The coil is an essential part of any vaping experience – and that means it’s important to make sure it’s working well. Vape coils don’t last forever and if you’re using a reusable vape kit, you’re likely to want to know how long a coil is going to last.
The tricky news is that there’s no one answer here. A coil can become burnt on its first use if it’s used incorrectly, while well-primed coils may last up to a week or even two. However, there are a few factors you can bear in mind to help you work out how long your coils might last – as well as some handy advice for making them last as long as possible – and we’re sharing them below.
Understanding how vape coils work
To determine how long vape coils are likely to last, it’s first a good idea to understand how they work and what they’re for. The coil in a vape is the heating element. It is surrounded by cotton, which absorbs e-liquid. When the coil heats up the cotton, the e-liquid is vaporised, ready to be inhaled.
Over time, heating the coil will slowly cause the cotton to burn – and that’s why coils need to be replaced periodically.
There are some variations in the types of coils you’re likely to come across. Here are a few of the most important differences to bear in mind when you’re looking at vape coils.
Replaceable coils vs built-in coils
Some vape devices come with coils that are easy to replace while others have built-in coils, which can either be built into the device itself (in the case of disposables) or into the pod. The big benefit of using a device that uses replaceable coils is the fact that you don’t need to throw away the pod or the whole device every time the coil burns out, therefore reducing waste.
However, for those who are looking for a simpler process, pre-filled pods have built-in coils and need to be replaced once the e-liquid runs out, rather than being refilled and only replaced when the coil burns out. This is ideal for those who may find the concept of having to refill the pod and change the coil a bit daunting.
Refillable pods with built-in coils can be refilled with your choice of compatible e-liquid multiple times, but the pod will need to be replaced when the coil burns out.
Wire coils vs mesh coils
These days, you’ll find that many vape kits offer mesh coils as well as, or instead of, standard wire coils. While both kinds of coil do the same job, standard wire coils use a coiled wire as the heating element while mesh coils use a metal mesh instead.
Mesh coils are said to last longer than standard wire coils, due to the fact that the heat is distributed throughout the mesh more evenly, which reduces the likelihood of hot spots and makes it likely that the cotton will last longer.
If your chosen device offers a mesh coil option, you might want to consider giving it a go to see if it lasts longer for you than the standard wire coil options.
How long should vape coils last?
There is no one answer for how long a vape coil should last, because there are a lot of different factors that can affect its lifespan. While you can generally expect a replaceable vape coil to last somewhere between one and two weeks, this can vary depending on everything from the wattage you use to the type of e-liquid you prefer.
Typically, you’ll find that coils that are used at a higher wattage are likely to burn out more quickly than those that are used at a lower wattage, like those found in starter kits. You may even find that an advanced vape kit that uses a very high wattage and is used frequently may burn out a coil within a matter of days, because the cotton is subject to higher temperatures and more power.
You can help your coil last for as long as possible by making sure to look after it well. This means always giving the coil time to absorb the e-liquid before taking the first puff, making sure to keep the tank or pod well topped up so that you’re not dry firing, and making sure to use the most suitable wattage for your coil.
Factors affecting vape coil lifespans
Let’s take a look at the various factors that can make a big difference to how long a vape coil is likely to last.
Vaping frequency and style
Your own vaping style and habits will be a big deciding factor in how long your coil lasts. For example, if you ‘chain vape’ or vape very frequently, you may find that your coils burn out faster due to overheating. This is because the coil isn’t given enough time to cool down between pulls and the cotton is kept hot for longer and is more prone to burning. Leaving 10 seconds or longer between each puff can help minimise this.
Likewise, vaping at the wrong wattage setting for you coil can cause it to degrade more quickly. Most coils will come with a recommended wattage level and they will perform at their best if you vape within that range. Get the scoop on choosing the right wattage for your coil in our handy guide to which wattage level to vape at.
Coil quality and type
Unsurprisingly, the higher the coil’s quality the longer the lifespan is expected to be. SMOK RPM coils and Innokin Plexus Z coils are great examples of brands that promise longevity and a smooth experience.
There’s also the fact that certain types of coils are designed to have extended lifespans, including mesh and ceramic coils, which provide a more consistent heat to help protect the cotton.
