If you’ve noticed your vape isn’t hitting quite the same, or your favourite e-liquid suddenly tastes a bit off, it might be time for a coil change. Did you know that your vape coil is a key part of your device? It’s the component that heats up your e-liquid and turns it into vapour. But over time, your vape coil can wear out from regular use and exposure. When that happens, the performance of your device, flavour quality, and even vapour production can suffer.
A worn coil can also lead to dry hits, strange aftertastes, and even potential damage to your device if ignored for too long. Replacing it regularly keeps your setup running smoothly.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how long vape coils typically last, what signs to look for, and how to recognize when to change your vape coil so you can enjoy a smooth, flavourful vaping experience every time:
Key Takeaways
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Most vape coils last between one and two weeks, depending on usage.
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A burnt taste, reduced vapour, or leaking can be signs your coil needs replacing.
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Knowing when to replace the coil can improve flavour, prevent damage to your device, and support a better vaping experience.
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Following proper coil priming techniques and vaping habits can help extend coil life.
How Long Do Vape Coils Last?
How long a vape coil lasts can vary depending on your device, vaping habits, as well as the type of e-liquid used. On average, a coil lasts anywhere from 5 to 14 days. Heavier use, chain vaping, or using sweeter, thicker vape juice can shorten the life span of your coil due to residue build-up on the wicking material and wire.
It’s important to note that even with light use, a coil won’t last forever. Eventually, the cotton wick becomes too saturated with residue or the wire becomes too degraded to function properly. That’s when you’ll notice issues like burnt taste, leaking, or inconsistent performance.
Proper coil care, like avoiding dry hits, priming a new coil correctly, and not exceeding recommended wattage, can extend coil life. Still, once flavour fades or vapour drops off, replacing the coil ensures your device continues to deliver a smooth and enjoyable vaping experience.
5 Signs It's Time To Change Your Vape Coils
Your Vape Tastes Burnt
One of the most obvious indicators that your coil needs replacing is a burnt taste when you take a puff. If your vape tastes burnt, even after refilling with fresh e-liquid, it’s likely that the cotton wick inside the coil has dried out or is covered in residue. This can happen if the coil isn’t properly primed, the tank runs dry, or the coil has simply reached the end of its usable life.
Dry hits occur when there isn’t enough e-liquid soaking the coil. If you’re getting dry, unpleasant puffs even with a full tank or pod, your burnt coil is probably the culprit.
The E-Liquid Doesn't Taste Right
If your favourite flavour suddenly tastes muted, dull, or just “off,” your coil may be the reason. A fresh coil should deliver clean, bold flavour. As a coil degrades, the wicking material becomes saturated with old vape juice residue, affecting the taste. You might also notice an odd aftertaste or reduced sweetness. Replacing the coil can bring back the full spectrum of flavour your e-liquid is designed to deliver.
Your Device Produces Less Vapour
If your vaping device is putting out noticeably less vapour than usual (even with a full battery and tank), it could be due to a worn-out coil. Over time, coil resistance increases, and the heating element struggles to perform as well. A lack of vapour, even when your device is properly set up, is a common sign that your vape coil needs replacing.
The Vape Starts Leaking
Leaking from your vape tank or pod can sometimes be traced back to a damaged or degraded coil. When a coil is worn, the wick may not absorb e-liquid properly, leading to overflow or seepage. Leaking can also occur if the coil isn’t properly installed or if the seal around it has been compromised over time. If you’re seeing e-liquid around the base or air vents of your device, a coil replacement is worth considering.
There Are Flashing Error Messages
Many modern vape kits will display flashing lights or error messages when something’s wrong with the coil. If your device is blinking or refusing to fire, the coil may not be making a proper connection, or it could be completely burnt out. Some devices also detect a “short” if the coil is damaged. If troubleshooting doesn’t solve the issue, it’s time for a new coil.
Get Replacement Coils Today!
Replacing your coil regularly keeps your device running smoothly and helps you get the best out of your vape juice flavours. While each user’s experience may differ based on vaping habits, knowing the signs of a worn coil helps you stay ahead of potential issues like leaks, reduced vapour, or off-putting taste.
Remember, using a brand-new coil requires proper coil priming. Saturate it with a few drops of e-liquid and let it sit for 5–10 minutes before vaping. This helps avoid early burnt hits and extends the life of your coil.
If you’re using vapes in Canada, make sure you’re keeping your hardware well-maintained and replacing coils as needed. A little upkeep goes a long way toward preserving flavour and performance.
At Cold Turkey Vape Shop, we stock a wide selection of vape coils and accessories to keep your setup in peak condition. From mesh coils to high-resistance options for MTL (mouth-to-lung) devices, there’s a different coil for every preference and device type. Visit us in-store or online to explore our full range of coils and vaping accessories today.
Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice or product guidance. Please consult your device manual or reach out to a knowledgeable source if you’re unsure about your specific coil type or setup.
