Vape Coil Guide: How Long Do Vape Coils Last?

If you’re asking “how long do vape coils last”, expect an average of one to two weeks. But factors like your vaping habits, e-liquid choice, and power settings can alter that lifespan. This article will dive into those elements, giving you the insights to get the most out of your vape coils.

How long do vape coils last?

It’s a question that plagues the mind of every vaper at some point: “How long do vape coils last?” The truth is, not all vape coils are created equal, and their lifespan can vary dramatically. From the moment you install a new coil into your vape tank, a clock starts ticking. The life of your vape coil depends on a myriad of factors, and understanding these can mean the difference between a satisfactory vape and a subpar one.

Let’s peel back the layers and explore what determines the lifespan of these miniature marvels that make vaping possible.

Average Lifespan

So, what’s the average lifespan of a vape coil? While a definitive answer is elusive, most vapers can expect their coils to last somewhere between one to two weeks. Although, not all vape coils last exactly the same amount of time.

Direct to Lung (DTL) coils, which cater to those seeking voluminous vapor, typically endure a similar one to two-week timeframe when paired with balanced 50/50 liquids. Restrictive Direct to Lung (RDTL) and Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) coils, which offer a more controlled inhalation akin to traditional smoking, also share this approximate weekly to biweekly longevity.

Factors Affecting Lifespan

Several factors can play a role in either shortening or extending coil life, with the composition of your vape juice being a significant player. To extend coil life, be mindful of the e-liquids you choose. Sweetened e-liquids may tempt your taste buds, but they also tend to leave behind a sugary residue that can take a toll on your coil, accelerating its retirement.

Additionally, your vaping habits, much like any other routine, come with consequences. The more often you vape, the more strain you put on your coil, leading to a quicker decline in its performance and, ultimately, its lifespan. High wattage settings can also turn up the heat on your coils, pushing them beyond their limits and into the realm of early deterioration.

It’s a delicate balance of chemistry, frequency, and power that dictates the longevity of your vaping companion and ensures optimal vaping performance.

How to Prolong Vape Coil Life

Now, onto one of the most critical aspects of coil care: extending coil life. Imagine the satisfaction of savouring your favourite vape flavours for longer, with fewer interruptions to change coils. It’s not just a dream; with a few mindful practices, you can indeed extend the life of your vape coils, ensuring a better vaping experience. From the way you prime your new coil to how you manage your vape device’s power settings, each action can contribute to a longer-lasting coil.

Let’s unlock the secrets to longevity and get the most out of every puff.

Proper Priming

First things first: priming your vape coil is akin to warming up before a workout—it prepares your coil for optimal performance. A properly primed coil has a fully saturated wick, which prevents the dreaded burnt taste and reduces the strain on the coil.

And once you’ve allowed the coil to soak in its e-liquid, start at a lower wattage and gradually ascend to your desired power level. For those using mesh coils, this initial care is essential, as it lays the foundation for a longer coil lifespan.

Wattage Management

Wattage management is another cornerstone of coil longevity. Respecting the recommended wattage not only ensures your coil’s efficiency but its continued existence too. Matching the resistance of your coil to the wattage of your vape kit is a safeguard against unwanted leaks and a guarantee of a well-tended coil.

Overzealous power settings can tempt fate, leading to premature burnout and a diminished lifespan for your coil. Sticking to the coil’s optimum range can spare you from the unpleasantness of dry hits, preserving both the coil and your vaping pleasure.

Lower wattage settings put less strain on the coils, granting them a reprieve from the intense heat that can shorten their life. Mesh coils, in particular, shine in this regard, as they require less power to achieve the same vapor production as their single-coil counterparts, thus extending both coil and battery life.

E-Liquid Selection

The e-liquid you choose is not just about flavour—it’s a pivotal decision that impacts how long vape coils last. Those sweet, dessert-like e-juices might be a treat for your taste buds, but they’re also a feast for gunk build-up on your coil, leading to a faster decline and more frequent replacements.

Opting for clear e-liquids, or those with less sweetener, can be a strategic move, sparing your coil the sticky residue and granting it a more extended lease on life. So, while the temptation of a rich, sweet vape might be strong, remember that your coil’s longevity and your vaping experience are at stake.

When to Replace Your Vape Coil

Even with the best care, there comes a time when every vape coil must retire. Recognizing the signs that it’s time for a coil change is crucial to maintaining your vaping device’s optimal performance. From the unmistakable taste of a burn to the frustrating decrease in vapor production, these symptoms are your cue to swap out the old for the new.

Let’s delve into these indicators so you can stay ahead of the curve and keep your vaping experience fresh and satisfying.

