ProVap 110 Sideliner AND Commercial Oxalic Acid Vaporizer

This product is being sold online only.

The ProVap oxalic acid vaporizer delivers professional-level Varroa mite control at a speed and price point that finally makes sense for sideliner and commercial beekeepers. With treatment times of approximately 20 seconds per hive, this unit is built for efficiency, accuracy, and reliability in high-volume apiaries.

There is no wand to insert, no guessing on dosage, and no compressor or dedicated battery system required. Simply plug the vaporizer into a 110-volt power source using an inexpensive inverter, generator, or household current. Rated at 330 watts and 3.3 amps, this vaporizer provides fast heat-up and consistent sublimation, making it one of the most practical oxalic acid vaporizers available for large operations.

This unit is technically a sublimator, which is the more accurate term, but is commonly referred to as an oxalic acid vaporizer. It is designed strictly for use with a grounded 110-volt (three-prong) outlet.

For easiest operation, the vaporizer is commonly used from the rear of the hive. A small ¼-inch hole is drilled in the back center of the bottom board rim that supports the lower brood box. This placement allows oxalic acid vapors to rise evenly through the frames and brood chambers while minimizing contact with flying bees. The friction between the vaporizer stem and the drilled hole helps hold the unit in place during treatment, allowing you to prepare the next dose while vaporization is in progress. Bees typically propolize the hole after treatment, and if desired, a plastic golf tee can be used to temporarily seal it between applications.

The ProVap can also be used from the front entrance. A simple vapor block can be made by drilling a ¼-inch hole in the center of a paint stick cut to size. Sliding the stick over the stem creates an effective seal, allowing you to move efficiently from hive to hive without stuffing entrances or using rags.

To operate, connect the vaporizer to a 110-volt power source and allow approximately two minutes for it to reach operating temperature. When ready, the digital display will show 230°C. Place the correct amount of oxalic acid loosely into the included white Teflon lid, recess side up. Do not pack the acid. Use one gram per brood chamber, regardless of whether the boxes are mediums or deeps, eight- or ten-frame. Use ⅛ gram for nucs. One gram is roughly equivalent to ¼ teaspoon, so a two-brood-chamber hive requires approximately ½ teaspoon total.

Invert the vaporizer and carefully press the Teflon lid onto the bowl, taking care as the bowl will be extremely hot. Insert the stem into the drilled hive hole while still inverted, then turn the vaporizer upright and gently tap the lid. The oxalic acid will fall into the bowl and begin sublimation immediately. During this process, the temperature will briefly drop to around 210–215°C, then quickly rise again. When the display returns to 230°C, vaporization is complete and you can move on to the next hive. This entire cycle typically takes about 20 seconds per hive.

All hive openings should be sealed during treatment and for 10 minutes after vaporization. It is normal for temperatures to briefly rise above 230°C and up to 250°C during operation. This is within normal operating tolerances.

The vaporizer is factory preset to 230°C, which is the correct temperature for this unit. However, the temperature can be adjusted if needed using the onboard controls. The upper red display shows the actual bowl temperature, while the lower green display shows the target setpoint. Adjustments are made using the set button and arrow controls, and the new setting is saved by pressing the set button again.

Proper safety equipment is mandatory when using any oxalic acid vaporizer. A full-face respirator rated for organic or acid gases with replaceable filters must be worn at all times. Heavy, heat-resistant gauntlet gloves are also required. Oxalic acid vapor creates a highly concentrated environment, and appropriate personal protective equipment is essential for safe operation.

After completing treatments, clean the bowl and stem with warm water to prevent oxalic acid buildup that could restrict airflow. Cleaning can be done while the unit is still warm, but never while it is connected to a power source. Ensure water flows completely through the stem, and clean the Teflon cups of any remaining residue. Carrying a pipe cleaner is recommended in case the stem becomes partially blocked during use.