our online orders, please provide your email address and Direct Freight will send you shipping information the day your order is dispatched. If you do not receive tracking information, your order may be travelling on another transport company. Call the office between 7am & 4pm Monday to Friday and we will be able to track your order for you.
How Can I Return a Product?
We offer a 100% Money Back Guarantee on all our products. To return an item please contact us and we will arrange a full refund and give you delivery address details to return the item. Alternatively, you may return the item in person. Refunds will only be given to items returned in a saleable condition. For faulty or damaged items, please contact us at the office between 7am & 4pm Monday to Friday and we will arrange a replacement.