My Vape Coil Tastes Burnt

Perhaps the most obvious sign that your coil has reached its end is the infamous burnt taste. This acrid flavour is a clear indication that the wicking material within the coil has succumbed to the heat and can no longer perform its duties. If every inhalation brings a harsh and unpleasant taste, it’s a red flag that your coil is charred and in dire need of replacement.

Overheating or improper priming might be the culprits behind this burnt offering, and recognizing vape coils burn is your signal to take action. Continuing to vape with a burnt coil not only sours the experience but can also damage your device, so don’t hesitate to make the change.

Decreased Vapor Production

A subtle yet significant sign of coil wear is a drop in vapor production. When clouds begin to wane, it’s a hint that the coil may be losing its touch with age. If your once bountiful vapor has become a mere wisp, it suggests that the coil is no longer heating the e-liquid effectively, signalling the need for a new recruit.

This reduction in output can be due to build-up or simple wear and tear, but regardless of the cause, it’s a tell-tale sign that it’s time for a coil change.

My Vape Is Leaking/ Gurgling

Another indicator that your coil may be past its prime is the presence of leaks or gurgling sounds. Leaking can stem from a deteriorated wick or a compromised seal, both of which are often the result of coil issues. If you hear gurgling, it’s usually because excess liquid has found its way into the central airflow tube, a mishap that can occur when the coil isn’t functioning as it should.

These sounds and spills are more than just annoyances; they’re signals from your vape device that it’s time for a coil inspection and, potentially, a replacement.

Choosing and Maintaining Quality Coils

Selecting the right vape coil is as important as knowing when to replace it. Quality coils can make or break your vaping experience, both in terms of flavour and how long your coils last. By choosing reputable manufacturers and adhering to a routine of regular maintenance, you can ensure that your coils perform at their best for as long as possible.

Let’s explore how to pick the coils that will elevate your vaping sessions and how to keep them in tip-top shape.

Reputable Manufacturers

The quest for the perfect vape begins with a quality coil, and that means turning to reputable manufacturers. High-quality coils from trusted sources not only promise compatibility with your device but also deliver a consistent and reliable performance. These pre-made coils undergo stringent quality control, which is your assurance of a dependable vaping experience.

Investing in replaceable coils from well-known manufacturers is investing in your vaping journey’s future, ensuring each puff is as good as the last.

Mesh Coils

The larger surface area of mesh coils allows for enhanced contact with e-liquid, yielding improved vapor and a more satisfying flavour profile. As the new vape coil heats, the even heat distribution also means fewer dry hits and a more consistent vaping experience.

Thanks to the flat metallic mesh design, mesh coils enjoy a longer lifespan, which can lead to fewer replacements and cost savings over time.

Regular Cleaning

To maintain the optimal performance of your coils, regular cleaning is essential. This routine helps remove any accumulated residue and gunk, allowing the coil to function at its best.

It’s also important to clean the vape tank or pod when replacing the coil, as this contributes to the coil’s longevity and ensures a pure and enjoyable vaping experience.

Troubleshooting Common Coil Issues

Let’s look at some solutions to the most frequent coil conundrums.

Dry Hits

Dry hits are the bane of any vaper’s existence, often leading to a burnt taste and an unpleasant vaping experience. To prevent this, it’s important to keep the wick well-soaked with e-liquid, allowing the coil to re-saturate after a dry hit before taking another puff.

Mesh coils are particularly effective in preventing dry hits due to their even heating, which helps maintain consistent saturation of the wicking material. If you do experience a dry hit, giving the coil time to absorb more e-liquid before resuming vaping can help fix the burnt taste and avoid further issues.

Chain Vaping

Chain vaping, or taking multiple successive hits from a vape device, can put undue stress on your coils, leading to a reduced lifespan. Some vapers might chain vape in pursuit of a stronger throat hit or a more intense nicotine rush. However, the continuous use generates more heat, which can quickly burn out the coil.

Furthermore, chain vaping doesn’t give the wick enough time to re-saturate with e-liquid, resulting in dry hits and potential damage to the coil. If a burnt taste becomes a frequent unwelcome guest, it might be time to consider your vaping habits and how they’re impacting your coil’s health.

Summary

In conclusion, the lifespan of your vape coil depends on many factors— from the type of e-liquid you use to how you prime your coil and power your device. By understanding and managing these factors, you can significantly extend the life of your vape coils and enjoy a better vaping experience.

Regular maintenance and choosing quality coils, especially those made by reputable manufacturers or opting for mesh coils, can also play a pivotal role in the longevity of your vaping device. Stay vigilant for signs of wear, such as a burnt taste or decreased vapor production, and remember that regular cleaning can go a long way in preserving your coils. Empower yourself with this knowledge, and you’ll be sure to have a more enjoyable and cost-effective vaping journey.

Need something answering? Many more helpful beginner guides can be found at the Vapour Hut.

Frequently Asked Questions