Vaping involves heating a liquid solution, known as e-liquid or vape juice, to produce an aerosol that is then inhaled. This aerosol typically contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemical components vaporized without combustion. While the variety of devices and liquids can seem complex to a new user, the necessary components are straightforward. This guide breaks down the essential components and steps required to begin vaping effectively.
Choosing Your Initial Vaping Device
The first step is selecting the right device, determined by your preferred inhalation style. Most new users prefer the Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) technique, which closely mimics smoking a traditional cigarette. With MTL, you draw the vapor into your mouth first, hold it briefly, and then inhale it into your lungs. MTL devices typically have restricted airflow and operate at lower power levels.
Direct-to-Lung (DTL) devices involve inhaling the vapor directly into the lungs, like taking a deep breath. DTL vaping produces larger clouds and is suited for experienced users or those who prefer lower nicotine strengths. Beginners should focus on an MTL-style device for a more familiar transition from smoking.
The most accessible hardware options for new users are pod systems or simple vape pens, which are small and straightforward to operate. Pod systems use pre-filled or refillable plastic cartridges, making them easy to maintain. Vape pens are slightly larger, offering a balance between ease of use and battery life.
Devices use either internal (integrated) or external (removable) batteries. Internal battery devices are simpler, charging via USB, and are often preferred by beginners as they eliminate the need for separate charging equipment. However, when the internal battery degrades, the entire device must be replaced. External battery devices, typically larger, allow the user to swap out depleted batteries, improving longevity, but require careful handling of the cells.
Understanding E-Liquids and Nicotine Selection
E-liquid is composed primarily of four ingredients: propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavorings, and optionally, nicotine. The PG to VG ratio significantly impacts the experience. PG is a thinner liquid that carries flavor and provides the “throat hit” sensation. VG is thicker, produces the majority of the visible vapor, and contributes a slightly sweet taste while smoothing the throat hit.
For new users utilizing an MTL device, a balanced 50% PG and 50% VG ratio is recommended. This blend provides a noticeable throat hit similar to a cigarette and is thin enough for the smaller coils in starter kits. Using a liquid with a high VG content in a low-power device can prevent the cotton wicking material from saturating properly, resulting in an unpleasant burnt taste known as a “dry hit.”
Selecting the correct nicotine type and strength is important. Nicotine in e-liquids comes in two main forms: freebase nicotine and nicotine salts. Freebase nicotine is the traditional form, which has a higher pH level, making it harsher on the throat at higher concentrations. Nicotine salts, created by adding an organic acid, have a neutralized pH, resulting in a much smoother inhale, even at high strengths.
Nicotine salts are suitable for new vapers, especially heavy smokers, because they allow for higher nicotine concentrations (often 10mg to 20mg) to be inhaled comfortably. This higher strength and faster absorption rate can effectively satisfy cravings. Freebase nicotine is better suited for lower strengths (3mg to 6mg) and higher-powered devices where a larger volume of vapor is inhaled.
Essential Setup and Operation
Once the device and e-liquid are acquired, preparation steps are required before the first use. If the device has an internal battery, ensure it has a full initial charge, though most devices can be used immediately. Devices requiring external batteries must have the cells charged in a dedicated external charger before installation.
Priming the coil is a foundational requirement. The coil is the heating element surrounded by cotton wicking material. Priming involves manually saturating the cotton with e-liquid before the first use to prevent burning. For a new coil, apply a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the exposed cotton wick holes around the metal casing.
After installing the saturated coil and filling the reservoir with e-liquid, wait at least five to ten minutes. This waiting period allows the wicking material to fully absorb the liquid from the tank, preventing an immediate dry hit upon activation and premature coil burning.
The first inhalation should be slow and steady. The technique involves drawing the vapor into the mouth for a few seconds, then inhaling it into the lungs before exhaling, mimicking a cigarette draw. Avoid forceful or rapid draws, which can overwhelm the coil and cause gurgling or leaking. A gentle draw allows the user to familiarize themselves with the vapor production and nicotine delivery.
Practical Safety and Purchasing Requirements
Before purchasing vaping products, understand the legal requirements. In the United States, federal law mandates that a person must be a minimum of 21 years old to legally purchase tobacco products, including all vaping devices and nicotine-containing e-liquids. Reputable vendors, both online and in physical stores, require strict age verification to ensure compliance.
Purchase hardware and e-liquids from well-established and reputable vendors to safeguard against counterfeit or non-compliant products. Reputable companies follow manufacturing standards and provide information regarding ingredient transparency and safety certifications. Counterfeit devices and batteries often lack the necessary safety circuits to prevent issues like short-circuiting or overheating.
For devices utilizing external lithium-ion batteries, safety rules must be followed. The battery’s outer plastic wrap acts as an insulator; any damage to this wrap can expose the metal casing and lead to a dangerous short circuit if it contacts metal. Damaged batteries should be immediately replaced or professionally re-wrapped.
External batteries should never be carried loose in a pocket or bag where they could contact metal items like keys or coins, which can cause the battery to vent or catch fire. Always store and transport spare batteries in a dedicated plastic protective case. Batteries should be charged on a non-flammable surface and never left unattended or charging overnight.