How to Get Rid of Vape Smell

How to Get Rid of Vape Smell: Tips and Tricks

Vaping continues to be a popular choice for cannabis enthusiasts who want to enjoy their favorite strain without needing to smoke. However, that doesn't mean vaping doesn't have its challenges. In particular, many vapers don't know how to get rid of vape smell after they've enjoyed a long, pleasant session with their favorite weed vaporizer.  Don't fret! The experts at Firefly have you covered. We know the tips and tricks to make sure you avoid the smell of vaping while still getting the enjoyment of your favorite dry herbs! Why Vaping Produces a Smell Vaping produces a smell because of the heat applied to the cannabis. In weed vapes, cannabis is heated by either convection or conduction. When the cannabis is heated, it produces fumes and vapor, which is what you end up inhaling. However, just like when you bake something in the oven, the vapor from a weed vaporizer will produce smells to go along with the vapor.  Why Does a Vape’s Heating Chamber Develop Odor? After you've had several vaping sessions with your weed vape, you may notice that the heating chamber itself has begun to have a particular odor. This happens because, as cannabis is heated in your vaporizer, an oily residue slowly forms. You will notice that the same residue begins to build on glass pipes when you smoke weed, too.  As that layer of residue gets thicker and harder, the smell it creates becomes stronger or more pungent. Fortunately, weed vapes are usually very easy to clean (you typically only need a dry cloth or rubbing alcohol, but you have to handle it with care).  Some vapes are made to help reduce this kind of odor build-up. For example, the Firefly 2+ is designed for exceptionally easy cleaning, so odor build-up isn't an issue you'll need to be concerned with when using this device.  How Do I Get Rid of Vape Smell? Regardless of the device you use, if you don't follow some of these simple cleaning steps, you'll find that vaping weed creates strong smells inside your home. Luckily, how to get rid of vape smell from weed is a straightforward process: 1. Keep Your Carpet Clean Smells of all kinds can get stuck in your carpet, including the smells from vapor. Remember, vapor has oil that settles when it lands on a surface. If you vape weed indoors and have a carpeted floor, that oily residue can start to build up on your carpets. Regular vacuuming will solve this issue! 2. Use Cloth to Clean Hard Surfaces A damp cloth is usually all that's needed to remove oily vape residue from hard surfaces. Wiping down tabletops and counters can really help reduce the smell of weed vapor.  3. Use a Steam Cleaner for Your Furniture’s Fabric If you have cloth couches or recliners, vape residue can soak into the fabric of your furniture. This is more challenging to clean than hard surfaces, but a steam cleaner is usually enough to lift the oils out of the fabric and to reduce odors for furniture.  4. Ensure Proper Ventilation Since most vape smells come from vapor residue collecting on surfaces over time, better ventilation to keep vapor from collecting inside will reduce unwelcome smells. Consider vaping by an open window or an open door if the smell from your weed vape is starting to bother you. 5. Choose a Less Pungent Weed Strain Certain strains of weed have sharper, more pungent flavors than others, and when you use a weed vape, those pungent flavors can soak into everything. This is a particular problem for sativa strains that have exceptionally piney flavor notes, since those aromas tend to be very, very strong.  Fortunately, not all weed strains have such a strong, natural smell, even among sativas. Choosing a strain with more mild aromas can cut down on stubborn vape smells, or at least can make cleaning up after a heavy vape session a lot easier.  6. Buy an Indoor Air Purifier If you don't want to regularly deep clean, and extra ventilation isn't an option for you, then an indoor purifier for your vape can really help reduce smells. Just make sure you exhale near the intake of the purifier, and the machine will filter out the particulates that cause strong odors.  7. Go for a Smaller Device If you use a desktop vaporizer, you may be creating too much vapor to avoid smells, even if you have decent ventilation or if you're using an air purifier. Switching to a smaller device that focuses more on flavor and less on vapor (like Firefly 2+) can help you to reduce the amount of vapor created, reduce smells, and still have an incredible vaping experience.  8.Use an Air Freshener The old techniques of getting rid of unpleasant smells can still work with vape smells! Using an air freshener or scented candles to mask the smell of your vape can create a pleasant, enjoyable atmosphere in your home without you needing to change your vaping habits. 9. Vape in the Bathroom or Kitchen Both kitchens and bathrooms usually have extra ventilation (like a hood vent or an attic fan to suck up steam), which can help to reduce the smell of using a weed vape. If you're committed to vaping indoors, but have struggled with keeping carpeted areas clean, then the hard surfaces of a kitchen or bathroom can make cleaning a lot easier. 10. Vape at Lower Temperatures When you vape at lower temperatures, you create less vapor, which means you'll produce less vape smell with each puff. You'll need a vaporizer built to vape at lower temperatures (such as the Firefly 2+), since many vapes aren't designed for low-temperature vaping. Many weed vapes don't offer variable temperature at all, so keep that in mind if you're looking for a new device that may create less vape smell. Getting Rid of Vape Smell Off Yourself Heavy vapors may end up with the smell of vape on their hands and clothes. It may be easier to know how to get rid of vape smell in your home, but it can be more of a task to understand how to rid yourself of vape smell! Remember, it's easy to become nose blind to odors on yourself, so be sure to follow these tips to keep smelling fresh! Clean and Freshen Up Your Mouth Even though you're vaping and not smoking, you'll still have weed odors that come from your mouth. Aside from typical oral hygiene (such as brushing daily, flossing, and the use of a mouth wash), a mint, piece of gum, or an extra blast of mouthwash after a vaping session can help! Keep Your Hands Clean Between packing your heating chamber and holding your vape, your hands are going to be in close proximity to non-vaped weed and weed vapor. You may not realize it, but your hands can start to smell like weed pretty easily, but the fix is easy. Just remember to wash your hands after each vape session (or use sanitizer if you're not near a sink) to reduce odors on your hands.  Ensure You Wash Your Hair Properly Did you just finish a long, heavy vape session? Even if you were in an area with decent ventilation, vapor that ends up getting in your hair can leave vapor residue, which can cause your hair to smell. Fortunately, this is another easy fix. Just wash your hair after heavy vaping sessions to make sure there aren't any stubborn vapor smells lingering. Getting Rid of Vape Smell: Now You Know While we can't completely prevent vape smells from occurring, we do know how to get rid of vape smells when we find them. As general rules, you should: Vape in well-ventilated areas (or outside). Regularly vacuum and clean the inside of your home. Use candles or air fresheners to mask vape smells. Be sure to follow personal hygiene recommendations and regularly wash your hands, shower, and brush your teeth.  If you think your device is to blame for chronic bad vape smells, then a smaller device that excels at reducing those smells is ideal. The Firefly 2+ could be the device you're looking for, since it: Offers variable temperature settings. Lower temperature settings create less potent vape smells. Uses convection heating, which doesn’t produce smoke and reduces the smell of vaping. Has a smaller chamber, which is enough for enjoyable vaping sessions without creating too much vapor too quickly.  If you have any questions about how to reduce vaping smells, we'd love to help out. You can reach out to us with specific questions, or you can take a look at the features of Firefly 2+ to see if it's a good match for your vaping needs.  SHOP NOW
Does Vaping Dehydrate You? Top Facts & Prevention Tips!

