Concentrate Vaporizers FAQ
What is a concentrate vaporizer?
A concentrate vaporizer is a device designed to specifically vape cannabis concentrates, such as wax, shatter, budder, crumble or rosin.
They share some similarities with dry herb vaporizers in terms of their shape and size, but the crucial difference is that they are made purely for cannabis concentrates. You can buy them in a variety of forms, ranging from vape pens and e-rigs to attachments you can connect to desktop devices (which are generally used for larger vaporizers).
Instead of smoking the concentrates, which involves combustion and can produce harmful byproducts, a concentrate vaporizer heats them to a certain temperature. Once it reaches this point it turns into vapour without burning, which can produce a smoother, cleaner and more flavourful experience.
Are dry herb vaporizers legal in the UK?
Dry herb vaporizers are legal in the UK and can be enjoyed without fear of breaking the law as long as they are used with legalised substances such as legal herbs, CBD flower (that contains less than 0.2% THC) or tobacco.
So, while the device itself is legal in the UK, the most important aspect to remember is the substance that is being vaped.
This is an important distinction to make, as using a dry herb vaporizer to vape a controlled substance such as cannabis (that contains more than 0.2% THC) would be classed as illegal.
Is vaping concentrate healthier than smoking?
Vaping concentrate is generally considered to be healthier than smoking for a few reasons.
For example, if you are using a wax pen this would involve heating the concentrate to a certain temperature where the active compounds (CBD or THC) are vaporised but not burned. In contrast, smoking involves combustion, which produces harmful byproducts like tar, carbon monoxide and carcinogens that can damage the lungs and airways.
Vaping concentrates is usually smoother and less harsh on the throat and lungs compared to smoking. It also does not require you to inhale the full range of chemicals that come from burning plant matter, such as benzene, formaldehyde and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which are known to be toxic and harmful to health.
Can you smoke concentrates in a vaporizer?
Yes, you can vaporise concentrates in a vaporizer, although they will not be smoked in the traditional sense. Instead, the concentrates are vaporised, which means they are heated to a certain temperature that releases the active compounds as vapour rather than smoke.
For instance, if you are using a rosin or wax vaporizer, which are designed to handle the thicker, stickier nature of these types of substances, vapour would still be emitted, but it would be less harmful to your health as there is no combustion.
Most dry herb vaporizers are not designed for concentrates unless they come with a special concentrate chamber that prevents the wax or oil from dripping into the device.
How do I use a concentrate vaporizer?
Although designs vary, most follow a similar process:
- Ensure the device is clean and fully charged.
- Open the chamber and apply a small amount of concentrate, usually a pea-sized portion.
- Close the chamber securely.
- Select the desired temperature or power setting.
- Allow the device to heat, then inhale slowly once vapour begins to form.
Consult your device manual for exact instructions, as features and loading methods differ across models.
What are the benefits of using a concentrate vaporizer over traditional methods?
Concentrate vapourisers offer several practical advantages:
- No combustion: Reduces exposure to smoke and the by-products created by burning material.
- Efficiency: Concentrates tend to require smaller amounts per session due to their potency.
- Flavour: Many users find vapour preserves more of the natural terpenes than burning.
- Precision: Devices often include temperature control for consistency.
- Discretion: Vapour generally produces less odour than smoke.
What temperature settings are ideal for vaping concentrates?
Ideal temperatures vary based on preference, but general ranges include:
- Low (approx. 160–200°C): Smoother vapour with more pronounced flavour.
- Medium (around 200–230°C): Balanced vapour with fuller intensity.
- High (230°C and above): Denser vapour, though usually harsher.
Always refer to your specific device’s recommended settings to avoid damaging the coil or chamber.
How long does it take for a concentrate vaporizer to heat up?
Most modern devices heat up quickly, typically between 5 and 20 seconds. Portable units tend to warm faster, while larger devices may take slightly longer. Smart-chip technology in newer models helps maintain stable temperatures and shortens overall heat-up time.
