Don’t Get Zapped: Common Vaping Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Vaping has exploded in popularity, offering a less harmful alternative for many who want to move away from traditional cigarettes. But like any burgeoning trend, it comes with its own set of pitfalls. From burnt coils to disappointing flavor, many vapers, especially newcomers, find themselves making common mistakes that can mar their experience.

Don’t let a few missteps turn you off to vaping! Understanding these common errors and how to sidestep them can significantly enhance your enjoyment and ensure you’re getting the most out of your device.

1. The Priming Fiasco: Haste Makes Burnt Coils

This is perhaps the most common and frustrating mistake for new  iget vape. You’ve just got your new coil, filled your tank, and you’re eager to take that first puff. Hold on! If you don’t allow sufficient time for your e-liquid to saturate the wicking material inside the coil, you’re in for a nasty surprise: a “dry hit” and a burnt coil. This tastes absolutely terrible and renders your brand-new coil unusable.

How to avoid it: Always “prime” your coils. After installing a new coil and filling your tank, let it sit for at least 5-10 minutes (some thicker e-liquids might need a bit longer). You can also gently take a few “primer puffs” without firing the device to help draw the e-liquid into the coil. Some experienced vapers even put a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the exposed cotton of the coil before installing it. Patience here is key!

2. Ignoring E-Liquid VG/PG Ratios: The Wrong Mix for Your Device

E-liquids come in various ratios of Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG). PG is thinner and carries flavor more effectively, while VG is thicker and produces larger clouds. The mistake? Using an e-liquid with a high VG content in a device designed for thinner e-liquids (often MTL – Mouth-to-Lung – devices with smaller coils).

How to avoid it: Understand your device and its recommended e-liquid viscosity. Pod systems and MTL tanks generally perform best with 50/50 PG/VG or higher PG ratios. Sub-ohm tanks and direct-to-lung (DTL) devices, with their larger wicking ports, can handle higher VG e-liquids (e.g., 70/30 VG/PG or 80/20 VG/PG). Using the wrong ratio can lead to dry hits, poor flavor, and a significantly shortened coil lifespan.

3. Vaping on a Near-Empty Tank: Sucking Air, Not E-Liquid

We’ve all been there – you’re engrossed in something, and you take a puff only to realize your tank is practically empty. Vaping on a near-empty tank is akin to dry hitting. The coil isn’t adequately saturated, leading to a burnt taste and coil degradation.

How to avoid it: Regularly check your e-liquid level. Make it a habit to glance at your tank before you take a puff, especially if you’ve been vaping for a while. Top up your tank when the e-liquid level gets low. Most tanks have a clear window, making this an easy check.

4. Over-tightening Your Atomizer/Tank: The Stripped Thread Nightmare

It’s tempting to really wrench down on your tank to ensure a good connection and prevent leaks. However, over-tightening can strip the threads on your device or tank, making it difficult to open, causing poor connections, and potentially rendering parts unusable.

How to avoid it: Hand-tighten your atomizer or tank. It just needs to be snug enough to make a good connection and prevent leaks. There’s no need to apply excessive force. If you’re struggling with leaks, the issue is more likely related to worn O-rings or incorrect coil installation, not a lack of brute strength.

5. Neglecting Coil Replacement: The Fading Flavor Blues

Coils don’t last forever. Over time, the wicking material gets gunked up with e-liquid residue, and the coil wire degrades. If you keep vaping on a worn-out coil, you’ll experience diminished flavor, reduced vapor production, and eventually, a burnt taste.

How to avoid it: Pay attention to the signs. If your e-liquid starts to taste muted, different, or slightly burnt, it’s time for a new coil. Vapor production decreasing is another clear indicator. The lifespan of a coil varies depending on vaping habits and e-liquid type, but generally, expect to change them every 1-2 weeks. Darker, sweeter e-liquids tend to shorten coil life.

6. Incorrect Wattage Settings: Too Hot, Too Cold, Just Right?

Many advanced vaping devices allow you to adjust the wattage. Too low, and you’ll get weak vapor and poor flavor. Too high, and you risk burning your coil, getting dry hits, and a harsh vape.

How to avoid it: Most coils have a recommended wattage range printed on them or in the packaging. Start at the lower end of this range and gradually increase it until you find your preferred balance of flavor and vapor. If you taste even a hint of burning, lower the wattage immediately.

7. Poor Battery Care: The Unsung Hero of Your Vape

Your battery is the powerhouse of your device. Neglecting it can lead to poor performance, shortened lifespan, and in rare cases, safety issues. Common mistakes include overcharging, using damaged batteries, or not understanding battery safety.

How to avoid it:

• Charge responsibly: Use the charger that came with your device or a reputable external charger. Avoid leaving batteries charging overnight or unattended.
• Inspect for damage: Regularly check your battery wraps for tears or damage. A damaged wrap can lead to a short circuit.
• Store safely: If you carry spare batteries, use proper battery cases to prevent them from coming into contact with metal objects (keys, coins) which can cause a short.
• Don’t over-discharge: Recharge your batteries before they are completely depleted.

The Takeaway

Vaping, when done correctly, can be a satisfying and enjoyable experience. By being aware of these common pitfalls and taking the simple steps to avoid them, you’ll not only save yourself frustration and money but also unlock the full potential of your vaping journey. Happy vaping!