Does Vaping Dehydrate You? Top Facts & Prevention Tips!

Cannabis vaping is becoming increasingly popular as legalization spreads across the US.  Weed vaporizers offer consumers a convenient and discrete way of enjoying the cannabis experience. With the increase in use, more and more consumers are asking: does vaping dehydrate you? They also want to know how to keep dehydration at bay.  That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide to answer some of the most frequently asked questions on vaping and dehydration. Like, does vaping dehydrate you, and how does vaping dehydrate you, if that’s the case. Keep reading to learn these answers, how to prevent dehydration with your Firefly vaporizer, and more.  Vaping-related Dehydration: Symptoms You Should to Know First and foremost, how can you tell if you’re dehydrated from vaping? It will help to know what the most common symptoms of vaping dehydration are, such as:  Dry eyes, mouth or throat  An increase in thirst Sleepiness or fatigue Increased headaches  Feeling dizzy Urine that’s darker than usual or less frequent  It’s important to know that these symptoms can be indicators of other health issues and not just dehydration from vaping.  So, ideally get in touch with your doctor if they continue to occur over long periods of time.  Additional Side-Effects of Vaping Too Much Once you learn how to vape, it’s likely you’ll start noticing other differences or changes in your health. Even though cannabis is proving to be beneficial for a wide range of medical conditions, excess inhalation of the material can cause negative side-effects in some cases, such as:  Shortness of breath - When you vape, you’re inhaling the vapor into your lungs. If you increase your use too much, you may begin to experience shortness of breath from the new habit.  Increased coughing - New vape consumers tend to cough more frequently than seasoned consumers since their lungs might not be used to the habit. Usually, increased coughing subsides after a couple of weeks or a few months.  Throat irritation - Similar to experiencing coughing and shortness of breath, your mouth and throat might take a while to adjust to inhaling too much vapor. Again, this side-effect subsides within a few weeks.  To help avoid these downsides of vaping, you can adjust the frequency of use or the temperature of your weed vaporizer. Lower temperatures will produce smoother smoke, which will prevent irritation and coughing.  Dehydration: Prevention Tips You Should Know Weed or cannabis alone doesn’t cause dehydration. Although the common side-effect of cotton mouth might make you seem extra thirsty.  In reality, dehydration is defined as your body losing more fluid than it’s taking in. When cannabis causes a dry mouth, you can experience excess thirst. However, thirst alone isn’t an indicator of dehydration.  Regardless, here are some prevention tips to incorporate into your daily routine to keep you feeling your best and avoid getting dehydrated or cotton mouth from vaping.  Control or decrease your caffeine intake - While there’s no definitive study showing that caffeine causes fluid loss, you should still control or decrease how much you consume when vaping to avoid the possibility of dehydration.  Increase the quantity of fruits and vegetables you eat - Fruits and vegetables are high in water content, helping you avoid becoming dehydrated. For instance, watermelon is made up of 90% water while iceberg lettuce is made up of 96% water. Drink more water than usual - This should go without saying, but keep up with regular water intake and increase how much you drink while vaping.  Control how much you vape, and avoid vaping if sick - Vaping when you’re sick can only increase your chances of becoming dehydrated or flaring up the negative side-effects of vaping.  Invest in a quality vaporizer - As we mentioned earlier, investing in a high-quality, trusted vaporizer like Firefly with the temperature control option can produce a smoother and safer smoking experience.  FAQs on Vaping and Dehydration If you have  questions such as how much do vapes cost and does vaping dehydrate you, it’s safe to assume you have a lot more questions on the subject. Let’s answer some common FAQs on vaping and dehydration.  Is dehydration dangerous? Dehydration is only deemed dangerous to your health when taken to the extreme. Some symptoms of excess dehydration include fainting, dizziness, infrequent urine, fatigue, and extremely dry skin.  Does vaping cause dehydration? No, vaping cannabis does not directly cause dehydration. It does cause a dry mouth, which may be confused with being dehydrated due to increased thirst.  How much water should I drink when vaping? In general, you should drink 6-8 glasses of water every day. So, drink at least this much when vaping, if not more.  Does Vaping Directly Dehydrate You? The Final Answer is a Big ‘No’ The bottom line is that vaping responsibly does not directly cause dehydration. Now that you know the answer to, does vaping dehydrate you, why does vaping dehydrate you, and how does vaping dehydrate you, you can adjust how you vape cannabis. Use these tips to invest in a quality vaporizer, like Firefly, and stay hydrated with proper intake of water and fruits.  Shop our selection now to improve the way you vape flower or concentrates. Or, check out the Firefly blog for more essential guides and tips! SHOP NOW
Does Vaping Make You Tired? What We Know So Far

