The Definitive Guide To Vaporisers

Vaping, or vaporising, is much more than a passing fad or fancy – vaping has firmly established itself in Ireland, the wider UK, and indeed much of the world. Broadly, vaporisers are electronic devices that heat substances such as dry herbs, oils, concentrates and e-liquids to the point at which they turn into vapor, which is then inhaled.

Although vaping has existed in some form or another for much longer than one would immediately assume, what most of us would consider the advent of a commercially successful vaping device only really came to be in 2003. The well known electronic cigarette was created in Beijing, China by Hon Lik, a 52 year old pharmacist, inventor and smoker looking for an alternative to smoking that was less unhealthy. By 2006, vape pens had made their way to Europe and to North America.

To say that since this point their popularity has become interstellar is an understatement, but with such a flood of vaporisers in the market, how do you even know where to begin? Let the Hemp Company be your friendly educational guide – for the definitive information you need to know about everything vape-related, read on!

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What is a Vaporiser? What is Vaping?

As we’ve already touched on, a vaporiser, commonly known as a vape, is an electronic device used to heat substances such as oils and dry materials to produce vapour, which can then be inhaled. Vaping then, is the act of inhaling the vapor produced by the vape into the mouth and/or lungs.

There are many different types of vaporisers ranging from small and discreet vape pens, to more powerful handheld portable vaporisers that use batteries and even stationary desktop devices that rely on outlet power sources. However, despite the many variations, which we will discuss below, there is at least one key factor that links all vapes. This is that they, well, vaporise material.

Combustion vs Vaporisation

It might sound redundant, but it’s important to note that the main function of all vaporisers is to produce vapor, as opposed to smoke. Vaporising brings materials just below the point of combustion, at which point it turns into smoke – which vapes, by controlling their temperature through sophisticated heating methods, don’t do.

In contrast, when combusting material in the traditional way, such as with smoking, the maximum temperature can reach as high as 900°C. Cannabidiol (CBD) cannabinoids begin to vaporise at a range of 160°C – 180°C. The lower temperatures of most standard vaporisers heat up to 190°C – 235°C and preserve the compound cannabinoid rather than breaking it down at higher temperatures. As such, one of the most important functions of all vaporisers is to expertly and consistently control the temperatures they reach.

Why Do People Vape?

So what’s the big deal with vaping then, and why is it so unbelievably popular? Well, it’s one solution to smoking traditional nicotine rich cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, etc. Vaping can be one tool to help people quit smoking, and many vapes are designed to mimic the hand-to-mouth action that can accompany this kind of addiction.

However, this is a very traditional reason for vaping, and the reasons, well, they are a changin’. Vaping has become such a social norm that the reasons for taking to the vape are much less black and white than they used to be. Here are the most common reasons, besides quitting smoking, that vaping may appeal to you:

1. Low cost
2. Flavor choices
3. Safe to use
4. Can use indoors
5. Favorable odor
6. Social image

How does a vaporiser work?

Although the variations are many, all vaporisers function using the same principles. A power source (a battery or outlet) is used to power a heating element. This then heats up your material to the point of vaporisation, which is housed in a small chamber, tank or oven. When the material reaches the correct temperature, the user can then inhale this vapor through the air path and mouthpiece.

This is the complete system whose individual elements combine to create a vape, and although the principle remains the same, the variations of each specific element or component are many! And to be as concise as possible, it’s a good idea to consider these different components in relation to what kind of vape they are used in.

What types of vaporisers are there?

There are several different types of vaporiser to choose from, and the wide variation in type has much to do with the material being used. The two broad categories of vapes consist of those that house e-liquids or e-juices containing CBD (cannabidiol) or nicotine, and those used for more solid materials like dry herbs, hemp, waxes, and concentrates.

Nicotine or CBD E-liquid/E-Juice/Oil vapes:

This category of vape consists of those commonly known handheld devices that are powered by lithium-ion batteries designed to mimic the sensation of smoking without combustion. But what exactly is E-Liquid or E-Juice?

What is E-Liquid/E-Juice?

E-liquid is the liquid mixture used in nicotine or CBD E-Liquid or E-Juice vapes. It usually contains a mixture of propylene glycol, glycerin, flavorings and additives.They can also contain either nicotine or CBD. E-liquid formulations can vary widely, but they all, when heat is applied, turn into aerosol, commonly called vapor, made of particulate matter.

