An electronic vaping device, often called an e-cigarette, is a system designed to heat a liquid solution, known as e-liquid, to produce an inhalable aerosol. The device uses a battery to power a heating element, or coil, which vaporizes the liquid absorbed by a wick material. This guide focuses on the mechanical steps required to operate a typical refillable vaping device.
Initial Setup and Coil Priming
Before using a new device, the battery must be fully prepared, which often involves an initial charge. If your device uses a built-in lithium-ion battery, connect it to a power source using the manufacturer-provided charging cable. Monitor the device and unplug it once the charging indicator shows a full charge to prevent unnecessary stress on the cell. For devices that use external, removable batteries, ensure the protective wraps are intact and charge them separately using a dedicated external charger.
The next step involves preparing the coil, which is the heating element and wick assembly. The wick, typically made of cotton, must be fully saturated with e-liquid before the first use, a process known as priming. Locate the small exposed cotton ports on the side of the coil head and apply two to three drops of e-liquid directly onto the wick in each opening. This initial application ensures the cotton is saturated from the inside out, preventing immediate burning upon activation.
After manually priming the coil, insert it securely into the tank or pod section of the device. Next, fill the tank with your chosen e-liquid, being careful to avoid pouring liquid down the central airflow tube. Allow the entire assembly to sit upright for at least five to ten minutes before activating the device. This waiting period gives the e-liquid time to fully saturate the remaining cotton wick, which is especially important for thicker, higher-Vegetable Glycerin (VG) liquids.
Proper Usage and Inhalation Methods
Most vaping devices require activation before use, typically by pressing the power button five times quickly to turn the unit on or off. Devices are generally categorized by their activation method. Button-activated models require the user to press and hold a firing button during the inhale. Draw-activated models sense the air movement and fire automatically. Before firing a new, fully primed coil, it is recommended to take a few short draws without pressing the button to further pull liquid into the wick.
The experience of using the device depends on the inhalation technique employed, with two primary methods: Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) and Direct-to-Lung (DTL).
Mouth-to-Lung (MTL)
The MTL technique involves drawing the vapor into the mouth first, holding it briefly, and then inhaling it into the lungs. This method uses a tighter airflow and lower power setting. MTL is suitable for higher-nicotine e-liquids and smaller, less powerful devices.
Direct-to-Lung (DTL)
In contrast, the DTL technique involves a long, steady pull that brings the vapor directly into the lungs, similar to taking a deep breath. DTL requires a much looser airflow and higher power settings to produce larger amounts of vapor. This style is best suited for lower-nicotine e-liquids and devices with sub-ohm coils, which have a resistance below 1.0 ohm.
Many advanced devices feature adjustable settings, such as wattage or voltage control, which allow the user to fine-tune the power delivered to the coil. Adjusting the power setting impacts the temperature of the vapor and the rate of e-liquid consumption. Users should reference the coil’s recommended wattage range, usually printed on its casing. Devices often include an adjustable airflow control ring, which can be opened for a looser DTL draw or closed for a tighter MTL draw. To prevent the coil from overheating and degrading prematurely, avoid taking excessive, continuous puffs in rapid succession.
Ongoing Care and Component Replacement
The most frequently replaced part is the coil, which typically needs changing when the flavor becomes noticeably degraded, muted, or develops a burnt taste. Depending on the e-liquid used and the frequency of use, a coil may last anywhere from a few days to two weeks before the wicking material is no longer effective. Replacing the coil involves disassembling the tank, unscrewing the old coil head, and installing a new, freshly primed one.
Routine cleaning is necessary to prevent residue buildup, which can affect flavor and device conductivity. The tank or pod should be disassembled and rinsed with warm water whenever the coil is replaced, ensuring all parts are completely air-dried before reassembly. The device’s electrical contacts, such as the battery terminals or charging port, should be gently wiped with a dry cloth or cotton swab to remove any accumulated lint or sticky e-liquid residue. Keeping these connection points clean maintains a reliable electrical current flow between the battery and the heating element.
Proper battery safety is important, especially since most devices rely on high-drain lithium-ion cells. Always use the charger supplied with the device or a dedicated external charger designed for the battery type to prevent issues like overcharging or short-circuiting. Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, which can cause internal degradation. If using external batteries, always inspect the outer plastic wrap for any tears or nicks, as damage to this wrap can expose the metal casing and lead to a dangerous short circuit.