Basic Vaping FAQs - All General Questions Covered

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General Vaping FAQ’s
What are the different types of vaping devices?

At ecigone, we stock several device categories to suit all vaping preferences:

  • Pod Systems: Compact, user-friendly devices that use replaceable pods. Perfect for beginners and on-the-go vaping. Available as both prefilled and refillable options.
  • Pen-Style Kits: Slim, cylindrical devices offering simplicity with slightly more battery capacity than pods.
  • Box Mods: Larger devices with external displays, adjustable settings, and longer battery life. Ideal for experienced vapers who want customisation.
  • AIO (All-In-One) Kits: Versatile systems that combine the convenience of pods with some of the features of more advanced devices.
  • Boro/Bridge Devices: Premium systems allowing for customisable builds and specialised vaping experiences.

Browse our complete collection of vape kits to find the perfect device for your needs.

What are the different vaping styles?

There are two main vaping styles, each offering a different experience:

  • MTL (Mouth to Lung): Similar to smoking a cigarette - vapour is drawn into the mouth first, then inhaled to the lungs. Uses higher resistance coils, tighter airflow, and typically higher nicotine strengths. Perfect for ex-smokers and those seeking stronger throat hit.
  • DTL (Direct to Lung): Similar to taking a deep breath - vapour is inhaled directly into the lungs. Uses lower resistance coils, wider airflow, and typically lower nicotine strengths. Creates larger clouds and often delivers more intense flavour.

At Ecigone, we clearly label our products so you can easily find devices suited to your preferred vaping style.

What is in e-liquid?

E-liquid (also called Vape Juice) typically contains four main ingredients:

  • Propylene Glycol (PG): Creates throat hit and carries flavour
  • Vegetable Glycerin (VG): Produces vapour clouds and adds sweetness
  • Flavourings: Food-grade additives that create various taste profiles
  • Nicotine (optional): Available in different strengths or nicotine-free

All e-liquids we stock at ecigone are TPD compliant and manufactured to strict quality standards, ensuring a safe and enjoyable vaping experience.

What is Propylene Glycol (PG)?

Propylene Glycol (PG) is a clear, odorless liquid that serves several important functions in e-liquid:

  • Creates the "throat hit" sensation similar to smoking
  • Effectively carries flavours, making them more pronounced
  • Thinner consistency that works well in higher resistance coils
  • Used widely in food products, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics

Higher PG liquids (50% PG or more) are ideal for mouth-to-lung vaping and pod systems. Some vapers may experience sensitivity to PG - if you notice irritation, consider trying a higher VG alternative from our extensive e-liquid collection.

What is Vegetable Glycerine (VG)?

Vegetable Glycerin (VG) is a thick, sweet liquid derived from plant oils that's responsible for:

  • Producing dense vapour clouds
  • Creating a smoother throat hit compared to PG
  • Adding a slight natural sweetness to e-liquid
  • Providing thicker consistency needed for sub-ohm vaping

Higher VG liquids (70% VG or more) work best in direct-to-lung devices with lower resistance coils. At ecigone, we stock e-liquids with various VG/PG ratios to suit all devices and preferences.

What is sub-ohm vaping?

Sub-ohm vaping refers to using devices with coils that have a resistance below 1.0 ohm. This style of vaping:

  • Produces significantly larger vapour clouds
  • Often delivers more intense flavour
  • Requires higher wattage and more battery power
  • Works best with high VG e-liquids (70% VG or higher)
  • Typically uses lower nicotine strengths (0-6mg)

Sub-ohm vaping is popular among experienced vapers looking for maximum flavour and cloud production. Check out our sub-ohm kits collection for devices specifically designed for this vaping style.

How do I prime a new coil?

Properly priming a new coil prevents dry hits and extends coil life:

  • Add a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the exposed cotton in the coil ports
  • Assemble your tank with the new coil and fill with e-liquid
  • Let it sit for 5-10 minutes (longer for higher VG liquids)
  • Start at a lower wattage than usual for the first few puffs
  • Gradually increase to your preferred wattage setting

Taking these extra few minutes to prime your coil properly will significantly improve its lifespan and your vaping experience.

How often should I change my coil?