There are two common types of Nicotine or CBD E-liquid/E-Juice vapes, the E-Cigarette and Vape Pen – sometimes referred to as oil vaporisers.

E-Cigarettes and Vape Pens

An E-Cigarette is an electronic device that simulates tobacco smoking, and as such it has by and large been designed to mimic the act of smoking in terms of portability, ease of use, and even design. Instead of cigarette smoke, the user inhales vapor, of course, from E-Liquids. They generally consist of a one-piece unit that you use until it runs out and then throw it away, again much like an actual cigarette.

Vape Pens are very similar to E-Cigarettes but they are, by and large, a step up in terms of technology, and have surely eclipsed E-Cigarettes in terms of popularity. They are, much of the time, reusable and this has made them much more appealing to the wider vaping community. They come with a rechargeable battery and a refillable tank or replaceable cartridge. They can be used over and over, sometimes customised, and used with a world of different flavors.

How Does an E-Cigarette/Vape Pen Work?

E-Cigarettes and Vape Pens both consist of an atomizer, a power source such as a battery, and a container such as a cartridge or tank, but E-Cigarettes cannot replace these parts, while Vape Pens can, to some degree:

• Atomizer – Is the heating element that atomizes the E-Liquid, turning it into vapor.
• Battery – The battery is the power source that in turn causes the atomizer to become heated. Usually rechargeable in Vape Pens, E-Cigarette batteries cannot be charged or replaced.
• Cartridge or Tank – A cartridge is a small, pre-filled container full of E-Liquid or E-Juice that can be attached to a Vape Pen for vaping. A tank, on the other hand, is actually attached to the device and can be hand-filled with stand-alone E-Liquids or E-Juices. The tank on an E-Cigarette cannot be replaced, keeping with the single-use aspect of the device.

While E-Cigarettes are good to go right off the bat, Vape Pens require their cartridge to be attached to the device, or the tank to be filled with stand-alone E-Liquid. Both E-Cigarettes and Vape Pens are then activated either by pressing a button or simply by taking a drag. This activation causes the battery to power the heating element which then atomizes your E-Liquid. Then all you have to do is inhale!

Dry Herb/Wax/Concentrate/Hybrid Vapes:

These kinds of vapes can be either handheld or desktop devices, powered either by rechargeable batteries or electrical power supplies.These devices are used with CBD,THC, or other dry herbs, waxes, and/or concentrates.

What are DryHerbs?

As the name suggests, dry herbs are plant material that has been dried and ground for the purposes of vaporising. There are all kinds of dry herbs that can be suitable for vaping aromatics:

Hemp – A variety of Cannabis Sativa, Hemp is low in THC (below the legal limit) and high in CBD. CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the many compounds found in hemp specifically and cannabis more broadly. CBD interacts with our body’s endocannabinoid system which regulates bodily functions like sleep, appetite and mood. The endocannabinoid is our overall homeostasis checker, and when CBD interacts with the ECS, it’s thought that CBD helps with this task of restoring overall balance to varying degrees.

Although it is much more common to find CBD E-Liquids than actual dried hemp, it definitely exists and can certainly be used in dry herb vapes.

Marijuana – In places where it is legal, Marijuana can also be used in a dry herb vape. Although much like hemp as a strain of Cannabis, Marijuana differs in the important respect that it is lower in CBD and higher in THC, or Tetrahydrocannabinol. While THC is also a cannabinoid, it works slightly differently to CBD. This difference causes THC to cause what is commonly known as a ‘high’, whereas CBD has no such effect.

Again, dried marijuana is not the only way to vaporise THC – there are many THC E-Liquids on the market as well.

Loose Leaf Tobacco – Containing nicotine, loose leaf dried tobacco can be vaped to provide the nicotine fix that one may crave while eliminating the combustion that accompanies traditional smoking and the health concerns that arise from putting combusted material into the body.

Thyme, Basil, Lemon Balm, Eucalyptus, Peppermint, or other Common Herbs – You might not think of it immediately, but garden herbs such as these mentioned can also be dried and ground for aromatherapeutic purposes!

Wax/Concentrate Vaporisers

Wax and concentrate vaporisers are for all intents and purposes the same thing, but they can sometimes go by slightly different names. But don’t worry, after finishing this helpful guide I promise you’ll be an expert.

Wax/concentrate vaporizers can be commonly called wax pens or wax vaporizer pens, or even dab pens. Whatever you call them, they all operate on the same principle.They are all small vaporizers, about the size of a pen, that are specifically designed for wax or concentrates.

