You take a draw from your vape, expecting smooth, flavourful vapour – instead, you’re hit with an acrid, burnt taste that makes you wince. It’s one of the most frustrating experiences for any vaper, whether you’re new to vaping or you’ve been enjoying your device for years. That unpleasant burnt vape flavour isn’t just disappointing; it can completely ruin your vaping session and leave you wondering what went wrong.
The burnt taste happens more often than you might think, and it’s not always a sign that your device is faulty. Understanding why your vape tastes burnt is the first step towards preventing it from happening again. When you know the root cause, you can take simple steps to fix the problem and get back to enjoying the clean, satisfying flavour you’re looking for.
The good news? Most burnt vape issues are easily preventable and fixable once you understand what’s causing them.
This guide will walk you through the most common reasons why your vape develops that harsh, burnt flavour. You’ll discover:
- The technical reasons behind burnt hits and how your device’s components work together
- Clear warning signs that indicate when something’s going wrong
- Practical, straightforward fixes you can implement immediately
- Maintenance habits that keep your vape performing at its best
Whether you’re dealing with a dry hit, a worn-out coil, or incorrect device settings, you’ll find the answers you need to resolve your vape issues and prevent them from recurring.
Let’s identify what’s causing that burnt taste and show you exactly how to fix it.
Common Causes of a Burnt Taste
- Dry Hits: This usually occurs when there’s not enough e-liquid in the tank or pod. Ensure you’re using a reliable pod system like the Vaporesso XROS 3 Mini Pod Kit which offers excellent e-liquid capacity.
- Worn-out Coils: Coils have a lifespan and once they are burnt out, they will give a burnt taste regardless of other factors. Regularly check and replace your coils as needed.
- Incorrect Device Settings: If you’re using adjustable wattage devices, setting it too high can lead to burning the wick in the coil too quickly. Adjusting the settings according to the type of e-liquid can help avoid this issue.
- Low-Quality E-Liquids: Sometimes using low-quality e-liquids can result in a burnt taste due to poor ingredients or incorrect VG/PG ratios. Opt for high-quality options such as 0mg Ohm Boy 60ml Longfills (50VG/50PG) or 0mg Imp Jar X Zeus Bolt 50ml Shortfill (50VG/50PG) which provide a pure and flavourful vaping experience.
- Device Malfunction: Lastly, if none of these solutions work, there might be an issue with your device itself. Consider upgrading to a more advanced model like the OXVA Xlim SQ Pro 2 Pod Vape Kit.
What Causes a Burnt Vape Taste?
Understanding the causes of burnt vape taste helps you prevent this unpleasant experience and maintain the quality of your vaping sessions. The reasons behind a burnt taste vary from simple user errors to device-related issues that require attention. Let’s explore the most common culprits behind that harsh, acrid flavour that ruins your vape.
1. Insufficient E-Liquid Saturation
Your vape’s cotton wick serves as the delivery system for e-liquid to the heating coil. This small but crucial component absorbs the vape juice and holds it in place, ready to be vaporised when you activate your device. The wick must remain consistently saturated with e-liquid to function properly and deliver smooth, flavourful vapour.
When your cotton wick becomes dry, the heating coil has nothing to vaporise except the cotton material itself. A dry wick creates the perfect conditions for that dreaded burnt taste. The coil heats up to its operating temperature, but instead of vaporising e-liquid, it scorches the exposed cotton fibres. This produces an intensely unpleasant flavour that’s unmistakable – harsh, acrid, and reminiscent of burning fabric.
The dry hit causes extend beyond just an unpleasant taste. You’re essentially inhaling the byproducts of burnt cotton, which creates a scratchy sensation in your throat and can make you cough. The experience is so distinctly bad that most vapers immediately recognise when they’ve taken a dry hit.
Reasons for E-Liquid Saturation Problems
E-liquid saturation problems occur for several reasons:
- New coils that haven’t been properly primed – Fresh coils arrive completely dry and need time to absorb e-liquid before use
- Vaping too quickly – Rapid consecutive puffs don’t allow enough time for the wick to reabsorb e-liquid between hits
- Low tank levels – When your tank runs low, the wick struggles to draw up sufficient e-liquid
- Thick e-liquids – High VG (vegetable glycerin) move more slowly through cotton, potentially leaving the wick undersaturated
Consequences of Cotton Wick Dryness
The cotton wick dryness issue becomes particularly problematic because once cotton burns, it doesn’t recover. You can’t simply refill your tank and expect the burnt taste to disappear. The damaged cotton fibres retain that charred flavour, contaminating every subsequent puff until you replace the coil entirely.
You’ll notice the first signs of insufficient e-liquid saturation before it becomes a full-blown dry hit. The flavour might taste slightly off or muted, and you might experience a subtle harshness that wasn’t there before. These warning signs indicate your wick isn’t getting adequate e-liquid saturation, and you should address the issue before it progresses to a complete dry hit.
Importance of Temperature in Cotton Wick Dryness
Temperature plays a significant role in how quickly cotton wick dryness develops. Higher wattage settings heat the coil more intensely, which vaporises e-liquid faster and requires more frequent wick saturation. If your device settings don’t match your vaping style or the wick’s ability to absorb e-liquid quickly enough, you’ll encounter dry hits more frequently.