Coil lifespan varies depending on several factors, but these signs indicate it's time for a change:

  • Burnt or unpleasant taste when vaping
  • Significantly reduced vapour production
  • Muted flavour compared to a fresh coil
  • Gurgling sounds or increased leaking
  • Visibly dark/burnt appearance of the coil

On average, coils last about 1-2 weeks for regular vapers. However, sweet e-liquids, higher wattages, and frequent use can shorten this timeframe. At ecigone, we stock replacement coils for all popular devices at competitive prices.

What is an e-cigarette?

An e-cigarette (also called a vape) is an electronic device that heats e-liquid to create an inhalable vapour. Unlike traditional cigarettes, vapes:

  • Don't involve combustion or burning tobacco
  • Don't produce tar or carbon monoxide
  • Allow you to control nicotine intake
  • Come in various styles, sizes, and capabilities
  • Offer a wide range of flavours beyond tobacco

From simple pod systems to advanced mods, ecigone offers the UK's largest selection of quality e-cigarettes to suit every preference and experience level.

What are the benefits of vapes versus regular cigarettes?

Vaping offers several advantages compared to smoking traditional cigarettes:

  • According to Public Health England, vaping is at least 95% less harmful than smoking
  • No combustion means no tar or carbon monoxide exposure
  • No lingering smoke smell on clothes, hair, or furnishings
  • Greater control over nicotine intake
  • Significantly cheaper in the long run
  • Wide variety of flavours and device options
  • Many users report improved breathing, taste, and smell after switching

While not completely risk-free, vaping represents a less harmful alternative for adult smokers looking to reduce their tobacco consumption.

What is an atomiser?

An atomiser is the component of a vaping device that turns e-liquid into vapour. It includes:

  • The coil (heating element)
  • Wicking material (usually cotton) that draws e-liquid to the coil
  • A housing structure (tank, pod, or dripper)
  • Connection points to deliver power from the battery

Different atomiser designs create different vaping experiences. At ecigone, we stock everything from simple pod atomisers to rebuildable tank atomisers (RTAs) for enthusiasts who want complete customisation.

What is a coil?

A coil is the heating element in your vaping device responsible for turning e-liquid into vapour:

  • Made of resistance wire (usually Kanthal, stainless steel, or nickel)
  • Surrounded by wicking material (typically cotton) that absorbs e-liquid
  • Available in different resistance ratings (measured in ohms)
  • Lower resistance (sub-ohm) coils produce more vapour but use more power
  • Higher resistance coils are more suitable for mouth-to-lung vaping

We stock a comprehensive range of replacement coils for all major brands and devices, ensuring you can always find what you need at ecigone.

What is the difference between 'mouth to lung' and 'direct to lung' vaping?

These two vaping styles offer distinctly different experiences:

Mouth to Lung (MTL):
  • Similar to smoking a cigarette - draw vapour into your mouth first, then inhale
  • Uses higher resistance coils (typically above 1.0 ohm)
  • Tighter airflow for a restricted draw
  • Works best with higher PG e-liquids (50/50 or higher PG)
  • Better suited for higher nicotine strengths
  • Provides stronger throat hit
Direct to Lung (DTL):
  • Similar to taking a deep breath - inhale vapour directly into lungs
  • Uses lower resistance coils (typically below 1.0 ohm)
  • Wide-open airflow for an airy draw
  • Works best with higher VG e-liquids (70% VG or higher)
  • Better suited for lower nicotine strengths
  • Produces larger vapour clouds

At ecigone, we clearly label which devices are designed for each style to help you choose the right equipment.

Which nicotine strength should I go for?

Selecting the right nicotine strength depends on your previous smoking habits:

  • Heavy smokers (20+ cigarettes daily): 18-20mg (or 20mg nic salts)
  • Regular smokers (10-20 cigarettes daily): 10-12mg
  • Light smokers (fewer than 10 daily): 3-6mg
  • Occasional smokers: 1.5-3mg
  • Non-smokers: 0mg (nicotine-free)

Sub-ohm vapers should use lower strengths (0-6mg) due to increased vapour production. If you're unsure, start with a higher strength and adjust downward. Our customer service team is always happy to provide personalized recommendations.

What PG/VG split do your e-liquids contain?

