Cannabis consumption through vaping has gained tremendous popularity owing to its higher potency, discreet usage, convenience of portable vapes, and potentially healthier impact as compared to traditional smoking. However, with an array of vaping options flooding the market, consumers often find themselves grappling with the specifics of vaping.
Vaping involves heating the cannabis flower or concentrates at a temperature that vaporizes desirable cannabinoids and terpenes. This process, taking place at a lower temperature than combustion, results in the user inhaling more cannabinoids and fewer harmful substances, such as tar and carcinogens, than they would when smoking.
Cannabis can be vaporized using several methods. The three primary types include tabletop vaporizers (for flowers or dab rigs), portable vaporizers, and vape pens. This guide will walk you through how to vape cannabis using these methods.
Vaping Dry Flower
This process, requiring approximately 10 minutes, typically involves a tabletop vaporizer, which is a stationary temperature control device designed for a stable surface. Here is how to vape cannabis using a tabletop vaporizer:
- Familiarize yourself with the device’s manual for optimal usage and longevity.
- Plug in your vape and switch it on, allowing it to heat up.
- While the device is heating, grind your cannabis flower and place it in the heating chamber, or ‘oven’.
- The chamber size varies per device, but most can accommodate ¼-½ grams of ground cannabis.
- Overpacking should be avoided for optimal airflow. If your device allows, set your preferred temperature, typically between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Inhale from the mouthpiece.
How to use a tabletop vape
A successful operation will produce visible and tasteful cannabis vapor upon exhalation. Long, slow inhales are recommended. As the cannabis’s cannabinoid content diminishes over time, the flowers turn from green to brown. Reload the chamber when the vapor’s flavor begins to fade and its thickness decreases. Discard the used cannabis material and ensure regular cleaning of your vape for optimal operation. Every 10 to 20 sessions is suggested. An optional burnoff session can be performed after vaping to burn off any remaining cannabis material.
Portable Vapes
Portable vapes are discreet, compact devices with a chamber for cannabis, a heating element, and a battery. Here is how to vaporize flowers using a portable vape:
- Familiarize yourself with the device’s manual.
- Ensure your vape is fully charged and switched on.
- Grind your cannabis flower and load it into the heating chamber without overpacking.
- Set your desired temperature and inhale.
- Long, slow inhales will help maximize cannabinoid intake.
- Reload the cannabis when the vapor begins to lose flavor and becomes thin.
- Discard the used cannabis and clean the vape as per the manual’s cleaning instructions.
Vaping Concentrates
Certain portable vapes are designed for flower vaping, some for vaping concentrates or cannabis oil, and others for both. Here’s how to enjoy your preferred concentrates with a portable vape:
How to use a portable vape (concentrates)
- Read the device manual to understand its operation.
- Ensure your vaporizer is charged and switched on.
- Load a small amount of your chosen cannabis concentrate into the chamber using a dab tool.
- Avoid using your hands, as they can degrade the cannabis.
- If possible, set your preferred temperature, ideally between 350 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Inhale from the mouthpiece. Long, slow draws are recommended for steady burning and even cannabinoid vaporization.
- After usage, switch off your vape and clean it after every 10 to 20 uses as per the manual’s instructions.
Vape Pens
Vape pens come in two types: those with rechargeable batteries that pair with cannabis-oil-filled cartridges and disposable ones. Here is how to use a vape pen:
When it comes to vape pens, there are two options available: vape pens with rechargeable batteries and disposable vapes.
- If using a pen with a separate cartridge, ensure the battery is charged and turned on, and the cartridge is tightly attached to the battery.
- Set the temperature, if possible.
- Press the button and inhale. If the device lacks buttons, inhale directly. Inhaling slowly ensures optimum cannabinoid intake and avoids overheating the cannabis oil.
- Reload or replace the cartridge as needed. When the vapor starts losing flavor and tastes harsh or burned, it’s time to replace it. After use, discard the cannabis-oil cartridge or the disposable vape pen responsibly. No cleaning is required.
Final Thoughts
Vaping cannabis offers an elevated experience that is both potent and cleaner than traditional smoking. While each method of vaping has its unique processes and perks, it’s essential to use responsibly, understand your device’s specifics, and regularly maintain it for an optimum and sustained vaping experience.
