How Long Do Vape Coils Last? - Avoid Burnt Flavors

Frustrated by frequent coil replacement and burnt hits?

Vape coils usually last 1 to 2 weeks, but the exact time frame depends on how much you use your vape and the kind of e-liquids you choose.

To help your vape coils last more than a week, you can try these tips:

• Proper priming of vape coils
• Use the correct e-liquids ratio
• Avoid added sweetened e-liquids
• Adjust device settings
• Avoid overheating
• Cleaning the vape regularly

There’s more to it than that. We will tell you how to spot when your vape coil is going bad and when it's time to replace it. You will even find a few tips to make your vape coil last longer in the very end. 

Understanding Vape Coil Lifespan

Before we talk about vape coils' lifespan, how about starting with a little introduction to what vape coils actually are and what they do? Here’s a quick rundown of the different parts of a vape and their functions.

What Is a Vape Coil?

A vape coil is basically the heating element in a vaping device. This little metal piece is what makes the vapor you inhale. 

It’s made up of a wire wrapped around a wick (typically made of cotton) that soaks up the e-liquid. 

When you use it, the coil heats up and turns the e-liquid into vapor, which you then inhale.

Types of Vape Coils:

The kind of vape coils you are using will decide how long it will stay with you. So,  the number of days of your coil lifespan and performance can depend on its type. 

Common materials include:

1. Kanthal: This kind of coil is pretty standard and doesn’t cost much. They're popular because they heat up consistently. You’ll usually find Kanthal coils and rebuildable atomizers in sub-ohm tanks.
2. Stainless Steel: Compared to Kanthal, this one has faster ramp-up times and better flavor reproduction. It also has a good temperature control system for vaping.
3. Ni200 Nickel: When it comes to keeping the temperature in check and standing up to corrosion, the Ni200 nickel coil has got you covered. Plus, it’s got super high thermal and electrical conductivity, which is great for your vaping device.
4. Titanium: Another way to handle temperature control vaping. , also known for its quick heating and excellent flavor.

Average Vape Coil Lifespan

The lifespan of a vape coil really depends on how often you use it and what kind of liquid you're working with. But if we’re talking averages, you can expect it to last about 1 to 2 weeks.

Factors influencing coil longevity:

1. Wattage Settings: When your vape devices are at a higher wattage, they generate more heat. The more heat, the more the coil starts to degrade within a few days. Similarly, lower-wattage devices have slow heating that extends coil life.
2. Frequency of Use: If you continuously vape throughout the day or more frequently, the coil will experience more wear and tear naturally.
3. Type of E-liquid: If your e-liquid contains high VG, the coil life will be cut short due to its thicker consistency. In addition, e-liquids with sweeteners can gunk up the coil faster.
4. Coil Material and Type: Another thing that affects how long a coil lasts is what it’s made of. Different materials can change how the coil is used, which can really cut down its lifespan.

Check Out Top 5 Longest Lasting Disposable Vape

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Vape Coil

You won’t see your vape stop working on a random day because the coil inside it has dried out. Multiple signs tell you that your coil is about to go out of use. 

Here are a few evident signs that give you a hint about replacing the coil as soon as possible.

Common Indicators of a Worn-Out Coil

1. Burnt Taste: This is the most prominent and first sign you will experience while inhaling your vape. You will get this acrid taste back of your throat that tastes really strange. This is a sign that says the coil is overheating and burning the e-liquid. It mainly happens when the cotton wick inside the coil deteriorates over time.
2. Decreased Vapor Production: As the coil ages with every use, it loses its ability to heat up the liquids more. You won’t feel much vapor in your mouth, and it’ll feel like you’re running out of e-liquid, even if you’re using the vape to the maximum wattage.
3. E-liquid Leaking or Spitting: If you experience any leakage out of the vaping tank, it might be telling you to check your vape coil. Leaking or spitting can happen when the coil is damaged or the wicking material is worn off. That's pretty much why the e-liquid leaks out of the airflow hole and ends up in your mouth.
4. Gurgling Sounds: If you’re hearing gurgling sounds from your vape, it usually means the coil is overloaded with e-liquid. This is also why your vape tastes different after a while. 

How to Check Coil Condition?

