An e-rig takes most of the guesswork out of concentrates, but a few habits make a big difference to flavour and consistency. This guide walks through a full session, explains what a carb cap does, and covers the cleaning that keeps your rig performing. If you are new to electric rigs, start with what an e-rig is.
Cannabis laws vary across Europe, so check the rules where you live before using concentrates.
Before you start
- Charge the rig. The DaVinci EQ charges over USB-C and runs on two 3000 mAh batteries, good for up to 50 sessions.
- Fill the bubbler. The EQ's Jacuzzi bubbler takes 60 ml of water. Follow the fill level in your EQ manual.
- Check the crucible is clean and seated. Residue from your last session will change the flavour of the next.
Step 1: Load the crucible
Use a dab tool to place a small amount of concentrate in the centre of the crucible. Start smaller than you think you need. You can always take a second draw, and a smaller load vaporises more evenly.
Many e-rig users load the crucible before heating so the concentrate warms up with it. Check your EQ manual for the loading order it recommends.
Step 2: Choose a temperature
This is where an e-rig earns its place. As a general rule:
- Lower temperatures tend to emphasise flavour and give a lighter draw.
- Higher temperatures tend to produce thicker vapour.
On the EQ you can set a precise temperature anywhere from 232 to 343°C on the touchscreen, or pick a Smart Path, which changes the temperature through the session for you. Start in the lower part of the range and work up until you find what you like. Because the rig holds the temperature you set, you can repeat a session you enjoyed.
Step 3: Heat up and draw
Start the session and wait for the rig to signal it is ready. The EQ uses haptic and LED indicators and reaches temperature in as little as 25 seconds.
Draw slowly and steadily. A gentle pull gives the air time to pass over the crucible and through the water, which gives you a smoother, more even draw than a hard, fast one.
What does a carb cap do?
A carb cap sits over the crucible during the draw and controls how air moves around it. On a torch rig, a cap mainly traps heat. On the EQ, the carb cap injectors go further. According to the product page, they:
- Direct airflow to where it is needed in the chamber.
- Improve heat distribution, so concentrate activates more evenly.
- Reduce pooling and uneven heating, which cuts waste.
If you notice concentrate pooling at the edges of the crucible, check that the injector is seated properly.
Quartz or zirconia crucible?
The EQ accepts two crucibles:
- Quartz: high-purity, chemically inert and thermally stable, chosen to keep flavour unaltered.
- Zirconia: advanced zirconia ceramic, chosen for heat retention and resistance to cracking and wear.
Many people keep one of each and choose by session.
Step 4: Clean up
A quick clean after each session keeps flavour consistent:
- Let the crucible cool completely.
- Wipe out any remaining residue with a cotton swab. Leftover concentrate is easiest to remove while it is still soft, so do not leave it for days.
- Empty and rinse the bubbler, and refill with fresh water next time.
- For a deeper clean of glass parts, see how to get reclaim out of a rig.
Crucibles are replaceable, so if one is worn or cracked, swap it rather than fight it.
FAQ
How much concentrate should I load?
Start with a small amount in the centre of the crucible. You can add more for the next draw.
Why does my e-rig taste burnt?
Usually the temperature is set high, or old residue is still in the crucible. Lower the temperature and clean the crucible.
Do I need a carb cap?
On the EQ, the carb cap injectors are part of how the rig manages airflow, so keep them in place.
How often should I change the water?
Fresh water every session gives the cleanest taste.
Get started
Set a temperature, load small, draw slowly and keep the crucible clean. That is most of what it takes. See the DaVinci EQ and its accessories.