Relationship Between E-Liquid Saturation and Vapour Production
The relationship between e-liquid saturation and vapour production is direct and immediate. A properly
2. Damaged or Worn-Out Coil
Your vape coil isn’t designed to last forever. Every time you press that fire button, you’re subjecting the coil to intense heat – sometimes reaching temperatures of 200-300°C. This constant exposure to extreme temperatures gradually breaks down the metal wire and degrades the cotton wick wrapped around it. Think of it like a light bulb that eventually burns out after extended use.
Understanding Coil Degradation
The degradation process happens in several ways:
- The metal coil itself develops microscopic cracks and weak spots from repeated heating and cooling cycles.
- The cotton wick becomes increasingly carbonised, turning from pristine white to brown, then black.
- Residue from your e-liquid – particularly sweetened varieties – accumulates on the coil surface, creating a crusty layer that interferes with proper heat distribution.
This buildup is one of the primary causes of burnt vape taste that many users experience.
When your coil reaches this degraded state, it can no longer vaporise e-liquid efficiently. Instead of producing smooth, flavourful vapour, you’re essentially burning the accumulated residue and carbonised cotton. The result? That unmistakable acrid, burnt taste that makes you immediately stop mid-inhale.
Recognising the Warning Signs
You’ll notice several telltale indicators that your coil has reached the end of its useful life:
- Diminished flavour quality – Your favourite e-liquid suddenly tastes muted or “off”
- Persistent burnt taste – Even with a full tank and proper e-liquid saturation, you’re getting dry hit causes
- Darker e-liquid colour – The juice in your tank appears noticeably darker than when you filled it
- Reduced vapour production – Your device produces less cloud volume than usual
- Gurgling sounds – The coil struggles to heat the e-liquid properly, causing flooding
- Visible discolouration – Looking through the tank reveals a blackened or brown-crusted coil
These damaged coil effects don’t appear overnight. You might first notice a slight change in flavour – perhaps your e-liquid doesn’t taste quite as vibrant. Then you’ll get occasional burnt hits, especially toward the end of a puff. Eventually, every inhale delivers that harsh, unpleasant burnt taste that defines coil wear.
The Coil Lifespan Reality
How long should a coil last? The answer depends on your vaping habits and e-liquid choices. A typical coil lifespan ranges from one to three weeks, but several factors accelerate degradation:
- High wattage vaping – Running your device at maximum power settings generates more heat, speeding up coil breakdown
- Sweetened e-liquids – Sucralose and other sweeteners caramelise on the coil, creating stubborn residue
- Chain vaping – Frequent, rapid puffs don’t allow adequate time for cotton wick dryness to resolve between hits
- High VG e-liquids – Thicker liquids can struggle to saturate the wick quickly enough, causing dry spots
Some vapers replace coils weekly, whilst others stretch them to three weeks or longer. You need to pay attention to your specific device and usage patterns. If you’re a heavy vaper who enjoys sweet, dessert-flavoured e-liquids at high wattage, expect to replace coils more frequently than someone who vapes occasionally with simple tobacco or menthol flavours.
To mitigate these issues and ensure optimal performance from your device, it’s crucial to consider timely replacements of components such as the Voopoo Rota Replacement Pod Cartridge.
3. Low or Empty Tank
Running your vape with a low or empty tank is one of the most common causes of burnt vape taste. When your e-liquid level drops below the wick’s intake ports, the cotton wick can’t absorb enough liquid to keep up with your vaping demands. This creates a perfect storm for dry hits and that unmistakable burnt flavour that makes you wince.
How Low E-Liquid Levels Affect Wick Saturation
Your vape’s cotton wick relies on a consistent supply of e-liquid to function properly. The wick draws liquid from your tank through small openings or ports, keeping the cotton saturated and ready to vapourise. When your tank runs low, these intake ports become partially or completely exposed to air rather than e-liquid. The result? Cotton wick dryness that leads directly to burnt taste reasons you’re trying to avoid.
Think of it like a straw in a nearly empty glass. You can still get some liquid, but you’re also sucking in air. Your wick experiences the same problem. Even if there’s still some e-liquid visible in your tank, it might not be enough to reach the wick properly, especially if you’re vaping at an angle or the liquid has settled away from the intake ports.
The Mechanics of Dry Hits from Empty Vape Tank
When you fire your device with insufficient e-liquid saturation, the exposed portions of your wick heat up without any liquid to vapourise. Instead of turning e-liquid into vapour, your coil starts burning the cotton itself. This creates that harsh, acrid taste that’s impossible to ignore. A single dry hit can be unpleasant enough, but repeated dry hits from a low e-liquid level can actually damage your coil permanently, requiring earlier replacement than normal.
To prevent this scenario, it’s essential to choose high-quality e-liquids that are formulated for optimal absorption by the wick. For instance, 20mg Aisu By Zap! Juice Nic Salts, known for their authentic tasting flavours and efficient absorption due to their balanced VG/PG ratio, could be an excellent choice.
