Frequently asked questions
General
How long is the warranty period for OXALIKA vaporizers?
The warranty is 2 years and you can extend it up to 3 years for free by registering your vaporizer on our website: https://www.oxalika.com/register-your-vaporizer
The warranty is 2 years and you can extend it up to 3 years for free by registering your vaporizer on our website: https://www.oxalika.com/register-your-vaporizer
Can I order it from your website directly?
Yes, we ship in almost all over the world. Contact us if your country is not included in our destination countries.
Yes, we ship in almost all over the world. Contact us if your country is not included in our destination countries.
I’m ordering from abroad. Which prices apply to me?
a) If you are in EU and don't have a valid International VAT number
Invoicing includes 22% taxes
b) If you are in EU and you have a valid international VAT number
Invoicing excludes 22% taxes
c) If you are not in EU
Invoicing excludes 22% taxes.
In this case you will have to pay duties and taxes at the border according to the laws of your country.
You will not have to pay additional delivery costs if you choose the DDP (Delivery Duty Payd) for shipping. DDP shipping is not available for all destinations.
a) If you are in EU and don't have a valid International VAT number
Invoicing includes 22% taxes
b) If you are in EU and you have a valid international VAT number
Invoicing excludes 22% taxes
c) If you are not in EU
Invoicing excludes 22% taxes.
In this case you will have to pay duties and taxes at the border according to the laws of your country.
You will not have to pay additional delivery costs if you choose the DDP (Delivery Duty Payd) for shipping. DDP shipping is not available for all destinations.
How much days will pass from the order to the shipment?
We will ship in about 1-2 working days from the date of purchase.
We will ship in about 1-2 working days from the date of purchase.
Is it legal to use sublimated oxalic acid to fight varroa?
It depends on the laws in your country. Check if there are veterinary oxalic acid medicines against Varroa Destructor in your country that can be administered by sublimation.
It depends on the laws in your country. Check if there are veterinary oxalic acid medicines against Varroa Destructor in your country that can be administered by sublimation.
In which country are manufactured the Oxalika Vaporizers?
All Oxalika vaporizers are made in Italy
All Oxalika vaporizers are made in Italy
Can any spare parts be purchased?
Yes, you can find most of them on our website. For other parts contact us: info@oxalika.com
Yes, you can find most of them on our website. For other parts contact us: info@oxalika.com
Which models can be used with plastic or polystyrene hives?
The PRO models with medium or long tube are suitable. With the Basic or Premium model you have to put particular attention for evitate that the metal part get in touch with plastic or polystyrene.
The PRO models with medium or long tube are suitable. With the Basic or Premium model you have to put particular attention for evitate that the metal part get in touch with plastic or polystyrene.
There is an “Instruction manual ” in the box of each vaporizer?
Yes
Yes
In which currency the invoice will be done?
EUROS.
EUROS.
What is the currency tool used for?
The currency tool is intended to help overseas customers. Time-consuming conversions are avoided and our prices can be compared to local prices more easily. However, the total amount due, which is shown during checkout, is explicitly in Euro. The indication in the foreign currency merely serves informational purposes and amounts indicated in foreign currency only represent approximate values.
The currency tool is intended to help overseas customers. Time-consuming conversions are avoided and our prices can be compared to local prices more easily. However, the total amount due, which is shown during checkout, is explicitly in Euro. The indication in the foreign currency merely serves informational purposes and amounts indicated in foreign currency only represent approximate values.
How up-to-date are the exchange rates in the currency tool?
Normally, the rates are updated daily and are geared towards the current exchange rates published by the European Central Bank (ECB). They merely serve as approximate values. Invoicing is solely carried out in Euro.
Normally, the rates are updated daily and are geared towards the current exchange rates published by the European Central Bank (ECB). They merely serve as approximate values. Invoicing is solely carried out in Euro.
OXALIKA Premium and OXALIKA Basic
Which are the differences between the Basic Model and the Premium model?
