I feel sure they'd replace a $7 flexi straw for you. Call 'em. 800-336-7224
I actually emailed them. Stellar customer service. I should have just gone to Karma in the first place, but I am used to dealing with the seller in situations like this rather than the manufacturer.
It took a couple days of back and forth emails (but hey, there was a weekend in there) then it was like "check your mailbox in two days, here's the tracking number." Bam! New straw. This one is great by the way. No random sticky-out or jiggly bits.
Now on to the discussion of the machine itself. I read and heard all over that I should start around 340º and work up from there throughout my session. Since having it and playing around a little, I found I actually prefer to start at 324° for the first couple pulls, then 330° for the next couple, then I up it in 5 to 10° increments as needed. I often turn off my unit after the first couple degree changes and ride that out. Then I'll pick it up later, give the oven a stir and continue from the last used temperature until I've finished it out around 375°. I think the flavor lasts much longer this way and I can maintain potency through a couple sessions on the same material. I'm not scorching my throat either, as I experienced a bit when I had my first unit.
I clean my unit every 5-6 days , with alcohol and swabs. I remove and soak all my screens in alcohol to clean them. I also added a Camelback nipple to my straw to keep the wispy vapor from slipping out between draws. This fits perfectly, does what I hoped and, as an added bonus, reduces heat on my lips.
I want to devise a case, eventually. For now I have been carrying it wrapped in 3 layered cotton pouches to buffer the scent as well as lightly pad it in case of accidental droppage. I would like some sort of semi-hard shell that still allowed airflow, so it can cool down while having already been put away.
It is very stealth at a distance, but due to the scent of herbs in the chamber, I still wouldn't use it at the movies unless the place was packed and everyone in your row had popcorn with lots of butter. Otherwise I think the scent would draw a great deal of attention.