10 Common Vaping Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Vaping has become a popular choice for those looking to quit smoking or enjoy a healthier alternative. However, many vapers—both new and experienced—make mistakes that can lead to a less enjoyable experience, wasted money, or even damage to their device. By learning about these common errors, you can avoid them and ensure your vaping experience is smooth, safe, and satisfying.

Here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 vaping mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Using the Wrong E-Liquid for Your Device

One of the most common mistakes vapers make is using an e-liquid that isn’t compatible with their device. E-liquids come in different PG (propylene glycol) and VG (vegetable glycerin) ratios, and choosing the wrong one can cause problems.

Why It’s a Problem

• High-PG Liquids: Thin consistency, ideal for smaller devices but can cause leaks in sub-ohm tanks.
• High-VG Liquids: Thicker and suited for sub-ohm devices, but may not wick properly in smaller vape pens.

How to Avoid It

• Check your device manual for the recommended PG/VG ratio.
• Use 50/50 PG/VG liquids if you’re unsure, as they work well with most devices.

2. Ignoring Coil Maintenance

Your coil is a crucial part of your vape. Neglecting it can lead to burnt hits, poor flavour, and even damage to your device.

How to Spot a Worn-Out Coil

• Burnt or metallic taste
• Reduced vapour production
• Gurgling sounds during use

How to Maintain Your Coil

• Replace regularly: Most coils last 1–3 weeks, depending on usage.
• Prime the coil: Add a few drops of e-liquid to a new coil before using it to prevent dry hits.
• Avoid chain vaping: Give your coil time to cool between puffs.

3. Choosing the Wrong Nicotine Strength

Using e-liquid with the wrong nicotine strength can leave you unsatisfied or uncomfortable.

Common Problems

• Low Nicotine Strength: May cause you to vape more frequently, which can waste e-liquid and battery life.
• High Nicotine Strength: Can cause harsh throat hits, nausea, or dizziness.

Finding the Right Strength

• Heavy smokers transitioning to vaping: Start with 12-18mg for mouth-to-lung devices.
• Sub-ohm vapers: Use 3-6mg, as these devices produce more vapour.

4. Overcharging Your Device

Many vapers leave their device plugged in overnight, but overcharging can damage the battery and shorten its lifespan.

Why Overcharging Is Harmful

• Can cause the battery to overheat.
• Reduces battery performance over time.

How to Avoid Overcharging

• Unplug your device once fully charged.
• Use a charger with built-in overcharge protection.

5. Using Overly Sweet E-Liquids

Sweet flavours are tempting, but they can wreak havoc on your coil. The sugar caramelises when heated, creating residue that clogs your coil.

Problems with Sweet E-Liquids

• Shortens coil lifespan
• Reduces flavour quality over time

Tips for Sweet E-Liquids

• Clean your device regularly to prevent buildup.
• Opt for mesh coils, which handle sweet liquids better.

6. Neglecting Airflow and Wattage Settings

Your device’s airflow and wattage settings are key to a great vaping experience. Ignoring them can lead to weak flavour, burnt hits, or an unpleasant vape.

Common Issues

• Too low wattage: Weak vapour and flavour.
• Too high wattage: Burnt e-liquid and damaged coils.

How to Optimise Settings

• Check your coil for the recommended wattage range.
• Adjust airflow for your preferred balance between flavour and vapour production.

7. Chain Vaping

Chain vaping, or taking multiple puffs in quick succession, is a common habit that can damage your coil and create an unpleasant vaping experience.

Why It’s Harmful

• Overheats the coil, leading to dry hits.
• Reduces the lifespan of your coil.

How to Avoid It

• Take short breaks between puffs to let your coil cool.
• Use a device with temperature control to avoid overheating.

8. Storing Your Vape Incorrectly

Improper storage can damage your vape and cause leaks. Temperature, position, and exposure to the elements all play a role.

Common Mistakes

• Leaving the device in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
• Storing it horizontally, which can cause leaks.

How to Store Your Vape

• Keep it upright in a cool, dry place.
• Use a case for added protection during travel.

 9. Ignoring Battery Safety

Using damaged or mismatched batteries can be dangerous. Faulty batteries can cause device failure or, in rare cases, safety risks.

Tips for Battery Safety

• Inspect batteries for signs of damage, such as dents or tears.
• Only use the charger recommended by your device manufacturer.
• Don’t use third-party batteries unless they’re certified for your device.

10. Forgetting to Stay Hydrated

Vaping can dehydrate you due to the propylene glycol (PG) in e-liquids, which draws moisture from your body.

Signs of Dehydration

• Dry mouth and throat
• Increased thirst

How to Stay Hydrated

• Drink water regularly, especially during extended vaping sessions.
• Use e-liquids with higher VG content if dryness persists.

Final Thoughts

Vaping is an enjoyable and effective alternative to smoking, but avoiding these common mistakes is key to getting the most out of it. By choosing the right e-liquid, maintaining your device, and being mindful of safety, you can enhance your vaping experience and save money on repairs and replacements.

Remember, your Disposable vape is an investment. Treat it with care, and it will reward you with smooth flavour, dense vapour, and a satisfying experience. If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to ask for advice from a reputable vape shop or consult your device manual. Happy vaping!