The burning sensation you experience isn’t just about taste. Dry hits deliver hotter, harsher vapour that can irritate your throat and lungs. You’re essentially inhaling the byproducts of burnt cotton rather than smooth, flavoured vapour. This is why keeping your tank adequately filled is crucial for both flavour quality and your vaping comfort.
Warning Signs of Low Tank Issues
You can often catch this problem before it ruins your vaping session:
- Visible e-liquid level below the wick’s intake ports or viewing window markers
- Gurgling sounds or changes in vapour production as the wick struggles to stay saturated
- Slightly muted flavour before the full burnt taste kicks in, indicating partial cotton wick dryness
- Inconsistent vapour clouds that vary in size and density between puffs
Some vapers make the mistake of trying to squeeze out every last drop from their tank. Whilst this might seem economical, you’re risking damage to your coil that will cost more to replace than the small amount of e-liquid you’re trying to save. The bottom line of your tank isn’t actually the bottom for your wick – you need to maintain liquid above the intake ports at all times.
Device Design Considerations
Different vape devices have varying tank designs that affect how quickly you’ll experience dry wick problems. Top-airflow tanks.
4. Incorrect Wattage Settings
Your vaping power settings play a crucial role in determining whether you experience smooth, flavourful clouds or harsh, burnt hits. The wattage you select directly controls how much heat your device generates, and this heat determines the coil temperature during operation.
Think of wattage settings vape as the accelerator pedal in a car. Just as pressing too hard causes the engine to overheat, pushing too much power through your coil creates excessive heat that burns through e-liquid faster than your cotton wick can absorb it. Every coil comes with a recommended wattage range printed on its side – typically something like “40-60W” or “Best 50-55W” – and these numbers exist for a specific reason.
How Wattage Impacts Your Vaping Experience
When you fire your device, electrical current flows through the coil’s resistance wire, generating heat. The wattage level determines the intensity of this heat:
- Lower wattage produces cooler vapour and slower e-liquid vapourisation
- Optimal wattage creates the perfect balance between flavour, vapour production, and wick saturation
- Higher wattage generates intense heat that can vapourise e-liquid faster than the cotton wick can replenish it
The relationship between vaping power settings and coil performance is straightforward: match your wattage to your coil’s specifications, and you’ll avoid most causes of burnt vape taste related to overheating.
The Dangers of Overheating Coil Wattage
Using wattage higher than your coil’s rating creates a cascade of problems. The excessive heat doesn’t just vapourise your e-liquid – it literally scorches the cotton wick material. You’re essentially cooking the cotton fibres at temperatures they weren’t designed to withstand.
Here’s what happens inside your tank when you exceed recommended wattage:
- The coil heats beyond its optimal temperature range
- E-liquid vapourises instantly upon contact with the overheated coil
- The cotton wick cannot draw replacement e-liquid quickly enough
- Dry spots form on the wick where e-liquid saturation fails
- These dry areas burn when exposed to continued high heat
- Burnt cotton produces that unmistakable acrid taste
This is one of the most common dry hit causes among vapers who’ve recently upgraded to more powerful devices. You might be accustomed to cranking up the wattage on your old setup, but different coils have different tolerances. A sub-ohm coil rated for 50W will suffer immediate damage if you fire it at 80W, no matter how much e-liquid sits in your tank.
Recognising Wattage-Related Burnt Taste Reasons
The burnt taste from incorrect wattage settings has distinct characteristics. You’ll notice the flavour deteriorates rapidly – sometimes within just a few puffs of adjusting your settings upward. The taste isn’t just unpleasant; it’s often accompanied by an unusually hot vapour that can irritate your throat more than normal.
Your coil also degrades much faster when subjected to overheating coil wattage. What should last 1-2 weeks might burn out in days or even hours if you consistently vape beyond the recommended range. The metal coil itself can also develop hotspots – areas that glow brighter and hotter than others – which creates uneven heating and contributes to cotton wick dryness in specific zones.
Finding Your Sweet Spot
5. Chain Vaping Effects
Your vaping habits significantly influence whether you encounter that unwanted burnt taste. One of the primary culprits behind burnt vape hits is chain vaping, which involves taking multiple puffs in quick succession without allowing time for the device to reset. Despite being a common issue, it often goes unnoticed.
When you take a puff, your cotton wick releases e-liquid that gets vaporised by the heated coil. This process temporarily depletes the e-liquid from the wick’s cotton fibres. Under normal circumstances, the wick needs time to draw more e-liquid from your tank through capillary action, a process called wick reabsorption time. This typically takes between 10 to 20 seconds, depending on your device and e-liquid viscosity.
The Problem with Continuous Puffs
Chain vaping prevents your wick from adequately resaturating between puffs. Each successive hit draws from an increasingly dry wick, and by the third or fourth rapid puff, you’re essentially vapourising dry cotton instead of e-liquid. This leads to that acrid, burnt taste that makes you immediately regret your vaping session.
This issue worsens with:
- High-wattage devices that consume more e-liquid per puff
- Thick, high-VG e-liquids that absorb into cotton more slowly
- Sub-ohm coils with larger surface areas requiring more saturation
- Older coils already showing signs of wear
Why Wick Saturation Time Matters
Your cotton wick operates on the same principle as a sponge. When you squeeze water out of a sponge, it takes time for it to reabsorb liquid from its source. The dryness of your vape wick resulting from chain vaping doesn’t just affect one puff – it creates a cascading effect where each subsequent hit becomes progressively worse.