At ecigone, we stock e-liquids with various PG/VG ratios to suit different devices and preferences:

  • 50/50 PG/VG: Perfect for pod systems, MTL devices, and vapers seeking throat hit
  • 70/30 VG/PG: Ideal for sub-ohm tanks and cloud production while retaining flavour
  • 80/20 or 90/10 VG/PG: Maximum cloud production for high-powered devices
  • Nic Salts: Usually in 50/50 ratio for smooth nicotine delivery in pod systems

Each product listing on our website clearly displays the PG/VG ratio to help you make the right choice for your device.

How do I look after my battery?

Proper battery care ensures safety and extends the life of your device:

  • Don't leave charging devices unattended
  • Use the manufacturer's recommended charger
  • Don't expose batteries to extreme temperatures
  • Keep spare batteries in protective cases (never loose in pockets)
  • Replace batteries that show signs of damage (tears, dents)
  • Clean battery connections regularly with a cotton bud
  • For removable batteries, rewrap any that show damaged wrapping

For all devices purchased from ecigone, we include specific care instructions and offer a 90-day warranty on electronic components.

What vaping equipment do I need?

For a complete vaping setup, you'll need:

Essential Items:
  • A device/mod (the battery component)
  • A tank, pod, or atomiser (holds the e-liquid)
  • Coils (the heating element - most devices come with 1-2)
  • E-liquid (available in various flavours and strengths)
  • A charger (often included with the device)
Recommended Extras:
  • Spare coils (they need regular replacement)
  • Multiple e-liquid flavours (to avoid flavour fatigue)
  • Spare pods or tanks (for different e-liquids)
  • Battery cases (for devices with removable batteries)

As the UK's largest online vape shop, Ecigone offers complete starter kits that include everything you need to begin vaping, as well as all components individually as you expand your collection.

Switching From Smoking To Vaping FAQs
Is vaping actually safer than smoking?

Public Health England and the Royal College of Physicians state vaping is at least 95% less harmful than smoking. Vaping eliminates combustion, tar, carbon monoxide, and thousands of toxic chemicals created by burning tobacco. While not risk-free, it's dramatically safer than smoking. The NHS actively recommends vaping for smoking cessation.

What device should I start with as a smoker?

Start with a simple pod kit like the Vaporesso XROS 5 Mini or OXVA Xlim Go 2. They're mouth-to-lung devices that mimic cigarette draw, use 20mg nicotine salts for proper satisfaction, and cost under £20. Avoid complex mods initially - you want something that just works. Click button, inhale, that's it.

What nicotine strength replaces my cigarette habit?

20+ cigarettes daily: Start with 20mg nicotine salts. 10-20 cigarettes: Try 10-20mg salts. Under 10 cigarettes: 10mg should work. Social smokers: 5mg is plenty. You can always adjust - better to start higher and reduce than struggle with cravings and relapse. Nicotine salts satisfy faster than freebase nicotine.

Will vaping actually help me quit smoking?

NHS studies show smokers using vaping with support services have a 64% quit success rate - twice as effective as patches or gum. Vaping addresses both nicotine addiction and habitual hand-to-mouth action. Most successful quitters switch completely rather than dual-using. Give it two weeks full commitment before judging.

How much will I actually save switching to vaping?

The average UK smoker spends £4,000+ yearly. Vaping costs £400-600 yearly after initial setup. That's £3,400+ saved annually, or £280+ monthly. Initial kit costs £30, then £30-40 monthly for e-liquid and coils. Even premium vaping costs 80% less than smoking. Calculate your savings using your actual cigarette consumption.

Why does vaping feel different from smoking?

Vapor is cooler and moister than smoke, lacks the throat burn from combustion, and nicotine absorption is slightly slower (2-3 minutes versus instant with cigarettes). The satisfaction comes but feels cleaner. Most adapt within 3-7 days. Persist through the adjustment period - your body is detoxing from 7000+ cigarette chemicals.

Should I quit cigarettes completely or gradually reduce?

Research shows complete switching works better than dual-use. Continuing any cigarettes maintains addiction patterns and reduces health benefits. However, reducing is better than nothing. Most successful quitters switch completely from day one. Keep your vape handy for every craving - consistency is key.

What flavours work best for new switchers?