Does Vaping Make You Tired? What We Know So Far

Let’s be honest, we’ve all been through times when we’ve hit the vape a little too hard and have immediately felt sleepy. This begs the question: does vaping make you tired, or is it just a common coincidence?  With an overall increase in vaping, many consumers are now seeking out the answer to the question: why does vaping make you tired, if it is true?  To understand the connection between vaping and feeling tired, you have to learn more about cannabis and its inner compounds. Once you have a grasp on whether and how vaping can make you tired, you can adjust the types of cannabis you consume with your weed vaporizer to avoid feeling tired, or take it right before hitting the bed to help fall asleep.  So, read our ultimate guide that seeks to answer the question: Does vaping make you tired? With all of the latest research and more.  Why Does Vaping Make You Tired? No matter what vaping techniques you use, whether you consume concentrates or flower, it has the potential to make you tired. That’s because cannabis is chock-full of cannabinoids, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system or ECS. This system regulates everyday functions such as our mood, appetite, pain response, and even our sleep and wake cycle.  Of course, all cannabinoids are different. So, depending on the type of cannabinoid you consume, THC, CBD, CBN, CBC, CBG, etc., you’ll experience its unique effects through the ECS. Through research and real-time use, it’s been found that THC, CBD, and CBN have the potential to be sedating, or sleepy in effects.    Beyond cannabinoids, cannabis also contains terpenes. Terpenes not only provide cannabis’ distinct aroma, but have their own effects, too, some of which induce sleepiness.  Again, from anecdotal evidence and commentary on the subject, the following terpenes have found to be relaxing or sleepy in effects -  Terpinolene  Myrcene Caryophyllene Linalool Now that you know more about the answer to - why does vaping make you tired? - let’s find out how to prevent it.  Does Vaping Make You Tired? If So, How to Prevent it? Knowing that THC, CBD, CBN, and a handful of cannabis terpenes can make you tired, the best way to prevent sleepiness is to monitor what you consume. Why? Because every cannabis strain, be it in flower or concentrate, varies in what it contains.  Some flower strains have a lot of one type of terpene, while others have a lot of another. The same goes for THC, CBD, and also cannabinoid levels. Making it even more confusing, cannabis affects every individual differently, depending on their tolerance, weight, metabolism, and other physiological factors.  As you consume, be conscious of the strain. Look it up online to find out what compounds it has, or if you buy it legally, check the label to see how much of each compound it has. If it makes you tired, take note of it. If it keeps you awake, make a note of it, too.  To help find what’s best for you and which types of cannabis to avoid to prevent possible tiredness, you’ll have to experiment on your own. Many beginner cannabis consumers journal their use, writing down the type of product they consumed and how they felt afterwards.  Last but not least, most cannabis flower and concentrates will be labeled as either ‘indica’ or ‘sativa’. These are loose classifications of the types of effects you may feel. Indicas tend to be reserved for night-time use due to their tendency to induce slight tiredness. While sativas tend to be reserved for daytime use, as they can actually be energizing in nature.  Once you know the answer to the question - why does vaping make you tired? - you can avoid those compounds or specific products in the future.  The Latest Research on Vaping and Tiredness Before we get into more frequently asked questions like - does vaping make you tired? - let’s dive deep into the research on cannabis and tiredness that has been conducted so far.  A 2020 study concluded CBD delivered an improvement in sleep quality among participants.  A 2021 study concluded that just one exposure to cannabis can help cut down the time it takes to fall asleep, and possibly increase the amount of total sleep.  Due to the fact that cannabis was only recently legalized, research on its precise effects is lacking. As more studies catch up, consumers are left with questions of their own.  Frequently Asked Questions on Vaping and Tiredness It’s normal to have questions like "Does vaping cause anxiety?" and "Does vaping make you tired?" That’s why we’re trying to address these issues.  Can vaping help me sleep? Yes, according to some research and reported real-time use, vaping cannabis can help you sleep, although more thorough research on this is ongoing. In fact, many edibles, oils, and concentrates made from cannabis are marketed specifically for sleep because they contain the helpful compounds we talked about earlier.  If you plan on vaping indoors before falling asleep, it’s best to choose a strain that’s indica-dominant or high in the cannabinoids THC, CBD, or CBN. It’s also best to avoid any flower that has the potential to raise your anxiety levels, as a racing mind can keep you up at night.  Will I feel sleepy in the morning after vaping? Some sleep medications make you drowsy in the morning because they’re strong. Luckily, when you vape cannabis, those effects only last anywhere from 45 minutes to one and a half hours.  Does the amount I vape determine how tired I’ll be? Yes, if you vape an increased amount or strength, it can affect your level of sleepiness. Even more so if the flower or concentrate you're using too much of has cannabinoids and terpenes that can make you sleepy.  Which strains are known for making you tired? In general, consumers will tell you that the following strains make them feel tired -  Northern Lights Bubba Kush Grandaddy Purple Hindu Kush Girl Scout Cookies Gelato How can I avoid getting tired when vaping? If you do start to feel sleepy when you vape, here are a few things you can do to get your energy back -  Go for a run or walk Take a shower Drink caffeine Does Vaping Make You Tired? The Evidence So Far With the information you’ve learned today, now you know the answer to the question - does vaping make you tired? - along with knowing how to avoid getting tired from vaping.  When you begin vaping for specific health and wellness benefits, it’s important to always keep learning. Stay in touch with the latest vaping news, cannabis education, and more with Firefly, one of the most trusted and advanced dry herb vaporizers on the market today.  Sign up to become part of the Firefly family and get updates on deals and new products straight in your inbox. In the meantime, check out more helpful guides, our product collection, and more! SHOP NOW
Does Vaping Cause Anxiety? Let’s Find Out!

Does Vaping Cause Anxiety? Let’s Find Out!

