InstantVap® Original Oxalic Acid Vaporizer
The cordless, battery-powered oxalic acid vaporizer trusted by thousands of beekeepers for fast, effective Varroa mite control.
Made in Hungary by InstantVap and sold, serviced and warrantied in the U.S. by Lorob Bees, the InstantVap delivers precise hive treatments, about 25 seconds per 2 g dose and about 45 seconds at 4 g, without the hassle of cords, compressors, or long setup times. Whether you're a hobbyist or professional, this vaporizer gives you power, portability, and peace of mind.
🔑 Key Features
- Cordless + Compatible: Use your own DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Rigid, or Bosch batteries (see details below).
- Adjustable Dosage: Plunger adjusts from 1g–4g of oxalic acid.
- Battery Protection System: Built-in safeguards to prevent damage or overloads.
- Voltage Meter: Real-time power monitoring on every use.
- Rugged Stainless-Steel Body: Built to last, with a replaceable stem.
- Fast Treatments: About 25 seconds per 2 g dose, about 45 seconds per 4 g dose.
📋 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 |
| Weight without battery | 1.55 kg (3.4 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 (445 °F) default, adjustable 200–260 °C |
| Warranty and service | 2-year parts warranty; repaired in the USA by Lorob Bees, Baltimore MD |
| Made in | Hungary |
🔋 Battery Compatibility
Batteries are not included. The InstantVap works with the following battery types:
- DeWalt XR or FLEX (20v or 20v/60v MAX) – NOT compatible with Powerstack
- Milwaukee (M18)
- Makita (18v LXT)
- Rigid (18v)
- Bosch (GBA/ProCore 18V)
Recommended: Use 5Ah or larger batteries for optimal performance. Available at Home Depot, Lowe’s, or other tool suppliers.
📊 Battery Life Estimates (at 65°F / Room Temperature)
- Dewalt 20v 6Ah: Up to 22 hives (4g) / 44 hives (2g)
- Milwaukee M18 XC5.0: ~10.5 hives (4g) / ~21 hives (2g)
- Dewalt 20v 5Ah: ~9 hives (4g) / ~22 hives (2g)
- Dewalt FLEXVOLT 20/60v MAX 6Ah: ~20 hives (4g) / ~40 hives (2g)
Environmental conditions such as air temperature can affect runtime. For improved performance in cooler weather, consider adding the Silicone Insulation Roof Accessory, which can boost efficiency by up to 20%.
Made in Hungary. Serviced in the USA.
Crafted with precision and backed by a 2-year parts warranty. All warranty support is handled in the United States by Lorob Bees in Baltimore — fast, easy, and hassle-free.
📄 View the User Manual (InstantVap manuals, quick start, cleaning and US service, all on one page at Lorob Bees)
🧪 When to Use Oxalic Acid Vaporization
Oxalic acid vaporization is a highly effective method for controlling varroa mites — especially when applied at the right time. Like any treatment, its success depends on colony conditions.
Oxalic acid targets mites that are riding on adult bees, but it can’t reach mites sealed under wax-capped brood. For this reason, it works best during periods when your hive is naturally broodless or experiencing a temporary brood break.
Ideal times to treat include:
- Mid-winter, when most colonies are broodless
- After capturing a swarm
- Following a natural swarm and requeening event
- During a brood break (natural or induced)
These windows give oxalic acid vapor a clear path to nearly every mite in the colony, making treatment far more effective and helping your bees thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the InstantVap come with a battery?
A: No, batteries are not included. The unit is compatible with major-brand batteries including DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Rigid, and Bosch. We recommend using 5Ah or larger batteries for best performance.
Q: Can I use a Ryobi battery with InstantVap?
A: Yes — we offer a Ryobi-to-DeWalt adapter that works with any of our DeWalt-compatible models (Original, Compact, or Lite). Just make sure you're using the DeWalt version of the vaporizer.
Q: What kind of oxalic acid should I use?
A: Always use an EPA-approved product like EZ-OX® Oxalic Acid, which is pre-measured and safe for use in beekeeping.
Q: How long does it take to treat one hive?
A: About 25 seconds for a 2 g dose and about 45 seconds for a 4 g dose. The InstantVap is one of the fastest and most efficient vaporization tools available.
Q: How many hives can I treat per battery charge?
A: This depends on the battery and dosage used. For example, a 6Ah DeWalt battery can treat up to 22 hives using 4g doses, or up to 44 hives with 2g doses. See the full dosage chart above for more estimates.
Q: Is safety gear required?
A: Yes. We strongly recommend wearing protective gear when vaporizing oxalic acid. Our top choice is the PD-101 Full Face Respirator, which offers full organic vapor and particulate protection.
Q: What accessories do you recommend?
A: The InstantVap Carry Case is a popular upgrade — it protects your unit during storage and travel, keeps your gear organized, and fits batteries, oxalic acid, and accessories. You can also add a Silicone Insulation Roof to increase efficiency in cooler temperatures, and our Ryobi Adapter for added battery flexibility.
🔍 Compare Models
The Original is the full-size workhorse. If you want something lighter, faster or less expensive, the rest of the line is here:
- InstantVap Compact – The same heating power and speed in a smaller, better-balanced body, with spare plunger storage in the handle.
- InstantVap Lite – Our most affordable and portable unit; slower (25–30 seconds at 2 g, about a minute and a half at 4 g) and runs on a 3Ah battery.
- InstantVap Turbo – About 10 seconds per 2 g dose instead of 25 (about 20 seconds at 4 g instead of 45), for commercial yards.
Or see all four side by side, with prices, treatment times and battery guidance, on our oxalic acid vaporizers page.
All units are backed by the same warranty, support, and compatibility with major-brand batteries.
⭐ Loved your InstantVap?
Help other beekeepers make informed choices by leaving us a review! Whether it's a time-saving tip or your first impression, your feedback helps strengthen the community and guide improvements. Scroll to the bottom of this page to share your experience!