Vape coils are an essential component of your vaping device, directly influencing the quality of your vaping experience. However, they don't last forever and need regular replacement to ensure optimal performance.
Understanding when and how to replace your vape coils can enhance your vaping experience, preserve flavor, and maintain your device's efficiency. In this guide, Vape Vend offers expert advice on identifying the signs that it’s time to replace your coils and the steps to do it properly.
What Are Vape Coils?
Vape coils are small, cylindrical components located within the atomizer or tank of your vaping device. They consist of a wire coil wrapped in a wicking material, usually cotton.
When you activate your device, the coil heats up, vaporizing the e-liquid absorbed by the wick, producing vapor for you to inhale.
Why Coils Need Replacing
Over time, residue from e-liquids builds up on the coil and wick, leading to reduced performance and burnt flavors. Regularly replacing coils is crucial for:
- Maintaining Flavor Quality: Old coils can produce a burnt or metallic taste, diminishing the e-liquid’s flavor.
- Ensuring Vapor Production: Worn-out coils can reduce vapor production, leading to a less satisfying experience.
- Preventing Leaks: Damaged coils can cause leaks and flooding in your tank.
- Extending Device Lifespan: Regular maintenance, including coil replacement, helps keep your device in good working condition.
When to Replace Your Vape Coils
Knowing when to replace your vape coils is vital. Here are some common signs indicating it's time for a change:
- Burnt Taste
One of the most obvious signs is a burnt or unpleasant taste when you vape. This indicates that the coil and wick are burnt out and need replacing.
- Reduced Flavor
If you notice a decline in the flavor intensity of your e-liquid, it could be due to a worn-out coil. A fresh coil will restore the original flavor profile.
- Decreased Vapor Production
A significant drop in vapor production is another indicator. If your device is producing less vapor than usual, it’s likely time to replace the coil.
- Gurgling Sounds
Unusual gurgling or spitting sounds can occur when the coil is no longer effectively vaporizing the e-liquid, often due to flooding or damage.
- Leaking
Frequent leaks from your tank can be a sign that the coil is not sealing properly, necessitating a replacement.
- Dark, Thick E-Liquid
If your e-liquid becomes darker and thicker over time, it’s a sign that residue is accumulating on the coil, affecting its performance.
How Often Should You Replace Your Coils?
The frequency of coil replacement depends on several factors, including your vaping habits, the type of e-liquid you use, and the specific coil model. On average, most vapers replace their coils every 1-2 weeks. Heavy vapers or those using sweet or dark e-liquids may need to replace coils more frequently, while light vapers using clear, unsweetened e-liquids may extend this period.
Steps to Replace Your Vape Coils
Replacing your vape coils is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a hassle-free coil change:
- Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary supplies:
- Replacement coils
- Paper towels or a cloth
- E-liquid
- Your vaping device
- Disassemble Your Device
Disassemble your vaping device to access the coil. This usually involves unscrewing the tank from the battery and removing the base or top cap, depending on your device’s design.
- Remove the Old Coil
Carefully unscrew the old coil from the tank’s base or head. Dispose of the old coil responsibly.
- Prime the New Coil
Priming your new coil is essential to avoid dry hits and burnt tastes. To prime:
- Place a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the wicking material visible on the coil.
- Let the coil sit for a few minutes to fully absorb the e-liquid.
- Install the New Coil
Screw the new coil into the tank’s base or head. Ensure it’s snug but avoid overtightening, which can cause damage.
- Reassemble Your Device
Reassemble your vaping device by screwing the tank back onto the battery. Ensure all parts are securely in place.
- Fill the Tank
Fill your tank with e-liquid, taking care not to overfill. Leave some space to prevent leaks and allow for proper airflow.
- Let the Coil Soak
Allow the new coil to soak in the e-liquid for a few minutes before using it. This ensures the wick is fully saturated and prevents dry hits.
- Start with Low Wattage
When you first use the new coil, start with a lower wattage setting on your device. Gradually increase the wattage to your preferred level. This helps the coil break in and prolongs its lifespan.
Tips for Extending Coil Life
While regular replacement is necessary, you can take steps to extend the life of your coils:
- Prime Properly: Always prime new coils before use to prevent dry hits.
- Use the Right Wattage: Avoid exceeding the recommended wattage range for your coil to prevent burning the wick.
- Clean Your Tank: Regularly clean your tank to prevent residue buildup that can damage the coil.
- Choose the Right E-Liquids: Opt for high-quality, clear e-liquids to minimize residue and gunk buildup on your coil.
- Avoid Chain Vaping: Give your device a break between puffs to allow the coil to cool down and the wick to re-saturate.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Even with proper maintenance, you may encounter issues with your vape coils. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
- Dry Hits
Dry hits occur when the wick inside the coil is not adequately saturated with e-liquid. This can result in a burnt taste. To avoid dry hits, always prime your coils properly and ensure your tank has enough e-liquid.
- Flooding
Flooding happens when too much e-liquid enters the coil, causing gurgling sounds and spitback. To prevent flooding, avoid overfilling your tank and ensure your coil is securely installed.
- Burnt Taste
A burnt taste can occur if you vape at too high a wattage or if the coil is old and degraded. Ensure you’re vaping within the recommended wattage range and replace your coil regularly.
- Leaks
Leaks can be caused by a damaged or improperly installed coil. Always ensure your coil is correctly installed and in good condition. If leaks persist, check for other potential issues with your tank’s seals and o-rings.
Coil Maintenance for Different E-Liquid Types
The type of e-liquid you use can impact the longevity and performance of your coils. Here’s how to manage coils for different e-liquid types:
High VG E-Liquids
High VG (vegetable glycerin) e-liquids are thicker and can produce more residue on your coils. To maintain coil performance, clean your tank frequently and replace your coils regularly.
Sweetened E-Liquids
E-liquids with high sweetener content can cause gunk buildup on coils, reducing their lifespan. Use unsweetened or minimally sweetened e-liquids to extend coil life and improve performance.
Nicotine Salts
Nicotine salt e-liquids are often used at higher nicotine concentrations and with low-wattage devices. These e-liquids tend to be less harsh on coils, but regular maintenance is still necessary for optimal performance.
Choosing the Right Coils for Your Device
Different devices and vaping styles require different types of coils. Here’s how to choose the right coils for your needs:
Sub-Ohm Coils
Sub-ohm coils have a resistance of less than one ohm and are designed for direct lung (DL) vaping. They produce large vapor clouds and intense flavor, ideal for high-wattage devices.
Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Coils
MTL coils have a higher resistance and are suitable for mouth-to-lung vaping, mimicking the draw of a traditional cigarette. They are often used in low-wattage devices and provide a tighter draw and less vapor production.
Mesh Coils
Mesh coils use a mesh structure instead of a traditional wire coil. This design increases the surface area in contact with the e-liquid, resulting in faster heating, better flavor, and larger vapor production. Mesh coils are available for both sub-ohm and MTL devices.
"Keep Your Device Fresh with Replacement Coils from Vape Vend"
Replacing vape coils is a fundamental aspect of maintaining your vaping device and ensuring a consistently enjoyable experience. By understanding the signs that it’s time for a coil change and following the proper replacement steps, you can keep your device performing at its best. Regular coil maintenance not only enhances flavor and vapor production but also extends the life of your vaping device.
For high-quality replacement coils and other vaping essentials, visit Vape Vend. Our wide selection of products and expert advice can help you find the right coils for your device and ensure a smooth, satisfying vaping experience.
Happy vaping!
Disclaimer:
This article is 18+ and is only intended for 18+ audience. This article is in no way intended to promote vaping or smoking and is purely factual.