How to Fix - and Avoid - That Burnt Taste in Your Vape

Switching from smoking to vaping is a big step, and for many new vapers it can feel like there’s a lot to learn. One of the most common issues beginners face is the unpleasant burnt taste, also called a dry hit. Don’t worry - it doesn’t mean your vape is broken. It usually comes down to how the coil and wick are being used. Here’s what causes that burnt taste and how to avoid it.

What Causes the Burnt Taste in a Vape?

Many vapers think they’ve “burnt the coil,” but technically it’s the wick (cotton inside the coil) that’s burnt. When the wick isn’t properly saturated with e-liquid, it scorches instead of producing smooth vapour. Here are the main causes:

1. Not Priming Your Coil

New coils need to be fully saturated with e-liquid before use. If you vape on dry cotton, it burns instantly. Always prime your coil by:

• Adding a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the cotton.

• Filling your tank and letting it sit for 5–10 minutes before your first puff.

2. Not Waiting Long Enough Between Puffs

Chain vaping can dry out the wick faster than it can absorb more liquid. If you puff too quickly, the cotton can burn. Take short breaks between draws to give your wick time to resaturate.

3. Vaping at Too High Wattage

Running your vape at higher wattage than recommended overheats the coil and burns the wick. Always check the coil’s recommended wattage range and make sure your settings match.

4. Low E-Liquid Levels in the Tank

Your coil has small wicking holes on the side that must always be covered by e-liquid. If the juice runs too low, the wick dries out and burns. Keep your tank topped up to avoid dry hits and extend the life of your coil.

✅ How to Fix and Prevent Burnt Hits

• Prime every new coil before use.

• Keep your tank filled above the minimum line.

• Stay within the recommended wattage range.

• Allow enough time between puffs.

• Replace coils regularly - even with care, they don’t last forever.

With practice, you’ll quickly learn to spot the warning signs of a dry hit and prevent that dreaded burnt taste.

Shop Premium Coils & Vapes Online in the UK

At ePuffer UK, we design our vape kits, cigalikes, e-pipes and e-cigars with quality coils and easy-to-use features to minimise issues like dry hits. Whether you’re starting out with a cigalike starter kit or using a more advanced refillable device, keeping your coils primed and your tank topped up will keep every puff smooth and satisfying.

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