Vape Coils and their Lifespans

To the inexperienced, the world of vaping can seem a little overwhelming, as there is a lot of vape-specific knowledge and terminology the average non-vaper knows nothing about. Even experienced vapers will sometimes learn something entirely new about vaping that can make vaping more enjoyable. 

One of the most crucial elements within a vape is its coil, and this small part can seriously adjust the overall vaping experience. For example, one vape coil may last a couple of days, whereas another may keep on working for several weeks – naturally, most vapers want a vape coil that lasts a little longer. That’s why understanding the different vape coils and their lifespans is so helpful.

About Vape Coils 

Vape coils are spiral wires that wrap around the wicking material within a vape. During vaping, the battery causes the heating elements and the vape coil to heat up, which turns the e-liquid into vape, thus playing a crucial role in the entire vaping process. There are several different types of vape coils, including sub-ohm coils, mesh coils, mouth-to-lung coils, and more, all of which provide a slightly different vaping experience.

How Long Do Vape Coils Last? 

The duration of a vape coil varies depending on the coil itself, such as the coil resistances, but it can last anywhere from two days to around two weeks. Other factors can also affect it, including vaping habits and the type of e-liquid used. If the duration of a vape coil matters a lot to you, find out the average lifespan of each of these popular coil types below. 

Sub-Ohm Coils: 1-2 Weeks

Sub-ohm coils are a particular type of specialist coil for more experienced vapers, as they give a more intense flavour and produce much denser vape clouds. These coils have a resistance under 1.0 ohms. This means the coil heats up faster and reaches a higher temperature overall, lasting anywhere from one week to two, depending on other factors. 

Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Coils: 1-2 Weeks

Mouth-to-lung vaping refers to a specific technique where the vaper holds the vapour in the mouth for a short period of time before full inhalation (and then exhalation), and there are specific coils for this purpose. MTL coils have a resistance of between 0.8 and 1.2 ohms, which requires less power compared to sub-ohm coils. However, they are both similar in that they last between one to two weeks. 

Dual Coils: 1-2 Weeks

A dual coil is exactly as it sounds – a coil with two wires instead of one. These are popular because they produce even more flavour and vapour than a single coil. Like many other coil types, a dual coil will typically last anywhere between one to two weeks, with the average length being around ten days. 

Mesh Coils: 1 Week

While most vape coils come as a solid wire, mesh coils are different in that they have small holes throughout and have a larger surface area. As a result, these coils can reach a higher temperature, which means a drier, more intense hit – which is more favourable to experienced vapers. Mesh coils last around one week.

Ceramic Coils: 2-4 Weeks

The coil’s material plays a significant role in the vaping experience. Ceramic coils are popular due to their longevity; this durable material means that you may not have to replace this coil for up to four weeks. This is thanks to the high-temperature resistance of ceramic. 

Stainless Steel Coils: 1-2 Weeks

Stainless steel is a popular material for coils because it holds its shape and works well for temperature control. Regarding longevity, it can last anywhere between one and two weeks. 

Kanthal Coils: 1-2 Weeks

Kanthal is a popular vape coil brand that uses three metals to create their coils. These coils come in a range of shapes and sizes, so the exact lifespan will depend on that. However, they are pretty reliable, with the average Kanthal coil lasting between one to two weeks, like many other average vape coils. 

Which Coil Lasts the Longest?

Most vape coils last between one to two weeks, but there is a standout coil material that truly stands the test of time: the ceramic coil. If you dislike replacing your coil too often and want a vaping kit that lasts an entire month, a ceramic coil should be your aim! On the other hand, the coil that doesn’t last as long as the others is the mesh coil, although some vapers still prefer this option due to its flavour intensity and dry hit. 

What Else Affects a Vape Coil’s Lifespan?

As you can see, there is no way of giving an exact number of days, even when knowing the specific coil type, and this is because of other factors. Here’s what else affects a vape coil’s lifespan: 

Vaping Habits: Your vaping habits play a significant role in how long the coil will last overall – as you would expect, the more you vape, the faster the coil will reach the end of its life. Those who chain vape might find they need to replace their coil – no matter the type – after just a matter of days. 

E-Liquid Type: Certain e-liquids lead to faster coil deterioration. In particular, dark, sweet, somewhat sticky e-liquids will clog the coil sooner, meaning you’ll need to replace it before too long. 

Puff Durations: Even if you only vape a few times throughout the day, you might still find you must replace your coil before too long if you take very long draws. 

The Vape Power Settings: Your vape’s settings can even impact how long your coil lasts. If you have your vape in the highest setting, expect your coil to wear out quickly – on the other hand, expect your coil to last longer if you use the lowest power setting. 

Commitment to Maintenance: Good maintenance can extend the life of your vape coil. If you prime your coils before placing them into your vape kit, for example, expect the coil to last longer than if you had not. 

