A Smokebuddy is a popular device used to reduce the smell of smoke when smoking tobacco or cannabis. It works by having the user exhale smoke through the device, which contains activated carbon filters that help trap smoke and odor particles before the air is released. This allows the user to smoke more discreetly without producing as much noticeable smoke or scent.
However, some users wonder if their Smokebuddy can withstand being microwaved as a way to potentially clean or refresh the filters. There are a few things to consider when determining if microwaving a Smokebuddy is safe and effective.
Can Smokebuddies Go In The Microwave?
The short answer is no, Smokebuddy does not recommend microwaving their products. Smokebuddy devices are not designed to be microwaved and doing so can potentially damage the plastic housing as well as the internal filters. The heat and radiation generated inside a microwave oven can cause the plastic to warp, melt, or develop cracks that impact the function and safety of the device.
Additionally, the activated carbon filters inside the Smokebuddy are not improved by microwave radiation. Activated carbon is specially processed to create an incredibly porous material with a very high surface area that is optimal for trapping odors and chemicals. Microwaving the carbon will not “recharge” or refresh the material’s odor absorbing properties.
So there is no practical reason to microwave a Smokebuddy, and the risks of damage outweigh any potential benefits. Smokebuddy recommends following their guidance for proper care and maintenance.
Smokebuddy Care Guidelines
Instead of microwaving, Smokebuddy provides instructions for cleaning and caring for their products to maximize performance and lifespan:
– Rinse the outer plastic shell with water only occasionally if needed – do not submerge the entire device in water. Avoid using cleaners, solvents, or chemicals on the plastic housing.
– Do not attempt to wash the internal filter, as it will degrade the activated carbon.
– Let the device air dry completely before reuse if rinsed.
– Replace the filter cartridge once its odor-absorbing capacity noticeably decreases. Frequency varies based on usage.
– Do not blow liquid, food, or other debris into the device. Smoke only.
– Follow local regulations when disposing of used Smokebuddy filters, which may contain traces of smoke, ash, and residue.
Following these guidelines will help prevent damage to the Smokebuddy and keep it working effectively for smoke filtration. Microwaving should be avoided entirely.
Why People Consider Microwaving Smokebuddy
Some new Smokebuddy users get the idea to microwave the device because heating activated carbon is sometimes done in industrial settings to reactivate and “recharge” its absorptive properties after an initial activation process.
However, this thermal reactivation requires temperatures of over 900°F – far higher than a typical home microwave generates. Industrial reactivation is also done in the absence of oxygen and the Smokebuddy housing to avoid combustion or damage to the carbon material.
So while a microwave may seem like a quick and easy way to refresh a Smokebuddy, it simply won’t achieve anything beneficial and poses unnecessary risk. The filters need to be replaced as recommended for optimal performance.
Microwave Risks
Here are some of the potential risks of trying to microwave a Smokebuddy:
Housing Damage
The plastic housing of the Smokebuddy isn’t designed for microwave use and will likely warp, melt, or develop cracks with exposure to microwave radiation. This can make the device less functional for filtering smoke and may also be a safety hazard.
Filter Combustion
There is some risk of the carbon filter igniting when microwaved, since the material will readily absorb microwave energy. This could cause the filter to catch fire and also release contaminants or smoke into the air.
Toxic Fumes
Related to combustion, microwaving the filter incorrectly could generate dangerous fumes from the melting plastic or charring carbon. This will make the device unusable and also release toxins into the surrounding environment.
No Benefits
As already highlighted, there are no practical odor-absorbing enhancements from microwaving activated carbon, so it provides no useful purpose anyway. There is only downside potential.
Manufacturer Warnings
Smokebuddy explicitly advises against microwaving their products for the reasons outlined above. Violating those warnings could void any warranties or guarantees on performance and also leads to a risky situation. It’s best to follow the maker’s guidance.
Proper Microwave Use
Microwaves are very useful appliances when used properly. Here are some examples of appropriate microwave usage:
– Reheating leftover food and beverages
– Cooking certain foods rapidly like popcorn or baked potatoes
– Softening butter or freezing ice cream for easier spreading
– Steaming vegetables to maintain nutrients and flavor
– Warming plates or bowls prior to serving food on them
– Making quick one-minute meals like oatmeal or soup
– Sterilizing damp sponges or cloths to sanitize them
The key is to use microwave-safe cookware and utensils only. Never put metal objects in the microwave. Always follow appliance safety best practices.
But non-food items like Smokebuddies should not be microwaved. It simply isn’t an appropriate or safe application of microwave energy.
Alternative Filter Refresh Options
Rather than attempting to microwave a Smokebuddy filter, here are some recommended options if you feel it needs refreshing:
Replace Filter Cartridge
The simplest and most foolproof option is to switch out the spent cartridge with a brand new replacement filter from Smokebuddy. This guarantees optimal performance. Good timeframes are 2-4 weeks for very frequent users, or 2-3 months for moderate usage.
Expose to Fresh Air
Letting a slightly exhausted filter air out for 12-24 hours away from any smoke sources may help release some trapped odors and marginally refresh performance. But results are minimal.
Ozone Treatment
Professional ozone gas treatment is sometimes used to refresh smoke filters and remove odors. But this involves specialized equipment not available to most consumers. Results aren’t dramatic.
Baking Soda
Letting used Smokebuddy filters sit upright in a shallow bin of baking soda for a day can help absorb lingering odors from the carbon pores. However, it doesn’t actually reactivate the carbon’s absorption capacity meaningfully.
So replacing the filter is really the only foolproof method. But the options above can provide minimal refresh in a pinch between filter changes if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put a Smokebuddy in the microwave?
No, Smokebuddy advises against ever microwaving their products. The plastic housing and internal filter are not designed for microwave use and can be damaged. It also provides no practical benefits.
What happens if you microwave a Smokebuddy?
The plastic casing will likely warp, melt, or develop cracks. The filter risks igniting and smoldering. Toxic fumes may also be generated. Overall it is very risky and will ruin the Smokebuddy.
Does microwaving recharge Smokebuddy filters?
No, typical consumer microwave ovens do not generate anywhere near enough concentrated heat to actually reactivate the carbon in Smokebuddy filters. The material cannot be meaningfully refreshed or recharged by microwaving.
How do you revitalize a Smokebuddy filter?
The only foolproof method is replacing the filter cartridge per Smokebuddy’s recommendations. Other very mild refresh options include exposing to fresh air, ozone treatment, or sitting in baking soda – but results will be minimal.
Can you microwave activated charcoal?
Microwaving any form of activated carbon runs the risk of overheating, ignition, and generating toxic fumes. As the carbon readily absorbs microwave radiation, results are unpredictable. It is best avoided outside of controlled industrial applications.
Conclusion
Microwaving a Smokebuddy is not advisable or effective. The plastic housing risks melting and distortion while the internal filter can be combusted but not usefully recharged. Users should follow Smokebuddy’s guidance on filter replacement and proper care for best performance. While microwaves serve many beneficial purposes, refreshing smoke filters is not recommended and poses safety hazards.