While not always visually apparent, here are some steps to inspect your coil:

1. Look for discoloration: Burnt coils have brown and black spots on them, and they smell terrible. They just look old and damaged, and that’s pretty much it.
2. Check for damage: Check the coil for any noticeable damage, such as cracks or breaks in the wire.
3. Examine the wicking: Next, check your coil wick to see if it has gone through any damage or defect on it.

Note: You may not always see visible clues when determining whether the vape coil is intact. Instead, try relying on the vape's performance to determine what is wrong. 

• Relatable Reads: How to Make a Disposable Vape Work After It Dies?

Tips to Extend Vape Coil Lifespan

The truth is that your vape coil will eventually give out, but you can take steps to avoid damaging it and make it last longer. By following a few simple tips, you can extend the life of your coil and enjoy your vaping experience more.

Proper Priming of Vape Coils

Priming is important when you are just starting to use the new coil. Proper priming will increase its performance and longevity. 

Let’s show you the step-by-step guide on how you can do it.

1. Saturate the cotton:

• Drip a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the cotton-wicking ports.
• The cotton has to be thoroughly saturated, not dripping.

2. Prime the coil:

• After saturating the cotton, give a few minutes for e-liquid to absorb properly.
• You can gently squeeze the cotton to help absorb the e-liquid evenly.

3. Initial vaping:

• Take a few dry puffs without activating the device
• The few dry puffs help the vape juice to be absorbed evenly throughout the coil
• Start with low wattage and gradually increase it to your desired settings

Why does priming prevent burnt hits?

1. Prevent dry burns: Before taking a hit, ensure the coil is soaked in e-liquid. This keeps the cotton safe from burning up, so you won’t taste any weird burnt flavors.
2. Even flavor distribution: Priming ensures the e-liquids sit in the coil evenly to keep the flavors more consistent.
3. Protects the coil: Priming saturated the cotton before hitting, preventing dry burns and helping to protect the coil from damage. 

Use Compatible E-Liquids

Although it is not often discussed, the amount of e-liquid used influences coil longevity. So, using the right e-liquids is essential.

1. PG/VG Balance:

• The VG and PG mix in your e-liquid affects how long your coil lasts. Going for higher  VG could end up clogging the wick or coil, which can mess with how your device works.

• Since higher VG creates more vapor, it can be harder on coils, particularly those with smaller wicking holes.

• Discussing the PG/VG ratio with the coil manufacturers or the seller is better to determine the ideal ratio.

2. Avoid Sweetened E-liquids:

• Sweet e-liquids can leave a sticky mess that clogs up the coil. This mess can reduce airflow and cause the coil to burn out way too soon.
• If you want sweeter flavors, use natural sweeteners or ones that are less prone to gunk buildup.

Relatable Read: How to Make Vape Juice: A DIY Guide for Beginners

Adjust Device Settings

You can save your coil more in a lifetime by adjusting a few settings in your vape device. And what are those? 

Here is it:

1. Recommended Wattage Ranges:

• You will see a recommended wattage range on the coil packaging, or the seller will tell you what wattage the vape device should be on.

• If you maintain the wattage range, the coil will be less prone to overheating and burning.

• Start at the lower end of the recommended wattage range and gradually increase it to the maximum range for your preferred vapor production and flavor.

2. Avoid Overheating:

• One of the significant reasons behind coil failure is overheating.

• Keep an eye out for the temperature of your coil and avoid prolonged vaping sessions at high wattage.

• You can use temperature control modes if your device has those features.

Clean Your Device Regularly

You probably already know this, but keeping your vape device clean is essential if you want it to last longer. Regular cleaning helps the vape and coil work better, plus it keeps the flavor tasting good and ensures everything's hygienic.

1. Benefits of cleaning tanks and device

• Cleaning the tank will remove any residue buildup that gathers from e-liquid to keep away the “ghost flavors.” It will allow you to enjoy the authentic flavor of your chosen e-liquids.

• If the tank is clean, you will experience better airflow, vapor production, and a smoother vaping experience.

• Regular cleaning wipes out all the gunk buildup on your coil. This will extend its lifespan and save you money in the long run.

• Cleaning your vaping device also removes bacteria and microorganisms that have gathered over time. It gives a hygienic vaping experience.

