Vape Coils

What is a vaping coil?

A vape coil is a small metal device that encases a heating element and a wick, which is typically organic cotton. The wick absorbs the vape juice and when heated by the element and air is drawn over it a vapour is created and successfully delivers a flavour and nicotine hit.

E-cigarettes are designed to be vaped regularly throughout the day, which means the cotton is heated multiple times per day. Doing this naturally causes the cotton to burn, and when this occurs, you could either experience a burnt taste or your device could stop performing to the same quality it did when first purchased.

When to change your vape coil?

We recommend changing the vape coil every 1-2 weeks to retain flavour and performance. However, this is entirely down to how much you vape. If you are a frequent vaper, you may need to change the coil more often. Likewise, your coil may last longer than two weeks if you do not vape as much.

For the most part, you will be able to tell when the coil needs changing. For instance, the e-liquid flavour may become less prominent and taste differently, or you may not get the same hit you did previously, or you may have reduced vapour production.

Most kits have a simple coil replacement method that will be indicated in the user manual. When changing the vape coil, remember to prime it by dripping e-liquid directly on the cotton holes that are visible on the coil.

For more information on coils, check out our blog, on how to take care of your coils.

Are there different types of coils?

Yes. Each device is likely to have a specific coil that fits and works with the device. On occasion e-cigarette brands will make devices that work with a range of coils, giving you more options.

Vaping Starter kits typically come with coils that are rated 1.0 Ohm or higher. This relates to the resistance of the coil. Higher resistance is best suited to 10ml e-liquid with a PG/VG ratio of either 50PG/50VG or 60PG/40VG. The PG makes the mixture thinner and more compatible with the smaller juice holes, typical for more restricted vaping, ultimately offering a more satisfying vaping experience with a tighter draw.

Coils that have a resistance of below 1.0 Ohm are mainly compatible with advanced vaping kits but can be an option for certain intermediate kits. These coils have larger juice holes which are more fitting to high VG e-liquid such as our Shortz or our Koncept range. The VG is the vapour element, with these coils enhancing the taste and vapour production. The majority of vapers that use higher VG e-liquid, typically vape a lower concentration of nicotine, with some not using any at all.

The vape coil choices will depend on the device you are using and your vaping preferences. Specific kits will have limited resistances, favouring higher ohms due to the size and design of the e-cigarette or pod. Whereas more advanced e-cigarettes will have more options that suit specific vaping styles, e.g. cloud chasers.

Please note that we do not recommend using higher VG e-liquid in starter kits as the thicker juice will cause your coil to burn out faster. Likewise, higher PG juice in advanced kits may cause the device to leak.

What resistance and wattage should I use for freebase e-liquids?

The choice of coil resistance and wattage for freebase e-liquids depends on several factors, including your vaping device, personal preferences, and the specific e-liquid you're using. However, here are some general guidelines to consider:

Coil Resistance: For freebase e-liquids, lower resistance coils are commonly used to handle higher wattages and produce more significant vapour clouds. Sub-ohm coils, typically ranging from 0.15 to 0.5 ohms, are popular for this purpose. However, it's important to ensure that your device and battery can handle the lower resistance and power requirements of sub-ohm vaping.

Wattage Range: The wattage range for freebase e-liquids varies depending on the coil resistance, device capabilities, and personal preference. As a starting point, you can consider the following wattage ranges:

For higher resistance coils (above 1.0 ohm): Start with wattages between 10-20W and adjust to find your preferred balance of flavour and vapour production.

For sub-ohm coils (0.15-0.5 ohms): Start in the range of 40-60W for a warmer vape with decent vapour production. You can increase the wattage to achieve more intense flavour and denser clouds, but make sure to stay within the recommended wattage range specified by the coil manufacturer.

It's important to note that these are general guidelines, and the optimal wattage and resistance can vary depending on your specific setup and personal preferences. Some devices also offer recommended wattage ranges printed on the coil or provided by the manufacturer. It's advisable to refer to these recommendations as a starting point and adjust according to your own taste and desired results.

What resistance and wattage are best for nic salts?

When it comes to vaping nicotine salts, it's important to consider the device you're using and the preferences of the individual vaper. Nicotine salts generally work best with low-wattage devices, such as pod systems or vape pens, as they provide a smoother and more satisfying experience compared to high-powered devices designed for sub-ohm vaping.

Wattage  & Resistance: The wattage and resistance of the coils you should use for vaping nicotine salts depend on the specific device you have. Many pod systems and vape pens come with pre-built coils that are optimized for nicotine salts. These coils usually have higher resistance, typically ranging from 1.0 to 1.6 ohms, and operate at lower wattages, often between 7 to 15 watts. This lower wattage and higher resistance help deliver a milder throat hit and better flavour while effectively vaporizing the nicotine salts.