There’s been a recent increase in vaping cannabis for its medicinal value, for physical and mental health. But due to some consumers’ sensitivity to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), a lot of people are asking the question - does vaping cause anxiety?  Of course, not all cannabis strains, types, or their effects on consumers can be treated equally. For strains and cannabis product types, they contain varying compounds, like cannabinoids and terpenes that produce varying effects. As for consumers, cannabis affects everyone differently based on their unique body chemistry, tolerance, weight, metabolism, and other physiological factors.  To help you decide if vaping causes anxiety, for you personally, keep reading to find out everything you need to know. In this guide, we’ll try to answer the question - does vaping cause anxiety?  Can Vaping Provide Relief from Anxiety and Stress? Once you learn how to vape, you’ll quickly discover there’s a lot to learn about the different types of effects you may experience. For instance, vaping cannabis oil will affect you differently than vaping flower. Also, consuming a sativa-dominant strain will affect you differently than an indica-dominant strain.  So, to answer the question - can vaping relieve anxiety and stress? Studies are suggesting yes, however, it’ll be dependent on the type of strain you pack into your flower vaporizer.  What are the other effects of vaping on mental health in general? Let’s dive into it.  Effects of Vaping on Mental Health Speaking of the different effects that cannabis can produce, one of the most notable ones is its ability to induce relaxation. It does so through various cannabinoids and terpenes, like THC, CBD (cannabidiol), limonene, linalool, and myrcene - which are all compounds that are found to produce calming, soothing, or relieving effects on the consumers.  But how? These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is primarily responsible for regulating everyday functions with the goal of maintaining homeostasis (the body’s internal stability while adjusting to external conditions). These everyday functions include mood, sleep, appetite, etc.  When consuming cannabis with a dry herb vaporizer, or when vaping concentrates, these unique compounds influence the ECS, allowing them to impact your mental health positively.  The Connection Between Vaping and Anxiety One reason why some consumers may associate vaping with anxiety is due to the presence of THC or their unique reaction to it. Remember when we discussed how cannabis affects everyone differently? Some consumers may react to THC differently, and in some cases, experience raised levels of anxiety, or paranoia.  Often, this happens due to the person’s own tolerance or sensitivity to THC, or the dose or strength they consumed. For instance, they may not feel anxious taking one puff, but when taking three to five, they might.  If you love to vape but find the answer to the question, does vaping cause anxiety, not convincing enough, there is a simple solution. Seek out low THC cannabis concentrates, CBD-dominant flower strains, or just go ‘low and slow’ with your dosages, until you find your sweet spot of effects.  Another tip is to consume more indica-dominant strains as against sativa-dominant strains. Indica strains tend to be more relaxing, or sedating, while sativa strains are more energizing and euphoric, which at times may cause a consumer to feel anxious or overwhelmed.  How Does Vaping Affect Depression? Vaping and anxiety isn’t the only link that consumers are curious about. Many are also wondering - does vaping worsen the symptoms of depression? Or can vaping help reduce depression?  One thing to understand about cannabis is that it’s extremely under-researched considering its wide range of potential medical benefits. Since cannabis was just recently legalized in most states in the US, and is still federally illegal, it’s been difficult for researchers to get funding to carry out definitive studies. That means, we’re still waiting on conclusive answers to the questions - does vaping cause anxiety, and how does it affect depression? What we can share so far is the following studies linking cannabis effects with depressive symptoms:  A 2021 study found that medical marijuana was associated with a reduction of symptoms in those with clinical depression. The study’s results indicated that the participants experienced reduced anxiety and improved sleep.  Another study found that both THC and CBD showed anti-depressant effects at certain dosages.  In Canada, a recent study showed anxiety and depression symptoms eased among the majority of participants after 12-18 months of use.  Keep in mind that there are also studies reporting that cannabis may be linked to a rise in anxiety and symptoms of depression. So, as always, explore cannabis safely by going low and slow with your dosages and choosing strains that are most compatible with favorable effects for mental health conditions.  The Final Word on Does Vaping Cause Anxiety? Anxiety is a complex condition that affects the daily lives of nearly 6.8 million adults in the US, according to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America. In addition, a 2017 survey reported a significant number of Americans (81% of the 9,000 surveyed) believe cannabis is beneficial for health benefits.  But to find out for yourself, you’ll have to use this guide and the tips we provided on whether vaping cannabis for anxiety is the right move for you.  To help you in your exploration, it’s also recommended that you use the most high-quality vaping devices for a premium experience. Why? Simply because you don’t want to waste your expensive, top-shelf weed, in a cheap dry herb vaporizer and lose out on beneficial effects.  In that case, shop Firefly - a trusted, widely used vaporizer - for consuming flower and concentrates for effects that might benefit your health. The Firefly 2+ vaporizer is equipped with dynamic convection technology that delivers phenomenal flavor and reduces waste to get the most out of the flower or concentrates you purchase.  Use our handy guide to learn which temperature produces the most relieving effects.  SHOP NOW
How to Measure THC Levels in Weed

How to Measure THC Levels in Weed

With cannabis flower, it can be hard for consumers to learn how to measure the quantity of THC or tetrahydrocannabinol on their own instead of only trusting dispensary labels. Knowing how much THC is in the flower will help you determine what type of effects you’ll experience.  Even more, potency can range from one strain to another, making it difficult to find the dosage that best suits you.  Not to mention, THC levels have increased in cannabis flower produced commercially, making it even riskier for beginner users. In fact, this interesting throwback claims cannabis is three times as potent as it was in the 1980s. THC is the main psychoactive component of cannabis. It is responsible for cannabis’ euphoric effects, or buzz. Hence, it’s essential to know its percentage or levels in the weed you consume. So, here’s diving into the subject of how to measure THC in weed to help you with your wellness routines.  The Science Behind THC Testing Before we get into how to measure THC, let’s learn the science behind THC testing in today’s  cannabis market. THC testing is widely done in states where cannabis is legal. Cultivators are required to have their flower tested, and to clearly put the percentage on the package that consumers purchase.  On these labels, you'll often see two different types of THC: THC and THCa. THCa is the acid form of THC and converts into THC upon combustion (or by applying heat, for example, via your lighter or your dry herb vaporizer heating apparatus).  If both of these THC percentages are printed on the label of the cannabis you purchase, be sure to calculate them together to know the actual THC dosage that will be present upon heating and inhaling. But you can’t do this directly, since THC is 87% of the mass that THCa is, and only 75% is actually converted from THCa to THC.  Keeping that in mind, here is the equation to use to find out just how much THC will be present in your puffs:  (0.75 × 0.877 × % THCA) + % THC = Total THC in flower  Types of Weed You Can Test With advancements in technology, labs are now able to test almost every type of cannabis product for THC content. Here are the types of weed that can be tested:  Cannabis flower Cannabis edibles Cannabis concentrates Cannabis oil Testing for THC and CBD in Weed: How it Works If you don’t have the privilege of taking your weed to a lab for testing or having a legal market that labels it with testing results, there are other methods of learning how to measure THC levels. For instance, there are various at-home kits that can help you check THC and CBD levels.  Here are the three most popular at-home or DIY tests for THC and CBD in weed.  Color Chart Test Kits (the most cost-effective type) At-home color chart test kits come with a container and fluid that you’ll place a small sample of your flower into. After shaking the sample, the solution will turn a color that can be matched to the provided chart to determine the levels of THC. Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC) Test Kits (comparatively the costlier type) TLC test kits not only show levels of THC, but other minor cannabinoids, too. With this test, too, you’ll use a liquid to saturate the flower with. The process separates individual cannabinoids, which are then sprayed with a dye to reveal the percentage of each one.   Testing gadgets (the most expensive type; mainly purchased by cultivators) The testing devices can cost over $800 each. They provide an accurate reading of cannabinoid levels. Most gadgets are connected to a smartphone device, where you’ll be provided a chart of cannabinoid percentages after the test is performed as per the instructions.  Outside of taking your cannabis flower to a testing laboratory, these are the three most popular DIY at-home methods to measure THC. THC Percentage: How Much is Right for You? So, once you know how much THC is in the weed you’re going to smoke, how do you know how much is right for you? Keep in mind, cannabis flower usually contains anywhere from 10-30% THC.  Obviously, the higher the level of THC, the more potent the flower is going to be. Most beginner consumers start in the low THC range of 10-15%. However, if your weed has a higher level of THC, beginners can start off with one small puff, and increase the dosage after they determine how the percentage affects them personally.  It also helps to find the best temp to vape weed, since different levels of heat will impact the experience.  Measure THC Levels, But Use a Trusted Vaporizer, Too! Last but not least, it’s important to also know that the consumption method used to smoke cannabis also affects potency. The process of THC combustion varies depending on the vaporizer temperature and the type. Be aware that THCA transforming to THC starts at around 180°C. To fine-tune your vaporizing routines, and ensure you can find the right dosage or potency for you, look no further than the Firefly 2+ weed vaporizer. With Firefly’s handy temperature guide, you can find your ‘sweet spot’ of effects with a smooth, consistent, and reliable device.  Use only the best vaporizer for your top-shelf cannabis. Learn more about Firefly today. 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Everything You Need to Know About Vaping and Running