The Basic model does not have temperature control. You can see that the Premium model has two cable the goes to the metallic plate, one is for the resistence and the other for the device that keep the temperature costant. Instead the Basic model has only one cable, the one for the resistence. Instead, the Basic model has only one cable, the one for the resistance.
The Basic model does not have temperature control. You can see that the Premium model has two cable the goes to the metallic plate, one is for the resistence and the other for the device that keep the temperature costant. Instead the Basic model has only one cable, the one for the resistence. Instead, the Basic model has only one cable, the one for the resistance.
Why is it important to be in control of the temperature?
Because it saves you time and the battery allows you to do more treatments.
In fact, with the temperature control, it is not necessary to cool the cup between one treatment and the next and you will not have to waste energy reheating the cup up to the sublimation temperature.
Because it saves you time and the battery allows you to do more treatments.
In fact, with the temperature control, it is not necessary to cool the cup between one treatment and the next and you will not have to waste energy reheating the cup up to the sublimation temperature.
Does the Oxalika Premium vaporizer need to be cooled between treatments?
It is not needed. It has a particular device that keeps the temperature in the correct range for sublimation (190 – 200 ° C) and therefore it is possible to add the acid directly without having to cool it.
It is not needed. It has a particular device that keeps the temperature in the correct range for sublimation (190 – 200 ° C) and therefore it is possible to add the acid directly without having to cool it.
Why do I have to cool the vaporizer in water between treatments in the Oxalika basic model?
Because the Oxalika Basic model does not have temperature control and if not cooled it can reach too high temperatures (400-500 ° C and even more).
Because the Oxalika Basic model does not have temperature control and if not cooled it can reach too high temperatures (400-500 ° C and even more).
Which size of battery do you recommend for OXALIKA Premium models and how many hives can be treated with it?
With a car battery of 45 AH you will have an autonomy of at least 2 hours and you can do at least 80-100 treatments of 2 grams of oxalich each or 160-200 trattamenti of 1 gram of oxalic each.
Obviously, there are batteries of different quality and efficiency.
To keep your battery efficient, the first rule is to make sure it is always charged even when not in use. To prevent it from losing efficiency, the voltage must always be above 12.4 volts. The second rule is to prevent complete discharge, the voltage must never drop below 11.5 volts.
With a car battery of 45 AH you will have an autonomy of at least 2 hours and you can do at least 80-100 treatments of 2 grams of oxalich each or 160-200 trattamenti of 1 gram of oxalic each.
Obviously, there are batteries of different quality and efficiency.
To keep your battery efficient, the first rule is to make sure it is always charged even when not in use. To prevent it from losing efficiency, the voltage must always be above 12.4 volts. The second rule is to prevent complete discharge, the voltage must never drop below 11.5 volts.
Which size of battery do you recommend for OXALIKA Basic model and how many hives can be treated with it?
With a 45 AH car battery, you will have an autonomy of at least 2 hours and you can do at least 30-40 treatments of 2 grams of oxalic acid or 35-45 treatments of 1 gram of oxalic acid.
Obviously, there are batteries of different quality and efficiency.
To keep your battery efficient, the first rule is to make sure it is always charged even when not in use. To prevent it from losing efficiency, the voltage must always be above 12.4 volts. The second rule is to prevent complete discharge, the voltage must never drop below 11.5 volts.
With a 45 AH car battery, you will have an autonomy of at least 2 hours and you can do at least 30-40 treatments of 2 grams of oxalic acid or 35-45 treatments of 1 gram of oxalic acid.
Obviously, there are batteries of different quality and efficiency.
To keep your battery efficient, the first rule is to make sure it is always charged even when not in use. To prevent it from losing efficiency, the voltage must always be above 12.4 volts. The second rule is to prevent complete discharge, the voltage must never drop below 11.5 volts.
OXALIKA PRO
What are the differences between the PRO FAST and PRO EASY versions?
