Alright, let’s talk coils. You’ve probably had those moments where you’re vaping and it just ain’t right. The flavour’s off, the clouds are thin, and you’re starting to wonder if your vape is possessed. Well, more often than not, the culprit is a just worn-out coil.
In this guide, I’m going to break down everything you need to know about vape coils. We’ll talk about how to spot a bad one, how often you should replace it, and how to do it yourself. So, pop a squat and let’s get to it!
Understanding Coils
First things first, what even is a coil? Think of it as the heart of your vape. It’s where the magic happens – the e-liquid is heated, turning it into those lovely clouds we all love.
There are a few different types of coils out there:
- Sub-ohm coils: These bad boys are designed for high wattage vaping and produce massive clouds.
- Rebuildable coils: For the DIY enthusiasts, these coils let you build your own resistance.
- Pre-made coils: The easiest option, these coils come ready to go.
Signs of a Worn-Out Coil
So, how do you know if your coil is on its last legs? Here are a few telltale signs:
- Burnt taste: This is a pretty obvious one. If your vape tastes like burnt toast instead of ‘Strawnana Kiwi Dream’, it’s time for a new one.
- Reduced vapour production: If those huge clouds are starting to shrink, don’t worry, it’s not old age – your coil is the problem.
- Leaking e-liquid: If your vape is starting to leak, it could be a sign that your coil is damaged. Avoid those chest spills, looking like you’re incapable of drinking properly and replace it.
- Gurgling sounds: Getting funny looks from a bus load of people as you head to town on your way to the vape shop? Gurgling sounds are usually caused by e-liquid leaking into the coil. Don’t be that guy!
- Weak battery life: If your battery seems to be draining faster than your bank account, it could be because your coil is working harder to produce vapour.
Factors Affecting Coil Lifespan
How long your coil lasts depends on a few different factors:
- E-liquid type and viscosity: Thicker e-liquids can clog coils more easily, so they might need replacing more often.
- Wattage settings: Vaping at higher wattages can shorten coil lifespan.
- Inhaling style: Mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping is generally easier on coils than direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping.
- Coil quality and materials: Some coils are simply better made than others.
- Cleaning and maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend the life of your coils.
Recommended Replacement Frequency
There’s no hard and fast rule for how often you should replace your coil. It depends on all the factors we just talked about. However, here are some general guidelines:
- Sub-ohm coils: These coils tend to last for around 1-2 weeks of regular use.
- Rebuildable coils: With proper care, rebuildable coils can last for several weeks or even months.
- Pre-made coils: The lifespan of pre-made coils varies depending on the brand and type but you can usually expect anywhere from 2-4 weeks.
Coil Replacement Process
Replacing your coil is pretty straightforward. Here’s a basic guide:
- Turn off your vape. This is important for safety.
- Remove the old coil. Unscrew the old coil from your atomizer.
- Clean the atomizer. Use a cotton swab to clean the atomizer or run it under some lukewarm water, if it’s disconnected from the device/battery.
- Install the new coil. Once everything’s dry, screw the new coil into the atomizer.
- Prime the coil. Fill the tank or douse the coil with liquid and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Vape! You’re ready to go!
