Are you interested in vaporizers but don't know where to start? Don't worry—this comprehensive guide will introduce you to the world of vaporizing step by step. As the Norddampf team, with over 10 years of experience in developing premium herbal vaporizers, we are sharing our knowledge so that you can enjoy the best possible vaporizing experience right from the start.
Who is this guide intended for?
This guide is primarily intended for:
- Complete beginners in the field of vaporizers (aged 18-35) who have little or no experience with vaporizers to date.
- People switching from traditional smoking methods (aged 25-45) who are looking for healthier alternatives
- Gift buyers who want to choose a vaporizer for a beginner
If you quickly feel overwhelmed by technical details, are unsure about which product to choose, or have concerns about using it correctly, this guide was written especially for you.
What is a vaporizer and how does it work?
A vaporizer (also known as an herbal vaporizer) is a device that heats herbs or concentrates without burning them. Unlike smoking, where combustion takes place and harmful substances such as tar and carbon monoxide are produced, vaporization only releases the desired active ingredients and aromas.
The crucial difference: vaporization vs. combustion
Smoking generates temperatures of over 800°C, which release not only the desired active ingredients but also numerous harmful substances. Vaporizers, on the other hand, operate within a controlled temperature range of approximately 160-230°C. Within this range, the desired ingredients vaporize without producing harmful combustion products.
Health benefits of vaporizing
- Significantly fewer pollutants compared to smoking
- Gentler on the respiratory tract
- Purer taste and more intense aroma
- More efficient use of your herbs (up to 40% more economical)
- No unpleasant odors from smoke
The different heating technologies explained
Vaporizers use different methods to heat your herbs:
- Conduction (heat conduction): The herbs are in direct contact with the heated surface. This method is often found in cheaper models and can lead to hot spots if the heating is uneven.
- Convection (heat flow): Heated air is passed through the herbs. This method provides more even heating and often a purer taste.
- Hybrid heating: A combination of both technologies, as Norddampf Relict from Norddampf , for example. This method combines fast heating times with even heat distribution.
Overview of vaporizer types
Before you decide on a vaporizer, you should familiarize yourself with the different types:
Desktop vaporizer
Advantages:
- More powerful and often more precise temperature control
- Larger filling chambers for longer sessions
- No battery life limitation (mains operation)
Disadvantages:
- Not suitable for mobile use
- Usually more expensive to purchase
- Need more space
Ideal for: Home use, group sessions, intensive users
Portable vaporizers
Advantages:
- Mobile use
- Discreet handling
- A wide range of price categories available
Disadvantages:
- Limited battery life
- Mostly smaller filling chambers
- May become hot during intensive use
Ideal for: On the go, single users, beginners
The Norddampf for beginners
As a beginner, you are faced with a wide range of devices to choose from. At Norddampf , we Norddampf developed products that are specifically tailored to the needs of beginners:
Relict
The Relict is our flagship product and is ideal for beginners:
- Intuitive operation with just three buttons
- Precise temperature control (160-220°C)
- Hybrid heating for even heat distribution
- Robust workmanship for a long service life
- Fast heating time of only 30 seconds
HAMMAH
The HAMMAH our compact companion for on the go:
- Ultraportable design for maximum mobility
- Preset temperature levels for easy operation
- Long battery life for multiple sessions
- Vibration feedback for discreet use
Voity
The Voity compactness with performance:
- Slim design for easy transport
- Powerful heating unit for dense clouds of steam
- USB-C fast charging
- Easy cleaning for beginners
Buying advice: What beginners should look out for
As a beginner, you may feel overwhelmed by the multitude of options available. Here are the most important criteria to consider when choosing your first vaporizer:
1. User-friendliness
As a beginner, it is important that your first vaporizer is easy to use. Pay attention to:
- Intuitive control with just a few buttons
- Clear feedback (display, LEDs, or vibration)
- Easy filling and cleaning
2. Quality and materials
The materials that come into contact with your herbs and the vapor should be high-quality and safe:
- Ceramic or stainless steel chamber
- Glass mouthpiece or medical silicone
- No plastic parts in the steam path
3. Temperature control
Precise temperature control is crucial for an optimal vaping experience:
- Stepless temperature adjustment or useful presets
- Temperature range of at least 160-220°C
- Even heat distribution
4. Battery life (for portable models)
Nothing is more annoying than a dead battery in the middle of a session:
- At least 30-60 minutes of usage time
- fast charging function
- Possibility of use while charging
5. Value for money
A good entry-level vaporizer does not have to be expensive, but it should meet certain quality standards:
- Be cautious with models under €50 (often inferior materials).
