Experiencing a burnt taste when vaping can be frustrating and unpleasant, often ruining the overall experience. This issue typically stems from problems with the coil, wick, or e-liquid, causing an undesirable burnt sensation with each inhale. Understanding the common causes behind this problem can help vapers prevent and resolve the issue effectively.
Dry Hits and Coil Issues
One of the most common reasons for a burnt taste is taking dry hits, which occur when there isn’t enough e-liquid saturating the coil’s wick. When the wick dries out, it burns instead of vaporizing the e-liquid, resulting in an acrid taste. This can happen when vaping at high wattages that exceed the coil’s capacity, causing the e-liquid to vaporize too quickly and leaving the wick vulnerable to burning.
Additionally, coils have a limited lifespan, and continued use can lead to buildup and degradation of the coil material. If a coil has been used for an extended period, residue from e-liquids accumulates and affects performance. Regularly replacing coils based on manufacturer recommendations or whenever a burnt taste develops can help maintain a smooth vaping experience.
Chain Vaping and Insufficient Priming
Chain vaping, or taking consecutive puffs without allowing time for the wick to reabsorb e-liquid, can also contribute to a burnt taste. When the wick remains dry for too long, it leads to scorching, diminishing both flavor and vapor production. To prevent this, allowing short pauses between inhales and ensuring the coil is properly saturated can help.
Properly priming a new coil before first use is another crucial step. This involves manually soaking the wick with e-liquid and letting it sit for several minutes before taking the first puff. Skipping this step can cause immediate burning of the dry cotton wick, resulting in a permanently unpleasant taste.
Incorrect Wattage and E-Liquid Choice
Using a wattage that is too high for the coil can quickly burn the wick, making it essential to stay within the recommended power range specified by the coil manufacturer. High-powered settings generate excessive heat, leading to faster coil deterioration and an increased risk of dry hits. Adjusting wattage settings according to the coil’s specifications can significantly extend its lifespan.
The type of e-liquid used also affects the likelihood of experiencing a burnt taste. Thicker e-liquids with high VG (vegetable glycerin) content may struggle to wick efficiently, especially in coils designed for lower power settings. Choosing an e-liquid with the appropriate VG/PG (propylene glycol) ratio for the device being used ensures optimal performance and prevents wick saturation issues.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Proper maintenance of the vape device plays a crucial role in preventing a burnt taste. Regular cleaning of the tank, coil housing, and mouthpiece removes e-liquid residue that can impact flavor. If a burnt taste persists despite replacing the coil, cleaning the entire system with warm water and thoroughly drying it before reassembly may help restore the vaping experience.
In conclusion, a burnt vape taste is often a result of improper coil priming, high wattage settings, chain vaping, or the use of unsuitable e-liquids. By following proper maintenance practices, adjusting settings accordingly, and replacing coils when necessary, vapers can avoid this unpleasant experience and enjoy consistent, flavorful vapor production.
Conclusion
A burnt taste when vaping is a common issue caused by dry hits, coil problems, improper wattage settings, or unsuitable e-liquids. When the wick inside the coil lacks sufficient e-liquid, it burns instead of vaporizing, leading to an unpleasant taste. Chain vaping and failing to prime new coils can also result in scorching. Additionally, using high wattage beyond the coil’s capacity or thick e-liquids with poor wicking can accelerate coil deterioration. Regular maintenance, proper coil priming, and using the correct e-liquid ratio help prevent this issue. By addressing these factors, vapers can enjoy a smooth and flavorful experience without the dreaded burnt taste.