Tobacco flavours help initially but often disappoint as they don't taste like combustion. Menthol works well for menthol smokers. Most switchers quickly prefer fruits or desserts - they make vaping enjoyable rather than just nicotine replacement. Try sample packs to find your preferences. Don't force yourself to stick with tobacco flavours.

How long until I stop craving cigarettes?

Physical nicotine cravings reduce within 3-7 days if vaping adequate nicotine. Psychological habits take 2-4 weeks to break. Most ex-smokers report feeling "free" after one month. Morning cigarette and after-meal cravings last longest. Vape through every craving - consistency breaks the cycle faster.

Can I vape indoors where I couldn't smoke?

Legally yes in most UK spaces, but many venues ban vaping alongside smoking. Always check individual policies. Private homes, most offices, and some pubs allow it. Be considerate - not everyone appreciates clouds. Vaping leaves no lingering smell on clothes or furniture, unlike cigarettes.

Will I vape more often than I smoked?

Initially maybe, as you adjust to different nicotine delivery. Vaping absorbs slower so you might take more frequent puffs. This normalizes after 2-3 weeks. You'll likely vape less nicotine overall than you smoked. Track your e-liquid consumption - 2ml daily (40mg nicotine with 20mg liquid) equals a pack of cigarettes.

What mistakes do new vapers commonly make?

Using too-low nicotine strength causing cravings and relapse. Choosing complicated devices that frustrate them. Buying cheap, poor-quality products that leak or break. Not staying hydrated (vaping can dry your mouth). Giving up too quickly during the adjustment period. Start simple, use adequate nicotine, and buy quality products.

Is vaping as addictive as smoking?

Nicotine remains addictive, but vaping allows easier reduction over time. Without combustion chemicals, the addiction is cleaner. Many vapers successfully reduce from 20mg to 3mg to 0mg over months/years. Cigarettes contain MAOIs that enhance addiction - vaping doesn't. The physical addiction is actually easier to break.

Can I vape while pregnant?

NHS guidance states if you cannot quit nicotine completely, vaping is far less harmful than smoking during pregnancy. No smoking cessation method is risk-free when pregnant, but vaping eliminates carbon monoxide and thousands of toxins harmful to the baby. Discuss with your midwife - they increasingly support vaping over smoking.

Where can I get support for switching?

NHS Stop Smoking Services support vaping - find local services at nhs.uk/smokefree. Our live chat team (8am-8pm daily) includes ex-smokers who've successfully switched. Join UK vaping forums and Facebook groups for community support. Most vape shops offer switching advice. Don't struggle alone - support dramatically improves success rates.

Finding Your Perfect Vaping Style FAQs
What exactly is MTL (Mouth-to-Lung) vaping?

MTL means drawing vapour into your mouth first, then inhaling into your lungs - exactly like smoking a cigarette. Uses tighter airflow, higher resistance coils (0.8-1.8Ω), and 10-20W power. Produces modest clouds, intense flavour, and strong throat hit. Perfect for ex-smokers and discrete vaping. Most pod systems are MTL.

What is DTL (Direct-to-Lung) vaping?

DTL means inhaling vapour directly into lungs like taking a deep breath. Uses wide-open airflow, sub-ohm coils (0.15-0.5Ω), and 40-100W+ power. Produces massive clouds, warm vapor, and smooth inhale. Popular with hobbyists and cloud chasers. Requires more powerful devices and drinks e-liquid faster.

What's RDL (Restricted Direct-to-Lung) vaping?

RDL is the middle ground - direct lung inhale but with partially restricted airflow. Uses 0.5-0.8Ω coils at 20-40W. Produces moderate clouds with excellent flavour. Less intense than full DTL but more satisfying than MTL for some. Many modern tanks offer the RDL option through adjustable airflow.

Which style suits ex-smokers best?

MTL absolutely. It mimics cigarette draw, allows high nicotine for satisfaction, and feels familiar. Starting with DTL overwhelms most smokers - too much vapour, too smooth, doesn't satisfy cravings properly. You can explore other styles later, but begin with MTL for successful switching.

What devices work for MTL vaping?

Pod kits dominate: Vaporesso XROS series, OXVA Xlim range, Uwell Caliburn line. For tanks: Aspire Nautilus series, Innokin Zenith, Vaporesso GTX tanks. Look for devices under 30W with coils above 0.8Ω. Most are compact, simple, and perfect for beginners.