When is it Time to Replace Your Vape Coil?

Even if you know your vape should last around two weeks, that doesn’t mean you should keep on taking puffs even when it’s no longer as satisfying – every person’s vaping experience varies, and you may need to replace your vape sooner than the average person. Here are some sure signs your coil has run its course: 

A Burning Taste

A burning taste in the back of your throat is never enjoyable, and that’s precisely what happens when your vape coil is not working effectively anymore. Basically, it’s a sign that the coil material has burned out and is not doing its job of vaporising properly, and it needs replacing. 

Leaking

Do you notice your vape kit leaking? If so, that’s a sure sign you need a replacement vape coil, as a finished coil causes build-ups that lead to e-liquid escaping the vape. Of course, this can also happen if you over-fill your vaping device!

A Bubbling Sound

Another sign that your vape coil has reached the end of its life is a bubbling sound when you take a draw. This happens when there is too much e-liquid pooling in the vape tank’s chimney, which may be due to an out-of-date coil. Keep in mind this could also be caused by overfilling the tank or inhaling too strongly when drawing.

Not As Much Vapor

The coil’s job is to turn the e-liquid into vapour. As you can expect, a non-working coil will produce less vapour! So, if you are not getting as much vapour as usual, take that as a sign you should get a replacement coil.

A Dry Puff

Does your throat suddenly feel too dry when you take a puff? If so, that may be due to your coil no longer turning the e-liquid into vapour as it should. It could also mean that your e-liquid is running low, and this would be easy to see as most vapes show the e-liquid level line. 

How to Extend the Life of Your Vape Coil 

Are you tired of replacing your coil after only a couple of days? To save yourself time and money, here are some simple but effective ways to extend the life of your coil – no matter which type you use. 

Always Prime Your Coil

Most people want to start puffing on their vape as soon as they fit a new coil, but this is a bad idea, as it skips the all-important step of priming the coil, which is necessary to prevent the coil from burning. Priming the coil is super easy; all you need to do is drip some e-liquid onto the wicking material inside your device and let it sit for over five minutes (the longer, the better), and then take a drag without turning the device on. Then, you can begin the device and start vaping. 

Avoid Taking Rapid Puffs

Taking too many puffs of your vape in a short period is a bad idea. This is often called chain vaping and will cause your coil to overheat and reach the end of its life sooner rather than later. Plus, chain vaping can cause a dry mouth and will mean you run out of e-liquid and battery power much faster! 

Choose the Right E-Liquid

Some e-liquids are better for a coil’s lifespan than others. If you are focused on your coil lasting as long as possible, choose tobacco or menthol-flavoured vape juices, as these will not clog the coil as much as sweeter options. Generally speaking, the more colouring and sweetener, the more the coil will clog. 

Don’t Let the E-Liquid Run Out

Letting your e-liquid run out while vaping is a fast way towards coil burning and dryness. To prevent that, get into the habit of always keeping your e-liquid level about the minimum line. 

Change Your Device Settings

Do you adjust your vape settings to precisely match your preferences, or do you barely pay them any attention? If you fall into the latter category, it’s time you started focusing more on how you use your vape, as a slight adjustment can make a world of difference to your coil’s longevity – not to mention the device overall! First, look at your device’s wattage setting, making sure yours is not higher than it needs to be. Then you can adjust the airflow, which is responsible for managing the coil’s temperature – the more airflow, the cooler the coil will be, which helps it last longer. 

Keep Your Spare Coils in a Cool, Dry Space

Many vapers purchase multiple coils at once, as this can work out cheaper in the long run. If you do this, keep your spare coils in a cool, dry space, as this will ensure they have a full lifespan once they are fitted into your vape tank. 

Moving Away from Vaping

Do you want to cut down on vaping? Perhaps you’ve got vaper’s tongue or have gone off your favourite flavour? One great alternative is nicotine pouches, which are great for those with a nicotine addiction who don’t want to smoke or vape anymore. These convenient pouches can be used anywhere, unlike vapes or cigarettes, and they come in a wide variety of flavours to suit your preferences. 

Vape Coil Lifespans: Final Thoughts

Knowing the ins and outs of vaping and the different components can make your vaping experience more enjoyable and efficient – especially when it comes to the coil! A vape coil is a crucial part of any vape, and replacing it will be necessary if you have a reusable device. While you can choose a particular coil type known to last longer, such as the ceramic coil, it’s better to adjust your vaping habits if you want to increase its lifespan the most. The key to a coil that doesn’t burn quickly is always priming your coil, choosing the right e-liquid, avoiding chain vaping, and using the correct vape settings. Turning these methods into habits will ensure your vape coil does not need a replacement in a matter of days!