Everything You Need to Know About Vaping and Running

As we continue discovering the health benefits of consuming cannabis, the link between vaping and running has emerged as a hot topic among vape users who are into athletic activities. Many fit and active adults are now vaping regularly and still keeping up with their routines.  So, what are the best tips for vaping and running, and what is the impact of vaping on your performance? We’ve put together this essential guide for both seasoned vape users and beginners, so that they can get a clear picture of the link between vaping and running.  Why Vaping is Rising in Popularity Vaping is trending and quickly becoming popular because of its many benefits. It’s a discreet activity, it’s potent, and it’s healthier than other consumption practices. In fact, many vape consumers switched from smoking to vaping due to the latter’s less harmful effects, as this interesting study shows.  When vaping with a flower vaporizer, you are essentially vaporizing the material to be consumed with a heating element, thereby inhaling as few harmful contaminants as possible. Overall, experts cite that vaporizing is far less harmful than smoking, thereby attracting health-conscious people.  Does Vaping Impact Your Running Performance To know about the link between vaping and running, first you have to understand how vaping works in your body.  Here’s how it works. When you inhale, oxygen enters your lungs and fills up the air sacs called alveoli.  Around these air sacs are small blood vessels where oxygen enters the bloodstream. This blood circulatory system transports the oxygen throughout the body, including the muscles and organs, which are crucial for running and other athletic activities.  At the same time, carbon dioxide is collected by the blood circulatory system and carried to the lungs, where it is released and exhaled. For this simultaneous process to occur smoothly, your body has to be in optimal condition.  That means, if your lungs are compromised for some reason, be it due to excess vaping or harmful activities, the essential inhalation-and-exhalation cycle could be affected.  Your muscles and organs might not receive as much oxygen as they require, resulting in fatigue and reduced stamina.  But that is not to suggest that vaping affects your blood circulatory system and your body. Most vape users, whether they’re into running or not, consume responsibly and enjoy the benefits of vaping.  Vaping and Running: How They Align As you probably know by now, cannabis has a bunch of health and wellness benefits. How? Cannabis contains a variety of cannabinoids, such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), which interact with receptors found in the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system ultimately regulates and modulates how your body functions to maintain ‘homeostasis’ or stability.  Some crucial benefits of consuming cannabis that align vaping and running include:  Helping runners stay focused. Improve the body’s recovery process with anti-inflammatory uses.  Increasing comfort levels for running long distances.  Next, let’s explore all of the positive and negative impacts of vaping on running.  Vaping and Running: The Pros While there’s no conclusive research or study showing vaping might directly benefit running, you’ll come across real examples of vape users saying it might actually help.   What runners and athletes need to note is that vaping may help:  Increase energy levels. Improve their mood and motivate them to focus on running.  Support their metabolism and weight loss goals.  Vaping and Running: The Cons (You Can Easily Overcome Them!) There can be some negative effects of vaping on running. Here are a few of the top issues to consider as you seek to find out the link between vaping and running:  Vaping may cause throat irritation, making it harder to breathe or uncomfortable in general.  Vaping may cause dehydration, which affects athletic performance. For both the negatives, just keep in mind you can work around the symptoms by simply increasing your water intake.  Frequently Asked Questions While you learn how to vape, and dig deeper to find out how to vape concentrates, questions are bound to come up about vaping and running. So, let’s answer some of the most commonly asked questions on vaping’s effects on athletic performance.  Will vaping cause weight gain? No, vaping will not make you gain weight. In fact, quitting vaping often makes some users gain weight as they tend to eat more as a replacement activity or habit.   How does vaping affect cardio? When you choose to vape, you don’t inhale harmful materials such as tar and so on. That means runners and those doing cardio exercises can experience a positive improvement in performance.  How does vaping affect running? The long-term effects of vaping on running and the lungs have yet to be studied. But, we do know that vaping restricts arteries and reduces the oxygen level in the blood. It may negatively affect a runner’s overall energy levels.  Will it be harder to run if I vape? Since too much vaping can compromise the overall condition of your lungs, it may make it harder to catch your breath or breathe normally when running. However, there can be benefits of cannabis use for muscle pain and soreness, which can conversely make it easier to run.  How does vaping affect fitness routines? In general, vaping can affect your heart rate, blood pressure, lung capacity, appetite, and nutrition, which all can affect your fitness capabilities.  Bottom Line: Research Well, Vape Responsibly, and Run Hard! In the end, it’s your decision as a runner or athlete to decide whether you should vape. With this guide, now you know that vaping and running can have a holistic link as you need to factor in the overall benefits of cannabis that you’d get as a runner.  If you’re keen on enhancing your vaping routines for optimal experience, consider upgrading your vaporizer. Check out Firefly, which gives you the ability to smoothly vaporize dry herb in one discreet, convenient device. SHOP NOW
Concentrate vs Flower: The Differences You Should Know cover image

