vape-coil

Why Does My Vape Taste Burnt with a New Coil?

Experiencing a burnt taste when using a new vape coil is a common frustration among vapers—especially if you've just replaced your old coil. This unpleasant experience can happen for various reasons, even with brand-new coils.

If you’re wondering why this happens and, more importantly, how to fix and prevent it, this guide will help. We'll cover common causes for a burnt-tasting vape, how to fix these issues, and pro tips for enhancing your vaping experience. 

Common Reasons Your New Coil Tastes Burnt

1. Not Priming the Coil Properly 

Properly priming your coil is an essential step that many overlook. When a coil vape is new, the wick inside it (usually made of cotton) is completely dry. Vaping with a dry wick results in a burnt taste because it cannot absorb the e-liquid effectively. This common issue can even lead to the premature need for replacement coils, which can add unnecessary cost and frustration to your vaping experience. 

How to Properly Prime a Vape Coil: 

  • Drip a few drops of vape juice directly onto the exposed cotton wick inside the coil. 

  • Fully assemble your vape tank and fill it with e-liquid. 

  • Allow the coil to sit for at least 5-10 minutes to ensure the wick gets fully saturated. 

  • Take a few puffs without hitting the fire button (also known as “priming puffs”) to help the e-liquid flow through the coil.

2. Chain Vaping (Taking Hits Too Quickly) 

Chain vaping happens when you take continuous puffs without giving your coil time to re-saturate with e-liquid. This dries out the wick and makes it more prone to burning. 

Solution: 

Allow a few seconds between puffs to give your wick enough time to absorb the vape juice. If you're vaping at higher temperatures, consider spacing out your hits even more.

3. Wattage Set Too High 

Setting your vape device to a wattage that's higher than the recommended range for your coil can burn it almost instantly. This risk increases when using sub-ohm coils or mesh coils, which require more precise wattage settings. 

How to Find the Right Wattage: 

  • Check the wattage range printed on the side of your coil (e.g., 20-40W). 

  • Start at the lower end of the range and gradually adjust while vaping until you find your sweet spot. 

  • Avoid exceeding the maximum wattage suggested for your coil.

4. Using the Wrong E-Liquid (VG/PG Ratio) 

Different vape coils are designed for different VG/PG ratios. VG (vegetable glycerin) is thicker, while PG (propylene glycol) is thinner. If you’re using a high-VG e-liquid in a smaller coil, the wick may struggle to absorb the thicker liquid quickly, causing dry hits and burnt tastes. 

Recommendation: 

  • Use high-VG liquids (e.g., 70% VG) for sub-ohm or mesh coil vapes. 

  • Opt for 50/50 VG/PG or high-PG liquids for smaller coils like those used in pod systems or pen-style vapes. 

5. Coil Defects or Manufacturing Issues 

Even high-quality coils occasionally have defects straight out of the box. These issues can lead to uneven wicking or heating, resulting in that burnt taste. 

What to Do: 

  • Inspect your coil before use—look for uneven cotton placement or damaged metal parts. 

  • If you suspect a defective coil, contact the vendor for a replacement.

How to Fix a Burnt-Tasting New Coil 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to addressing a burnt coil issue with a new vape setup:

Step 1: Remove the Coil and Prime It Again 

Disassemble your vape device, remove the coil, and reapply a few drops of e-liquid to the wick. Reassemble and allow it to soak for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Adjust Wattage to the Recommended Level 

Lower your device’s wattage to within the appropriate range for your coil. Avoid starting at the maximum wattage when testing your coil.

Step 3: Try a Different E-Liquid 

If your e-liquid is too thick for your coil, switch to one with a higher PG percentage. For sub-ohm coils, ensure you’re using high-VG liquids. 

Step 4: Allow the Coil to Fully Saturate 

Refill your vape tank, reassemble your device, and wait for at least 10-15 minutes before taking another hit. Take a few unpowered priming puffs to help saturate the coil.

Pro Tips to Prevent Burnt Coils in the Future 

Always Prime Your Coil Before Vaping 

This essential step prevents dry wicks and burnt tastes right from the start.

Use the Correct E-Liquid for Your Device 

Match your coil type with the appropriate VG/PG ratio to ensure smooth vaping.

Avoid Chain Vaping 

Give your wick time to absorb more e-liquid between puffs, especially with smaller coils or high-powered devices.

Regularly Replace Coils 

Even the best vape coils degrade over time. Replace coils every 1-2 weeks (or as needed, depending on usage) to maintain flavor and performance.

Enhance Your Vaping Experience 

A burnt taste with a new coil shouldn’t ruin your vaping experience. By following these tips and best practices, you’ll enjoy smoother hits, richer flavors, and fewer frustrations. 

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