The devices themselves consist of the same elements as a regular vape pen – a heating element and a battery. The difference is in how the pens are loaded, as dab pens require you to load the concentrate or wax directly on the heating chamber or element.

What is Wax/Concentrate?

Confused about what these substances actually are? If you’re new to vaping or gravitate to E-Liquid vapes, it’s perfectly understandable not to know. Although grouped together, wax is actually the most common type of concentrate. A cannabinoid concentrate is, essentially, a highly potent tetrahydrocannabinol and/or cannabidiol concentrated mass formed by processing cannabis in such a way that only the most concentrated, desirable compounds (cannabinoids) are left in what is essentially an extract. There are 4 main types of concentrate:

• Wax – Cheap, accessible, easy – waxes are the most common concentrate and are quite readily available. Waxes are a type of BHO (Butane Hash Oil), made by using butane (a liquified gas) as a solvent to extract the main cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis. The result? A concentrate that looks and feels unsurprisingly like beeswax! Because of its soft and sticky texture, wax must be used in suitable vaporizers, or dab rigs with the proper dabbing tools.
• Budder – Budder concentrates are, well, the consistency of butter. Hovering somewhere between a solid and a liquid, budder is the middle ground between a liquid oil and a brittle shatter. Budder is typically made by dousing cannabis plants in butane, CO2 or another chemical solvent so only cannabis extract is left. Budder is basically wax with a certain kind of consistency.
• Shatter – Again, the name is very telling here – shatter is hard and shiny like glass. It is usually very high potency and is typically heated and inhaled through a vaporizer rather than smoked. Again, shatter is a type of cannabis concentrate that’s produced using a combination of cannabis plant materials and solvents.
• Crumble – Budder and crumble are very similar, but crumble is much more crumbly in consistency to budder. Again like budder, crumble is wax concentrate with a specifically crumbly texture. Wax can vary from crumble to budder depending on variables that can affect the extraction process like the temperature, solvent, pressure and strain. For example, using propane instead of butane leads to concentrates with a buddery consistency.

What is a Dry Herb/Concentrate Hybrid Vaporiser?

When referring to a hybrid in terms of vaporisers, we could actually be referring to either the type of heating element the particular vaporiser uses (see the below section on Vaporiser Heating Elements), or, as in this case, the type of material it can turn into vapor. So following on from what we have discussed, a hybrid vaporiser is compatible to be used with both dry herbs and concentrates.

As portable vaping becomes more and more popular, commonplace, and competitive, the need to make versatile devices that are compatible with more than one kind of material continues to grow and evolve. While it is still true that vaporisers will usually cater to vaping dry herbs, the option to vaporise concentrates has become much less of an afterthought and much easier to accomplish.

But, as dry herbs and concentrates are very different materials and need to remain separate from each other, and indeed require different temperatures and heating methods, there are a few different ways in which dry herb vaporisers have evolved to include the option to vape concentrates:

• Stainless steel liquid pads – These pads help transform a normal dry herb vaporiser from a convection vape into a conduction heating device, similar to any other dab pen.
• Separate concentrate chambers – Some dry herb vapes, such as the Pax 3, come equipped with a separate concentrate chamber that can be attached to the device.
• Separate liquid/concentrate caps – Again, these are detachable and separate to the main device. They are loaded with your concentrate of choice and placed in the heating chamber.

Vaporiser Heating Elements

First of all we need to address and comprehend the most basic question surrounding the topic: Why do Heating Methods Matter? In simple terms, all vaporisers are created with a specific vaporisable material in mind which can range from dry herbs and oils to concentrates such as shatter, or a hybrid combination, as seen above. This means that different heating methods will be more effective for certain mediums and therefore have to be chosen accordingly.

The heating element is probably the most underlooked component of the vaporiser as in most cases it is not visible. In the grand scheme of things the heating element is the heart and life of your vaporisers and the quality of this component will influence the performance of the vape. It is important to gain valuable understanding about the core of the vaporiser as this can help you choose a product that will not only last longer but most importantly be sufficient for the intended purpose.

It is also important to note that heating elements/chambers can be made from different materials such as metal, ceramics and glass. Each serves a specific purpose, with their own pros and cons. The way the heating component heats the dry herb or concentrate is also a factor in the equation and makes a monumental difference.

