Using the Condensing Hive to Overwinter Bees

This year I am using the condensing hive method to overwinter my colonies. Research by Randy Oliver, Tom Seeley, and Peg DeSanto of Hive Hugger shows that conserving heat, not venting it away, leads to better winter survival. This approach focuses on insulation, moisture control, and stable temperature inside the hive.

What a Condensing Hive Is

A condensing hive traps and manages warmth instead of releasing it through vents. The bees’ cluster produces heat and humidity. When that warm air meets cooler inner walls, moisture condenses safely away from the bees. The heat released during condensation helps maintain temperature stability. By reducing heat loss, colonies need less food to survive. They stay calm, dry, and energy-efficient even during long freezes.

Research That Supports the Method

Randy Oliver studied the physics of the winter cluster and found that drafts cause bees to consume more honey as they fight heat loss. His findings support top insulation and limited ventilation to conserve energy and reduce stress.

Tom Seeley’s field research on wild colonies shows that bees naturally overwinter in thick-walled tree cavities. Those hollows have no top ventilation but retain warmth and humidity that protect the cluster from dehydration and temperature swings.

Peg DeSanto and the Hive Hugger project tested modern insulated designs based on this research. Their data shows over 90 percent winter survival and up to 50 percent less honey consumption compared with ventilated hives. Colonies also start brood rearing earlier in spring.

No Upper Entrance

This winter my hives will have no upper entrance. Heat will stay inside, and moisture will condense in controlled areas. The goal is to let the bees manage humidity naturally, similar to what they do in a tree cavity. Eliminating the top vent prevents drafts and reduces the energy the cluster spends to keep warm.

Lower Entrance Setup

Each hive will have one lower entrance ranging from ¾ open to fully open, depending on colony strength and weather. This allows steady gas exchange without excessive airflow. The adjustable space helps balance moisture release and carbon-dioxide levels while still protecting the bees from cold winds.

My Overwintering Plan

• Start with strong, healthy colonies in late fall

• Remove unused boxes to match cavity size to cluster size

• Insulate the top with high R-value material

• Seal cracks to block wind

• Maintain one lower entrance (¾ open to full)

• Tilt hives slightly forward for water drainage

• Keep at least 80 pounds of honey per hive

  
  

This configuration maintains a warm, humid environment, lets condensation form safely, and minimizes energy use.

What I Expect

Bees should consume less honey, stay more active through cold snaps, and begin spring buildup faster. By maintaining internal heat and humidity, the cluster avoids chilling, mold, and dehydration. Stronger spring colonies will lead to earlier foraging and better honey yields.

Final Thoughts

Traditional beekeeping often focuses on removing moisture. The condensing hive approach focuses on preserving warmth and balance. With no upper entrance and a controlled lower opening, bees can maintain their natural microclimate inside the hive.

I expect this season to confirm what the research already shows: that a well-insulated, minimally ventilated hive helps bees survive harsh Vermont winters with strength and stability.

Check Out the Following Links

The Venting Hive vs. Condensing Hive: Beekeeping Winter Survival Tactics with Peggy DeSanto - https://youtu.be/9LqqaQyUI0k?si=PdHkVevczwvLGQc0

How a colony survives cold winters Randy Oliver - https://youtu.be/l0VG1kqt1GA?si=Rj1NA9-w6nzrUUz_

Interview with Experts: The Condensing Hive Concept with Dr. David Peck and Bill Hesbach - https://youtu.be/8FRXWG4KDg4?si=meWSNmLBOMk-9v40