- Good entry-level vaporizers start at around €80-120.
- It's better to invest a little more in a high-quality device.
Why the Relict is ideal for beginners
The Relict was developed specifically with the needs of beginners in mind:
- Easy to use: Three-button control and clear OLED display
- Precise temperature control: Stepless adjustment between 160-220°C
- Robust construction: High-quality aluminum housing and ceramic chamber
- Efficient evaporation: Hybrid heating for even heat distribution
- Fast heating time: Ready to use in just 30 seconds
- Easy cleaning: Easily accessible components
Getting started with your vaporizer
You've received your first vaporizer – now what? Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:
1. Unpacking and initial inspection
Carefully unpack your vaporizer and check that all components are present:
- main unit
- Charging cable/power supply
- Mouthpiece(s)
- cleaning accessories
- user manual
Check the device for any transport damage and familiarize yourself with the individual parts.
2. Initial cleaning and preparation
Before using your vaporizer for the first time, you should clean it:
- Wipe the filling chamber with a slightly moistened cotton swab.
- Clean the mouthpiece with warm water or isopropyl alcohol.
- Dry all parts thoroughly.
3. The first heating (burn-off)
To remove production residues, perform a "burn-off":
- Fully charge the battery (for portable models).
- Turn on the vaporizer without filling it
- Set the highest temperature
- Let it run for 5-10 minutes.
- Repeat the process 2-3 times.
4. Choosing the right temperature for beginners
For beginners, we recommend the following temperature ranges:
- Low (160-180°C): Mild vapor, intense flavor, ideal for beginners
- Medium (180-200°C): Balanced ratio between flavor and vapor density
- High (200-220°C): denser clouds of vapor, more intense effect
Start with a low temperature and slowly work your way up.
5. Tips for your first sessions with the Relict
The Relict makes it particularly easy to get started:
- Turn on the device by pressing the power button 5 times quickly.
- Set your desired temperature using the +/- buttons (we recommend 180°C to start with).
- Wait until the device reaches the target temperature (approx. 30 seconds).
- Take slow, steady breaths lasting 5-10 seconds.
- Hold the steam briefly in your lungs and exhale.
- Wait 20-30 seconds between puffs.
The perfect setup for beginners
A good vaporizer is just the beginning—for the optimal experience, you need the right accessories:
Basic equipment for the best start
For beginners, we recommend the following basic setup:
- High-quality vaporizer (e.g., Relict )
- Good grinder (herb mill)
- Storage solution for herbs and equipment
- cleaning accessories
Why a good grinder is indispensable
A high-quality grinder such as the Norddampf is essential for several reasons:
- Uniform consistency: For optimal vaporization, you need evenly ground herbs.
- Efficient use: Finely ground herbs offer more surface area for vaporization.
- Better airflow: The right consistency allows for optimal airflow through the chamber.
- Easier handling: Prevents clumping and makes filling easier
The Norddampf impresses with:
- Sharp, precise teeth for even grinding
- Durable aluminum design
- Magnetic closure for secure hold
- Gentle processing of herbs
Storage and transport
The Norddampf offers the ideal solution for storage and transport:
- Odor-proof construction: Prevents odors from escaping
- Shockproof protection: Protects your vaporizer from damage
- Discreet design: Unobtrusive appearance for on the go
- Organized storage: Separate compartments for vaporizers, herbs, and accessories
Cleaning accessories for regular maintenance
Regular cleaning is essential to ensure the longevity of your vaporizer. Our cleaning kit contains:
- Isopropyl alcohol (99%)
- Cleaning brushes in various sizes
- cleaning swabs
- pipe cleaner
- microfiber cloth
The right herb preparation
Preparing your herbs is crucial for an optimal vaping experience:
Why preparation is so important
- Even heating: Only evenly ground herbs are heated evenly.
- Maximum surface area: Finely ground herbs provide more surface area for vaporization.
- Optimal airflow: The right consistency enables ideal airflow.
- Efficient use: You need less material to achieve the same effect.
The optimum fineness of the ground material
For vaporizers, we recommend a medium-fine consistency:
- Too coarse: uneven heating, inefficient use
- Too fine: May block airflow and fall through screens
- Optimal: approximately the consistency of coarsely ground pepper
Advantages of the Norddampf
The Norddampf was specially developed for use with vaporizers:
- Uniform grinding results: The precisely arranged teeth ensure ideal consistency.