The reasons behind the burnt taste become more evident when chain vaping because:
- The coil temperature rises dramatically without sufficient cooling from fresh e-liquid
- Dry cotton fibres begin to scorch and carbonise at high temperatures
- The lack of e-liquid saturation means you’re inhaling vapourised cotton particles
- Your coil’s lifespan decreases significantly due to constant overheating
Real-World Chain Vaping Scenarios
You’re most likely to chain vape during stressful situations, social gatherings, or when you’re particularly craving nicotine. Perhaps you’re on a work break trying to get your nicotine fix quickly, or you’re out with friends unconsciously taking hit after hit while chatting. These moments are precisely when dry hit causes become most prevalent.
The burnt vape taste from chain vaping differs slightly from other causes of burnt vape – it often starts mild and intensifies with each puff, giving you a warning before becoming unbearable. You might notice the flavour becoming muted first, then slightly harsh, before finally hitting you with that unmistakable burnt cotton taste.
Device-Specific Considerations
Different vaping devices handle chain vaping with varying degrees of success. Pod systems with smaller wicking ports are particularly susceptible to dry wick problems during continuous use. Meanwhile, some advanced tanks feature improved wicking systems.
6. Using the Wrong Type of E-Liquid
The thickness of your e-liquid plays a significant role in preventing burnt taste and ensuring proper wick saturation. Not all e-liquids work equally well with every device, and using the wrong type can be one of the hidden causes of burnt vape that many users overlook.
E-liquids come in different ratios of vegetable glycerin (VG) and propylene glycol (PG), which directly impacts their thickness. High VG e-liquids are thicker and produce more vapour, whilst high PG e-liquids are thinner and deliver stronger throat hits. This difference in e-liquid viscosity compatibility matters tremendously for your cotton wick’s ability to absorb and deliver liquid to the coil.
Thick vs Thin E-Liquid Effects on Your Device
When you use thick, high VG e-liquids (typically 70% VG or higher) in devices designed for thinner liquids, the cotton wick struggles to absorb the viscous liquid quickly enough. The dry wick problem becomes inevitable because the liquid simply can’t flow through the wick’s fibres at the rate your coil is heating and vaporising it. You’re essentially creating a situation where your coil burns the cotton faster than the e-liquid can replenish it.
Sub-ohm tanks and high-powered devices typically handle thick e-liquids well because they feature larger wicking ports and more substantial cotton. These devices are built to accommodate the slower flow rate of high VG liquids. For instance, Chew King 100ml Shortfill 0mg (70VG/30PG) e-liquids would work perfectly in such setups. On the other hand, pod systems, mouth-to-lung tanks, and lower-powered devices require thinner e-liquids to function properly.
Using thin e-liquids in high-powered devices designed for thick liquids creates different problems. The liquid saturates the wick too quickly, potentially flooding the coil and causing leaking or gurgling. Whilst this doesn’t directly cause burnt taste reasons, it compromises your device’s performance and can lead to inconsistent vapour production.
Matching E-Liquid to Your Device Type
You need to understand your device’s specifications before selecting e-liquid. Pod systems and starter kits typically work best with 50/50 VG/PG ratio or even higher PG content (60% PG). These devices have smaller coils and tighter wicking channels that require thinner liquid for optimal e-liquid saturation.
Sub-ohm tanks and powerful box mods perform better with 70% VG or higher ratios like 15mg Pure Nic Flavourless Nicotine Shot 10ml (70VG). The larger coils and wider juice flow channels accommodate thicker liquids without causing cotton wick dryness. When you match the proper e-liquid for device, you’re preventing one of the most common dry hit causes that plague vapers.
I’ve personally experienced the harsh reality of using 80% VG e-liquid in a basic pod system. The burnt hits started within minutes because the thick liquid couldn’t keep pace with the
Identifying Burnt Vape Taste Symptoms
Recognising burnt vape symptoms early can save you from repeatedly enduring unpleasant vaping sessions. Your device communicates problems through distinct sensory and visual signals that you shouldn’t ignore.
Taste
The most immediate indicator is the taste itself. When your vape produces a burnt flavour, you’ll experience an unmistakable acrid, bitter taste that completely overwhelms your e-liquid’s intended flavour profile. This charred vape flavour resembles the taste of burnt paper or singed fabric – nothing like the smooth, flavoursome vapour you expect. The burnt taste often intensifies with each subsequent puff, making it impossible to enjoy your vaping experience!
Throat Hit
Harsh throat hit signs accompany the burnt taste almost immediately. Instead of the smooth throat sensation you’re accustomed to, you’ll feel an aggressive, scratchy irritation that makes you cough. This harshness differs significantly from the pleasant throat hit that nicotine provides. The burning sensation extends beyond your throat, sometimes affecting your tongue and the roof of your mouth. You might notice this discomfort lingers even after you’ve stopped vaping.
Smell
Your sense of smell picks up on burnt vape issues too. When you exhale, the vapour carries a distinctly smoky, burnt odour rather than the pleasant aroma of your chosen e-liquid flavour. This smell often reminds vapers of burnt popcorn or scorched cotton – a clear warning sign that something’s wrong with your coil or wick.