The FAST version has a semi-automatic dispenser which helps to save time. It only works with high purity, not wet, oxalic acid (about 99.8%). Using the Fast version takes some practice and it’s best to get carried away before using it in hives.
The EASY version is very “easy to use” and works even if the oxalic acid has excipients (such as api-bioxal) or any impurities. The beekeeper needs to know what type of oxalic acid is allowed in his country.
The FAST version has a semi-automatic dispenser which helps to save time. It only works with high purity, not wet, oxalic acid (about 99.8%). Using the Fast version takes some practice and it’s best to get carried away before using it in hives.
The EASY version is very “easy to use” and works even if the oxalic acid has excipients (such as api-bioxal) or any impurities. The beekeeper needs to know what type of oxalic acid is allowed in his country.
What are the different tube sizes used for? Is there a special use for each size? What do we need to calculate to decide which is the most appropriate for our hives?
The short tube is suitable if you are doing the treatment from the back of the hives.
The long tube and the medium tube are suitable for treatment from the front. It is necessary to choose the length according to the overhang of the flight step. Only the tip of the tube (2 cm) needs to be inserted into the hive. The shorter the tube, the better the vaporizer works even in the presence of cold and strong wind.
The short tube is suitable if you are doing the treatment from the back of the hives.
The long tube and the medium tube are suitable for treatment from the front. It is necessary to choose the length according to the overhang of the flight step. Only the tip of the tube (2 cm) needs to be inserted into the hive. The shorter the tube, the better the vaporizer works even in the presence of cold and strong wind.
What is the difference between OXALIKA PRO models with the display and those without?
MODELS WITH DISPLAY
- Models with displays allow you to set the sublimation temperature of your choice up to a maximum of 240°C. During operation, the display shows the current temperature. When the acid is put in, the temperature drops a few degrees, and when it returns to the set value we know that the sublimation is finished and we can proceed to the next one. If the model is battery-operated and the battery is discharged, the diplay makes it clear that the boiler does not reach the set temperature, showing the problem. In models with displays, it is also evident when the sublimator is ready to begin sublimations. Models with displays required the development of a dedicated electronic circuit, produced entirely in Italy using first-rate components. It is designed to withstand the voltage surges generally produced by portable generators. This feature distinguishes our products from others on the market and allows us to offer a 3-year warranty..
MODELS WITHOUT DISPLAY
- In models without a display, on the other hand, the temperature is factory preset and precisely maintained in the range of 215 to 230°C by a robust device with high reliability and precision. Again, we can offer a 3-year warranty. When you use the sublimator, you do not notice changes in temperature (which can range from 215 to 230 °C), and you can continue making treatments without having to wait between the end of one sublimation and the beginning of the next.
MODELS WITH DISPLAY
- Models with displays allow you to set the sublimation temperature of your choice up to a maximum of 240°C. During operation, the display shows the current temperature. When the acid is put in, the temperature drops a few degrees, and when it returns to the set value we know that the sublimation is finished and we can proceed to the next one. If the model is battery-operated and the battery is discharged, the diplay makes it clear that the boiler does not reach the set temperature, showing the problem. In models with displays, it is also evident when the sublimator is ready to begin sublimations. Models with displays required the development of a dedicated electronic circuit, produced entirely in Italy using first-rate components. It is designed to withstand the voltage surges generally produced by portable generators. This feature distinguishes our products from others on the market and allows us to offer a 3-year warranty..
MODELS WITHOUT DISPLAY
- In models without a display, on the other hand, the temperature is factory preset and precisely maintained in the range of 215 to 230°C by a robust device with high reliability and precision. Again, we can offer a 3-year warranty. When you use the sublimator, you do not notice changes in temperature (which can range from 215 to 230 °C), and you can continue making treatments without having to wait between the end of one sublimation and the beginning of the next.
What is the lower and upper temperature threshold of the thermostat in models without display?
