Your Vape Tastes Burnt? Here’s How to Fix It

One of the most frustrating experiences for vapers is encountering a burnt taste while vaping. This unpleasant sensation can ruin your vaping session and may even deter you from continuing. However, the good news is that a burnt taste is usually easy to fix, and with the right knowledge, you can prevent it from happening again. In this guide, we’ll explore the common causes of a burnt taste in your vape and how to resolve and prevent it.

Understanding the Burnt Taste

The burnt taste you experience while vaping typically comes from a burnt coil or wick. In most vaping devices, the coil heats the e-liquid, and the wick absorbs the e-liquid to keep it flowing smoothly. When the coil or wick isn’t adequately saturated with e-liquid, it can overheat, causing the burnt taste.

Common Causes of Burnt Taste

1. Dry Hits

What Happens: When there’s not enough e-liquid reaching the coil or wick, the coil heats up dry, resulting in a burnt taste.

How to Fix It:

• Prime Your Coil: Before using a new coil, saturate the wick with e-liquid and let it sit for a few minutes to absorb fully.
• Check E-Liquid Level: Ensure your tank or pod has enough e-liquid. Refill when it gets low.

2. Chain Vaping

What Happens: Vaping continuously without breaks can prevent the wick from absorbing e-liquid quickly enough, causing dry hits and a burnt taste.

How to Fix It:

• Take Breaks: Allow a few seconds between puffs to give the wick time to re-saturate with e-liquid.
• Lower Wattage: If you’re using a variable wattage device, reduce the power setting to prevent the coil from overheating.

3. Coil Burnout

What Happens: Over time, coils degrade and can become gunked up with residue from the e-liquid, leading to a burnt taste.

How to Fix It:

• Replace the Coil: Regularly change your coil as recommended by the manufacturer. Typically, coils last between one to two weeks depending on usage.
• Clean Your Coil: If you’re using a rebuildable atomizer, you can clean and dry burn the coil to remove residue.

4. Incorrect E-Liquid

What Happens: Using an e-liquid with too high a VG (vegetable glycerin) content can lead to slow wicking and dry hits, especially in devices with small wicking holes.

How to Fix It:

• Choose the Right E-Liquid: Use e-liquids with a balanced VG/PG (propylene glycol) ratio suitable for your device. For devices with smaller wicking ports, a higher PG ratio (50/50 or 60/40) is recommended.

5. Wattage Settings

What Happens: Running your device at too high a wattage can cause the coil to overheat and burn the e-liquid and wick.

How to Fix It:

• Adjust the Wattage: Follow the recommended wattage range for your coil. Lower the wattage if you experience a burnt taste.

6. Airflow Issues

What Happens: Restricted airflow can cause the coil to heat unevenly, leading to a burnt taste.

How to Fix It:

• Check Airflow Settings: Ensure your device’s airflow is open and unobstructed. Adjust to a comfortable level that allows sufficient air to cool the coil.

Preventing Burnt Taste in the Future

1. Regular Maintenance

• Clean Your Device: Regularly clean your tank or pod and replace worn-out coils to maintain optimal performance.
• Keep an Eye on E-Liquid Levels: Don’t let your e-liquid run too low. Refill your tank or pod when it reaches about a third full.

2. Use Compatible Equipment

• Match Coils and E-Liquid: Use coils that are compatible with your device and the e-liquid you prefer. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the best results.
• Avoid Overpowering Your Device: Stick to the recommended wattage range for your coils to avoid overheating and burning.

3. Proper Coil Priming

• Prime New Coils: When installing a new coil, saturate the wick with e-liquid and let it sit for at least 5-10 minutes before use. This helps to prevent dry hits and burnt taste.

4. Monitor Your Vaping Style

• Avoid Chain Vaping: Give your device time to cool down between puffs to prevent overheating and burnt taste.
• Take Gentle Draws: Inhale gently to allow the wick to absorb e-liquid properly.

Experiencing a burnt taste while vaping is a common issue, but with the right approach, it’s easily fixable. By understanding the causes and implementing the solutions provided, you can enjoy a smooth and flavorful vaping experience. Remember, regular maintenance, proper coil priming, and using compatible equipment are key to preventing a burnt taste and ensuring your vape performs at its best.