Visual Inspection
When you disassemble your tank, look at the coil through the wicking ports. A healthy coil shows white or light-coloured cotton wicking material. Burnt coils display obvious discolouration:
- Dark brown or black spots on the cotton wick
- Caramelised residue coating the coil wire
- Crusty buildup around the heating element
- Darkened e-liquid inside the tank that appears murky or cloudy
The cotton wick itself provides valuable information. Fresh wicking material appears fluffy and white. Burnt wicking looks compressed, hardened, and turns various shades of brown or black depending on the severity of the damage. You might see the cotton has completely disintegrated in extreme cases, leaving gaps where the wick should be.
E-Liquid Changes
The juice in your tank may turn darker than its original colour, taking on a brownish or amber tint. This discolouration happens because the burnt residue from the coil mixes with your e-liquid, contaminating the entire tank. You’ll notice small black particles floating in the liquid – these are tiny pieces of burnt cotton or caramelised e-liquid residue.
Vapour Production
Burnt coils often produce thinner, wispier clouds compared to the dense vapour you normally get. The vapour might also have a visible greyish tint rather than appearing white and clean. Some vapers report their device makes unusual crackling or popping sounds when the coil is burning, though this can also occur with normal vaping.
Temperature Changes
Your device may feel unusually hot to the touch, particularly around the tank area. The mouthpiece (drip tip) might become uncomfortably warm during use. This excessive heat indicates
Easy Fixes to Prevent Burnt Vape Taste
Now that you’ve identified the burnt taste problem, you’re probably wondering how to fix burnt vape taste and get back to enjoying your device. The good news is that most burnt taste issues are entirely preventable with proper maintenance and technique. I’ve spent years testing different methods, and these solutions have consistently delivered the best results for eliminating that unpleasant charred flavour.
1. Priming New Coils Properly
Priming coils is the single most important step you can take to prevent burnt hits from the start. When you install a fresh coil without proper preparation, you’re essentially asking the device to heat dry cotton – which inevitably leads to that acrid, burnt taste you’re trying to avoid.
Here’s my proven priming coils guide that works every time:
Step-by-Step Coil Preparation Tips:
- Remove the coil from its packaging and locate the visible cotton wick ports (the small holes or openings on the sides of the coil)
- Apply 3-5 drops of e-liquid directly onto each visible cotton port, allowing the liquid to absorb into the wick
- Add a few drops down the centre of the coil where you can see the cotton through the top opening
- Install the saturated coil into your tank following your device’s instructions
- Fill your tank completely with your chosen e-liquid (like this 20mg Nic Salt 10ml By Nic Nic which is formulated for quicker absorption)
- Wait 5-10 minutes before taking your first puff – this waiting period is crucial for complete saturation
The waiting time isn’t just a suggestion; it’s essential for allowing the e-liquid to fully saturate coil before use. During these 5-10 minutes, the liquid travels through the cotton fibres via capillary action, ensuring every part of the wick is properly soaked. I know it’s tempting to vape immediately, but patience during this step saves you from wasting a perfectly good coil.
Pro tip: After waiting, take 3-4 gentle puffs without firing the device (called “primer puffs”). This creates negative pressure that helps draw more e-liquid into the cotton, ensuring complete saturation.
2. Adjusting Wattage to Recommended Levels
Your device’s wattage setting directly impacts coil temperature, and using incorrect power levels is one of the fastest ways to burn out a coil. Every coil has a recommended wattage range printed on its side – those numbers aren’t arbitrary suggestions; they’re the manufacturer’s tested specifications for optimal performance.
Wattage adjustment vape fixes start with understanding your coil’s limits:
- Check your coil’s wattage range (usually printed on the coil itself, something like “40-60W” or “Best 50-55W”)
- Start at the lower end of the recommended range when using a new coil
- Gradually increase wattage by 2-5 watts at a time until you find your sweet spot
- Never exceed the maximum rating – even by a few watts, as this causes immediate overheating
If you’re experiencing burnt taste with what seems like appropriate wattage, try reducing your power by 5-10 watts. Different e-liquid compositions and environmental factors (like room temperature) can affect the ideal wattage for your setup.
2. Adjusting Wattage to Recommended Levels
Your device’s wattage setting plays a critical role in preventing that dreaded burnt taste. Every coil comes with a specific wattage range printed on its side, and ignoring these numbers is one of the fastest ways to ruin your vaping experience.
When you push your wattage beyond what your coil can handle, you’re essentially forcing it to heat up faster than the wick can absorb e-liquid. The cotton burns instead of vaporising the juice, creating that harsh, acrid flavour you’re trying to avoid. I’ve seen countless vapers crank up their wattage thinking they’ll get bigger clouds, only to end up with a mouthful of burnt cotton instead.
Finding Your Coil’s Sweet Spot
Check your coil’s specifications before you start vaping. You’ll typically see something like “40-60W” or “Best 50-55W” engraved on the coil itself. These aren’t suggestions – they’re essential guidelines for proper coil function.
