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When you’re new to vaping, there’s a lot to take in and wrap your head around. This is especially true for those who have only just quit smoking. Even if you’re just switching from disposable to refillable vapes, there’s a still bit of a learning curve you’ll need to overcome.
It’s easy to make mistakes as a beginner, and there are a plethora of problems you might face when you first start out — from a burnt taste from your coil, to a leaking pod or tank.
But don’t let that discourage you from giving vaping a go. Over recent years, refillable vape kits (especially pod vapes that use built-in coils), have become increasingly simple and user-friendly. These days, it’s easier than ever to start vaping!
So, let’s go through some of the most common vaping mistakes and how to fix them. We’ll start with some of the hardware blunders a lot of people make, and then talk about where people go wrong when it comes to e-liquid. With some proper maintenance you’ll be a vaping pro in no time!
Key Takeaways
- Regularly clean and maintain your vape to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
- Select the right e-liquid, paying attention to flavour, VG/PG ratio, and nicotine strength.
- Use batteries as instructed, avoid overcharging, and store them properly to prevent accidents.
- Prime new coils and ensure your tank is filled to avoid unpleasant dry hits.
- Choose a nicotine strength that matches your preferences and needs to avoid overuse or dissatisfaction.
- Learn the correct inhalation technique for your device (Mouth-to-Lung or Direct-to-Lung) for a smoother experience.
Vape Kit Mistakes
Using The Wrong Device For Your Vaping Style
A lot of new vapers dive straight into it before researching the best device for their needs, which can result in choosing the wrong kit for their vaping style.
For instance, if you’re after a cigarette-like draw, a low-resistance sub ohm kit won’t provide the experience you’re looking for.
On the other hand, if you’re chasing large vapour clouds, an MTL (Mouth To Lung) device like a pod vape or starter kit won’t meet your expectations — you’ll want to opt for a sub ohm kit that supports DTL (Direct To Lung) vaping.
Getting An Advanced Vape Device Straight Away
A big vaping mistake that newbies when make when getting started is getting a kit that’s too complex for their level of vaping experience.
This isn’t helped by the fact that some shops will try and up-sell you pricey, high-end vape mods and advanced sub ohm kits.
For newbies, the ideal device is one that’s easy to use, offers a draw similar to a cigarette, and provides a satisfying throat hit.
A starter kit is the perfect choice for beginners. These kits are typically small, compact, and often feature automatic draw activation, making them incredibly user-friendly.
Another great option is a device that can be upgraded by simply changing the coil. This allows you to start with a tight, cigarette-like draw and later transition to a looser draw with more vapour, offering flexibility as your vaping preferences evolve.
Using The Wrong Charger
Vapes should be charged using a 1A outlet to ensure that the battery is not exposed to excessive power, which can lead to damage.
Be cautious when using phone chargers, gaming consoles, or other high-power outlets, as these can output up to 5A.
Charging your e-cigarette with such powerful outlets can degrade the battery over time, causing it to hold less charge and, eventually, fail to retain any power at all.
Letting Your Battery Drain
As a beginner, it’s easy to overlook the importance of staying prepared, but the last thing you want to do is ask a friend or some randomer for a cigarette because your vape ran out of power and you’re craving some nicotine.
Charge your device as frequently as possible, and always monitor its battery life to ensure it stays charged and to avoid any interruptions. Generally speaking, vape devices last longer when kept at a charge level between 20% and 80%.
If you have a mod that uses removable vape batteries, it’s alsways handy to carry a spare just in case.
Forgetting To Replace Coils
Unfortunately, vape coils don’t last forever. If you have a kit that uses removable coils, it’s important that you replace them regularly.
Over time, e-liquid residue—commonly referred to as ‘gunk’—builds up on the coil. When this buildup becomes significant, it starts to burn, producing an unpleasant burnt taste or dry hit when you vape. This burnt taste will persist until the coil is replaced.
Gunk forms faster if you use sweeter vape juices, as the sweeteners don’t vapourise completely and leave deposits on the coil.
If you notice a decline in the flavour of your e-liquid or observe that the cotton in the coil has darkened, it’s a clear sign that it’s time to replace your coil.
Taking Harder Puffs For More Vapour
When you inhale harder on a cigarette, it burns faster, producing more smoke. However, vapes function quite differently, and taking a harder puffs only lead to a burnt coil, not larger clouds.
If you want to increase vapour production, there are a few adjustments you can make. Start by fully opening the airflow on your device to allow more air to pass through.
Using a lower resistance coil can also enhance vapour production, as they’re designed for higher vapour production.
Additionally, if your device allows it, you can raise the power setting to achieve thicker, denser clouds. These changes can help you customise your vape without damaging your coil.
Keeping Your Vape Device In Your Pocket
Generally speaking, we recommend that you avoid carrying your vape around in your pocket, and instead go for something like a dedicated carrier or case to transport it in.
While many of these devices are very pocket-friendly (especially pod kits and vape pens), improper transportation can cause the tank to leak and may result in the device being accidentally turned on.
This not only drains the battery but also burns out the coil faster and increases the risk of it overheating. If you carry spare batteries for your device, never store them loosely in your pocket. Loose vape batteries can short-circuit if they come into contact with metal objects like keys.
This can cause them to vent hot gases or, in extreme cases, explode. Proper storage in a battery case is essential for safety.
Not Cleaning Your Device And Components
Keeping your vape clean is essential to ensure a pleasant vaping experience and avoid any unpleasant tastes. Regular maintenance of your kit’s components is key to optimal performance.
It’s especially important to clean your pod or tank when switching vape juices to prevent flavours from mixing, which can compromise the taste. Regular cleaning not only preserves flavour quality but also helps extend the life of your device and coil.