First of all, let’s address the different types of heating to gain a better understanding of what you may need to tackle your chosen medium. These are not necessarily competing with one another – rather they provide efficiency for different types of use. So to cut to the chase we have the following heating element types:

Conduction, Convection and Hybrid

Conduction Heating:

This type of heating element is commonly found in most vaporisers such as wax and oil vape pens which utilise cartridges and e-liquids, portable dry herb vaporisers and a lot of the high end vaporisers available on the market. Vaporisers which use conduction heating as their primary driver tend to have fewer parts making it easier to use, maintain and replace parts if in need.

So how does it actually work? Well it is quite simple, to define the word conduction it means the transfer of energy, in this instance heat, through a substance. The heat is transferred from element to material by direct contact. If you are vaporising dry herb, the heating element or chamber will have direct contact with the material bringing it to the point of vaporisation.

What are the benefits?

• Affordable and ready to use straight from the box with some models featuring upgradability and easy part replacement.
• The direct contact nature of the heating element allows for quick vaporisation.
• Generally more range of brands and models available that specifically feature conduction heating elements.
• The rather small size of the heating element allows for a more compact and portable housing.
• Some vaporisers feature compatibility with both dried herbs and hemp derived concentrates.

One of the most superior examples within the conduction category would have to be the Pax 3, featuring a sophisticated conduction oven. The material is heated almost instantaneously within a range of 3-5 seconds, combined with a large oven capacity there is nothing that this compact vape can’t tackle thanks to its 3500mAH rechargeable battery. Perfectly designed to use with dry herbs, always remember to pack tight to achieve even distribution and heating across the medium.

Convection Heating:

While convection heating is a little trickier than standardised conduction heating, there is nothing to fear as it can offer a range of benefits from cleaner vapour to maximising the gain from your chosen concentrates, oils and herbs. To put this into analogical context, convection heating is much like a food dehydrator where the heat source doesn’t come in direct contact with the material but rather creates heat which can pass through.

To further define the term convection heating, much like conduction, the heat originates from a source heating component but in this case the element does not come in direct contact with the material. The heat is transferred away from the source with the use of an inbuilt fan which carries the thermal energy through the medium. The need for other components does expand the overall size of the device, but they are just as manageable and portable.

What are the benefits?

• Unlike conduction heating elements which run the risk of burning the chosen medium at the specific point of contact, convection heating allows the whole material to heat up evenly.
• Conduction heated vapes can sometimes leave unused residue whereas with the use of convection currents this type of waste is reduced.
• The vapour is also composed of less smoke and more rich vapour which allows you to get the full assortment of flavour and aromatics.
• The convection currents created by the elements are perfect to use with dry herbs and similar materials as it heats the contents of the oven chamber evenly and consistently.

Adapting to the wave of convection driven vaporisers has certainly sparked some of our brands to do some innovative stuff. Storz and Bickle have two on their current lineup, the Mighty and Crafty Vaporisers which feature convection heating with adjustability and control. Arizer also has a compact and portable solution for convection heated vaporisers with the Arizer Air II.

Hybrid Heating:

Vaporisers which employ both heating methods are referred to as hybrid. These are convection vaporisers which are reduced in size for portability. Vaporisers such as the Arizer ArGo take advantage of this combination – essentially it’s using both heating methods as the heating chamber is much closer to the heat source than a conventional convection current driven vape.

What are the benefits?

• Compact and portable like many conduction heated vaporisers, but provide similar advantages to a convection heated device.
• As a result of partial convection heating the vapour is much purer and more flavourful providing a wider range of terpenes and aromatics.
• Similarly to pure convection heating devices the vaporise can utilise more of the material reducing overall waste of the select medium.

The Arizer ArGo is basically a more compact and convenient redesign of the popular and reliable Arizer Solo, a device which features convection heating elements. By compressing this device Arizer was able to manufacture a device which delivers on flavour and aromatics just like a standard convection device but does so in a compact and mighty package similar to a conduction vaporiser. It is also important to note that the medium used will not touch the heating element but will experience a quick and powerful heat transfer due to it being so compressed.

Metal vs Ceramic vs Glass

Metal Heating Elements:

Look no further than a metal heating element if you are seeking accurate temperature control and precise adjustments. The heating element is quick to adapt to changes if you swap out your medium or simply seek a different vaporising outcome.

Pros:

• Accurate control over the temperature.
• Excellent conductor of electricity and heat.
• Easily adjustable and react to change efficiently.