What devices suit DTL vaping?

You need sub-ohm tanks and powerful mods: Vaporesso Armour Max, GeekVape Aegis Legend 5, Voopoo Drag 5. Tank options: Geekvape Zeus Tank, Vaporesso iTank T, Voopoo Uforce-X. Minimum 60W capability, preferably dual battery mods for all-day power. Significantly larger than MTL setups.

Can one device do both MTL and DTL?

Some devices offer flexibility through multiple coil options or adjustable airflow, but they compromise both styles. The Vaporesso Armour G / GS or Voopoo Drag X3 / S3 can technically do both, but dedicated devices perform better. Most vapers end up with separate MTL and DTL setups.

What e-liquid suits MTL vaping?

50/50 PG/VG or 60/40 VG/PG blends work perfectly. Use 10-20mg nicotine salts or 6-18mg freebase nicotine. Bar salts (£1.99) are ideal - designed specifically for MTL pods. Thinner liquids wick properly in smaller coils. High VG liquids cause dry hits in MTL coils.

What e-liquid works for DTL vaping?

70% VG minimum, ideally 80/20 VG/PG for smooth clouds. Use 3-6mg freebase nicotine maximum - higher causes harsh throat hit with large vapor volume. Shortfills (50ml 0mg + nicotine shot) are economical for DTL. Thicker liquid prevents leaking in high-power coils.

What about RDL e-liquid requirements?

Flexible - 60/40 to 70/30 VG/PG works well. Nicotine between 6-10mg freebase or 10mg salts. Can use both MTL and DTL liquids depending on preference. This versatility makes RDL appealing for vapers wanting options without multiple devices.

Which style produces bigger clouds?

DTL produces 5-10x more vapor than MTL. DTL cloud size depends on device power, coil, and VG ratio. RDL sits between - noticeable clouds but not room-filling. MTL produces discrete vapor similar to cigarette smoke. Cloud size inversely relates to nicotine strength typically used.

Which style gives better flavour?

Subjective, but different. MTL provides concentrated, intense flavour in smaller volumes - like sipping espresso. DTL offers warm, full flavour in large volume - like drinking a latte. RDL balances both. Many vapers find MTL better for tobacco/menthol, DTL better for desserts/fruits.

Can I switch between styles throughout the day?

Absolutely. Many vapers use MTL for work/public (discrete, satisfying nicotine), then DTL at home for relaxation and flavour. Keep different nicotine strengths - 20mg salts for MTL morning fix, 3mg freebase for evening DTL sessions. Having options prevents vaping fatigue.

What power settings for each style?

MTL: 10-15W typically, maximum 20W. RDL: 25-35W sweet spot. DTL: 50-80W common, enthusiasts use 100W+. Always check coil recommendations - they're printed on the coil. Starting low and increasing gradually finds your preference without burning coils.

How do I know which style I'll prefer?

Ex-smokers should start MTL - it's familiar and satisfying. If you find yourself wanting more vapor after settling in, try RDL. DTL appeals to those wanting hobby aspects - building, cloud tricks, flavour chasing. Visit our Chesterfield location to try different styles before buying.

Choosing Nicotine Strength FAQs
How is nicotine strength actually measured?

Nicotine strength shows as mg/ml (milligrams per millilitre) or percentage. 20mg/ml equals 2% nicotine. A 2ml pod of 20mg liquid contains 40mg total nicotine. For reference, one cigarette delivers about 1-2mg absorbed nicotine from 10-12mg content. Understanding this helps calculate equivalent dosing.

What nicotine strengths can I legally buy in the UK?

TPD regulations limit retail e-liquid to 20mg/ml maximum in 10ml bottles. 0mg shortfills (50ml bottles) can be mixed with 18mg nicotine shots to create 3mg. Available strengths: 0mg, 3mg, 5mg, 6mg, 10mg, 11mg, 12mg, 18mg, 20mg. Most vape stores stock 0mg, 3mg, 6mg, 10mg, 20mg primarily.

Is 20mg nicotine strong?

Yes, 20mg is the legal maximum and designed for heavy smokers (20+ daily). It provides quick satisfaction and a strong throat hit. Many find it too strong initially. If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or get headaches, reduce strength immediately. Most vapers reduce over time as they adjust.

