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How to vape cannabis: how it works, effects, and ideal temperature

By SQDC.ca | Published on November 20, 2025

Vaping is an increasingly popular method of cannabis use. Behind this seemingly simple process is a precision electronic device that works very differently from a joint or a pipe. This guide explains what makes vaping unique, its special features compared with other types of inhalation, and practical tips for well-informed use.

Drawing of a hand holding a 510 thread cannabis vape, with clouds of aerosol.

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What is cannabis vaping?

Unlike smoking a joint, vaping does not use a raw material such as dried flowers or hash. Instead, what is consumed is a liquid cannabis extract contained in a cartridge designed to be coupled with an electronic device called a “vape battery” or simply a “vape”.

The battery heats the extract to a temperature between 200 and 300 degrees Celsius, which transforms it into an aerosol – a cloud of fine particles resembling vapour. The absence of combustion may make the experience seem less harsh, but it does not eliminate the psychoactive effects of THC. No matter how cannabis is inhaled, it is recommended that you chose a product suitable for your tolerance level and desired experience.

Learn more about how vapes work.

Animation showing the process of transforming cannabis extract into an aerosol during vaping.

Is vaping safer than smoking a joint?

Not necessarily. Vaping allows the user to avoid smoke and certain harmful combustion by-products, but that doesn’t mean there is no danger.

Heating extracts can produce irritating compounds and by-products, especially at higher temperatures.
The aerosol contains fine particles that enter into the user’s airways. Currently, their medium and long-term effects are not well understood.

The vaping products sold by the SQDC are subject to strict regulations, which reduces certain risks associated with the unregulated market. However, using cannabis is never risk-free.

Learn more about vaping and vaporizing

How quickly do the effects of vaping appear?

As with other inhalation-based use methods, the cannabinoids found in the aerosol are absorbed quickly by the lungs. The effects may appear in a few seconds to a few minutes and last from one to three hours, sometimes longer.

However, all types of inhalation are not equal. The effects of vaping may be felt slightly more slowly and/or more intensely than those associated with combustion for some people. To reduce the risk of overdose:

Start with a low-THC product.
Take a single puff.
Wait a few hours before taking more, if desired.

Vapes on the unregulated market

Products sold on the regulated market are subjected to rigorous laboratory testing, making it possible to measure their cannabinoid content, including THC and CBD, in a standardized manner.

In Québec, the THC level of cannabis products is capped at 30%, and this includes vaping products.

Products on the unregulated market don’t benefit from the same level of quality control. The cannabinoid level of products is often higher, in some cases much higher than the 30% limit.

What is the intensity of vaping effects?

Scientific data suggest that for some people, a puff from a vape may produce more intense effects than a puff from a joint. That means there is an elevated risk of undesirable THC effects.

Several factors contribute to the intensity of cannabis effects:

The type of product and its THC level.
The temperature and voltage used.
The duration of inhalation.
Individual tolerance and sensitivity.

Note: each vape battery works differently. Some generate a large amount of aerosol, some very little. The quantity of aerosol alone is therefore not a direct indicator of THC potency.

In general, vaping may be most appropriate for those who already have experience inhaling cannabis.

What is the ideal temperature for vaping?

The recommended temperature for vaping is not standardized. It depends on several factors:

The nature of the extract in the cartridge.
Viscosity.
Terpene levels in the product.
The type of cartridge (materials, design, etc.)
The type of battery used.

Producers take all of these factors into consideration when determining the recommended optimal temperature for a given cartridge type.

What’s the difference between temperature and voltage?

In the vaping world, people tend to talk about voltage rather than temperature. Why is that?

The voltage determines the intensity of the electric current used to heat the liquid. That intensity may vary depending on several factors: cartridge type, heating coil material, airflow and the viscosity of the extract.

In practice, the temperature is not set directly. Rather, what is set is the strength of the electric current produced by the battery. That is why most vapes offer three voltage settings: low, medium and high.

Lower temperature for a gentler experience

A low voltage setting means a lower heating temperature, which affects the user’s experience by:

Reducing the amount of cannabinoids released.
Producing a lighter aerosol.
Producing a more subtle but often richer and more complex flavour.

This setting is suitable for those seeking a gentler, more gradual experience.

High temperature: more intense, but riskier

A higher voltage heats the cannabis extract more, leading to:

A denser aerosol.
A higher concentration of cannabinoids.
A stronger flavour.

Careful: Vaping at an excessively high temperature could change the experience, damage the cartridge and generate toxic by-products such as benzene or formaldehyde in fine particulate form. To reduce these risks, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for each cartridge.

