Why Does My Vape Taste Burnt?

Vaping should be a smooth and flavorful experience, but if your vape tastes burnt, it can be frustrating and unpleasant. A burnt taste is a common issue that many vapers face, often caused by preventable factors. Understanding the reasons behind this problem and how to fix it can help ensure a satisfying vaping experience.

1. Your Coil Is Burnt Out

The most common cause of a burnt taste is a burnt-out coil. Vape coils have a limited lifespan, typically lasting anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on usage. If your coil is old, the cotton wick inside can become charred, leading to an unpleasant burnt flavor.

Solution: Replace your coil regularly. If you notice a burnt taste, check your coil and replace it if necessary.

2. Chain Vaping

Taking multiple puffs in quick succession, also known as chain vaping, can cause the wick to dry out before it has a chance to reabsorb e-liquid. When the wick is dry, it burns instead of vaporizing e-liquid, leading to a burnt taste.

Solution: Take breaks between puffs to allow the wick to absorb more e-liquid.

3. Not Priming the Coil

When installing a new coil, it’s crucial to prime it properly by saturating the wick with e-liquid before using it. Failing to do this can cause the coil to burn instantly.

Solution: Drip a few drops of e-liquid onto the coil’s cotton before installation, then let the tank sit for a few minutes after filling.

4. Low E-Liquid Levels

Vaping with low e-liquid levels can cause the wick to dry out and burn. Some tanks require a minimum amount of e-liquid to keep the wick properly saturated.

Solution: Refill your tank before the e-liquid level gets too low.

5. Using the Wrong Wattage

Every coil has a recommended wattage range. Exceeding this range can burn the coil quickly, while setting it too low may not provide enough heat to vaporize the e-liquid properly.

Solution: Check the wattage recommendations on your coil and adjust your device settings accordingly.

6. Using High-VG E-Liquids in Small Coils

Vegetable glycerin (VG) is thicker than propylene glycol (PG). If you use high-VG e-liquids in small coils or pod systems that have small wicking holes, the liquid may not absorb quickly enough, leading to dry hits and a burnt taste.

Solution: Use a higher PG ratio for small coils or ensure your device is compatible with high-VG e-liquids.

7. Dirty or Clogged Coil

Over time, e-liquid residue can build up on your coil, reducing its effectiveness and causing a burnt taste. Dark or sweet e-liquids can contribute to faster coil gunk buildup.

Solution: Clean your coil if possible, or replace it when necessary.

8. Faulty or Expired E-Liquid

Expired or poor-quality e-liquid may not vaporize properly, leading to a harsh or burnt taste.

Solution: Always use fresh, high-quality e-liquid and store it properly.

Conclusion

A burnt taste when vaping is usually a sign of an issue with your coil, e-liquid, or vaping habits. Regular maintenance, proper priming, and mindful vaping can prevent this problem and enhance your overall experience. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a smooth and flavorful vape without the unpleasant burnt taste.