Storing Your Device In The Wrong Place
Storing your vape kit incorrectly may lead to some issues. For instance, if you’re using a sliding top fill tank then it’s best to keep your vape as upright as possible.
If it’s left on its side, then the tank could leak slightly. Also try to avoid extreme temperatures. Heat and cold can impact battery life so try to keep it off your window sill.
For best results, keep your vape in a cool and dark space away from direct sunlight.
Buying A Bad Quality Vape
It’s easy to understand how someone new to vaping might assume that all vapes are the same. For example, it’s not uncommon to think that a £5.00 vape pen with outdated technology sold at a corner shop is just as good as any other device.
However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Choosing the wrong vape can lead to a whole host of issues, including subpar performance, disappointing vapour production, ineffective nicotine delivery, and poor battery life.
The flavour quality can also suffer, coils may burn out quickly, or you might even end up with incompatible coils that don’t fit your device properly. These frustrations can make vaping far less enjoyable and effective than it should be.
Luckily, there’s no shortage of high-quality devices available from reputable manufacturers in the vaping industry like Uwell, OXVA, and Vaporesso.
These reputable manufacturers cater to a variety of preferences and budgets, ensuring that you can find a reliable and well-performing device, whether you’re just starting your vaping journey or looking to upgrade their current setup.
E-Liquid Errors
Starting With The Wrong Nicotine Strength
One of the most common vaping mistakes people make when it comes to their e-liquid, is starting with the wrong strength.
If you go for a strength that isn’t high enough to match your nicotine intake when you were smoking, you may find yourself vaping more frequently without ever feeling fully satisfied. This can lead to frustration and increase the likelihood of returning to cigarettes.
On the other hand, if you’re using a higher strength but it’s still not hitting the spot — or if you’re finding the throat hit too harsh — it might be worth trying nicotine salts.
Nic salts offer a smoother throat hit and quicker nicotine delivery, making them a great option for vapers seeking a more satisfying nicotine hit. Or, if you’re looking to reduce your intake, you could go for a nicotine-free e-liquid.
Buying E-Liquid In The Wrong VG/PG Ratio
Choosing the right VG:PG ratio is crucial to having an enjoyable vaping experience. Vape juice consists of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerine (VG), two colourless alcohols responsible for producing vapour.
PG is known for delivering a stronger throat hit and enhancing flavour, while VG is sweeter, thicker, and creates bigger clouds.
When starting out, a higher PG concentration —such as a 50/50 VG:PG blend— is typically recommended, whether that’s a nic salt or a freebase nicotine blend.
PG is better suited to the basic coils commonly found in starter devices, as its thinner consistency works more effectively with these setups.
Additionally, the throat hit provided by PG closely mimics the sensation of smoking a cigarette, making it a great choice for new vapers transitioning from smoking.
On the other hand, VG’s thicker consistency requires special coils to function properly, which are usually found in more advanced vaping devices.
Choosing the wrong e-liquid for your coil will result in a dry hit or burn taste, while also degrading the coil faster.
If you eventually decide to upgrade to larger devices and coils designed for sub ohm vaping, you may want to switch to an e-liquid with a higher VG ratio to fully enjoy the capabilities of your new setup
Not Priming Your Coil
One of the other most common mistakes made by vapers, is forgetting to prime their coils with e-liquid.
When you first fill a pod or install a new coil, it’s essential to give your e-liquid time to saturate the wicking material inside. Skipping this step means you’ll end up vaping burnt cotton, which is never pleasant. To prevent this, just let your pod or coil absorb the e-liquid for about 5-10 minutes before using it.
If you’re installing a new coil, you can also pre-prime it by adding a few drops of e-liquid directly to the exposed cotton in the centre before inserting it into the tank. This ensures the wick is fully saturated and ready for use.
Additionally, it’s just as important to let your coil soak for a few minutes if you’ve topped up your pod or tank after it’s been emptied. This extra care ensures a smoother vaping experience and prevents any burnt hits.
Filling Your Pod Or Tank Incorrectly
While pods and tanks have become increasingly easy to fill, one thing you’ll want to keep in mind is to avoid getting vape juice down the centre tube.
Many modern vape pods have an easy top-filling design, featuring a filling-hole at the top for you to put your e-liquid in.
As always, if you’re unsure, check the product description or user manual of your pod or tank for specific instructions on how to refill it.
Waiting Too Long To Stock Up On Vape Juice, Pods And Coils
There’s nothing more frustrating than reaching for a fresh bottle of liquid, only to realise you’ve run out. The sames goes for your pods, tanks and coils, you don’t want to be caught short!
Keeping your vaping supplies well-stocked is essential to avoid any last-minute panic or the hassle of searching for your favourite flavour in a hurry.
A little planning ensures you’ll always have your preferred e-liquids, pods and coils on hand, making your vaping experience smooth and stress-free.
Not Keeping Hydrated
PG (propylene glycol) and VG (vegetable glycerine), the key components of e-liquid, are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture when you exhale.
While this might sound concerning, the most it’s likely to cause is a bit of dry mouth. To stay comfortable, simply keep a drink nearby while vaping to stay hydrated and you’ll be good to go. Avoiding chain vaping will help too.
Summary
Like any new habit, vaping comes with a learning curve. By being mindful of common vaping mistakes
— such as improper coil maintenance or incorrect nicotine strengths — you can enhance your vaping experience while ensuring safety and device longevity.
Remember to stay informed about your device’s functionality, regularly clean and maintain your equipment, and choose the right products that suit your preferences and needs.
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, avoiding these common mistakes will not only improve your overall experience but also save you time, money, and unnecessary frustration.
Vaping is about personalisation and enjoyment, so take the time to learn, experiment, and find what works best for you. By doing so, you’ll make vaping a safer, more satisfying part of your lifestyle.
And if you need any further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us!