Cons:

• Can alter the taste and quality of the selected medium.
• Some metal heating coils have a short lifespan.
• Claims of metal elements releasing minute harmful chemicals (not proven).

Ceramic Heating Elements:

If you’re all about the flavour and don’t have much need for precise control ceramic elements are the way to go. In some cases harder to find but they do a great job of preserving natural terpenes of the plant or dried herbs for an all-natural experience.

Pros:

• Retain the flavour and aromatics of precious terpenes.
• Ceramic elements can be heated to higher temperatures.
• Long lasting and reliable, melting point of approx. 1650°C.

Cons:

• Difficult to control the heat of the element due to material conductibility.
• Many ceramic elements are made cheaply reducing quality.
• Hard to retain heat at a consistent temperature level.

Glass Heating Elements:

Seen as the underdog of the heating element game, the glass components are gaining traction for a range of reason, including but not limited to glass nails and rigs for concentrates and in some portable vaporisers.

Pros:

• Deliver richer and more robust flavour with concentrates and oils.
• Glass rigs and heating elements are considered chemical free.
• Gaining momentum in the field of concentrates, expect new innovation.

Cons:

• Difficult to control the heat of the element due to material conductibility.
• More expensive to produce for a small difference.
• Much more fragile and brittle than ceramic and metal elements.

Are Vaporisers Healthy?

At the present moment the research points that vaping is actually much less bad for you than smoking. So we know that switching from smoking to vaping will of course improve your health but what about if you have never smoked and wish to take up recreational vaping? Vaping health research in this regard is a lot less clear and this largely comes down to one tricky ingredient: Nicotine. Although nicotine is not directly linked to causing cancers and e-liquids don’t contain all of the harmful ingredients used in cigarettes, nicotine is still regarded as a potentially harmful substance.

Are Vape Pens Healthy?

Nicotine can be found in many different vaping E-Liquids, but at the Hemp Company Dublin, we ensure that NONE of our CBD E-Liquids contain nicotine. Although marketed as ‘a healthier alternative to conventional cigarettes’, there have been recent reports of vaping related hospitalisations. This has sparked much fear in people considering vaping. However, these figures were found to reflect the type of e-liquid purchased and the dodgy ingredients therein.

Such liquids, however, are your standard nicotine based E-Liquids where traces of vitamin E acetate were found to be present within the liquid itself. At The Hemp Company, we never stock any of these liquids, and in fact our CBD e-liquids contain no traces of THC, nicotine, or other harmful additives. Our main ingredient is organic CBD oil and of course we stock the very best quality vape juice on the market – you can explore our range of CBD E-Liquids here.

Are Dry Herb Vapes Healthy?

Dried herbs are, as we know, a popular choice when it comes to vaping. The dried herb vaporiser is compatible with dried herbs and sometimes concentrates as well, and is battery powered. This is of course a different approach than e-liquids.

If your vape is working as it should without unintentionally burning your material, there should be no health risks associated with dried herb vapes. These vaporisers use heating methods that eliminate the production of carbon monoxide. Dried herb vapes are not liquid so there is no risk in ingestion or inhalation. At The Hemp Company we offer a very safe range of dried herb vaporisers, a favourite of ours is the ‘Mighty Vaporiser by Storz & Bickel’.

Are Concentrate Vaporisers Healthy?

Concentrates also known as ‘dabs’ can also be used in vaping, our concentrates possess a high CBD potency and provide a rapid onset. Concentrates are recommended for those who require a longer vaping experience wanting a more intense onset. Concentrates are completely safe when used correctly of course, and as with dry herb and E-Liquid machines, these vaporisers, if working correctly, eliminate the health risks associated with combustion smoking. Check out our range of high quality concentrates available and our favourite Crafty Vaporiser when using concentrates.

Are Vaporisers Safe?

It’s an important question to consider – are the healthy aspects of vaporising eclipsed by unsafe machinery? Thankfully, if you choose from well known and respected vaporiser brands and use/maintain your machine properly, there is very little safety risk associated with using a vape. And, at the Hemp Company Dublin, we meticulously scour the globe to bring Ireland and the UK the absolute best quality vaporisers out there.

Perhaps the single most important factor to consider when exploring the safety of a vape that you have your eye on is the material it is made from. Vapes can be made from all kinds of materials, but some are safer to use than others for various reasons. Let’s take a look at the safest materials that can be used in the most important parts of a vape:

Oven Chamber Materials

Because of the high temperatures required for vaping materials like dry herb and concentrates, the material your oven chamber is made of is crucial to the overall safety of the device. There are many different materials used for vape oven chambers, and some are better than others.