Concentrate vs Flower: The Differences You Should Know

Long gone are the days when flower was the only type of cannabis product you could find in order to consume. In today’s world of weed, licensed retail storefronts have a plethora of cannabis products to choose from. Consumers are literally spoilt for choice, often caught in the concentrate vs flower dilemma.  Whether you’re a new or veteran consumer, this ultimate guide will help you decide on which one of the two is best for you. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about vaping concentrate vs flower, and cover all the benefits and differences to know.  Concentrate vs Flower: The Basic Differences With any product, the original version is bound to be improved on or innovated. The same goes for the cannabis flower and the outcome of industry advancements for extraction. Now, users have the choice of consuming either concentrates or flower in cannabis vaporizers and other devices. As essential as knowing how to vape concentrates or flower is to understand the difference between the two. Let’s look at how they differ.  Cannabis flowerCannabis flower, also called buds, or nugs, is the most old-fashioned form of consuming cannabis. The buds are harvested off the plants, dried and cured for consumption, and allow consumers to enjoy the benefits in their original form. Each varying strain has its own unique terpene profile for varying aromas and taste, and even bud size and color, which appeal differently to a wide audience of connoisseurs and beginners. The flower is broken up or ground up using a grinder, then placed in vaporizers, bongs, bowls, joints, or blunts. Cannabis concentratesConcentrates, on the other hand, are the extracted oils from the plant that provide the cannabis flower’s effects in a concentrated form. The process involves high-tech equipment and uses solvent-based or solventless methods to isolate and extract the oil from the plant’s flower. Cannabis concentrates are much more potent because it’s the ‘concentrated’ version of flower.  Often referred to as ‘extracts’ or ‘dabs’, concentrates come in various forms, such as shatter, wax, live resin, and distillate or oil, and can be dabbed with a dab rig, or vaporized in a dab pen or cannabis vaporizer.  Now that you know the key difference in the concentrate vs flower toss-up, let’s dive deep into the benefits of each form.  Benefits of Cannabis Flower People have been smoking cannabis flower for centuries. It even dates back to ancient civilizations. It’s one of the most readily available cannabis product types and is often liked for the fun, ritualistic elements that come with it, such as rolling a joint, sparking a bowl, enjoying the aromas, or getting high with friends.  The flower in its natural form contains a variety of cannabinoids, such as THC, CBD, CBG, and CBN that produce unique effects, and also terpenes such as Limonene, Myrcene, and Linalool that produce unique scents.  Altogether, these compounds are capable of producing an ‘entourage effect,’ which is a proven phenomenon that cannabinoids and terpenes work together to amplify one another’s effects.  Beyond its accessibility, and ease of use, one of the main benefits of cannabis flower is that it’s cost-effective and much cheaper than concentrates.  Benefits of Cannabis Concentrates Even though cannabis concentrates are more expensive than flower, they are much more potent, too. While flower may contain 15-30% THC, concentrates often contain anywhere from 70-99% THC, which allows users to consume less for a more potent cannabis experience.  One of the key benefits of concentrates outside of their potency is that they’re odorless and highly discreet for use. You can achieve an ‘entourage effect’ if you try out strain-specific or full-spectrum concentrates, such as live rosin, which contains the whole plant profile of cannabinoids and terpenes.  Today, concentrates are highly favored by medicinal users since you can dose less quantity due to their high potency and experience a longer duration of effects.  So, what are some other differences you should be aware of when considering the concentrate vs flower toss-up?  Vaping Concentrate vs Flower: What You Need to Know To vape flower or concentrate, you’ll need a flower vaporizer or concentrate vaporizer. Concentrates are often manufactured into vape carts that are attached to a battery for heating, vaporizing, and inhaling. You can also vape flower and concentrates with refillable vaporizers.  The devices come equipped with a power source, heating apparatus, and a chamber that holds your flower or concentrate. In fact, some advanced vaporizer models can facilitate vaporizing both flower and concentrate with a specialized extract pad addition.  Vaporizing provides a smoother, more flavorful experience and produces a much less intense smoke, which is good for discretion. It’s also less messy and more convenient than traditional methods of smoking flower as there’s no ash to discard, or lighters to carry.  How do the effects of vaping concentrate vs flower differ? Let’s find out.  Concentrate vs Flower: Effects Compared The most important difference to understand between the high and effects of concentrate vs flower is potency. Since concentrates can be two to three times more potent than flower, its buzz is much more intense.  Of course, the exact effects you experience when vaping flower or concentrate will be determined by the cannabis strain type. For instance, indica strains tend to produce sleepier or sedating effects, while sativa strains tend to be more energizing and uplifting.  You can expect both flower and concentrate effects to kick in almost immediately after the first inhale. However, the effects of concentrates tend to be comparatively more intenses. flower. Also, the effects of concentrates often last longer as compared to flower, depending on the amount you consume, the dosage, and potency.               Concentrate vs Flower: FAQs It’s natural to have questions on the subject of vaping concentrate vs flower, and deciding which is right for you. Here are the answers to the most commonly asked questions to help you make a decision.  Will concentrate get me higher than flower?  Yes, concentrates will get you higher or produce more intense effects as compared to flower due to their higher THC percentages.  How much will a gram of concentrate cost me?  Concentrate costs vary from state to state, market to market, but on average, a gram of concentrate costs anywhere from $30-$60.  Which is better to smoke, concentrate or flower?  If you’re a beginner, it might be best to start with flower and get used to its effects before moving on to concentrates. If you’re a seasoned cannabis consumer looking for more intense effects, then you should try out concentrates. It’ll also depend on your lifestyle, and which type suits you better in terms of odor, discretion, and cost.  Which One is Better in Terms of Value for Money?  For most cannabis consumers, it may come down to budget to decide if concentrates or flowers are right for them. So, which one is better in terms of value for money? As we’ve discussed, it’ll depend on the market in the state you live in, and the price of cannabis near you.  In general, a gram of flower costs $10-$20, while a gram of concentrate costs anywhere from $30-$60 depending on the quality. However, you’ll consume more or less the same quantity with both types. So it’ll ultimately come down to your personal preference.  Concentrate vs Flower: Time to Make a Decision Now that you know about the concentrate vs flower properties, differences, and effects, you can make the decision of which will be best for you. Luckily, with the growing popularity and speedy expansion of legal cannabis markets, both product types are easy to buy.  If you plan to consume both regularly, buying a cannabis vaporizer that supports vaping both concentrates and flower will be ideal. That way, you don’t have to purchase two separate devices. Check out the Firefly 2+ weed vaporizer, which is equally compatible with flowers and extracts, ready in three seconds, and easy to load and clean. SHOP NOW
Why does my vape crackle?

