Lorob Bees: 18v Compact Oxalic Acid Vaporizer (ships directly from warehouse)

Battery Brand

InstantVap® 18V Compact Oxalic Acid Vaporizer

A powerful, mid-size oxalic acid vaporizer — compact in form, uncompromising in performance.

The InstantVap 18V Compact is built for beekeepers who need the precision and durability of the Original model, in a lighter, more ergonomic frame. Whether you're treating 20 hives or 60, this unit is designed for fast, efficient, and cordless vaporization with high accuracy and excellent control.


🔑 Key Features

  • Dynamic Temperature Control: Maintains stable vaporization temperatures for consistent results and fast cycling — about 25 seconds per 2 g dose, about 45 seconds per 4 g dose.
  • Intelligent LED Feedback: Sunlight-visible LED lets you monitor status without bending or guessing.
  • Battery Protection System: Deep discharge protection helps preserve your batteries over time.
  • Spare Plunger Storage: Built-in handle slot holds a backup plunger for convenience in the field.
  • Compact, Ergonomic Build: Comfortable to handle, well-balanced, and easy to transport.
  • Replaceable Brass Stem: Positioned low for stability and long-term performance.

📋 Quick facts

Treatment time About 25 seconds per 2 g dose, about 45 seconds per 4 g
Dose Adjustable 1–4 g, tool-free dispenser; spare-plunger storage in the handle
Weight without battery 1.25 kg (2.75 lb)
Battery socket DeWalt 20V, Milwaukee M18, Makita 18V LXT, Ridgid 18V, Bosch 18V or Metabo HPT 18V, chosen at checkout. Battery not included; 5Ah or larger recommended
Power 250 W, 14 A
Working temperature 230 °C (446 °F), held by dynamic temperature control
Warranty and service 2-year parts warranty; repaired in the USA by Lorob Bees, Baltimore MD
Made in Hungary

📦 What’s Included

  • InstantVap Compact vaporizer unit
  • Adjustable oxalic acid plunger
  • Multilingual user manual (EN-DE-FR)

📄 View the User Manual (InstantVap manuals, quick start, cleaning and US service, all on one page at Lorob Bees)


🔋 Battery Compatibility

Batteries are not included. The InstantVap Compact works with the following battery types:

  • DeWalt XR or FLEX (20v or 20v/60v MAX) – NOT compatible with Powerstack
  • Milwaukee (M18)
  • Makita (18v LXT)
  • Ridgid (18v)
  • Bosch (GBA/ProCore 18V)

Recommended: Use 5Ah or larger batteries for best performance. Available at Home Depot, Lowe’s, or other tool suppliers.


⚙️ Performance Notes

  • Heats quickly and cycles faster between treatments than most vaporizers.
  • Ideal for beekeepers managing 20–60 hives.
  • Balanced for extended use — no forward tilt or hand strain.

🔄 Differences from Other Models

  • Smaller + Lighter: More compact than the Original, easier to handle without sacrificing quality.
  • Spare Plunger Storage: A built-in convenience not included on the Original or Lite.
  • Optimized Balance: Engineered to prevent tipping and improve ergonomics during long sessions.
  • More Power Than Lite: Faster heat-up and shorter recovery times make it ideal for higher-volume needs (a 4 g dose takes about 45 seconds on the Compact versus about a minute and a half on the Lite).

🧪 When to Use Oxalic Acid Vaporization

Oxalic acid vaporization is highly effective at killing mites on adult bees — but timing is key. It cannot reach mites under wax-capped brood, so the best results come when the colony is broodless or has minimal capped brood.

Great times to treat include:

  • During winter when brood levels drop naturally
  • Right after capturing or installing a swarm
  • Following a natural brood break or requeening period

These windows give oxalic acid the best chance to reach every mite — helping protect your bees without residue or long treatments.


💬 Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the InstantVap Compact come with a battery?
A: No, batteries are not included. It's compatible with major brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Ridgid, and Bosch. Use 5Ah or higher batteries for optimal performance.

Q: Can I use a Ryobi battery with it?
A: Yes! Just use our Ryobi-to-DeWalt Adapter if you're using the DeWalt-compatible version of the Compact.

Q: What kind of oxalic acid should I use?
A: Always use a registered, beekeeper-safe product like EZ-OX® Oxalic Acid.

Q: Is safety gear required?
A: Yes — a full-face respirator is essential. We recommend the PD-101 Respirator for full organic vapor and particulate protection.

Q: What accessories do you recommend?
A: Most customers also grab the InstantVap Carry Case, and extra plungers for field use. You can browse all accessories in our InstantVap Accessories Collection.


🔍 Compare Models

  • InstantVap Turbo – The fastest model, roughly 10 seconds for a 2 g treatment (about 20 seconds at 4 g), built for commercial-scale yards.
  • InstantVap Original – The original full-size model, same speed as the Compact (about 25 seconds at 2 g, 45 seconds at 4 g), for beekeepers running larger yards.
  • InstantVap Lite – Entry-level model for hobbyists with fewer hives; 25–30 seconds at 2 g, about a minute and a half at 4 g, runs on a 3Ah battery.

All four models side by side, with prices and treatment times, on our oxalic acid vaporizers page.


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