It’s also a good idea to buy coils from a reputable retailer. This helps you avoid low-quality or counterfeit coils that won’t perform well.
Proper coil priming and maintenance
Treating your coil well is a great way to help it last longer. Making sure to always prime your coil properly is one of the most effective ways to extend the life of your coil. When you vape without giving the coil time to absorb the e-liquid, you are essentially burning dry cotton. Not only will this result in an unpleasant ‘dry hit’, but it can also cause irreversible damage to the cotton and can even render it useless immediately.
The same can be said for not keeping your tank topped up with e-liquid. If your tank is almost empty it can be easy for the coil to dry out, which is not a pleasant experience.
We also recommend locking or turning off your device when not in use, if possible, as this prevents it from accidentally firing when in your pocket or bag, which can not only burn out the coil but can cause the device to overheat.
E-liquid composition
The type of e-liquid you use will affect how long a coil lasts. For example, e-liquids with higher ratios of VG can gunk up coils more quickly. However, if you’re using a device with large coils and high wattage, you’ll want to be using a high VG liquid to get the best result – so you may have to resign yourself to a shorter coil lifespan than the one you’d enjoy with a starter kit that’s using a 50/50 e-liquid.
Our beginner’s guide to vape coils and coil maintenance is packed with all of the information you need to get started.
When to replace your vape coil
You don’t want to be replacing your vape coil more than necessary, so it’s a great idea to learn the signs that a coil is almost done. There are a few clear indicators to look out for, including:
A burnt taste. This is a sign that the cotton has become burnt and once you reach this stage, you need to replace the coil. This may also present as a bitter taste. When you take the coil out, there’s a good chance you will see discolouration associated with burning. Find out more in our guide to why your vape might taste burnt.
Reduced vapour production. When the coil is no longer able to heat up effectively, it won’t be able to produce the same amount of vapour as it can when it’s performing at its peak.
A more muted flavour. This is another telltale sign that your coil needs replaced. When it’s no longer delivering the same amount of heat as it was before, the flavour intensity drops.
Gurgling, spitting or leaking. Watch out for unusual noises or e-liquid drops spitting from the mouthpiece or leaking from the airflow. This tends to indicate that the coil is significantly burnt and needs replacing. This happens when the cotton is so burnt that it can’t absorb the e-liquid efficiently, causing it to build up inside the coil. It’s then likely to escape into the airflow and mouthpiece.
Wick or e-liquid discolouration. If you notice a change in the colour of the cotton in your coil (wick) or e-liquid, it’s most likely time to replace your coil. E-liquids can naturally grow a little darker over time, but if you see a fast change or discolouration in your wick, it’s a sign that the burnt coil is affecting them.
Tips to extend your vape coil’s lifespan
If you’re looking to extend your coil’s lifespan as effectively as possible, here are a few top tips to employ:
- Use high quality e-liquids. E-liquids that are made with the best ingredients are more likely to help you protect your coil. It’s also worth bearing in mind that some people find their coil tends to last longer with stronger flavours like menthols, although this is likely due to the intense flavour masking the burnt taste for longer than a more subtle flavour would.
- Always use vape coils at the recommended wattage. If you want to avoid burning coils prematurely, make sure to stay within this range, and to make them last longer you can stick to the lower end of the recommended wattage range.
- Prime your coils properly. By priming your coil for five to 10 minutes before you take your first puff, you can ensure that the cotton has soaked up your e-liquid and won’t overheat.
- Take breaks between puffs. Keep your coil from overheating and burning the cotton by giving it time to cool down between puffs.
- Keep your e-liquid topped up. By making sure your tank if topped up to at least the halfway point at all times, you’re less likely to empty the pod or tank and let the coil dry out and burn.
- Use a coil that matches your vaping style. Different coils are suited to different vaping experiences and when you choose one that matches your style and your preferred e-liquid, it will be able to function more efficiently.
While you can’t predict exactly how long a coil will last, there are a few factors that can help you make an educated guess. There are also lots of simple signs to look out for when you’re wondering if it’s time to for a replacement – so be vigilant!
Ready to explore the variety of coils and experience on offer? Be sure to check out our extensive selection of coils.