2. Suggested cleaning schedule

Daily	Wipe down the mouthpiece and the exterior of your device Use a damp cloth to remove dirt, dust, and fingerprints
Weekly	Disassemble your tank and clean all parts Use warm water, mild soap, a soft brush, or cotton swabsRinsee thoroughly and air dry them
Monthly	Use specialized vape tank cleaning solutions for deeper clean

Relatable Read: How to Clean a Vape? A Step-by-Step Guide You Need

Solutions for Burnt Flavors

Okay, if you are already getting a burnt taste from your vape, it is actually time to change the coil. But how about we see some solutions to deal with the taste while you find permanent solutions?

Quick Fixes for Burnt Hits

• Reduce wattage settings immediately. Yes, lowering the wattage will lower the heat on the coil. This will give the e-liquid some time to saturate the cotton.
• Take a few slow, dry puffs to make the e-liquid flow through the coil and re-saturate the cotton. Try avoiding chain vaping, as it dries out the coil much faster.

When to Replace the Coil?

• Even after priming and cleaning, if you still have a burnt taste in your throat, that’s a sign that you should replace the coil as soon as possible.
• Change the coil immediately if you see even higher wattage and it is not delivering an adequate amount of vapor than usual.
• Are you hearing gurgling sounds from the tank? It is a sign that your coil may have flooded or that the cotton has been damaged. 
• It is time for a replacement if you see any visible sign of wear and tear or burnt cotton. 

Importance of Keeping Spare Coils

• Having spare coils on hand will ensure continuity in your vaping session by quickly replacing the burnt coil.
• You won't have to interrupt your vaping session while waiting for a new coil to arrive.
• It will prevent the frustration of waiting for a new coil to arrive. You will enjoy the experience without the hassle of waiting for replacements.

Check out: How To Fix A Burnt Coil In A Disposable Vape? - Learn The Tips & Tricks

Choosing the Right Vape Coil

You'll find vape coils made from different materials, each with its own perks. So, how do you decide which one to go for? Here are the common coil types and their advantages: 

Coil	Coil Material	Benefits
Kanthal Coils	An iron-chromium-aluminium alloy	Budget-friendly Ideal for beginner Durable and resistant to oxidation Versatile or different setups Consistent and smooth vaping
Stainless Steel	A mix of iron and chromium	Temperature control and wattage mode More customization options Provides a clean flavor Better longevity
Nickel (Ni200)	Pure nickel wire	Temperature control (TC) mode Smooth and clean flavor Precise temperature regulation Prevents dry hits
Titanium Coils	Pure titanium wire	Durable Heats up faster Offers a unique taste and smooth vapor quality Resistant to oxidation
Ceramic coils	Porous ceramic	Smooth and pure flavor Longer lifespan More durable and resistant to wear Even heat distribution

Mesh vs. regular coils: Which lasts longer?

Mesh Coils	Regular Coils
Mesh-like wire structure Larger surface area Lasts longer than regular coils Prevents hotspots and coil burning Better flavor and vapor production	Round wire structure Smaller surface area Burns out faster than Mesh coils Potential to hotspots and quicker degradation Satisfying hit but may not offer the same flavor or vapor production level as mesh coils.

Recommended Vape Coils for Longevity

You can choose from these options, which are well-known for offering long-lasting coils. We would suggest you try them, you won’t be disappointed.

• Vaporesso: Vaporesso GT Core Replacement Coils | 3 Pack
• SMOK: SMOK RPM 3 Coils for Nord 5 (5 Pack)
• GeekVape: Geek Vape Z Series Coils | 5-Pack

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you replace vape coils?

Depending on your usage and e-liquid type, you might need to replace your vape coil in 1 to 2 weeks. 

What causes vape coils to burn out quickly?

The three most common reasons for vape coil burnout are high wattage, dry hits, and sweetened e-liquid.

How can I tell if my vape coil needs replacing?

You will taste burnt flavor, experience reduced vapor production, hear a gurgling sound, and see visible damage on the vape device.

Does e-liquid type affect coil lifespan?

Higher VG and added sweeteners in e-liquid can cause gunk to build up on the coil, which causes it to wear out faster.