- Gentle processing of herbs: preserves aromas and active ingredients
- Durable design: High-quality aluminum for years of use
- Easy to use: Magnetic closure and ergonomic design
Correct filling of the chamber using the Relict as an example
How to fill the Relict chamber optimally:
- Grind your herbs to a medium-fine consistency with the Norddampf .
- Remove the mouthpiece of the Relict .
- Fill the chamber loosely to the brim (do not press down!).
- Tap lightly on the side so that the material is evenly distributed.
- Put the mouthpiece back on
Important: Do not overfill the chamber or compress the material, as this will restrict airflow.
Temperature control for beginners
Temperature is one of the most important factors for your vaping experience:
Why temperature is so important
Different active ingredients and aromas in your herbs vaporize at different temperatures:
- Terpenes (aromatic compounds): 120–180°C
- Cannabinoids (such as CBD): 160-220°C
- THC: from approx. 157°C
Choosing the right temperature affects:
- Taste and aroma
- vapor density
- Intensity of the effect
- Efficiency of use
Different temperature ranges and their effects
As a beginner, you should be aware of these temperature ranges:
Low temperature (160-180°C)
- Mild, aromatic vapor
- Intense flavor
- More subtle effect
- Ideal for taste experiences and beginners
Medium temperature (180-200°C)
- Balanced ratio between flavor and vapor density
- Good balance between flavors and active ingredients
- Moderate steam production
- Recommended for most applications
High temperature (200-220°C)
- Denser clouds of steam
- More intense effect
- Fewer flavor nuances
- For more experienced users
Recommended temperatures for beginners
For your first sessions, we recommend:
- Start at 170°C for a gentle introduction
- Gradually increase to 180-190°C for a balanced session.
- Experiment with higher temperatures later on.
Understanding the temperature control of the Relict
The Relict offers precise temperature control:
- Turn on the device by pressing the power button 5 times quickly.
- Use the +/- buttons to set the temperature in 1°C increments.
- The OLED display shows the current and target temperatures.
- The device vibrates when the desired temperature is reached.
Temperature stepping: How to get the most out of your herbs
An advanced technique is "temperature stepping":
- Start at 170°C for the first 3-4 puffs (focus on flavors)
- Increase to 185°C for the next 3-4 moves (balance)
- End the session at 200°C (maximum extraction).
This method allows you to enjoy the full spectrum of flavors and active ingredients and use your herbs efficiently.
Inhalation techniques for beginners
The correct breathing technique differs significantly from smoking:
Difference from conventional smoke inhalation
When smoking, people often take strong, short puffs. When vaporizing, a different technique is best:
Smoking (not recommended):
- Short, powerful strokes
- Direct inhalation into the lungs
- Rapid exhalation
Vaporization (recommended):
- Long, even strokes
- Slow, controlled inhalation
- Brief pause before exhaling
The correct breathing technique for vaporizers
Follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Preparation: Exhale deeply before the pull.
- Slow draw: Take a slow, steady draw lasting 5-10 seconds.
- Controlled inhalation: Slowly draw the vapor into your lungs.
- Short hold: Hold the vapor in your lungs for 2-3 seconds.
- Relaxed exhalation: Breathe out slowly and completely.
- Pause: Wait 20-30 seconds between puffs.
Tips for denser clouds of vapor
If you prefer denser clouds of vapor:
- Increase the temperature slightly (by 5-10°C).
- Pull a little slower and longer
- Ensure that the chamber is filled evenly.
- Use drier herbs
How to achieve the best results with the Relict
The Relict offers optimal conditions for beginners:
- The drag resistance is perfectly balanced for slow, steady strokes.
- The hybrid heating system ensures consistent steam production.
- The feedback system (vibration) helps you recognize the right moment.
- Precise temperature control allows you to find your ideal vapor profile.
Pro tip: Start with 3-4 slow passes at 175°C, take a short break, then increase to 185°C for further passes.
Storage and transport
Proper storage protects your vaporizer and extends its lifespan:
Safe storage of your vaporizer
Observe these basic rules:
- Store your vaporizer in a cool, dry place.
- Keep it away from direct sunlight.
- Empty the chamber after each use.
- Clean the device regularly
- Store it out of the reach of children.