Why Does My Vape Crackle? A Simple Guide on How to Fix it

‘Why does my vape crackle?’ Chances are that you would’ve asked this question as a vape user at some point! No matter how familiar you are with vaping, issues such as crackling and overheating can spoil the experience.  Sometimes, dry herb vapes can feel like they’re getting too hot, and you may hear a hissing sound. Maybe your vape needs a simple clean, there might be too much heat around the mouthpiece, or the chamber needs cleaning. But how do you know if it’s a serious problem? It’s essential to understand the problem before we dig deep into how to fix it. An overheated battery could be the reason why your vape is overheating. If your mouthpiece feels a little burnt, then you must put down your vape for a while. Get a silicone mouthpiece, and you’ll be able to vape for longer. But remember, letting it cool down for a while isn’t a bad idea either!  You can also check the temperature on your vape. The higher the temp, the shorter your sessions should be. If you find your Goldilock’s temperature, you’ll also find your flavor is more pleasant as well.  And crackling? You’ll sometimes hear a crackling sound when you inhale a new vape. The sound comes when the substance inside the vape begins to heat up. So, Why Does My Vape Crackle? You might be surprised by the sound, but the crackling and popping you hear from your vape are normal. Remember that you are using an electrical device — one performs multiple functions at once.   As you inhale, the substance inside the vape is drawn into the head of the atomizer. When you press the button on the device, the coil starts to heat up. The coil is where the magic happens as it heats up and vaporizes the substance in your vape.  When it's hot, the substance makes a noise that sounds like crinkling cellophane. You're more likely to hear it if the vape is new, especially if it's your first time with the new device. So next time you hear your vape crackling, be assured that it's just your vape doing what it needs to do. It's the vape's way of telling you it's doing its job! The Different Sounds of a Vape Now that we’ve answered your question - why does my vape crackle? - let’s understand all the different sounds your vape can make. Let’s first discuss the possible bad sounds you vape can make. Bad Sounds (Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore) Although you may sometimes hear a crackling sound when vaping, you need to know precisely when it stops being 'normal,' and becomes a problem that needs to be fixed.  If your device is getting extremely warm and making unusual sounds, there could be a bigger problem. You might need to reference the manual to see whether you can change the battery or see what else might be the problem.  Dry herb vapes don’t typically make loud sounds, but a low hissing is normal. Don’t be surprised if there are pops or crackles, but they shouldn’t be excessive. And if the popping or crackling keeps getting louder, it’s natural for you to raise the question - why does my vape crackle?  Notice carefully if the flavor or taste starts to change. If your vape starts tasting a little on the bitter side, then it’s the type of crackling you shouldn't ignore. But it's not a significant issue, it just needs a round of cleaning.  Like everything in life, vapes need a little bit of maintenance. In this case, the vape is clogged, and cleaning it will fix the problem. As time passes, vaporized particles build up, causing popping sounds when the heat increases. Is there no sound when you turn your vape on? That's bad news, too. Your vape should always make a little sound when you inhale. If there’s radio silence when you’re firing up your vape, it's probably due for proper cleaning. Good Sounds (Signs You Can Ignore) A soft hiss and the sound of popping or crackling are signs that the burn in your vape is progressing well. These sounds can be slightly more prominent when you’ve just changed your atomizer or cartomizer. They may also occur with brand-new vape devices. These sounds are also likely to adjust when changing the vape's substance. How to Stop Vapes from Hissing and Crackling Regularly cleaning it is the best way to prevent a vape from hissing, spitting, or crackling. Here’s how you can go about it:  1. Don’t overpack your oven You don’t have to pack too lightly. Just make sure you don’t fill it more than 80%. If you do, the airflow could become blocked, and your herb might start overheating.  If your mouthpiece is still getting hot and you still hear a high hissing sound, you might need to clean out your oven. After a few sessions, your mouthpiece and filters could become clogged. 2. Flick it out If your vape is hissing and crackling, you’re not out of luck. There are some easy fixes for that. The force of this movement can help whatever is blocking your vape to spit out. But remember to keep a tissue over the mouthpiece! Otherwise, you may end up with more coming out than you intended. 3. Give your vape a good 'ol, regular clean On the subject of cleaning, here’s how to do it. It’s important to cultivate a habit of cleaning your vape. But don’t worry, it's not too much hassle! All you need to do is to give it a regular wipe with an isopropyl-based solution.  You can use cotton buds to wipe any excess substance sitting in the mouthpiece. How to Stop Vapes from Popping? You should now know what causes a popping or hissing vape and what to do to remedy the situation. It's time to look at the ways to stop it from happening in the first place. 1. Find your temperature sweet spot You might feel an overheated mouthpiece or vape from time to time. It often happens with first-time users or with a vape you’re using for the first time. Some ovens are made from ceramic while others are made from stainless steel. Either way, you should keep the chamber and the oven clean.  Secondly, remember that every vape will have a different heat time. Some need up to 90 seconds to heat up, while others take a minute. Other vapes have granular control. With the granular control feature, users can select a temperature that suits them. The average range that people love is between 380 and 390 degrees (F). 2. Keep your inhalations short and sweet When your inhalations are too long and sharp, you will have spit back issues. Keeping your inhales slow and gentle will stop this from happening. If you’re unsure about how to vape without causing problems to your device, take the time to check out this guide. 3. Maintenance is important Not sure how to clean vape coil? That’s no reason not to do it! It’s simple. Clean your vape regularly. If you don’t, there will likely be a build-up of vape residue in your device. Every device is different, so follow the instructions when cleaning.  With regard to cleaning materials, rubbing alcohol will remove any grime and dirt.  Bottom Line: The Vaping Device Matters! Vapers may notice different things when using their devices, including popping, crackling, hissing, and spitting. The points discussed above will help you pinpoint why your device may be making those sounds.  Almost all vape issues can be traced to your coil wire and the substance you put inside your vape. But remember, a slight crackling followed by a light hiss should be music to your vape ears!  Silence isn't a good thing either, especially if you notice excessive heat.  And finally, there is a simple way to prevent devices from giving you crackling issues. Simply purchase a quality vape device, and you'll have fewer problems.  Firefly has a range of quality vaping devices available, including a dry herb vaporizer. Check them out! SHOP NOW
How Do Vapes Work? Your Ultimate Guide to Vape Parts & Vaping Techniques