- Start at the lower end of the recommended range
- Gradually increase by 2-3 watts at a time
- Stop when you find your preferred balance of flavour and vapour production
- Never exceed the maximum wattage listed
The correct power setting vaping approach means respecting these boundaries. If your coil recommends 40-60W, starting at 40W gives you room to adjust upward without risking immediate coil damage. You might find your perfect vape at 45W, or you might prefer 58W – but you’ll never know if you start at maximum power.
Device-Specific Wattage Considerations
Different devices handle wattage differently. Pod systems often have fixed wattage settings, removing the guesswork from the equation. Box mods give you complete control, which means you need to pay closer attention to your settings.
Sub-ohm tanks require higher wattage recommendations for coils compared to mouth-to-lung devices. A 0.15-ohm sub-ohm coil might need 70-80W to function properly, whilst a 1.2-ohm coil performs best at 10-15W. Using sub-ohm wattage on a high-resistance coil – or vice versa – guarantees a burnt taste.
Temperature Control as an Alternative
Some advanced devices offer temperature control mode, which prevents your coil from exceeding a set temperature regardless of wattage. This feature provides an extra layer of protection against burnt hits, though it requires compatible coils (usually stainless steel, nickel, or titanium).
Warning Signs You’re Using Too Much Power
Your device tells you when wattage is too high:
- Harsh throat hit that feels uncomfortable
- Rapidly depleting e-liquid without satisfying vapour
- Coil lasting only a few days instead of 1-2 weeks
- Unusually hot vapour temperature
- Gurgling or popping sounds from the tank
Adjusting your wattage isn’t just about fixing burnt vape taste – it’s about extending coil life and maximising flavour quality. A coil running at appropriate power levels can last twice as long as one constantly pushed to its limits.
3. Avoiding Chain Vaping Practices
Chain vaping – taking multiple puffs in rapid succession – is one of the most common habits that leads to that dreaded burnt taste. When you take puff after puff without giving your device time to recover, you’re essentially starving your wick of the e-liquid it needs to function properly.
Understanding the Wick Reabsorption Process
Your cotton wick needs time to draw fresh e-liquid from the tank after each puff. When you vape, the coil heats up and vaporises the e-liquid saturating the wick. This process temporarily depletes the liquid in the cotton fibres. If you immediately take another puff before the wick has had a chance to reabsorb more e-liquid, you’re heating up increasingly dry cotton – which is exactly how you end up with that harsh, burnt flavour.
The 15-Second Rule
To fix burnt vape taste caused by chain vaping, implement a simple waiting period between puffs:
- Wait approximately 15 seconds between each draw to allow proper wick saturation
- Take slower, more deliberate puffs rather than rapid-fire hits
- Monitor your device temperature – if it feels hot to the touch, you’re definitely vaping too frequently
This vaping intervals tip might seem tedious at first, but it becomes second nature once you experience the difference in flavour quality. The wait between puffs vape technique isn’t just about preventing burnt hits; it’s about maximising the flavour profile of your e-liquid and extending your coil’s lifespan.
However, if you’re using a device like the 20mg ELF Bar 1200 Multi Edition Prefilled Pod Kit, which is designed for an exceptional mouth-to-lung experience with up to 1200 puffs, it might be easier to manage these intervals due to its user-friendly design.
Signs You’re Chain Vaping Too Much
You can tell when you’ve crossed the line from normal vaping to excessive chain vaping:
- Your device feels noticeably warm or hot
- You start detecting a slightly off taste even before it becomes fully burnt
- Your e-liquid seems to disappear faster than usual
- You experience more frequent dry hits
Practical Adjustments for Heavy Vapers
If you find yourself naturally inclined to vape frequently, you don’t have to completely change your habits. Instead, consider these coil preparation tips and device adjustments:
- Use a device with higher e-liquid capacity (like the aforementioned ELF Bar) to ensure consistent saturation
- Choose coils with larger wicking ports that allow faster e-liquid absorption
- Lower your nicotine strength so you don’t feel the need to vape as frequently
- Switch to a device with better wicking technology designed for more frequent use
The relationship between chain vaping and burnt taste is direct and unavoidable. When you saturate coil before use through proper priming (as discussed earlier), you’re setting yourself up for success – but that success only continues if you maintain good vaping habits. Even the most perfectly primed coil will burn if you don’t give it time to rewick between puffs.
Building Better Vaping Habits
Changing your vaping rhythm takes conscious effort, but the payoff is worth it. Start by setting mental reminders to pause between puffs. Some vapers find it helpful to put their device down between draws, whilst others count to fifteen before taking another hit. You might also experiment with different techniques until you find what works best for you.
Remember, building better habits takes time and patience. Be kind to yourself during this process and celebrate small victories along the way.
4. Keeping Your Tank Filled with Compatible E-Liquid
The level of e-liquid in your tank directly affects whether you’ll experience that unpleasant burnt taste. When your e-liquid level goes below the visible wick ports, you’re essentially asking your coil to vapourise air instead of juice. This is one of the quickest ways to fix burnt vape taste issues – simply make sure your tank is always adequately filled.
The Importance of Maintaining Tank Levels
It’s crucial to keep your tank filled above the minimum line at all times. From my experience, waiting until your tank is completely empty leads to burnt hits. The moment your wick loses contact with e-liquid, even for a second, it starts to dry out. Once that cotton begins burning, there’s no way to fix it – you’ll need to replace the coil.
