Understanding Vape Coils: The Key to Optimal Vaping Experience

Vape Coils are a fundamental component of any vaping device, playing a crucial role in vaporising e-liquid and delivering a satisfying vaping experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of vape coils, exploring their function, types, maintenance, and the reasons behind the need for regular replacement.

The Role of Vape Coils in Vapour Production

Vape coils are heating elements responsible for transforming e-liquid into vapor. When an electrical current passes through the coil, it heats up, causing the e-liquid-soaked wicking material to vaporise. The vapour is then inhaled by the user, creating the sensation of smoking without the harmful byproducts associated with combustion.

Understanding the function of vape coils is essential for vapers, as it directly impacts the quality of the vaping experience. Factors such as coil material, resistance, and design influence vapour production, flavour, and overall performance.

Types of Vape Coils: Kanthal, Stainless Steel, Nichrome, and more.

Vape coils are available in various materials, each with its unique properties and suitability for different vaping styles. Kanthal, a type of iron-chromium-aluminum alloy, is one of the most commonly used materials for vape coils due to its affordability, durability, and consistent performance. Stainless steel coils are prized for their versatility, as they can be used in both wattage and temperature control modes, offering excellent flavour and vapour production. We sell a great selection of tools and wire to help build your own coils.

Nickel and titanium coils are primarily used in temperature control vaping, where the resistance of the coil changes with temperature, allowing for precise regulation of the vaping experience. However, it’s important to note that nickel and titanium coils require careful handling to avoid potential health risks associated with overheating and the release of harmful compounds.

A lot of people choose to build their own coils which would then be fitted in a RDA / RTA (Rebuildable Dripping / Tank Atomiser). However when building your own coils, it is essential that you fully understand “Ohms Law“, an Ohms Law Calculator can also be very helpful if you choose to go down that route.

The Importance of Proper Coil Maintenance

Maintaining vape coils is essential for preserving their performance and extending their lifespan. Proper maintenance involves regular cleaning and ensuring that the coils are adequately saturated with e-liquid to prevent dry hits, which occur when the wicking material is not sufficiently moistened, leading to a burnt taste and potential damage to the coil.

Cleaning vape coils can be done by removing them from the device and rinsing them under warm water to remove any residue. After cleaning, it’s crucial to allow the coils to dry thoroughly before reassembling the device. Additionally, priming new coils by saturating the wicking material with e-liquid before use helps prevent premature burning and prolongs the coil’s longevity.

Why Do I Need to Change My Coils?

Over time, vape coils degrade due to the accumulation of residue from e-liquids, known as “gunk,” and the breakdown of the wicking material. As a result, the flavour and vapor production of the device diminish, and the risk of experiencing dry hits or burnt taste increases. Regular coil replacement is necessary to maintain the quality of the vaping experience and avoid potential health hazards associated with using degraded coils.

Furthermore, certain e-liquids, particularly those high in sweeteners and thickening agents, can accelerate coil degradation, leading to a shorter lifespan. Vapers who frequently use these types of e-liquids may find themselves needing to replace their coils more frequently to ensure consistent performance.

Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Coils

Knowing when to replace vape coils is essential for maintaining a satisfying vaping experience. Several indicators suggest that it’s time to change the coils, including a noticeable decrease in flavour quality, reduced vapour production, and a burnt or unpleasant taste during vaping. Additionally, if attempts to clean the coils yield minimal improvement in performance, it’s likely that the coils have reached the end of their lifespan and should be replaced.

Choosing the Right Coils for Your Vaping Style

Selecting the right coils for your vaping style is crucial for achieving the desired balance of flavour, vapour production, and longevity. Sub-ohm coils, characterised by a resistance of less than one ohm, are popular among cloud chasers and those seeking intense flavour and vapour production. On the other hand, higher resistance coils are suitable for mouth-to-lung vaping, mimicking the sensation of smoking traditional cigarettes.

Furthermore, vapers using temperature control devices must ensure that the coils they choose are compatible with their device’s temperature control mode. Using the wrong type of coil in temperature control mode can lead to inaccurate temperature readings and potential safety hazards.

To summarise what we’ve covered, vape coils are integral to the vaping experience, influencing flavour, vapour production, and overall satisfaction. Understanding the function, maintenance, and replacement of vape coils empowers vapers to optimise their vaping devices and enjoy a consistent and enjoyable vaping experience. By choosing the right coils, practicing proper maintenance, and recognising the signs of coil degradation, vapers can ensure that their devices perform at their best while prioritising their health and well-being.