COMMON VAPE MISTAKES PEOPLE MAKE

From choosing the right e-liquid and preparing a new coil to maintaining your tank and looking after your battery, there are several things to keep in mind when using a reusable vape device. Understanding these basics can help you avoid common problems, maintain consistent performance and know when a component needs attention.

Common Coil Problems

The coil is one of the most important parts of a vape device. It contains a heating element and wicking material that work together to heat e-liquid and produce vapour. Coils are consumable components, so their performance will gradually change with use.

Not Priming Your Coil or Pod

A new replaceable coil should be properly saturated with e-liquid before use. Using a dry coil can cause a burnt or unpleasant taste and may damage the wicking material.

After installing a new coil, fill the tank with the appropriate e-liquid and allow the wick to absorb it for several minutes. If the manufacturer recommends a specific priming procedure, follow those instructions. Some replaceable coils can also be manually saturated by applying a small amount of e-liquid to the exposed wicking material.

For refillable pods, allow sufficient time for the e-liquid to soak into the wick before taking your first puff. Starting at a lower power setting, where adjustable, can also help the new coil settle in.

Not Replacing Your Coil When Needed

Coils do not last indefinitely. Depending on your device, e-liquid, power setting and vaping habits, a coil may need replacing after several days or longer. There is no universal replacement schedule.

Common signs that a coil needs replacing include a burnt taste, noticeably reduced flavour, reduced vapour production, gurgling or persistent changes in performance. Sweet or heavily flavoured e-liquids can also cause residue to build up on the coil more quickly.

Instead of relying on a fixed puff count, pay attention to how your device performs. When the flavour or vapour quality noticeably deteriorates, check the coil and replace it if necessary.

Mixing Too Many E-Liquids

Changing flavours is completely possible with a refillable device, but mixing different e-liquids in the same tank can affect the resulting taste. Some combinations may work well together, while others may produce an unpleasant flavour.

If you want to switch to a completely different flavour, use as much of the existing e-liquid as practical and clean the tank if appropriate for your device. You may also prefer to keep separate pods or tanks for different flavour profiles.

Using Too Much or Too Little Wattage

Incorrect wattage can affect both flavour and coil performance on adjustable vape devices. Using too little power may produce weak vapour, while using too much can make the vapour excessively hot and may cause the coil to burn or dry out.

Always check the recommended wattage range printed on the coil or provided by the manufacturer. When installing a new coil, start towards the lower end of the recommended range and gradually adjust the power to find a comfortable setting.

Do not exceed the manufacturer's recommended limits, and remember that not every vape device allows manual wattage adjustment.

Common Tank and Pod Problems

Alongside the coil, your tank or pod needs proper care. Leaks, poor wicking and inconsistent vapour can sometimes be caused by incorrect installation, damaged seals or unsuitable e-liquid.

Not Keeping Enough E-Liquid in the Tank

If the e-liquid level becomes too low, the wick may not remain properly saturated. This can lead to dry or burnt hits, particularly when taking repeated puffs.

Keep the tank or refillable pod filled according to the manufacturer's instructions and never use a refillable device when the e-liquid level is below its recommended minimum.

Not Fitting the Coil Correctly

A coil that has not been installed correctly can cause leaking, poor vapour production or gurgling. When replacing a coil, make sure it is fitted securely according to the manufacturer's instructions without overtightening it.

Check the tank or pod seals if leaking continues. Damaged or worn O-rings can also allow e-liquid to escape. If a seal or pod is damaged, replace the affected component rather than continuing to use it.

Checking for Leaks

Small amounts of condensation around the pod or mouthpiece can sometimes be normal, but persistent leaking should be investigated. Check that the pod or tank is seated correctly, the coil is properly installed and the filling port is securely closed.

Avoid overfilling the tank or pod and use only the e-liquid recommended for your device.

E-Liquid Problems

The e-liquid you choose should match your device and coil. Using an unsuitable liquid can affect wicking, flavour and overall performance.

Using the Wrong PG/VG Ratio

PG and VG have different properties. PG is thinner and generally provides more throat sensation and flavour, while VG is thicker and is commonly associated with increased vapour production.

Higher-powered sub-ohm devices are generally designed for e-liquids with a higher VG content, while many lower-powered MTL pod systems work well with thinner 50/50 e-liquids. Always check your device and coil manufacturer's recommendations before choosing an e-liquid.

Using the Wrong Nicotine Strength

Nicotine strength should be selected according to your existing nicotine use, the type of device and your personal requirements. Higher-powered devices generally deliver more vapour per puff, so using a nicotine strength that is too high may result in an unpleasant nicotine experience.

Lower-powered MTL pod devices can be used with nicotine salts and other higher-strength e-liquids where legally permitted and appropriate. Always check the nicotine concentration and follow the product instructions.

Battery Problems

Battery issues can prevent an otherwise properly functioning vape from working. Rechargeable devices should be charged using the appropriate cable, charger and method recommended by the manufacturer.

Your Vape Isn't Firing or Is Flashing

If your device flashes but does not produce vapour, the light may be indicating a low battery, charging status, connection issue or another protection feature. The exact flashing pattern differs between devices.

Check the manufacturer's instructions for the meaning of the LED signal. If the device has a removable battery, make sure the battery is installed correctly. Do not continue using a device that becomes unusually hot, shows visible damage or behaves abnormally.

Forgetting to Charge Your Battery

If your rechargeable vape is not producing vapour, check the battery level first. Connect it to the recommended charging equipment and allow it to charge according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Do not use damaged charging cables or leave a device charging unattended. If the device will not charge after following the manufacturer's instructions, stop using it and seek advice from the manufacturer or replace the device where appropriate.

How to Keep Your Vape Working Properly

Regular basic maintenance can help prevent many common vaping problems. Keep the mouthpiece and charging area clean and dry, replace coils or pods when they reach the end of their useful life, and use compatible e-liquids and replacement components.

• Use the recommended coil and e-liquid for your device.
• Prime new replaceable coils before vaping.
• Keep refillable pods and tanks above their recommended minimum level.
• Use the recommended wattage range for your coil.
• Keep charging ports clean and dry.
• Inspect your device regularly for leaks or visible damage.
• Follow the manufacturer's charging and battery-safety instructions.

Vape Troubleshooting: When to Replace a Component

If your vape develops a burnt taste, leaking, poor flavour, reduced vapour or charging problems, first identify whether the issue is related to the coil, pod, tank, e-liquid or battery. Replacing a worn coil or damaged pod may resolve many performance issues.

However, do not attempt to repair a damaged battery yourself. If a rechargeable device or battery becomes swollen, excessively hot, physically damaged or behaves unexpectedly, stop using it and follow the manufacturer's safety guidance.

Online Vape Store UK

Ninja Vapes offers a range of vape kits, replacement pods, coils and e-liquids for adult vapers. When choosing replacement components, always check compatibility with your specific device and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

For more information about vape devices, e-liquids, coils and general vaping terminology, explore our other vaping guides.