The system keeps the boiler at a temperature between 215 and 230 ° C. When you use the vaporizer you do not notice the temperature variations and you can continue to do treatments without having to wait between the end of one vaporization and the start of the next.
The system keeps the boiler at a temperature between 215 and 230 ° C. When you use the vaporizer you do not notice the temperature variations and you can continue to do treatments without having to wait between the end of one vaporization and the start of the next.
How long does it take to reach operating temperature?
About 8-10 minutes.
About 8-10 minutes.
Can I use process caps in the FAST model?
Yes. You have to buy them separately.
Yes. You have to buy them separately.
Can I upgrade the Easy model to the FAST model?
Yes. You have to buy the conversion kit.
Yes. You have to buy the conversion kit.
Which size of battery do you recommend for OXALIKA PRO models and how many hives can be treated with it?
A 12 Volt car battery with a capacity of at least 70 AH is recommended. You will have autonomy for at least 1 hour. If possible, it is recommended to connect the vaporizer to the car battery for an initial warm-up (8-10 minutes) with the engine running. So switch to the other battery only when the vaporizer is hot. If you have hives close to each other and you can go directly from one to the other, you can do at least 80-100 treatments with this method.
Obviously, there are batteries of different quality and efficiency.
To keep your battery efficient, the first rule is to make sure it is always charged even when not in use. To prevent it from losing efficiency, the voltage must always be above 12.4 volts. The second rule is to prevent complete discharge, the voltage must never drop below 11.5 volts.
A 12 Volt car battery with a capacity of at least 70 AH is recommended. You will have autonomy for at least 1 hour. If possible, it is recommended to connect the vaporizer to the car battery for an initial warm-up (8-10 minutes) with the engine running. So switch to the other battery only when the vaporizer is hot. If you have hives close to each other and you can go directly from one to the other, you can do at least 80-100 treatments with this method.
Obviously, there are batteries of different quality and efficiency.
To keep your battery efficient, the first rule is to make sure it is always charged even when not in use. To prevent it from losing efficiency, the voltage must always be above 12.4 volts. The second rule is to prevent complete discharge, the voltage must never drop below 11.5 volts.
The Fast distributor is fixed only by an O-ring to the boiler. Is it enough or can it be detached with the blows of the hammer?
The o-ring is the right connection for safety reasons. When the battery is too low, or when there is a strong cold wind, it can happen that the temperature at the end of the diffuser tube gets too low and the tube can become clogged (especially if you are using the long tube). In this case, the distributor works as a safety valve and separates from the boiler by making a small jump. This prevents the pressure from reaching dangerous values in the boiler. When, after many uses, the O-ring does not allow normal operation it must be replaced but it is very economical.
The o-ring is the right connection for safety reasons. When the battery is too low, or when there is a strong cold wind, it can happen that the temperature at the end of the diffuser tube gets too low and the tube can become clogged (especially if you are using the long tube). In this case, the distributor works as a safety valve and separates from the boiler by making a small jump. This prevents the pressure from reaching dangerous values in the boiler. When, after many uses, the O-ring does not allow normal operation it must be replaced but it is very economical.
12 Volt Electricity Supply
What kind of power supply can be used?
A 12 Volt direct current power supply (consult the website shop) or a car battery can be used.
A 12 Volt direct current power supply (consult the website shop) or a car battery can be used.
What happens if I connect the vaporizer’s cables to the battery (or power supply) by reversing the polarity? Can the vaporizer break?
You can connect the cables without paying attention to the positive and negative poles. The vaporizer does not break and works equally well.
You can connect the cables without paying attention to the positive and negative poles. The vaporizer does not break and works equally well.
Can I use batteries or DC power supplies with voltages other than 12 volts?
No.
No.
Can I use an AC power supply?
No.
No.
Can I use batteries with different Capacity (AH)? What change if I use batteries with more or less Capacity (AH)?
If you use battery with little capacity may happen that it become hot and can explode. Make attention that the battery doesn't become hot during use.