It's essential to consult the user manual or specifications of your specific device to determine the recommended wattage and resistance range for vaping nicotine salts. Manufacturers often provide guidelines for the optimal settings to ensure a safe and enjoyable vaping experience.

Additionally, personal preferences play a role in determining the best wattage and resistance for vaping nicotine salts. Some vapers might prefer a warmer and more intense experience, while others might enjoy a cooler and smoother vape. It's recommended to start at the lower end of the device's suggested wattage range and make gradual adjustments based on your personal taste and satisfaction.

Remember, it's crucial to prioritize safety and follow the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid any potential issues or damage to your device.

What are mesh coils?

Mesh coils are a type of heating element used in vaping devices. Unlike traditional round wire coils, mesh coils are made of a finely woven mesh material, usually stainless steel or Kanthal, that resembles a small grid or mesh screen. The mesh design offers several advantages over traditional coils:

Increased Surface Area: Mesh coils have a larger surface area compared to round wire coils. This increased surface area allows for more even heat distribution and faster ramp-up times, resulting in quicker vapour production.

Improved Flavour: The larger surface area of mesh coils enhances the contact between the heating element and the e-liquid. This improved contact helps to produce more intense and accurate flavour profiles from your e-juice.

Consistent Heating: Mesh coils provide a uniform heating experience across the entire surface area. This uniform heating helps to eliminate hot spots and provides a smoother and more consistent vape.

Longer Lifespan: Due to the larger surface area and even heat distribution, mesh coils tend to last longer than traditional ones. They often require less power to achieve satisfying vapour production, which can reduce stress on the coil and prolong its lifespan.

Increased Vapour Production: The increased surface area and faster heating of mesh coils allow for larger vapour production. This makes mesh coils particularly popular among cloud chasers and vapers who enjoy denser clouds.

Mesh coils have gained popularity in the vaping community for their ability to deliver enhanced flavour, smoother hits, and increased vapour production. They can be found in various types of vaping devices, including sub-Ohm tanks, rebuildable atomizers (RDAs/RTAs), and pod systems.

Important note: If you're unsure which coils you can use, consult your manual. All the kits we sell have details about the coils supplied with the device so you can judge if it will be suitable for the type of liquid and vaping style that you prefer.

What coils are best for sub-ohm vaping?

Regarding sub-Ohm vaping, there are various types of coils available, and the choice ultimately depends on your preferences and vaping style. Here are a few popular coil options for sub-Ohm vaping:

Kanthal Coils: Kanthal is a widely used coil material known for its durability and excellent heat resistance. It provides a consistent vaping experience and is suitable for both flavour and cloud production.

Stainless Steel (SS) Coils: Stainless steel coils offer versatility as they can be used in wattage and temperature control modes. SS coils provide a clean flavour profile and can produce good vapour production.

Nickel (Ni200) Coils: Nickel coils are primarily used in temperature control mode due to their high-temperature coefficient of resistance. They offer precise temperature control and are generally used for flavour-focused vaping.

Titanium (Ti) Coils: Titanium coils are another option for temperature control mode. They offer fast ramp-up times and can provide a clean flavour profile. However, it's essential to use them carefully to prevent overheating and potential health risks.

Nichrome (Ni80) Coils: Nichrome coils heat up quickly and offer a balance between flavour and vapour production. They have a lower resistance compared to Kanthal, making them suitable for sub-Ohm vaping.

It's important to note that different coil types and resistances will produce varying vaping experiences. Factors like coil design, wicking material, airflow, and power settings also contribute to the overall vaping performance. Experimenting with different coil options will help you find the one that suits your preferences the best.

Coil Problems: What causes them?

Vape coils are essential for producing vapour, but they can present a few common issues that affect the overall vaping experience:

Burnt Taste: One of the most frequent problems is a burnt taste, often caused by vaping with a dry coil. This happens when there is insufficient e-liquid in the coil, leading to burnt cotton. It can also occur if you're using a coil past its prime or vaping at a wattage that is too high.

Leaking: Coils can contribute to leaking issues when they are fitted incorrectly or when the e-liquid is too thin for the coil-wicking system. This can cause e-liquid to leak out of the airflow holes or onto your hands, creating a messy and frustrating experience.

Gurgling or Spitting: Excess e-liquid flooding the coil can lead to gurgling noises or spitting hot e-liquid. This often occurs when you overfill the tank, the coil is not vaporising the liquid fast enough, or when the wattage is set too low.

Short Coil Lifespan: Some vapers experience coils burning out quicker than expected. This can be due to using sweet or thick e-liquids, which clog up the coil faster. Chain vaping, using high wattage, or not priming the coil before use can also reduce coil life.

Poor Flavour: A drop in flavour quality usually signals that the coil is nearing the end of its lifespan. As residue builds up on the coil, it can mute flavours, making your e-liquids taste dull or inconsistent.

Regular coil maintenance, using the right wattage, and choosing compatible e-liquids can help prevent these common coil issues.