How Do Vapes Work? Your Ultimate Guide to Vape Parts & Vaping Techniques

Vaping is becoming increasingly more popular, and it’s popularity is growing exponentially. Why is vaping so popular? Because it comes with a bagful of benefits. It’s discreet, flavorful, safe, and even helps people quit smoking. However, even the most veteran vapers may still wonder - how do vapes work? If you’re just getting started and find yourself reading this article, you’re well ahead of the curve in preparing to purchase your first dry herb vaporizer.  We’ve put together for you a comprehensive guide on how vapes work, with all the essential things you need to know about vaporizer parts, mechanics, and more.  How Do Vapes Work? It’s important to know that for the most part, every vape pen differs in some way or another. For instance, some have different temperatures, types, or accessories that vary from one brand or model to another.  But they all share one thing in common. Vape pens or convection vaporizers are devices equipped with heating elements to heat up the cannabis material, which creates the vapor that you inhale.  The heat generated in the vape pen activates the cannabis material so the vapor can deliver the unique effects of cannabis without requiring combustion and fire. That’s essentially how vapes work. We’ll now dive deeper into understanding the various parts of a vaporizer and the mechanics of each type.  Vape Parts Explained Learning how to vape to the fullest also requires understanding the inner workings of vape parts. Let’s check them out one by one, and understand their unique characteristics and functions:  Mouthpiece - The mouthpiece might be a vaporizer’s easiest part to identify. It’s the part of the vape pen where you’ll place your mouth to inhale the vapor. Mouthpieces come in different sizes and types (usually square, flat, or circular). It is from where the vapor exits when the cannabis material is heated.  Airflow - Most high-end vaporizers are equipped with a part that helps control the airflow. This component is usually found on the side of the atomizer or the mouthpiece. By controlling the airflow, you can increase the quality or ‘flow’ of each hit. Button Controls - To change the temperature, wattage, or voltage, some vape devices are equipped with button controls. Others may have a button to activate the heating element. These buttons will often change colors, or be clicked a certain number of times to choose varying levels of temperature or wattage.   Atomizer - The atomizer is an internal component of the vaporizer that is responsible for the heating process, and may sometimes be referred to as the ‘heating element’. The type of heating element or atomizer varies from model to model. The better the atomizer, the smoother the inhales will be.    Battery - Vaporizer batteries provide the power required for the atomizer or the heating element to work. Depending on the model, the battery may be found placed internally or externally. Internal batteries cannot be removed or replaced, while external batteries can be changed. The biggest difference between internal and external batteries is the way in which you can charge them. External batteries are charged using a charger device and then reconnected to the vape cart or mouthpiece for use. For charging internal batteries, you have to connect the whole device to the charger.  Temperature Setting - In vaporizers, different temperature settings make the cannabinoids deliver different types of effects on the vapers. Also, different temperatures affect the way in which terpenes are activated, which are responsible for the taste or flavor of the cannabis material. Most vaporizers come equipped with temperature settings that allow you to pick and choose which temperature to vape at. Other vaporizers automatically heat up to certain preferable temperatures automatically when you begin to draw.  Wattage or Voltage Setting - The type of wattage or voltage used varies with the type of vaporizer. Many vaporizer devices also allow you to set the wattage or voltage you desire, to produce more or less vapor or bigger and smaller puffs. USB Charging Port - Vaporizers need to be charged to keep the battery ideally at full power. The battery or vape device comes with a USB port that connects with a micro-USB or USB-C cord to charge. These cables are the same types used to charge cell phone batteries, like those made by Samsung, Apple, or Google.  How to Inhale a Vape Once you’ve got the answer to the question - how do vapes work? - you might think inhaling vapes is going to be easy.  But did you know that there are two ways in which you can inhale vapor? The mouth-to-lung draw and the direct-to-lung draw are the two most prominent ways of inhaling vapes. Let’s dive deeper into each one:  Mouth-to-Lung Draw When you inhale mouth-to-lung, you basically inhale the vapor, close your mouth, and hold the vapor there for a few seconds. After that you open your mouth, breathe the  vapor into your lungs, and exhale it.  Direct-to-Lung Draw In direct-to-lung inhalation, you simply inhale the vapor straight into your lungs, and immediately exhale it.  Mouth-to-lung inhalation is similar to the traditional style of smoking, while the direct-to-lung style is comparable to taking a hit from a bong.  Is Vaping Safer Than Smoking? One of the biggest questions that people ask about vaping is if it is safer than smoking. While a definitive answer will need to be extensively researched, many experts believe vaping could be safer than smoking primarily because it has nothing to do with carcinogens.  There’s another thing a beginner to vaping needs to know. To vape cannabis safely, you first have to be aware of the fact that it can get you a high really fast.  Dry Herb Vapes: How Do They Work? Most dry herb pens work using a convection heating  system, which is similar to how an oven operates. The heating element heats the air around the dry herb or cannabis flower and begins to ‘cook’ it or transform it into vapor. The vapor is completely smoke-free, and exits the mouthpiece for inhalation.  How Do Vapes Work? Final Words Overall, most vaporizers are self-explanatory and come with a handy manual that explains how the device works and what unique features it contains. Now that you can answer the all-important question - how do vapes work? - you can better understand your vaping device, carry out troubleshooting, and improve your vaping routines. For the highest quality vaping experience, learn more about the Firefly vaporizer now! SHOP NOW