Advantages of the Norddampf
The Norddampf offers the ideal solution for storage and transport:
- Odor-proof construction: Prevents odors from escaping
- Shockproof protection: The robust design protects your vaporizer from bumps and scratches.
- Discreet design: Unobtrusive appearance for on the go
- Organized storage: Separate compartments for vaporizers, herbs, and accessories
- Compact size: Fits easily in a bag or backpack
Transportation tips for on the go
When you take your vaporizer with you:
- Ensure that the device has cooled down completely.
- Empty and clean the chamber before transport.
- Turn off the device and activate the key lock (if available).
- Use the Norddampf for safe transport
- Keep spare batteries or a charger handy.
Legal information regarding transport
When transporting your vaporizer, please note:
- Find out about local laws regarding vaporizers and herbs.
- Restrictions may apply in some countries or regions.
- Follow the applicable regulations for lithium-ion batteries when traveling by air.
- Be discreet and respect the rules in public areas.
Cleaning and care for beginners
Regular cleaning is crucial for the performance and lifespan of your vaporizer:
Why regular cleaning is important
A good cleaning routine offers many advantages:
- Better taste and purer vapor
- Longer service life of the device
- More efficient evaporation
- More hygienic use
- Preventing blockages
Basic cleaning steps for the Relict
How to properly clean your Relict :
- Preparation:
- Ensure that the device is turned off and has cooled down.
- Place a clean cloth on the work surface.
- Have isopropyl alcohol (99%), cleaning sticks, and brushes ready.
- Clean the mouthpiece:
- Remove the mouthpiece
- Clean it with warm water or briefly dip it in isopropyl alcohol.
- Rinse it thoroughly with water and let it dry.
- Clean the chamber:
- Remove residue with the cleaning brush.
- Dip a cleaning swab in isopropyl alcohol and wipe out the chamber.
- Allow the chamber to dry completely.
- Clean the air path:
- Use a pipe cleaner moistened with isopropyl alcohol.
- Carefully guide it through the air path.
- Repeat the process with a dry pipe cleaner.
- assembly:
- Ensure that all parts are completely dry.
- Reassemble the vaporizer
- Perform a short heating cycle without herbs.
Recommended cleaning intervals
For optimal performance, we recommend the following cleaning intervals:
- After each use: Empty the chamber and brush out any loose residue.
- Weekly (with regular use): Thorough cleaning of mouthpiece and chamber
- Monthly: Deep cleaning of all components, including air path
- In case of noticeable change in taste or draw resistance: Clean immediately.
Norddampf accessories
Our cleaning kit contains everything you need for optimal care:
- Isopropyl alcohol (99%)
- Precision cleaning brushes
- cleaning swabs
- pipe cleaner
- microfiber cloth
- Detailed cleaning instructions
Tips for extending service life
These simple measures will make your vaporizer last much longer:
- Do not overheat the device (adhere to the recommended temperatures).
- Allow the vaporizer to cool down after each session.
- Avoid bumps and falls
- Protect the device from moisture
- Only use original accessories and spare parts.
- Perform regular cleaning
Common beginner mistakes and how to avoid them
As a beginner, you can learn from the experiences of others. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:
Overpacking the chamber
Problem: An overfilled chamber impedes airflow and leads to uneven heating.
Solution:
- Fill the chamber loosely to the brim.
- Do not compress the material.
- Use the Norddampf for optimal consistency.
Incorrect temperature selection
Problem: Temperatures that are too low do not extract all the desired active ingredients, while temperatures that are too high can impair the taste.
Solution:
- Start at 170-180°C
- Experiment in 5°C increments
- Take advantage of the Relict precise temperature control
Neglected cleaning
Problem: Lack of cleaning leads to poorer taste, lower efficiency, and shorter service life.
Solution:
- Establish a regular cleaning routine
- Use the Norddampf
- Clean the mouthpiece and chamber regularly.
Pulling too hard or too softly
Problem: Incorrect pulling technique can lead to inefficient use or overheating.
Solution:
- Pull slowly and evenly for 5-10 seconds.
- Wait 20-30 seconds between puffs.
- Pay attention to steam production and adjust your technique accordingly.
Solutions with Norddampf
Our products have been developed to minimize typical beginner mistakes:
- The Relict offers an optimal chamber size and precise temperature control.
- The Norddampf ensures the ideal consistency.
- The Norddampf protects your equipment
- Our cleaning kit makes maintenance a breeze
Upgrade path: What's next?
