Why Does My Vape Taste Burnt

A burnt taste from your vape is a common issue that can detract significantly from the enjoyment of vaping. This unpleasant flavour usually indicates a problem related to the coil, wick or e-liquid delivery. Understanding why your vape tastes burnt helps you troubleshoot the issue and maintain a better vaping experience.

Burnt Coils and Dry Wicks

The primary cause of a burnt taste is when the coil heats a dry or insufficiently saturated wick. The wick is responsible for absorbing e-liquid and delivering it to the coil for vaporisation. If the wick dries out due to low e-liquid levels or chain vaping, the coil heats the wick material itself rather than the liquid, producing a harsh, burnt flavour. Coils also degrade over time, and worn-out coils can cause persistent burnt tastes.

Low or Empty E-Liquid Levels

Vaping on a tank or pod with low or no e-liquid increases the risk of burning the wick. Without enough liquid, the wick cannot stay saturated, and the coil overheats. This situation often results in a burnt taste and potential damage to your coil. Regularly checking and refilling your e-liquid helps prevent this issue.

High Wattage or Voltage Settings

Using your vape at wattage or voltage levels higher than your coil is designed for can cause overheating. Coils have recommended power ranges, and exceeding these limits makes the coil too hot, burning the wick and e-liquid. This not only affects flavour but also shortens coil lifespan. Adjusting your device’s power settings within the coil’s specifications improves taste and coil longevity.

Chain Vaping and Puff Duration

Taking rapid, consecutive puffs without pauses, known as chain vaping, can dry out the wick because it doesn’t have time to reabsorb e-liquid. Similarly, very long or hard draws may overheat the coil. Moderating your puff frequency and taking slower, shorter inhales allow the wick to remain saturated and avoid burnt hits.

Improper Coil Priming

Installing a new coil without priming it properly often results in burnt flavour. Priming involves saturating the wick with e-liquid and letting it soak before vaping. Skipping this step means the coil heats dry wick material initially, causing an unpleasant taste and coil damage.

Using the Wrong E-Liquid

Using e-liquids with too high a VG (vegetable glycerin) content or the wrong viscosity for your device can lead to poor wicking and dry hits, producing a burnt flavour. Selecting the right e-liquid formulation for your coil and device type ensures consistent saturation and smooth vapour.

The Impact of Device and Coil Compatibility

Another important factor that can contribute to a burnt taste is the compatibility between your vape device and the coil you are using. Not all coils are designed to work with every device, especially when it comes to power output. Using a coil that requires a higher wattage with a device that cannot supply sufficient power may result in underheating, which can cause incomplete vaporisation of e-liquid and burnt flavours. Conversely, using a coil rated for lower wattage in a high-powered device can lead to overheating and wick burning. Ensuring your coil and device are matched properly is essential for a smooth vaping experience.

The Role of Proper Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular maintenance and cleaning of your vaping device are crucial to prevent burnt tastes. Over time, residue from e-liquids can build up on coils, in tanks, and on mouthpieces, impacting flavour and vapour quality. This buildup can cause uneven heating or clog the wicking material, leading to dry spots that burn. Cleaning your tank, replacing coils regularly, and using fresh e-liquids help maintain optimal performance. Neglecting maintenance increases the chance of burnt tastes and shortens the lifespan of your vape components.

Conclusion

A burnt taste in your vape typically arises from dry or burnt coils, low e-liquid, excessive power settings or improper use. Preventative measures include keeping your tank filled, adjusting wattage correctly, priming new coils and avoiding chain vaping. Addressing these factors improves your vaping experience and prolongs device life.