Make it a habit to check your tank regularly throughout the day, especially if you vape frequently. I suggest refilling when your tank reaches about 25% capacity. This practice ensures continuous saturation of the wick and prevents those harsh, unpleasant hits that ruin your vaping experience.
Matching E-Liquid Thickness to Your Device
Not all e-liquids are compatible with every device, and using the wrong thickness is a common cause of burnt tastes. E-liquids come in different VG/PG ratios, which determine how thick or thin your juice is:
- High VG (70/30 or higher): Thicker consistency, ideal for sub-ohm devices with larger wick ports
- Balanced (50/50): Medium thickness, works well with most standard devices
- High PG (30/70 or higher): Thinner consistency, perfect for pod systems and mouth-to-lung devices
Using a thick, high-VG e-liquid in a pod system can lead to saturation problems. The cotton won’t be able to absorb the viscous liquid quickly enough, resulting in dry hits. I’ve seen vapers struggle with burnt tastes simply because they’re using 80/20 VG/PG juice in a device designed for 50/50 blends.
Understanding Your Device’s Requirements
Your device manual specifies the recommended type of e-liquid for a reason. Sub-ohm tanks with large coil openings work well with thicker liquids because the wick has more surface area for absorption. Pod systems and starter kits typically require thinner e-liquids that flow easily through smaller wick ports.
Temperature also plays a role in e-liquid thickness. VG-heavy liquids become even thicker in cold environments, making wicking slower. If you vape outdoors during winter or store your device in cool places, you might need to switch to a more balanced ratio to maintain proper saturation of the wick.
The Importance of Quality for Consistent Performance
The quality of your e-liquid affects more than just flavour – it also impacts how long your coils last and how consistent the taste is. Premium e-liquids from reputable manufacturers contain cleaner ingredients that produce less residue. Cheaper alternatives often include sweeteners and additives that caramelise on your coil, creating that burnt flavour you’re trying to avoid.
I always recommend investing in quality e-liquids from trusted brands. You’ll notice a difference in both flavour quality and how long your coils last. A bottle may cost slightly more, but you’ll save money by not having to replace coils as frequently.
Practical Tips for Maintaining Your Tank
Here are some practical tips for maintaining your tank and preventing burnt tastes:
- Refill your tank before it drops below the quarter mark
- Clean your tank weekly to remove any residue buildup
- Shake e-liquid bottles before filling to ensure proper mixing
- Store e-liquids at room temperature to maintain optimal viscosity
5. Regular Coil Replacement Schedule
Your coil isn’t designed to last forever. Even with perfect priming coil steps and careful wattage adjustment vape fixes, every coil has a natural lifespan that you need to respect. Understanding when to replace vape coils is essential for maintaining that clean, satisfying flavour you expect from your device.
Typical Coil Lifespan Expectations
Most vape coils last between 1–2 weeks with regular use. Your specific timeframe depends on several factors:
- Vaping frequency – Heavy users who vape throughout the day will burn through coils faster than occasional vapers
- E-liquid composition – Sweeter, darker liquids with higher VG content accelerate coil degradation
- Wattage settings – Consistently vaping at higher wattages reduces coil longevity
- Device type – Sub-ohm tanks typically require more frequent replacements than MTL devices
You might find your coils lasting slightly longer or shorter than this range. Pay attention to your device’s performance rather than sticking rigidly to a calendar schedule.
Recognising When Replacement Is Due
The burnt taste is often your first warning sign, but you shouldn’t wait until flavour deteriorates completely. Watch for these indicators that signal it’s time for a fresh coil:
- Diminished flavour intensity even with a full tank
- Gurgling sounds during inhalation
- Reduced vapour production compared to when the coil was new
- Visible dark residue or discolouration on the coil when inspecting your tank
- Persistent harsh throat hit despite proper saturating coil before use techniques
Building Your Coil Maintenance Routine
Creating a systematic approach to coil replacement helps you avoid burnt hits before they happen. Keep spare coils on hand – running out at an inconvenient time often leads to pushing a worn coil beyond its useful life. TopVapes offers quality replacement coils such as the AirsPops Bottle By AIRSCREAM Replacement Coils with two types of resistance (0.6Ω & 1.0Ω) that ensure you’re never caught without backup options.
Track your coil installation dates using your phone’s calendar or notes app. This simple coil preparation tip helps you anticipate when replacement is approaching. You’ll develop a sense of your personal usage patterns and can adjust your replacement schedule accordingly.
When you notice any decline in performance, don’t try to squeeze extra days from a dying coil. The money you save by extending coil life isn’t worth the unpleasant vaping experience. Fresh coils deliver the clean flavour your e-liquid deserves, and timely replacement is one of the most effective ways to fix burnt vape taste issues permanently.
Proper Disposal and Replacement Process
When swapping coils, empty your tank completely and rinse it with warm water. This prevents old, potentially burnt-tasting residue from contaminating your fresh coil. Follow the priming coil guide mentioned earlier – even if you’ve replaced coils dozens of times, never skip the saturation step. Each new coil needs those crucial minutes to absorb e-liquid properly.