• Ceramic – Ceramic is porous and fragile overall, which causes it to have small holes or craters. You therefore need to be quite careful when cleaning and handling them. Silicon carbide is a commonly used material for ceramic chambers for high-quality vaporizers.
• Glass – Unlike ceramic, glass is much smoother overall and so lacks the small holes and craters that can make ceramic a tricky material to maintain. However, glass is more fragile compared to ceramic and can break and shatter if not handled correctly. Borosilicate glass is a high-quality material that is often used in vaporizers.
• Stainless steel – Stainless steel is a great, although expensive, oven chamber material. It’s durable, smooth and therefore won’t alter the taste of your materials, and doesn’t give off unpleasant odors. Medical grade stainless steel is preferable for ensured safety.

Heating Element Materials

Again, as the heating element’s main function is to transfer heat, it’s crucial that a well made vaporiser include good quality heating element materials. There are a few common heating element materials that fit the bill.

• Nickel – A great conductor, nickel is a common choice for vaporisers as it is resistant to heat degradation and corrosion.
• Mica – Mica heating elements are made out of thin sheets of mica, creating a low thermal mass and quick heat up time.
• Aluminium – More and more common as a heating element material, aluminum is an excellent conductor of heat, is by and large very safe to use, and it’s common and inexpensive.

Vapor Path Material

The vapor path and the material it is made out of are important because, as the name suggests, they are the parts of the device that are directly linked to the inhalation process. Furthermore, all of these parts are continually exposed to hot vapor, meaning they need to be made out of robust materials that won’t release any unwanted materials into the vapor that you inhale.

The vapor path can consist of the filters, screens, tubes, pipes and mouthpieces should be made from food grade materials. There are many heat safe materials used for vapor paths – glass, stainless steel and food grade plastic are some of the most common.

What vape is best for me?

There is no definitive way to present a vaporiser to an individual and know that it is going to suit their intended purpose. When considering buying a vape, it’s important to know what your intent is and what you’re trying to achieve. Some criteria to consider:

• Are you in search of a healthier alternative to smoking?
• Are you considering vaporising oils, e-liquids or dry herbs?
• Are you considering vaping CBD concentrates?
• Do you seek power and performance, or convenience and discretion?

The most we can do is guide the decision making process. As established before there are various vaporiser brands and models for specific purposes. There is no specific title for the best vape more than what is best for you.

Vape Pens/Cartridge Pens are most likely to be used for concentrates and e-liquids, whereas Dry Herb Vaporisers, well that’s self-explanatory, are used for dry plant material and Desktop Vaporisers are in a league of their own – presenting an unrivaled, pure and smooth vaping experience, but do not feature portability.

The equation for the perfect vape suited to your needs is further expanded by the level of control, discretion and performance you require. These requirements will ultimately determine what kind of vape you should purchase. Here are some factors to consider:

Simple and Discreet Vaporisers

Many individuals tend to choose more discreet vape/vaporiser options, which feature a slimmer and more compact design and mainly only support e-liquids and thinned out oils usually containing nicotine or cannabidiol (CBD).Great way to familiarise yourself with the concept of vaping without breaking the bank!

In this instance Oil Vaporiser Pens are the way forward and fulfill the criteria perfectly. These are an awesome choice for convenience and simplicity, usually featuring a single button function and slender design which is extremely portable. To get you started the Harmony CBD Pen is a brilliant choice for price.

Vape pens are also quite adaptive, you usually have the choice to use it with your own refillable cartridge or along with pre-loaded cartridges such as the Green Mood Cartridges, containing 0.5 ml of full spectrum hemp oil and available in an array of flavours.

Hemp Company Specialists’ Top Picks:

• Green Mood Vave Vaporiser
• Palmetto Aura Pre-filled Vape Pen
• Harmony CBD Pen

Discreet and Powerful Vaporisers

Finding power in a minimal and petite device has become increasingly easier. By enhancing factors such as the heating chamber, atomizer (coil), and air flow users can benefit from cleaner, faster and purer vapour.

If you’re seeking something a little more powerful we carry Linx Vapor Vaporisers which also boast toxin-free vapour, which doesn’t pass through plastic or painted parts – only medical grade components. High-grade materials make it easier to maintain and clean, you also have the availability to use a wider range of CBD Concentrates and E-Liquids.