Is 3mg nicotine enough for anyone?

3mg suits cloud chasers using sub-ohm devices (high vapour volume delivers adequate nicotine), very light ex-smokers, or those reducing toward quitting. Won't satisfy fresh ex-smokers in MTL devices. It's the final step before 0mg for many. Social vapers often prefer 3mg.

What's the real difference between nicotine salts and freebase?

Nicotine salts are chemically modified for smoothness and faster absorption - cigarette-like satisfaction in 30 seconds. Freebase nicotine is pure, harsher on the throat, slower absorbing but longer lasting. Salts suit high-strength MTL vaping. Freebase suits low-strength DTL vaping. Same addiction potential, different delivery.

What strength replaces 10 cigarettes daily?

Start with 10-12mg nicotine salts in an MTL device, or 6mg freebase if using RDL/DTL. Track consumption - if constantly vaping, increase strength. If satisfied with occasional puffs, reduce strength. Adjust based on cravings, not arbitrary numbers. Most find their level within a week.

What strength for 20+ cigarettes daily?

Begin with 20mg nicotine salts - maximum legal strength provides proper satisfaction preventing relapse. Use an MTL device for a cigarette-like experience. Don't worry about it being "too strong" initially - better over-nicotined temporarily than under-satisfaction and returning to smoking. Reduce gradually once settled.

Can I use 20mg in sub-ohm devices?

Never. Sub-ohm devices produce massive vapour volume, multiplying nicotine delivery. 20mg would cause immediate nicotine overdose symptoms - nausea, dizziness, headaches, racing heart. Sub-ohm devices need 3-6mg maximum. This is why device choice matters as much as nicotine strength.

How do I know nicotine is too high?

Immediate symptoms: dizziness, nausea, headaches, excessive throat hit, hiccups, racing heart, sweating. Delayed symptoms: difficulty sleeping, anxiety, jittery feeling. Reduce strength immediately if experiencing these. Nicotine overdose is unpleasant but not dangerous for healthy adults - symptoms pass quickly.

How do I know nicotine is too low?

Constant vaping without satisfaction, thinking about cigarettes, irritability, difficulty concentrating, genuine cravings not satisfied by vaping. Using excessive e-liquid trying to get enough nicotine. Better to use appropriate strength than chain-vape low nicotine all day.

How do I reduce nicotine strength over time?

Drop gradually - 20mg to 12mg to 6mg to 3mg to 0mg over months/years. Mix strengths for custom levels (equal parts 20mg and 10mg makes 15mg). Reduce by one level when current strength feels unnecessarily strong. No rush - some happily vape 20mg for years.

What nicotine strength for shortfills?

Shortfills are 50ml 0mg bottles with space for nicotine shots. Adding one 18mg shot creates 3mg in 60ml. Two shots make 6mg (though overfills bottle). For higher strength, buy 10ml bottles instead. Shortfills suit DTL vapers using 3-6mg. Calculate carefully - mistakes waste money.

Does device type affect nicotine needs?

Massively. MTL devices need 10-20mg for satisfaction due to small vapour production. DTL devices need 3-6mg due to large clouds. Using the wrong combination either undersatisfies (3mg in MTL) or overwhelms (20mg in DTL). Match strength to device style for optimal experience.

Can I mix different nicotine strengths?

Yes, mixing creates custom strengths. Equal parts 20mg and 10mg makes 15mg. Mix directly in the tank or prepare bottles. Useful for gradual reduction or finding perfect level between commercial options. Keep track of ratios to replicate successful mixes.

Vape Battery Safety FAQs
Are vape batteries actually dangerous?

When handled properly, they're safe. When mishandled, lithium batteries can vent, catch fire, or explode. The horror stories you've seen resulted from torn battery wraps, loose batteries in pockets with keys/coins, using damaged batteries, or cheap chargers. Follow basic safety rules and risks are minimal.

Why must I use the original charger?

Chargers regulate voltage and current to prevent overcharging. Cheap chargers lack safety circuits, potentially overcharging batteries causing thermal runaway. Original chargers are tested for your specific device. Using phone chargers might work but risks damaging batteries. For external batteries, always use dedicated battery chargers, never mod USB ports.

