10 Common Vaping Mistakes to Avoid
Vaping can be enjoyable, but a few common mistakes can quickly ruin the experience. Incorrect device settings, using the wrong e-liquid, neglecting maintenance, or overfilling the tank are just a few errors that can lead to poor flavor, wasted liquid, or even device damage. These issues not only disrupt your session but can also become costly over time. Knowing the most frequent pitfalls and how to avoid them will help you enhance your vaping experience and keep your device in top shape.
1. Using the Wrong Device Settings
Setting your vape to an incorrect wattage can lead to a range of problems. A wattage that’s too high can burn the coil, resulting in a harsh, unpleasant taste and a shorter coil lifespan. Conversely, a wattage that’s too low produces weak vapor and dull flavor, making the experience unsatisfying and frustrating, especially for new users.
How to Avoid It: Always check the recommended wattage range printed on your coil or device. Start at the lower end of the range and gradually adjust upwards to find the perfect balance for your vaping preferences. If you’re planning to buy a vape, opt for a model with beginner-friendly features, such as pre-set wattage ranges or smart adjustments.
2. Choosing the Wrong E-Liquid for Your Device
Using an e-liquid with an unsuitable VG/PG ratio for your device can lead to multiple issues. High VG liquids are thicker and can clog smaller coils, reducing vapor production and causing dry hits. On the other hand, high PG liquids can be harsh on the throat when used in sub-ohm devices designed for high vapor output. These mismatches not only affect performance but can also shorten the lifespan of your coils.
How to Avoid It: Check your device’s specifications to determine the optimal VG/PG ratio for your setup. Devices with smaller coils or mouth-to-lung systems perform better with liquids that have a higher PG ratio, as they flow more easily through tight coil wicking. Sub-ohm devices with larger coils are designed for high VG liquids, which create dense vapor clouds and smoother hits.
3. Ignoring Regular Maintenance
Neglecting regular maintenance is one of the fastest ways to ruin your vaping experience. Dirty tanks and clogged coils can lead to poor flavor, weak vapor production, and an overall unsatisfying session. Residue buildup from e-liquid not only affects the taste but also causes coils to burn out prematurely, leading to wasted liquid and additional costs. Airflow can also become restricted due to dirt or blockages, reducing the efficiency of your device.
How to Avoid It: Clean your tank weekly by rinsing it with warm water to remove any leftover residue. Allow the tank to air dry completely before reassembling to prevent moisture from affecting performance. Replace your coils as soon as you notice a decrease in flavor or burnt hits—this is often a sign the coil is no longer functioning properly. Regularly check airflow holes for blockages and gently clear them to maintain proper ventilation.
4. Neglecting Battery Safety
Using damaged or incompatible batteries is one of the most dangerous mistakes in vaping. Faulty batteries can lead to overheating, device malfunctions, or even fire hazards. Physical damage like dents, tears in the wrapping, or leaking can severely compromise safety, putting both the user and device at risk.
How to Avoid It: Inspect your batteries regularly for signs of wear or damage and replace them immediately if any issues are found. Always store batteries in protective cases to prevent accidental contact with metal objects like keys or coins. Stick to high-quality, compatible batteries recommended by your device’s manufacturer to ensure safe operation.
5. Overfilling the Tank
Filling the tank to its absolute limit is a common mistake, especially for beginners. Overfilling can cause leaks, wasted liquid, and sticky residue on your device. This not only creates a mess but also affects the performance of your vape by blocking airflow.
How to Avoid It: Always leave a small air gap when filling your tank. Most tanks have a maximum fill line—stick to it. If your tank lacks a clear indicator, stop filling once the liquid is near the top, ensuring the airflow remains unobstructed.
6. Chain Vaping Without Pauses
Chain vaping, or taking multiple hits in quick succession, can overheat your coil and lead to dry hits. This burns the cotton in the coil, resulting in a harsh, unpleasant taste that lingers even after replacing the liquid.
How to Avoid It: Allow a few seconds between puffs to let the coil re-saturate with e-liquid. If you frequently vape for long periods, consider devices with temperature control features to prevent overheating.
7. Using the Wrong Coil for Your Liquid
Not all coils are compatible with every type of e-liquid. For instance, high VG liquids require low-resistance sub-ohm coils, while higher PG liquids are better suited for higher-resistance coils. Using the wrong coil can lead to poor vapor production, burnt hits, or leaking.
How to Avoid It: Check the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure you’re using the right coil for your device and e-liquid. Matching the resistance level to the liquid type ensures better performance and longevity for your coils.
8. Inhaling Incorrectly
Improper inhalation techniques can make vaping uncomfortable or ineffective. Direct lung hits with a device designed for mouth-to-lung vaping, or vice versa, can lead to throat irritation or unsatisfying vapor production.
How to Avoid It: Understand the two primary vaping styles. Mouth-to-lung (MTL) mimics cigarette smoking, while direct-to-lung (DTL) works for producing large clouds. Choose a device suited to your preferred style and practice the appropriate inhalation method.
9. Storing E-Liquids Incorrectly
E-liquids degrade when exposed to direct sunlight, high temperatures, or air for extended periods. Poor storage can cause the liquid to lose flavor or thicken, which affects its compatibility with your device.
How to Avoid It: Store e-liquids in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Always keep the bottles tightly sealed to prevent oxidation and contamination.
10. Not Priming New Coils
Failing to prime a new coil is a mistake that often leads to dry hits and shortened coil lifespan. Without proper priming, the cotton inside the coil burns before it can absorb the liquid.
How to Avoid It: Always saturate the cotton in your coil with a few drops of e-liquid before installation. After assembling, let your tank sit for a few minutes to allow the coil to fully absorb the liquid. This ensures smoother hits and extends the coil's life.
More to Read:
Previous Posts:
Next Posts: