Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Understanding the Vaporization Process
- Types of Vape Juice
- Selecting the Right Device
- How to Inhale: MTL vs. DTL
- Step-by-Step Guide to Your First Use
- Battery Safety
- Maintenance and Care
- Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Practical Tips for Success
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
If you are new to the world of vapor products, you may be looking for information on how to smoke vape juice. While the term "smoking" is often used interchangeably with vaping, the two processes are fundamentally different. Smoking involves the combustion of material, whereas vaping uses heat to turn liquid into an inhalable vapor. Understanding how this process works ensures a more consistent and enjoyable experience with your device.
At Vapor Authority, we believe that providing clear and accurate information helps adult vapers make informed decisions about their hardware and e-liquids. If you are just getting started, starter kits can make the learning curve easier to manage. Navigating the various types of devices, coil resistances, and liquid compositions can seem overwhelming at first. This guide will break down the mechanics of inhalation, device setup, and maintenance to help you get started correctly. Our goal is to provide you with the technical knowledge necessary to operate your equipment safely and effectively.
Warning: This content is intended for adults of legal vaping age only. Vaping products contain nicotine, which is an addictive chemical. These products are not intended for use by minors, non-smokers, pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or asthma. Consult a physician if you have concerns about whether vaping products are appropriate for you.
Understanding the Vaporization Process
Before you begin, it is important to understand what happens inside your device. Every vape setup consists of three primary components: a battery, a tank or pod, and a coil. The battery provides power to the coil, which is a heating element wrapped around a wicking material, usually cotton. When you activate the device, the coil heats up and vaporizes the e-liquid that has saturated the wick.
The liquid itself is generally composed of four ingredients: Propylene Glycol (PG), Vegetable Glycerin (VG), flavorings, and nicotine. Unlike traditional cigarettes, there is no fire or ash involved in this process. Because there is no combustion, you are inhaling vapor rather than smoke. This distinction is important because the techniques used to inhale vapor differ from those used for smoking. For replacement options when a coil wears out, replacement coils are an important part of routine upkeep.
Types of Vape Juice
To successfully use your device, you must choose the right type of e-liquid. E-liquids are categorized by their PG/VG ratio and the type of nicotine they contain. At Vapor Authority, we only carry US-made e-liquids that use high-quality ingredients. Choosing the wrong ratio for your specific device can lead to leaking or a burnt taste.
Propylene Glycol (PG) vs. Vegetable Glycerin (VG)
PG is a thin, odorless liquid that carries flavor effectively. It provides a more pronounced "throat hit," which is the tingling sensation felt in the back of the throat during inhalation. VG is a thicker, sweet-tasting liquid that is responsible for producing dense vapor clouds.
Most modern e-liquids use a blend of both. A 50/50 ratio is common for smaller pod systems. High-VG blends, such as 70/30 or 80/20, are designed for high-powered sub-ohm tanks. Sub-ohm vaping refers to using a coil with a resistance lower than 1.0 ohm. Using high-VG liquid in a small pod system may cause the coil to burn because the liquid is too thick to saturate the wick quickly.
Freebase Nicotine vs. Nicotine Salts
Freebase nicotine is the traditional form of nicotine used in e-liquids. It is typically available in lower strengths like 3mg or 6mg for high-volume vapor production. Nicotine salt e-liquids are a different formulation that allows for higher nicotine concentrations, such as 25mg or 50mg, without a harsh throat hit. Nicotine salts should only be used in low-power devices and never in high-wattage sub-ohm setups.
Selecting the Right Device
The device you choose dictates how you will inhale the vapor. There are three main categories of hardware available today.
Pod Systems
Pod systems are compact, user-friendly devices. They often use "open" pods that you fill yourself or "closed" pods that come pre-filled. These are generally designed for higher nicotine strengths and provide a tighter draw. Many pod systems are draw-activated, meaning they fire automatically when you inhale through the mouthpiece.
Starter Kits
Starter kits often include a pen-style battery and a small tank. These are slightly more powerful than pod systems but remain simple to operate. A setup like the Vaporesso Gen MAX 220W Starter Kit is one example of a more advanced option. They are a common choice for those who want a dedicated tank that can be disassembled for cleaning.
Box Mods
Box mods are larger devices that offer adjustable settings. You can change the wattage or voltage to customize the temperature and density of the vapor. These devices use external or large internal batteries to power sub-ohm tanks. Box mods are better suited for experienced vapers who want more control over their experience.
How to Inhale: MTL vs. DTL
There are two primary ways to inhale vapor, and the method you use depends on your equipment.
Mouth-to-Lung (MTL)
The MTL technique is similar to how one might use a straw. You draw the vapor into your mouth first, hold it for a brief moment, and then inhale it into your lungs. This method works best with high-resistance coils (above 1.0 ohm) and higher nicotine e-liquids. It requires a tighter airflow setting on your device.
Direct-to-Lung (DTL)
The DTL technique involves inhaling the vapor directly into your lungs in one smooth motion, much like taking a deep breath. This is used with sub-ohm devices and low-nicotine e-liquids. DTL vaping produces much larger clouds and requires wide-open airflow. Trying to DTL a high-nicotine salt liquid can be very unpleasant and is not recommended.
Step-by-Step Guide to Your First Use
Once you have your device and liquid, follow these steps to ensure everything functions correctly.
1. Prime Your Coil
Priming is the most important step for any new coil. Before installing a new coil, apply a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the exposed cotton wicking material. This ensures the center of the coil is wet before you fire it. If you fire a dry coil, the cotton will burn instantly, and you will have to throw the coil away.
2. Fill the Tank or Pod
Open the fill port on your tank or pod and carefully pour in your e-liquid. Avoid getting liquid down the center chimney, as this is where the air travels. Fill it to about 90% capacity to avoid air pressure issues.
3. Wait for Saturation
After filling, let the device sit upright for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the e-liquid to fully saturate the wick. Even if you primed the coil, this extra time prevents "dry hits," which occur when the heating element glows red against dry cotton.
4. Adjust Your Settings
If you are using a variable wattage device, check the recommended wattage range printed on the side of the coil. Start at the lowest recommended setting. You can gradually increase the power as you get used to the vapor production.
5. The First Draw
Take a few short, quick puffs without activating the battery. This helps pull liquid into the coil. Then, press the fire button (if your device has one) and take a steady, controlled inhale using either the MTL or DTL method described above.
Battery Safety
When using any electronic device powered by lithium-ion batteries, safety must be a priority. This is especially true for box mods that use external batteries like the 18650 or 21700. Proper battery care prevents malfunctions and extends the life of your hardware.
Essential Battery Tips:
- Inspect Wraps: Always check the plastic wrap on your batteries. If you see any nicks, tears, or exposed metal, do not use the battery. You can have batteries re-wrapped at most professional shops.
- Use a Dedicated Charger: While many devices allow for USB charging, using an external "smart" charger is safer and better for battery longevity.
- Storage: Never carry loose batteries in your pocket or bag. If they touch metal objects like keys or coins, they can short-circuit. Always use a plastic battery case for transport.
- Match Your Sets: If your device requires two batteries, use a "married" pair. This means buying two identical batteries and only using them together to ensure they drain and charge at the same rate. An example of a compatible option is the AW 18650 IMR 2200mAh Battery.
Maintenance and Care
To keep your device functioning properly, regular maintenance is required. E-liquid can occasionally leak or leave a sticky residue, and coils will eventually wear out.
Changing the Coil
A coil typically lasts between one and two weeks, depending on how much you use it and the type of e-liquid you choose. Sweetened e-liquids tend to "gunk up" coils faster. You will know it is time to change the coil when the flavor begins to fade or if the vapor starts to taste slightly burnt.