Why shouldn't I charge overnight?

Batteries can malfunction, chargers can fail, connections can overheat. Charging unattended for 8+ hours increases fire risk if something goes wrong. Modern devices have overcharge protection, but electronics fail. Charge while awake, unplug when complete. Takes 2-3 hours maximum - no need for overnight charging.

How should I carry spare batteries?

Always in plastic battery cases - never loose. Batteries in pockets/bags with metal objects (keys, coins) create circuits between positive and negative terminals, causing dead shorts and thermal runaway. Cases cost £1 and prevent catastrophic failure. Every battery incident involves loose batteries touching metal.

When should I replace damaged batteries?

Immediately. Any tear in wrap, denting, bulging, or leaking means stop using now. Damaged wrap exposes metal casing (negative terminal), creating short circuit risk. Rewrapping costs more than new batteries. Don't risk it - batteries cost £5-8, hospital bills cost more.

Can I fly with vape batteries?

Yes, but only in carry-on luggage, never checked bags. Pressure changes in cargo holds increase risk. Most airlines allow 2-4 spare batteries in cases. Remove batteries from devices if possible. Declare them if asked. Check airline specific limits. Some countries have stricter rules.

Why use external chargers for 18650/21700 batteries?

External chargers charge more safely with better voltage regulation, balanced charging for married pairs, individual battery monitoring, and faster charging. USB charging through mods stresses circuits, creates heat buildup, and can't balance dual batteries properly. Good chargers cost £15-20 and extend battery life significantly.

What happens if batteries are inserted wrong?

Best case: device won't fire. Worst case: instant hard short causing venting or explosion. Modern mods have reverse polarity protection, but don't rely on it. Always check positive (+) and negative (-) markings. Positive has protruding buttons, negative is flat. Double-check every time.

How does temperature affect batteries?

Extreme heat causes thermal runaway and potential venting. Extreme cold reduces capacity and performance. Never leave devices in hot cars (can exceed 60°C) or freezing conditions. Store at room temperature. If the battery feels hot during use, stop immediately. Warm is normal, hot is dangerous.

How often should I inspect batteries?

Every time you handle them. Check for wrap tears, denting, juice residue, or damage. Takes 5 seconds and prevents disasters. Weekly deep inspection for regular users. Replace batteries showing any wear. Don't wait for complete failure - early replacement is cheap insurance.

Should I fully drain batteries before charging?

No, lithium batteries prefer partial discharge cycles. Draining to zero stresses cells and reduces lifespan. Charge at 20-30% remaining. Store long-term at 40-60% charge. Modern batteries don't have memory effects - frequent partial charging is better than full discharge cycles.

Can I mix battery brands in dual-battery mods?

Never. Use matched pairs - same brand, model, capacity, and purchase date. Mismatched batteries discharge unevenly, stressing weaker batteries potentially causing failure. Mark pairs and keep them together. When one fails, replace both. Married batteries should stay married throughout their life.

How do I safely dispose of batteries?

Never in household waste - lithium batteries are hazardous. Take to recycling centres accepting batteries, return to vape shops with battery bins, or use supermarket battery recycling points. Tape terminals before disposal to prevent shorts. Dead batteries can still hold charge and cause fires in regular bins.

What safety features should devices have?

Short circuit protection, overcharge protection, low voltage cutoff, reverse polarity protection, thermal protection, and 10-second cutoff. Quality devices (Vaporesso, GeekVape, Voopoo) include all these. Cheap devices might lack some. These features prevent most battery incidents when batteries are otherwise handled properly.

What causes most battery incidents?

Torn battery wraps (80% of incidents), loose batteries in pockets, using damaged batteries, wrong chargers, mechanical mods without knowledge, counterfeit batteries, and exceeding amp limits. All preventable with basic knowledge. Quality batteries, proper storage, regular inspection, and appropriate chargers eliminate virtually all risk.

Vape Maintenance For Beginners FAQs
How often do I really need to clean my vape?

Weekly for daily users, minimum. Empty tank, disassemble what's safe to remove, rinse under warm water, dry thoroughly, reassemble. Takes 5 minutes and prevents flavour ghosting, extends coil life, and stops buildup causing problems. Heavy users or flavour-switchers need twice weekly. Neglect causes leaking and poor performance.