No limit if using the battery with more capacity (AH). With this battery it is possible to carry out more treatments between one charge and another.
If you use battery with little capacity may happen that it become hot and can explode. Make attention that the battery doesn't become hot during use.
No limit if using the battery with more capacity (AH). With this battery it is possible to carry out more treatments between one charge and another.
Which is the minimum recommended battery Capacity (AH) for PRO Models?
70 AH
70 AH
Which is the minimum recommended battery Capacity (AH) for BASIC and PREMIUM models?
40 AH
40 AH
Where can I find more information about batteries?
https://www.varta-automotive.com
https://www.boschcarservice.com
https://www.fiamm.com/it/italy
https://www.varta-automotive.com
https://www.boschcarservice.com
https://www.fiamm.com/it/italy
Where can I find more information about charger?
https://www.ctek.it
https://www.ctek.it
Protective Masks and Filters
What are the characteristics to be evaluated in the protective masks to be used during treatments with sublimated oxalic acid?
The masks to be used can be of various types:
- of the type FFP3. It is a very econonic mask (3-5 euros), which filters only the oxalic acid powder and protects the beekeeper when inserting the dose of acid powder into the cold bowl. After inserting the dose, the cup is introduced into the hive, it is connected to the battery and you have to move away to avoid breathing the vapors. This mask must be worn together with protective glasses. It may be suitable for use with the Oxalika Basic sublimator.
- With ABE1P3 or ABE2P3 filter. These are masks that, in addition to filtering the powders, also filter the oxalic acid vapors and are recommended when it is not possible to leave during the treatment (for example using the Oxalika Premium model without cooling the bowl between one hive and the next or the professional model Oxalika PRO. These masks can be of two types:
a) The half-masks (for example the BLS 4000) which protect only the respiratory tract and it is necessary to use protective glasses. They are suitable for temporary use since the glasses tend to fog up when worn for a long time.
b) The full-face masks (for example the BLS 5600), much more expensive than the previous ones, protect both the respiratory tract and the eyes and have an internal ventilation system that prevents fogging. They are recommended for intensive use.
The masks to be used can be of various types:
- of the type FFP3. It is a very econonic mask (3-5 euros), which filters only the oxalic acid powder and protects the beekeeper when inserting the dose of acid powder into the cold bowl. After inserting the dose, the cup is introduced into the hive, it is connected to the battery and you have to move away to avoid breathing the vapors. This mask must be worn together with protective glasses. It may be suitable for use with the Oxalika Basic sublimator.
- With ABE1P3 or ABE2P3 filter. These are masks that, in addition to filtering the powders, also filter the oxalic acid vapors and are recommended when it is not possible to leave during the treatment (for example using the Oxalika Premium model without cooling the bowl between one hive and the next or the professional model Oxalika PRO. These masks can be of two types:
a) The half-masks (for example the BLS 4000) which protect only the respiratory tract and it is necessary to use protective glasses. They are suitable for temporary use since the glasses tend to fog up when worn for a long time.
b) The full-face masks (for example the BLS 5600), much more expensive than the previous ones, protect both the respiratory tract and the eyes and have an internal ventilation system that prevents fogging. They are recommended for intensive use.
When should the filters be replaced?
Refer exclusively to the technical data sheet of the filters for details, specifications and updates.
In general the filters for oxalic acid do not have a precise duration but it depends on the use. Filters suitable for oxalic acid lose effectiveness based on the amount of substances filtered: if used in a highly contaminated environment they last less. The filter must be replaced as soon as there is the slightest smell of oxalic acid.
Refer exclusively to the technical data sheet of the filters for details, specifications and updates.
In general the filters for oxalic acid do not have a precise duration but it depends on the use. Filters suitable for oxalic acid lose effectiveness based on the amount of substances filtered: if used in a highly contaminated environment they last less. The filter must be replaced as soon as there is the slightest smell of oxalic acid.