Vaporisers such as Boundless CFC Lite also offer adjustable heat settings all in a discreet yet mighty package. An upgrade in overall performance doesn’t always mean an increase in size rather than an improvement in the essential components and the addition of adjustability features.

Hemp Company Specialists’ Top Picks:

• Linx Hypnos Zero
• Boundless CFC LITE
• Linx Eden

Powerful and Adjustable Vaporisers

Without straying too far from the realm of Portable Vaporisers it is good to establish that there are devices which are fully adjustable, small on appearance while big on strength. Seeking direct control over vaporising your medium is a commodity sought after by many among the vape community. From pre-set temperature choices to fully adjustable digital screens and larger oven chambers the variations are endless.

Expect a longer and more reliable battery life among this category of vaporisers, an essential component to a pleasant user experience. Bigger batteries deliver bigger power therefore delivering a higher level vapour quality.

Some, like the PAX 3, offer smart functionality via an app, no digital screen and sleeker housing. Brands such as Arizer offer an all-in-one package with the Arizer ArGo – power, adjustability and lightweight. Many feature multifunctionality where oils and dry materials can be used together or separately, which can be beneficial for a multitude of practices.

Hemp Company Specialists’ Top Picks:

• PAX 3 Vaporiser
• Arizer ArGo
• Arizer Air II
• Crafty Vaporiser by Storz and Bickle
• Mighty Vaporiser by Storz and Bickle

Stationary and Robust Vaporisers

If you’re in the market for the purest and cleanest vapour, delivering an almost medical level of terpenes, flavours and aromatics without the need of portability, stationary, or desktop, vaporisers are perfect. Specifically designed for anchored use, desktop vapes aim to deliver an authentic and robust vaporising experience.

When talking Desktop Vaporisers there is one true choice that is incredibly difficult to disregard and has been dominating the market for quite some time. As a brand they have solidified their association with medical grade quality, immense durability, and absolutely flawless vapour. Storz & Bickel have been in the market for approximately 20 years and now offer the Volcano Hybrid and the Volcano Classic – both incredibly precise with temperature adjustments and their respective features such as convection and conduction heating along with a balloon vaporisation system.

There are certainly contenders for the top title, companies such as Puffco have released similar devices which feature a lot of adjustability, unique smart features and flexible configurations for different levels of vaporising experience. The Puffco Peak Smart Rig was developed to provide a more enjoyable experience of vaping, Similarly to the Volcano, this vaporiser unlocks the true power of concentrates, giving you the cleanest flavours and effects from the plant that they are derived from. While it is mainly a desktop vaporiser it is not restricted and features a certain level of portability, but it is worth mentioning that it can only be used with concentrates.

Hemp Company Specialists’ Top Picks:

• Puffco Peak Smart Rig
• Volcano Classic Vaporiser
• Volcano Hybrid Vaporiser

Vaporiser maintenance

Maintaining your vaporiser is very important, you may not be aware but there can be thousands of bacteria lurking in there, plus with a build up of resin your device certainly won’t appear as clean as it could be… but much worse than this, it won’t work as optimally either.

In fact, one of the main reasons to keep your vape clean is to ensure your vape’s airways don’t become clogged. This can happen when warm vapor condenses when coming into contact with cooler elements. This in time shortens the lifespan of your vaporiser, it is always recommended to use alcohol when cleaning your device. Alcohol wipes are great for this and require no hard work!

Cleaning Your Vape – Simple Tips

We will go into detail about the best way to clean your vape below, but here are some simple tips to keep in mind when cleaning your device:

• It is important to be aware not to clean your vaporiser when it is hot, always let it cool down otherwise this can lead to severe damage to the device.
• Pipe cleaner or cotton swabs can be very useful when cleaning after each session.
• There are some dry herb vaporisers such as our very own Crafty and Mighty vaporisers which can be soaked in isopropyl alcohol, just making sure to remove the O-ring first.
• Alcohol wipes can be useful in quick cleaning on the go.
• Keep your vaporiser stored upright to avoid flooding the airspace.
• Ensure your vaporiser is stored away from direct sunlight and high temperatures.

A deep clean generally never needs to be done excessively – we prefer simple rinses as this method will ensure to maintain the fresh flavours from vaping. For dry herb vaping this will help to keep different batches from mixing and therefore impairing flavour.