Once you've familiarized yourself with your first vaporizer, you might want to consider upgrading:
When is it time for an upgrade?
Consider upgrading if:
- You want more control over your vaping experience
- You miss specific functions
- You frequently vape on the go and require greater mobility
- You want to share with friends and need more capacity
- You want to use different materials (herbs and concentrates)
Presentation of advanced models
For the next step, Norddampf offers Norddampf advanced models:
HAMMAH
Ideal for users who value mobility:
- Ultraportable design
- Long battery life
- Fast heating time
- Discreet use thanks to vibration feedback
- Preset temperature settings for different materials
Voity
Perfect for users looking for performance and compactness:
- Powerful heating unit for dense clouds of steam
- Precise temperature control
- fast charging function
- Compatible with herbs and concentrates
- Elegant, discreet design
Useful accessories for the next level
As you gain experience, you may benefit from these accessories:
- Water filter adapter: For cooler, smoother vapor
- Concentrate pad: For use with extracts and concentrates
- Dosing capsule set: For prepared portions on the go
- Precision scale: For consistent dosing
The Norddampf as a well-designed ecosystem
All Norddampf products are designed as a coherent ecosystem:
- Compatible accessories between different models
- Uniform cleaning methods
- Consistent operating philosophy
- Seamless transition between entry-level and advanced models
- Comprehensive support for all products
FAQ for vaporizer beginners
Here you will find answers to the most common questions asked by beginners:
How long will it take before I feel the effects?
The effects typically begin after 5-10 minutes and can last up to 2-3 hours. Compared to smoking, the effects may be slightly delayed, but they are longer lasting and clearer.
How much material should I use?
For beginners, we recommend starting with a small amount—about 0.1–0.2 g per session. The Relict has an optimal chamber capacity of approximately 0.3 g.
How long does a filling last?
Depending on the temperature and inhalation technique, one filling will last for approximately 5-15 puffs, which corresponds to a session of 5-10 minutes.
Why does my vapor taste burnt?
A burnt taste can have various causes:
- Temperature too high (reduce by 10-20°C)
- Herbs that are too dry
- Overused material (change the filling)
- Dirty chamber or air path (clean your device)
How long does the battery of the Relict last?
The Relict battery lasts for about 8-10 sessions, depending on the selected temperature and duration of use.
Can I use the vaporizer while it is charging?
This is possible with Relict , but we recommend charging the device fully before use to maximize battery life.
Troubleshooting tips for the Relict
Device cannot be turned on:
- Check whether the battery is charged.
- Press the power button 5 times in quick succession.
- Press and hold the power button for 3 seconds.
Low steam production:
- Increase the temperature by 5-10°C.
- Check that the chamber is filled correctly.
- Clean the device, especially the air path.
- Use drier herbs
Device becomes too hot:
- Reduce the temperature setting
- Take longer breaks between movements
- Allow the device to cool down between sessions.
Information about Norddampf and support
If you have any questions or problems, our support team is here to help:
- Email: norddampf
- Detailed FAQ section
- Video tutorials on our YouTube channel
We also offer a 2-year warranty on all our products.
Conclusion and next steps
Summary of the most important points
In this guide, you have learned:
- What vaporizers are and how they work
- What are the advantages of vaping over smoking?
- How to choose the right vaporizer for your needs
- How to get the most out of your vaporizer and care for it properly
- How to avoid common beginner mistakes
Getting started in the world of vaping may seem overwhelming at first, but with the right knowledge and equipment, it becomes an enriching experience.
Encouragement to experiment
Every user is different, and your personal vaping experience is a journey of discovery:
- Experiment with different temperatures
- Try out different pulling techniques
- Try different herbs and blends
- Find your own rhythm and style
Reference to related articles in Norddampf
To deepen your knowledge, we recommend these articles on our blog:
- Vaporizer benefits: Why is vaporizing better than smoking?
- Optimal vaporizer temperature
- Cleaning and maintenance: How to make your vaporizer last longer
Product recommendations for beginners
Based on our many years of experience, we recommend the following for beginners:
- Relict : The ideal entry-level model with simple operation and precise control
- Norddampf : For optimal preparation of your herbs
- Norddampf : For safe storage and discreet transport
At Norddampf , we Norddampf on developing products that are made by real users for real users. Our goal is to provide you with the best possible vaping experience—from your first session to your rise to vaporizer pro.
Welcome to the world of vaping—where the clouds rise!