Voltage and terpene preservation

Terpenes are largely responsible for cannabis’ aromas, and they are heat-sensitive. When the voltage is too high, they can break down quickly, changing the flavour and the quality of the experience. On the other hand, a lower voltage generally leaves more terpenes intact, preserving their aromatic properties longer.

Although the batteries selected by the SQDC are designed to limit overheating, it is still important to follow the manufacturer’s voltage recommendations in order to reduce health risks and benefit fully from the unique character of each cannabis extract.

Drawing depicting the operation of a cannabis vape heating an extract to 200 to 300 degrees Celsius, creating an aerosol.

Secondary exposure

It’s a well-documented fact that second-hand smoke is harmful. But what about the aerosols produced by a vape?

Recent research shows that exposure to second-hand vape aerosols can have risks similar to those associated with smoke, particularly the inhalation of fine particles suspended in the air, irritation or inflammation of airways and possible cardiovascular effects. Young children and pets are particularly vulnerable to these risks.

In other words, the people and animals around you may be exposed to harmful by-products, even if there is no visible smoke. The risk is heightened in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces.

Smoke-free doesn’t mean risk-free. The discretion and simplicity of vaping may give the impression that it’s inoffensive or produces fewer toxic substances. But fewer doesn’t mean none. Irritating or harmful particles may still be produced.

Vaping remains a source of secondary exposure that should not be neglected, for your own health and that of your loved ones.

Vaping prudently

Vaping is an accessible, easy-to-use method of cannabis use. The ease of it may, however, encourage more frequent or secretive use, leading to an increase in certain risks.

The SQDC does not sell products with artificial flavours. Suppliers are also required to list every type of extract contained in each cartridge.

It is important to remember that regular use, even in small doses, may lead to dependency or a cannabis use disorder. Regularly monitoring and assessing your use habits lets you maintain a balanced relationship with the product and limit the potential consequences for your physical and mental health.

If you choose to vape cannabis, here are some tips for a positive experience:

Don’t determine your own consumption based on what others do.
Choose low-THC products.
Start with a short puff, then wait a few hours before taking another, if desired.
Avoid taking other psychoactive substances, such as nicotine and alcohol, at the same time.
Use with in a safe setting with people you trust.

Available in-store and by online chat, our advisors are trained to answer your questions and guide you toward products that suit you. Don’t hesitate to contact them!

Infographic guide to using cannabis by vaping, with recommendations, dosage, onset time and preparation.

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What is cannabis vaping?

Vaping is a method of cannabis use by inhalation, but without combustion. A small electronic device called a vape heats a liquid cannabis extract to produce an aerosol that the user inhales.
How do I choose the right temperature setting for vaping?

The ideal temperature depends on several factors, but generally speaking a lower voltage produces a gentler experience, lighter aerosol, subtle flavour and intact terpenes. Conversely, a higher voltage produces a denser aerosol, different flavour, more intense effects and increased production of irritating particles. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for each cartridge.
When do the effects of vaping appear?

The effects can take a few seconds or minutes to appear and last from one to three hours. Some people may feel the effects more slowly and/or more strongly than they do with other forms of use by inhalation. Act prudently to avoid overconsumption.
Are there particular risks or adverse effects associated with vaping?

Yes. All use by inhalation may irritate the throat and lungs. Short-term effects (anxiety, dizziness, dry mouth) and long-term effects (cancer, respiratory issues, memory loss, dependency) may also occur.
Is vaping safer than smoking?

Not necessarily. While vaping does not involve inhaling smoke, the aerosol contains harmful by-products that may irritate the respiratory tract. Using cannabis is never risk-free, even with regulated products.
Where can I get advice on vaping?

The SQDC’s advisors are there to help, both in person and online. Don’t hesitate to ask them questions to help you choose a product that suits you.
Is there a risk for others near me when I vape?

Yes. Secondary exposure to the aerosol may irritate the airways and carry a risk of cardiovascular issues. Even if there is no visible smoke, harmful particles may be inhaled by others.
How do I get started if I’ve never vaped cannabis?

Start slowly:
- Do not use others’ consumption to set your own
- Choose a product with a low THC content
- Take a small hit and wait before taking another
- Avoid mixing with alcohol or nicotine
- Be in a quiet and safe place, with people you trust
- Monitor the physical and mental effects and adjust your future use accordingly.
How intense are the effects of vaping?

The intensity is similar to that obtained with other forms of use by inhalation (smoking, vaporizing). But some people may experience more intense effects with vaping than smoking. The intensity varies depending on the product, battery voltage, depth of inhalation and individual tolerance level.

How to vape cannabis: how it works, effects, and ideal temperature