Cleaning the Tank
Every time you change your coil, it is a good idea to rinse your tank. Disassemble the tank and wash the glass and metal components with warm water. Do not wash the coil itself. Let the components dry completely before reassembling. This prevents old flavor residue from affecting your new liquid.
Storing Your E-liquid
E-liquid is sensitive to light and heat. Store your bottles in a cool, dark place, such as a drawer or cupboard. This prevents the nicotine from oxidizing, which can change the flavor and color of the liquid. Always keep e-liquid bottles tightly sealed and out of reach of children and pets.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best equipment, you may encounter minor issues. Most problems are easily solved with a few adjustments.
Leaking
Leaking often occurs if the device is left on its side or if the seals are not tight. Ensure all components are screwed together firmly but not over-tightened. If leaking persists, check the "O-rings" (rubber seals) for damage. Also, ensure you are using the correct PG/VG ratio for your coil; a liquid that is too thin may seep through the airflow holes.
Spit-Back
Spit-back is when droplets of hot e-liquid jump off the coil and into your mouth. This usually happens if the coil is "flooded" with too much liquid. You can often fix this by flicking the device downward toward a paper towel to clear the excess liquid or by slightly increasing your wattage to vaporize the excess more efficiently.
No Vapor Production
If your device is on but not producing vapor, check the connection between the tank and the battery. Ensure the bottom of the tank and the top of the battery are clean and dry. If the device displays an "Atomizer Short" or "Check Atomizer" message, the coil may be damaged or not seated properly.
Practical Tips for Success
As you learn how to use your device, keep these practical tips in mind. First, always stay hydrated. Vaping can cause a slightly dry mouth because PG and VG are humectants, meaning they absorb moisture. Drinking water helps mitigate this effect.
Second, avoid "chain vaping." This is the practice of taking many puffs in very rapid succession. Chain vaping does not give the wick enough time to soak up more liquid, which leads to burnt coils. Give the device 15 to 30 seconds between draws to prolong coil life.
Finally, remember that every device has a learning curve. What works for one person might not work for another. We recommend experimenting with different airflow settings and nicotine strengths to find what feels most comfortable for you.
Conclusion
Transitioning to vapor products involves learning a new set of skills and terminology. By understanding the difference between MTL and DTL inhalation, priming your coils correctly, and following battery safety protocols, you can ensure a consistent experience. Vapor Authority provides a wide selection of authentic hardware and US-made e-liquids to help you find the right fit for your needs. You can also read more about the company on our About Us page.
Key Takeaways:
- Prime your coils every time to avoid burning the cotton.
- Match your liquid (PG/VG ratio) to your specific device type.
- Choose the correct inhalation style (MTL or DTL) based on your coil's resistance.
- Practice battery safety by using cases and inspecting wraps regularly.
Ready to find your next setup? Shop our full collection of starter kits and premium e-liquids at Vapor Authority today, subject to state regulations.
FAQ
How do I know if I should use MTL or DTL inhalation?
You should use MTL inhalation if your coil resistance is above 1.0 ohm and you are using a device with a tight draw. DTL inhalation is intended for sub-ohm coils (below 1.0 ohm) and devices with wide airflow.
Why does my vape juice taste burnt?
A burnt taste usually means the cotton wick inside your coil is dry or scorched. This can happen if you didn't prime the coil, if the tank is empty, or if you are vaping at a wattage that is too high for the coil.
How often should I replace my vape coil?
Most coils last between 7 and 14 days depending on your usage habits. You should replace the coil whenever you notice a drop in flavor quality, a reduction in vapor production, or a persistent burnt taste.
Can I use any e-liquid in any vape device?
Not necessarily; high-VG liquids are thick and require the larger ports found in sub-ohm tanks. Thinner, high-nicotine salt liquids are designed for low-power pod systems and may leak if used in large sub-ohm tanks.
