Vaping is a great alternative to traditional smoking, offering more control over nicotine intake, a variety of flavors, and a smoother experience overall. But like anything new, it takes some time to get right. If you’ve ever had a harsh hit, dealt with a leaking device, or felt like you’re just not getting the best flavor, you’re not alone. Many new (and even experienced) vapers make common mistakes that can impact their overall experience. The good news? They’re all easy to fix! Let’s go over some of the most frequent vaping missteps and how to avoid them so you can get the best experience possible.
1. Using the Wrong Nicotine Strength
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One of the biggest advantages of vaping is the ability to customize your nicotine intake. But if you’re using the wrong strength, it can completely change your experience.
- Too high? You might experience a harsh throat hit, dizziness, or even nausea.
- Too low? You might find yourself vaping excessively without feeling satisfied.
How to avoid it: If you’re transitioning from smoking to your first vape, start with a nicotine level that matches your previous intake. Heavy smokers may prefer higher strengths, while casual smokers or social vapers may need something lower. If you’re using a sub-ohm device, keep in mind that these are designed for lower nicotine levels because they produce more vapor.
2. Chain Vaping Without Letting the Coil Rest
Taking puff after puff without a break might seem harmless, but it can quickly lead to dry hits—those awful burnt-tasting puffs that no vaper wants to experience.
Why does this happen? Your coil needs time to reabsorb e-liquid between hits. If you’re vaping too quickly, the wick dries out before it can saturate again, leading to that unpleasant burnt taste.
How to avoid it: Slow down between puffs, giving your coil time to reabsorb the liquid. If you find yourself chain vaping because your nicotine level is too low, consider increasing it slightly so you feel more satisfied with fewer puffs.
3. Not Priming a New Coil
Installing a new coil and immediately taking a hit is a mistake that many new vapers make, and it almost always results in a burnt taste from the start.
How to avoid it: Always prime your coil before use. This means adding a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the cotton in the coil before installing it. Then, once your tank is filled, let it sit for 5–10 minutes before taking your first puff. This ensures the wick is fully saturated and prevents burning right away.
4. Choosing the Wrong PG/VG Ratio
E-liquids come in different PG (propylene glycol) and VG (vegetable glycerin) ratios, and using the wrong one for your device can lead to weak flavor, harsh hits, or even gunked-up coils.
- High PG (50/50 or higher PG): Gives a stronger throat hit and more flavor but works best in lower-wattage devices and pod systems.
- High VG (70/30 or higher VG): Creates dense vapor and smoother hits but needs a powerful device (like a sub-ohm tank) to work properly.
How to avoid it: Check your device’s recommendations for PG/VG ratios and match your e-liquid accordingly. If you’re unsure, 50/50 is a safe middle ground for most pod systems, while 70/30 works well in more advanced setups.
5. Overfilling or Underfilling Your Tank
Filling your vape tank might seem simple, but overfilling or underfilling can both cause problems.
- Overfilling: This can lead to leaking, gurgling sounds, and even e-liquid spitting into your mouth.
- Underfilling: If your e-liquid level is too low, the wick may not be able to stay saturated, leading to dry hits.
How to avoid it: Fill your tank just below the max fill line, leaving a little space for air to help prevent leaks. Also, be sure to keep your device upright, as tilting it too much can cause leaks.
6. Not Cleaning Your Vape Regularly
Like any device, your vape needs maintenance. A dirty tank or coil can impact flavor, cause leaks, and even shorten the lifespan of your device.
How to avoid it: Make cleaning part of your routine. Rinse your tank with warm water every time you change flavors or at least once a week. If you notice a buildup of residue, soak it in warm water with a little dish soap, rinse thoroughly, and let it dry completely before refilling.
7. Using the Wrong Wattage for Your Coil
Each coil has a recommended wattage range, and vaping outside of that can cause issues like burnt coils, weak vapor production, or unnecessary battery drain.
How to avoid it: Always check the wattage range printed on your coil and stay within that range. If you’re using an adjustable wattage device, start at the lower end and gradually increase until you find the best balance of flavor and vapor.
8. Storing Your Vape Improperly
Where and how you store your vape can make a difference in its performance. Leaving it in extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or loose in a bag or pocket can cause leaks, battery damage, or even auto-firing.
How to avoid it: Keep your vape in a cool, dry place when not in use. If you’re carrying it in a bag or pocket, make sure it’s turned off to prevent accidental activation.
9. Ignoring Battery Safety
Vape batteries are powerful, and improper handling can be dangerous. Carrying loose batteries, using damaged wraps, or overcharging can lead to malfunctions.
How to avoid it: If your device has removable batteries, store them in a protective case rather than letting them roll around loose. Never use batteries with torn wraps, and avoid overcharging by unplugging your device once it’s fully charged.
10. Sticking to One Flavor for Too Long
If your favorite e-liquid suddenly starts tasting dull, you might be experiencing vaper’s tongue—a temporary condition where your taste buds get used to a flavor, making it less enjoyable.
How to avoid it: Switch up your flavors every now and then to keep things interesting. Drinking plenty of water and taking short breaks from vaping can also help refresh your taste buds.
Enjoy a Better Vaping Experience
Vaping is meant to be enjoyable, and avoiding these common mistakes can make all the difference. By choosing the right nicotine strength, using the correct PG/VG ratio, keeping your device clean, and following best practices, you can get the most out of your vape every time. Small adjustments can lead to a smoother, more flavorful experience—so keep these tips in mind and enjoy every puff!
Follow state and national laws for vaping age restrictions and locations.
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