Understanding Vape Coils: Types, Lifespan, and Performance Tip

Whether you're new to vaping or already have some experience, understanding vape coils is key to getting the most out of your device. The coil is a small but crucial part of any vape setup. It heats the vape juice and turns it into vapour, directly impacting flavour, cloud production, and overall performance.If you've ever had a burnt taste or wondered why your vape isn't hitting the same, your coil might be the culprit.

At VapeZone, your trusted source for cigars and vapes, we help vapers of all levels choose the right vape kits, coils, and accessories. If you want to extend your vape experience and avoid common issues, this guide will explain everything you need to know about coil types, coil lifespan, and when it’s time for replacing the coil. If you're ready to upgrade your gear, you can always order vapes online directly from our Calgary-based store.

What Is a Vape Coil?

A vape coil is the heating element inside your vape tank or pod. It consists of a metal wire wrapped in a wicking material, usually cotton. When you fire your device, the coil heats up and vaporizes the e-liquid soaked into the wick. This vapour is what you inhale.

The coil’s role is simple, but it has a big effect on flavour, vapour production, and how smooth your vape feels. Different types of coils offer different experiences, and knowing the difference helps you customize your vape to your liking.

Types of Vape Coils

There are several types of coils, each designed to suit different vaping styles and types of e-liquid.

Standard Coils (Above 1.0 Ohm)

Best for mouth-to-lung vaping
Use less power and e-liquid
Ideal for higher nicotine strengths
Provide a tighter draw, similar to cigarettes

Sub-Ohm Coils (Below 1.0 Ohm)

Designed for direct-to-lung vaping
Work best with high VG e-liquid (more vapour, smoother hits)
Require more power (high wattage devices)
Create large clouds and stronger flavour

Mesh Coils

Made from a mesh-style metal sheet
Heat more evenly and quickly
Longer-lasting and better flavour
Great for high-wattage vaping and smooth inhales

Ceramic Coils

Use ceramic instead of cotton for wicking
Deliver cleaner flavour
Resistant to burning
Often found in replaceable coil pods and advanced vape kits

Coil Lifespan: How Long Do Vape Coils Last?

A common question vapers ask is: how long does a coil last? While the coil lifespan depends on many factors, most coils last between 5 to 14 days. Here are a few things that influence how long your coil will perform well:

1. Type of E-Liquid

High PG e-liquids are thinner and easier on coils.
High VG e-liquid is thicker and may cause coils to burn out faster if not wicked properly.
Sweetened vape juices can clog coils more quickly, reducing their lifespan.

2. Power Settings

High-powered vaping puts more stress on coils and shortens their life.
Lower wattage extends coil life but may produce less vapour.

3. Vaping Habits

Chain vaping (taking lots of puffs in a short time) doesn’t give the wick time to re-saturate.
Not priming your coil before use can lead to immediate burnout.

4. Coil Quality

Premium coils made with better materials last longer.
Replaceable coil devices offer the flexibility to upgrade quality.

Signs You Need to Replace Your Coil

Knowing when your coil needs to be replaced helps you avoid a poor vape experience and wasted e-liquid. Here are the most common signs:

Burnt taste or a flavour that tastes burnt
Decreased vapour production
Gurgling or leaking from your vape tank
A harsh or dry hit
Your e-liquid tastes off or muted

If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to replace your coil. Continuing to vape with a burnt coil can also damage other parts of your device.

How to Replace Your Vape Coil

Replacing the coil in your vape is usually a simple process. Most modern devices are designed for easy maintenance.

Remove the tank or pod from your device.
Unscrew or pull out the old coil.
Prime the new coil by applying a few drops of vape juice directly to the wicking holes.
Insert the new coil into the tank.
Refill your tank and let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
Start at a lower wattage to break in the coil gently.

Following these steps ensures your coil lasts longer and delivers smooth, flavourful vapour from the start.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vape Coils

Q: Can I clean and reuse vape coils?

A: In some cases, yes. You can rinse standard coils with warm water and let them dry, but this doesn’t fully restore performance. Mesh and ceramic coils are harder to clean effectively. For best results, replace your coil regularly.

Q: Why does my vape taste burnt even with a new coil?

A: You may not have primed the coil properly, or you're using too high a wattage. Also, thick e-liquids and chain vaping can cause dry hits.

Q: How do I choose the right coil for my vape?

A: Match your coil to your device’s power range and your preferred vaping style. Mouth-to-lung vapers typically use higher-resistance coils, while direct-to-lung users go for sub-ohm or mesh coils.

Buy Vape Coils and Kits from VapeZone

At VapeZone, we make it easy to find the right coils and vape kits to match your style. Whether you’re chasing clouds, looking for smooth flavour, or simply need a reliable setup, we carry top-rated brands and coil types.

You can order vapes online through our Calgary-based website or visit our shop for personalized help. Our team is here to answer questions, recommend products, and ensure you get the best value for your vaping needs.

We also sell premium cigars and offer expert advice for those who enjoy both cigarettes and vaping.

Calgary Vape Delivery

Understanding your vape coils—from coil lifespan to performance tips—can dramatically improve your vaping experience. Using the right coil type, maintaining proper habits, and knowing when to replace your coil ensures you always enjoy smooth, flavourful, and satisfying vapour.

If you're ready to upgrade your setup or need a new pack of coils, order vapes online from VapeZone or stop by our Calgary location. We’ve got everything you need for a great vape experience, every time.