I started my packages 10 of them in 8 frame equipment at about the same time as you, just a couple days ahead on the 6th of April. I have had my hives using the 3 to 4 inch reduced opening since the beginning. If you wonder when to change the opening what I tell people it's simple. When the temps stay above 40 at night and the bees are having a hard time getting into and out of the hive it's time to change the opening size. There is no set rule for when or why you change, it's more of a help to the bees is all.
One thing is for sure, using a reduced entrance insures two things, 1. You don't have to worry about rodents. 2. Your hive will stay stronger as the temp inside can be easier controlled.
Right now i have nearly 16 frames of brood and bees in each of my hives and a work force like no other. But if I were to open them wide open i'd have so many more guard bees and possible problems with pests too. So for me the larger sized opening of the reducer will work for good.
One thing is for sure, using a reduced entrance insures two things, 1. You don't have to worry about rodents. 2. Your hive will stay stronger as the temp inside can be easier controlled.
Right now i have nearly 16 frames of brood and bees in each of my hives and a work force like no other. But if I were to open them wide open i'd have so many more guard bees and possible problems with pests too. So for me the larger sized opening of the reducer will work for good.