Deep cleaning your vaporiser

1. Fill a bowl with lukewarm water.
2. Remove the chamber from the vape box.
3. Disassemble all of the pieces of the holding tank adding them to the water.
4. You can use a wipe to clean the rest of the device.
5. Now to just let the pieces soak in the water, this should require no longer than 1-2 hours.
6. When the required time has been reached you can dab the pieces dry before assembling together with the rest of the device.
7. (Always ensure that the pieces are dry when reassembling).

Our top choice of portable vaporisers can be found here, we always aim to provide users with the very best quality vaping experience and devices which are easily maintained. From this selection we advise to use superior quality vape oils that you can find here, our vape oils contain zero THC and nicotine of course just pure CBD with all of its beneficial properties.

Caution:

With the use of alcohol solutions we recommend that you do not use this on any acrylic parts, whip tubing or rubber rings especially, only ever on glass and metal components.This is because extended exposure to alcohol will weaken and discolour the plastic, a quick wipe is generally fine but we advise against submerging pieces.

Vaporiser Quick FAQ

What is a vaporizer?

A vaporizer is a device that turns dry herbs, oils, e-liquids, and other materials into vapor that can be inhaled, much like a traditional cigarette or cigar. However, since vaporizers only heat the material rather than combust it, they are both more efficient and (according to many experts) healthier than traditional forms of smoking. These devices can be classified according to many criteria, but the biggest dividing line is between battery-powered portable vaporizers and desktop units, which are larger and require an external power source.

What’s the difference between a vaporizer and a bong?

Bongs are sometimes referred to as ‘water pipes,’ and they function in much the same way as other pipes. In other words: a material is combusted (i.e. burnt up), and the smoke passes through a tube to be inhaled. Vaporizers, on the other hand, produce no smoke as there is no combustion involved. Some vaporizers come with attachments so they can be used with bongs.

How does a vaporizer work?

Vaporizers come in many variations, but they all operate according to some basic principles. Some form of material—whether dry herbs, wax, or liquid—is placed into a chamber, which is then heated to a very high temperature. This does not burn the material, but rather releases the compounds found in that material in the form of vapor (hence the term ‘vaporizer’). The vapor then passes through a passageway known as a ‘vapor path’ or ‘air path’ before the user inhales it through a mouthpiece.

Is vaporizing healthier than smoking?

This question has been hotly debated ever since vaping became an international trend, and there is a great deal of conflicting information on the subject. However, numerous studies have shown that vaping is in fact healthier than smoking. The chief reason is that vaping does not release chemicals such as tar or carbon monoxide into the user’s lungs. Vaping materials that do not contain nicotine—such as CBD oil—is widely regarded as healthier than vaping materials that do have nicotine.

Does a vaporizer smell when in use?

This will depend on several key factors: the type of material being vaporized, the temperature at which it’s consumed, and the device itself. Certain herbs and concentrates are more aromatic than others, whilst vaping at high temperatures will produce a more intense odour since the material is ‘cooked’ more thoroughly. Finally, conduction vaporizers tend to smell more than convection vaporizers, since the material comes in direct contact with the heating element. Some high-end vaporizers are specifically designed to minimize the smell.

Why are some vaporizers more expensive?

As with cars, televisions, or wristwatches, the craftsmanship and materials used to create different types of vaporizers can vary widely. Another key component of vaporizer pricing is the features offered by the device—some offer precision temperature controls that can be tailored via Bluetooth app to highlight certain flavour profiles or effects, whilst others come with high-end attachments, cases, or tools. Desktop vaporizers tend to be more expensive than portable vaporizers, since these require more engineering and raw materials to create.

Is it difficult to use a vaporizer?

Some vaporizers are easier to use than others, but you don’t need an advanced degree to use one. Vape pens, for example, are renowned for their ease of use—just press a button, inhale, and you’re all set. Some portable vaporizers are a bit more complex, requiring the input of temperature settings or other information, but this can all be learned in a few minutes of reading the user manual. Most vape manufacturers also offer tutorial videos on YouTube or elsewhere. So if you’re a visual learner, watching one of these short videos can be a good way to learn how to use your device.

How often should you clean your vaporizer?

This will vary from device to device (and according to your personal preferences). In general, it’s a good idea to clean your vaporizer at least once a week if you vape on a regular basis. The process usually only requires a few minutes—some isopropyl alcohol, cotton swabs, and warm soapy water are enough to clean most vaporizers. Not only will this help your device function better, it will also improve the taste of your vapor by removing buildups of debris that can impart a sour, acrid flavour.