Your coil maintenance routine directly impacts your overall vaping satisfaction. Consistent, timely replacements keep your device performing at its best and ensure you’re getting the full flavour profile from your chosen e-liquids.
Maintaining Your Vape Device for Optimal Flavour
Beyond replacing coils on schedule, your vape device needs consistent care to deliver the clean, satisfying flavour you expect. Regular maintenance prevents many of the burnt taste issues we’ve discussed and extends the life of your device components.
1. Clean Your Tank Weekly
Residue builds up inside your tank from different e-liquid flavours and natural vapourisation processes. This accumulation affects flavour quality and can contribute to premature coil degradation. You should disassemble your tank completely once a week and rinse each component under warm water. For stubborn residue, a small amount of washing-up liquid works well – just ensure you rinse thoroughly to remove any soap traces.
Allow all parts to dry completely before reassembly. Water droplets mixing with your e-liquid dilute the flavour and can damage your coil. I typically leave my tank components on a clean towel overnight to air dry.
2. Monitor Your Device Settings
Modern vape devices offer adjustable settings that directly impact your vaping experience. You need to check these regularly:
- Wattage levels – Verify you’re operating within your coil’s recommended range
- Temperature control (if available) – Ensure settings match your coil material
- Battery charge – Low batteries can cause inconsistent power delivery, affecting vapour production and flavour
3. Inspect O-Rings and Seals
The rubber O-rings in your tank create airtight seals that prevent leaking and maintain proper airflow. These small components wear out from repeated assembly and exposure to e-liquid. Check them monthly for cracks, stretching, or hardening. Most quality vape devices include spare O-rings – replace them at the first sign of wear.
4. Store E-Liquid Properly
Your e-liquid quality directly affects how your device performs. Store bottles in cool, dark places away from direct sunlight. Heat and light degrade nicotine and flavour compounds, creating a harsher taste that you might mistake for coil issues. Always check expiration dates and discard old e-liquid that’s changed colour or consistency.
5. Keep Connection Points Clean
The threading where your tank connects to your battery mod accumulates e-liquid residue and dust. This buildup interferes with electrical connections, causing inconsistent power delivery. Wipe these threads weekly with a cotton swab or soft cloth. Clean connections ensure your device fires consistently at your selected wattage.
6. Track Your Usage Patterns
Understanding how you vape helps you anticipate maintenance needs. Heavy users who vape throughout the day need more frequent coil changes and cleaning than occasional users. Keep mental notes of when you installed a new coil and how your flavour quality changes over time. This awareness helps you spot problems early, before that dreaded burnt taste appears.
7. Use Quality Products
The vape maintenance tips we’ve covered work best when you’re using quality components. Cheap coils or poorly manufactured tanks require more frequent replacement and cause more problems. TopVapes focuses on quality products that last longer and perform better, giving you better value for your money whilst reducing maintenance headaches.
8. Prolong Coil Life Through Smart Habits
Several daily practices help prolong coil life vaping beyond the standard 1–2 week lifespan:
- Take moderate-length puffs rather than extended draws that overheat coils
- Allow your device to cool between vaping sessions
- Avoid leaving your tank in direct sunlight or hot cars
- Switch between different e-liquid flavours to prevent flavour residue buildup
- Start at lower wattages when using new coils
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Why does my vape taste burnt?
A burnt vape taste is usually caused by issues with coil and wick saturation, such as insufficient e-liquid saturation, a dry cotton wick, or a worn-out coil. These problems lead to the cotton burning instead of vaporising the e-liquid properly, resulting in an unpleasant burnt flavour.
What causes a dry hit and how does it affect vape flavour?
A dry hit occurs when the cotton wick inside the coil is not adequately saturated with e-liquid. This can happen due to low e-liquid levels, chain vaping without allowing the wick to reabsorb liquid, or using thick e-liquids incompatible with your device. Dry hits cause the wick to burn, producing a harsh burnt taste.
How does wattage setting influence the burnt taste in vaping?
Using wattage higher than your coil’s recommended rating causes the coil to overheat, which burns the cotton wick and e-liquid prematurely. This overheating results in a burnt flavour. Adjusting your device to the correct wattage helps maintain optimal coil temperature and prevents burnt tastes.
Can using the wrong type of e-liquid cause my vape to taste burnt?
Yes, using an e-liquid that is too thick or not compatible with your device can prevent proper wick saturation. This insufficient saturation leads to dry wicks and coil overheating, causing a burnt taste. Always choose e-liquids suited for your specific vaping device for optimal flavour and performance.
How does chain vaping contribute to a burnt vape flavour?
Chain vaping involves taking rapid successive puffs without allowing time for the wick to reabsorb e-liquid. This continuous use dries out the cotton wick quickly, leading to dry hits and a burnt flavour. Allowing intervals between puffs helps keep the wick saturated and prevents burning.
When should I replace my coil to avoid a burnt taste?
Coils degrade over time due to heat and usage. Signs of a scorched or worn-out coil include persistent burnt flavours despite proper e-liquid levels and wattage settings. Replacing your coil regularly ensures better flavour quality and prevents unpleasant burnt tastes during vaping.
