Maintaining your vape kit is key to ensuring a consistent and enjoyable experience, and one of the most important aspects is knowing when to replace your pod or coil. While it largely depends on your vaping habits, most users find themselves needing a replacement every 1–2 weeks. So, if you’ve ever found yourself asking, ‘How do I know when my pod or coil needs changing?’, we’ve got the info you’re looking for.
What are coils and why should you replace them?
The coil is the heart of your vape device. It’s a small wire wrapped in a cotton wick that heats up to vaporise your e-liquid. Over time, the constant heating and cooling, along with residue from the liquid, clogs the wick and reduces efficiency. Pods, which often come with built-in coils, work in the same way—when the coil inside wears out, the entire pod needs replacing.
This wear and tear is unavoidable, but staying vigilant about your coil’s performance will help you know when it’s time for a fresh one. Regular replacement ensures better flavour, vapour production, and overall satisfaction.
Key signs your coil needs replacing
- Less vapour output Noticing a lack of clouds? If your vapour production has dropped significantly compared to what you’re used to, it’s a clear sign your coil is struggling. Even if your device is functioning properly, an old or worn-out coil can’t deliver the same performance.
- Burnt taste A burnt or charred flavour is a tell-tale sign your coil is past its prime. While occasional dry hits can occur if your e-liquid runs low or you’re puffing too quickly, a persistent burnt taste points to a coil that’s no longer working as it should. Replace it immediately to avoid spoiling your vaping experience.
- Leaking or excess gurgling If your tank is leaking or you hear gurgling noises during use, it might be more than just an assembly issue. A worn coil can disrupt the balance of your vape’s airflow, leading to leaks or strange sounds. If you’ve ruled out other potential causes, swapping in a fresh coil is the next step.
- Muted flavour Has your favourite e-liquid started tasting bland? Over time, residue builds up in the cotton wick, muting the flavours you’re used to. If your vape juice isn’t delivering the punch it once did, it’s likely time for a coil change. A fresh coil can bring back the vibrant flavours you love.
- General wear and tear Sometimes, you might not notice any glaring signs, especially if you’re new to vaping. However, coils naturally degrade over time. If it’s been a couple of weeks since you last replaced yours, it’s worth installing a new one to restore optimal performance—you’ll often notice an immediate improvement.
Can you extend the lifespan of your pods or coils?
Yes, with a little care, you can extend the lifespan of your coil or pod:
- Choose the Right E-Liquid: Sweetened e-liquids can clog coils quickly. While that sugary doughnut flavour might be tempting, it can burn out a coil in days. Opt for e-liquids with less sweetener if you want your coils to last longer.
- Prime Your Coil: Before using a new coil, add a few drops of e-liquid directly to the cotton and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps the wick saturate fully, avoiding dry hits that can damage your coil.
- Avoid Chain Vaping: Give your coil a chance to re-saturate between puffs to prevent the cotton from burning.
- Maintain Your Device: Regularly clean your tank to prevent residue build-up that could shorten the life of your coil.
When to replace your vape pod or coil
Knowing when to replace your pod or coil is essential for maintaining the quality of your vaping experience. Keep an eye out for changes in flavour, vapour production, and overall performance. With a bit of care, you can make your coils last longer and enjoy a smoother vape.
When in doubt, swapping to a fresh coil can reinvigorate your device and deliver the performance you’ve been missing. Happy vaping!
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