Switching from tobacco smoking to vaping is one of the best things you can do for your health. The health effects of smoking have been known for decades, and in the UK, the habit is extremely expensive.
With more and more people turning to vaping for health reasons and its cost, some may find the sheer variety of brands, device types, vaping styles, flavors, and strengths overwhelming. Vapers may also encounter a range of problems that, while easy to avoid or fix, can be confusing if you don't know what you're doing.
This blog explains what to look out for when starting to vape, which devices to consider, how to maintain them, and how to troubleshoot some common vaping problems. Read more to ensure a successful, hassle-free vaping experience and a smoke-free future.
Getting Started with Vaping
Many people start vaping with disposable devices, and while they're a great option, they'll be banned in the UK in June 2025. Instead, it's recommended to choose a reusable device, such as a pod vape kit, which can be pre-filled or refilled.
Pod vape kits, in particular, are extremely easy to use and available in a wide range of designs and flavors. Here are some tips for what to look for when vaping for your first time:
Choose a low-wattage, refillable pod vape kit. These devices are affordable, and because you can refill pods and recharge the device, waste is minimal. Top-fill pods are easy to fill and use nicotine salt e-liquids, available in a wide variety of flavors, so you can find one you like.
Avoid screens and buttons. The simplest pod vape kits operate by drawing and offer a mouth-to-lung vaping experience. This means that when you take a puff, the coil automatically heats up, and once the vapor enters your mouth, you inhale it into your lungs. It's as close to smoking as possible.
Choose freebase e-liquids or nicotine salts. They're closer to regular cigarettes in terms of nicotine concentration. If you plan to gradually reduce the concentration and eventually quit, start with a higher concentration.
The Importance of Vape Device Maintenance
Proper setup and maintenance of your vape device ensures you don't run into any problems. Fortunately, it's quite simple. To keep the battery in good condition, we recommend keeping your vape device charged but not overcharged (such as leaving it plugged in overnight).
Likewise, don't let the liquid in the pod run out, or you risk burning out the coil. At the same time, don't leave vape liquid in the tank for days or weeks at a time, as it will begin to change color and flavor. If you don't use e-cigarettes frequently, consider only filling the tank halfway.
As with all electrical devices, keep your vaporizer away from direct sunlight and ensure it's not exposed to water damage. By maintaining regular maintenance, you'll keep your vape device in better condition for longer.
However, it's best to know how to deal with problems when they arise. Let's take a look at some common problems for first-time e-cigarette users. If you don't find an answer here, check out our comprehensive troubleshooting guide and our guide to vaping liquid, nicotine, calories, and cigarettes.
Solving Common Vaping Problems
Why is my vape device spitting?
This is usually a sign that the pod is overfilled and leaking e-liquid. In general, it's best to fill pods until the liquid is above the coil wick level but below its full capacity. This depends on the pod type, but it should improve over time. This should also ensure that the liquid doesn't leak into your bag, pocket, etc.
Why does my e-cigarette taste like a burn?
There are several reasons why you might experience a strong burning taste when using an e-cigarette. The cause could be an old and burnt coil, insufficient liquid in the pod, or not priming the coil (leaving it to soak in e-liquid for a few minutes) before use. Finally, it could also be the use of the wrong liquid or setting the power level too high.
How to Fix a Burnt-Out E-Cig?
Unfortunately, burnt-out coils expire and need to be replaced. Once the wick material surrounding the coil has burned out, you won't be able to get rid of the taste. Fortunately, replacing new coils is easy and cheap, but if you want to try the coil again, make sure you have properly set up your e-cigarette and prep it thoroughly.
How many cigarettes are in one e-cigarette?
This varies depending on the type and size of the vaping device and the liquid. However, 20mg disposable vapes and 2ml pod vapes are roughly equivalent to one pack of cigarettes, or about 600 puffs.
How many puffs from a 20mg pod vaporizer equal a cigarette?
A regular cigarette is roughly equivalent to 15-30 puffs from a 20mg pod vaporizer. If you're trying to quit or cut back, it's important to try to track the amount of vaping you use—you don't want to accidentally increase your nicotine intake.
How long does a vape take to charge?
Regular vape kits reach full charge within 30 minutes to an hour, but this is difficult to determine because it depends on the battery capacity (mAh), the power of the charger used, and the amount of charge present. In either case, you should monitor your vape device while charging. Never leave it unattended, and unplug it when it reaches 100% to prevent overcharging.
Why does my vape device light up but not turn on?
It's hard to determine. It could be a faulty battery, a connection issue, or simply a low battery level. Try charging it first and then using another device to see if that solves the problem. If it doesn't, check your user manual to see if the light indicates a fault. If it does, you may need a new battery.
How to Open a Vape E-Liquid Bottle?
Vape e-liquid bottles have child-resistant caps to prevent children from accessing harmful substances. To open a vape e-liquid bottle, you press the cap and then twist it open, much like some medicine bottles.
How to Open a Vape E-Liquid Bottle That Won't Open?
If you can't open a vape e-liquid bottle, try washing it with warm water or holding it in your hand to make the plastic more flexible. This is usually enough.
Vape e-liquid bottles expire, but if you store them away from sunlight and in a cool place, they should last one to two years. If you're unsure, check the expiration date on the label.
For more help, if you need some expert advice, contact us via WhatsApp and we'll be happy to help. Story Vape KSA is your first destination for original vape products at the best prices.