Vaping coils play a crucial role in your overall vaping experience, affecting flavor, vapor production, and device performance. If you're new to vaping or even an experienced vaper, it’s important to understand the different types of coils, their functions, and when they need to be replaced. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get the most out of your vape device.
What Are Vaping Coils?
Vaping coils are responsible for heating your e-liquid to produce vapor. They are typically made of metal wire (usually Kanthal, stainless steel, or nickel) wrapped around a wick that absorbs the e-liquid. When the coil is heated by the battery, the e-liquid turns into vapor, which you inhale. Over time, coils degrade due to constant use, and understanding how they work is key to maintaining a great vaping experience.
Types of Vaping Coils
There are several types of coils available for different vaping styles. Here are the most common types:
- Single Coil: A single coil is the most basic type, used primarily for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping. It’s simple to use, provides decent flavor, and is great for vapers who prefer a tighter, restricted airflow.
- Dual Coil: Dual coils have two heating elements and provide more vapor and flavor compared to single coils. They are often used for direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping, which requires a larger, more open airflow.
- Mesh Coils: Mesh coils have a metal mesh as the heating element, which provides more surface area compared to traditional coils. This allows for better heat distribution, delivering better flavor and larger clouds of vapor. Mesh coils are popular for DTL vaping.
- Ceramic Coils: Ceramic coils use ceramic as the heating material, offering a longer lifespan and producing a smoother, more consistent flavor. They are known for being durable, but can be slower to heat up than other types.
- Clapton Coils: Clapton coils are made by wrapping a thinner wire around a thicker wire, similar to how a guitar string is made. They provide excellent flavor and vapor production due to their larger surface area, making them popular in high-wattage devices.
How Coils Affect Your Vaping Experience
Coils directly impact the flavor and vapor of your vape. Here’s how different coils affect your experience:
- Flavor: A well-built coil ensures optimal flavor from your e-liquid. Mesh coils, for example, tend to provide the best flavor due to their increased surface area and even heat distribution.
- Vapor Production: Larger coils with more surface area, such as dual or mesh coils, tend to produce more vapor. If you're a cloud chaser, these coils will deliver the thick, dense clouds you're looking for.
- Vaping Style: Depending on your vaping style, different coils are suited to different preferences. MTL vapers usually go for single coils with a tighter airflow, while DTL vapers prefer dual or mesh coils for larger vapor production.
When to Replace Your Vape Coil
Coils don’t last forever and will eventually need to be replaced. Here are a few signs that it’s time to replace your coil:
- Burnt Taste: One of the most common signs of a worn-out coil is a burnt or dry taste. This usually happens when the coil is no longer able to effectively vaporize the e-liquid, often due to a buildup of residue or the wick becoming dry.
- Reduced Vapor Production: If you notice a decrease in vapor production, it might be time to swap out your coil. Coils lose their efficiency over time and may no longer heat the e-liquid as effectively.
- Flavor Changes: If the flavor of your e-liquid starts to taste off or “off” from its usual profile, it’s a sign your coil is wearing out. Over time, coils can become gunked up with residues from the e-liquid, impacting flavor.
- Leaking: Leaking can also occur when a coil is damaged or overused. If you experience leaks, it might indicate that your coil isn’t functioning properly.
How to Extend the Life of Your Vape Coil
While coils will eventually need to be replaced, there are some ways to extend their lifespan:
- Prime Your Coils: Always prime your new coil by adding a few drops of e-liquid to the wick before use. This prevents the coil from burning out immediately.
- Use Proper Wattage: Always use the appropriate wattage for your coil. Using a coil at too high of a wattage can burn it out quickly, while using it at too low of a wattage can lead to poor flavor and vapor production.
- Keep Your Tank Full: Ensure that your e-liquid tank is always at least half full. If your tank runs too low, the wick may become dry, which can burn the coil.
- Proper Cleaning: Occasionally clean your coils and tank to prevent buildup from e-liquid residue. This will help your coil last longer and maintain the quality of your vape.
Conclusion
Understanding the types of coils and their function is crucial for getting the best vaping experience. Whether you prefer a simple MTL setup with a single coil or want to chase clouds with a dual mesh coil, knowing when to replace your coil and how to maintain it can greatly improve your overall experience. If you notice any signs of wear or a decrease in performance, don’t hesitate to replace your coil for optimal vaping!
At Lucky 8 Vapes, we carry a wide selection of coils and pod systems to meet all your vaping needs. Visit us today or browse online to find the perfect coil for your setup!