What's the proper way to clean a tank?

Empty remaining e-liquid. Disassemble (remove coil, glass, seals if possible). Rinse each part under warm water. Use a soft brush (old toothbrush) for stubborn residue. Paper towel dry external parts, air dry internal parts completely. Reassemble carefully - don't overtighten. Never use soap - residue ruins flavours for weeks.

Can I clean and reuse coils?

Stock coils can't be properly cleaned - cotton degrades permanently. Emergency rinse might extend life briefly but performance suffers. At £3 each, just replace them. Rebuildable coils are a different story - remove cotton, dry burn coil clean, rewick with fresh cotton. Stock coils are disposable by design.

How often should I actually change coils?

Every 1-2 weeks average, but varies wildly. Sweet e-liquids: 4-7 days. Clear fruits: 2-3 weeks. Chain vapers: weekly. Light users: 3-4 weeks. Change when flavour diminishes, vapor reduces, or burnt taste appears. Don't push it - bad coils ruin the experience and waste e-liquid.

What exactly is priming and why is it critical?

Priming means saturating cotton before first use, preventing dry hits that burn cotton permanently. Drop e-liquid directly onto cotton ports (5-10 drops), fill the tank, let sit for 5-10 minutes. Start at low wattage, gradually increase. Rushing this process ruins coils immediately. Patience saves money.

How do I know when coils need changing?

Reduced flavour (muted or off), burnt taste even with full tank, reduced vapor production, gurgling sounds, darker e-liquid in tank, or taking harder draws for same satisfaction. Don't wait for complete failure - change at first signs for best experience.

Should I clean the mouthpiece/drip tip?

Weekly minimum - it collects bacteria, condensation, and residue. Remove and rinse under hot water, use alcohol wipe for deeper clean. Paper towels dry completely. Consider spare drip tips to rotate while cleaning. Shared devices need cleaning between users for hygiene.

How do I clean battery connections?

Weekly check 510 connection and battery contacts. Use dry cotton bud to remove juice residue and pocket lint. Rubbing alcohol on cotton bud for stubborn buildup, but ensure it is completely dry before use. Clean connections ensure proper power delivery and prevent arcing.

Can I use soap or cleaning products?

Never touch anything touching e-liquid. Soap residue persists through multiple rinses, ruining flavours. Warm water only for tanks. Isopropyl alcohol acceptable for external cleaning and battery connections. Denture tablets work for deep cleaning glass sections. Rinse thoroughly regardless.

What causes leaking and how do I prevent it?

Overtightening cracks seals, undertightening allows gaps. Worn o-rings need replacing. Overfilling prevents vacuum seal. Wrong coil installation breaks seal. Temperature changes cause pressure differences. Keep the device upright, check seals regularly, don't overfill, and tighten appropriately - snug not forced.

How should I store my vape?

Keep in an upright position prevents leaking. Room temperature away from direct sunlight. Partial tank rather than full or empty. Remove from hot cars immediately. Long-term storage: clean thoroughly, remove batteries, store dry. Daily storage: just keep upright and moderate temperature.

Should I empty the tank when changing flavours?

For a complete flavour switch, yes - empty, rinse, dry, refill. Lazy method: vape tank low, refill with new flavour accepting 5-10 transition puffs. Menthol and cinnamon are particularly persistent. Many users keep multiple tanks/pods for different flavour profiles avoiding this issue entirely.

Why do coils burn out quickly?

Chain vaping doesn't allow re-wicking between puffs. Sweet/dark e-liquids caramelise on coils. Running wattage too high literally burns cotton. Letting the tank run empty exposes cotton. Not priming properly damages from start. Fix habits and coils last twice as long.

Can I overtighten components?

Absolutely. Overtightening strips threads, cracks glass, and damages o-rings causing leaks. Tighten until resistance felt, then tiny bit more - never force. Cross-threading happens when rushing - always start threads carefully. Replacement glass costs more than being patient.

How long should parts dry after cleaning?

Several hours ideal, overnight better. Moisture in 510 connections causes shorts. Water in the coil causes spitting and poor performance. Use a paper towel for external parts, air dry internal components. Reassembling wet causes immediate problems. Patience during maintenance prevents issues.