by Divan Smit | Dec 9, 2025 | Maintenance
Reading Time: 4 minutes
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• Authentic branded batteries with safety certifications are essential for safe vaping
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• Intelligent chargers with overcharge protection significantly extend battery lifespan
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• Proper storage in protective cases prevents damage and potential safety incidents
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• Battery wraps should be inspected regularly and replaced at the first sign of damage
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• Understanding when to replace batteries prevents performance issues and safety risks
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If you’re using a mod with external batteries, understanding proper battery care determines not just how long your batteries last, but whether you can vape safely and confidently. The difference between batteries that perform reliably for months and those that fail within weeks often comes down to a few simple practices that take minutes to implement.
Battery safety isn’t optional or overly cautious—it’s fundamental to enjoyable, worry-free vaping. Issues like overheating, damaged battery wraps, or incorrect charging practices create unnecessary risks that proper care completely prevents.
By the end of this guide, you’ll understand how to identify genuine batteries, implement charging practices that extend lifespan, store batteries safely, and recognise warning signs that it’s time for replacement.
Why Battery Quality Matters
Not all batteries are created equal. Counterfeit batteries flooding the market look identical to genuine products but lack proper safety features and quality control. These imitations use inferior materials that increase risks of overheating, venting, or worse. Authentic batteries from reputable manufacturers undergo rigorous testing and include safety mechanisms that counterfeits lack.
Keep your devices powered safely with our quality vape batteries and charging accessories from verified manufacturers. Options like the Golisi S30 18650 Vape Battery and Howell INR 18650 30HW Battery represent quality choices from established brands with proven track records.
Golisi S30 18650 Vape Battery (Each)
Experience premium power for your high-powered vape mods with Vapers Corner’s Golisi S30 18650 Vape Battery. This high-performance 3.7V Li-ion battery boasts a robust 3000mAh capacity and delivers a continuous 25A discharge—peaking at 35A. It comes with a handy battery case and silicone sleeve for secure storage and transport. Notably, the Golisi S30 is the first vape-use 18650 battery cell to pass both UL and TUV-CB stringent tests, ensuring unrivaled safety and performance.
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The price difference between genuine and counterfeit batteries seems appealing until you consider the cost of replacing a damaged mod or the safety risks involved. Genuine batteries consistently deliver rated capacity and maintain performance throughout their lifespan, whilst counterfeits often overstate capacity and degrade rapidly.
Howell INR 18650 - 30HW Battery (Each)
Elevate your mod’s performance with Vapers Corner’s Howell INR 18650 30HW Battery (Each). Designed for all 18650-compatible mods, this high-quality battery features a robust 3000mAh capacity, a nominal voltage of 3.6V, and a 15A continuous discharge rating for reliable, long-lasting power. Trust in Vapers Corner for dependable battery performance that keeps you vaping without compromise.
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Identifying Genuine Batteries
Counterfeiters have become sophisticated, making visual identification challenging. However, several indicators help verify authenticity. Purchase only from reputable retailers who source directly from authorised distributors. Genuine batteries include authentication codes or holograms that can be verified through manufacturer websites.
Suspiciously low prices signal potential counterfeits. If a battery costs significantly less than typical retail prices for that model, it’s likely fake. Check the wrapper quality—genuine batteries feature crisp, professional printing without spelling errors or blurry text. The weight should feel substantial, as counterfeits often use lighter, inferior materials.
At Vaper’s Corner, we source our batteries exclusively through authorised channels, ensuring every battery sold meets manufacturer specifications and safety standards.
Smart Charging Practices That Extend Battery Life
How you charge your batteries dramatically affects their lifespan and safety. Intelligent chargers with overcharge protection automatically stop charging when batteries reach capacity, preventing damage from overcharging. The Golisi GL-4 18650 Battery Charger and Nitecore i4 Intellicharger exemplify smart charging technology with multiple safety features including overcharge protection, temperature monitoring, and automatic shutoff.
GOLISI GL-4 18650 Battery Charger
Step up your charging game with Vapers Corner’s Golisi GL-4 18650 Battery Charger. This versatile 3‑in‑1 device is a wireless charger for smartphones, an efficient 18650 battery charger with an LCD display that shows real‑time charging status, and a portable power bank when loaded with fully charged cells. Designed with multiple safety protections—including short-circuit, over-current, and reverse connection safeguards—the Golisi GL-4 is the reliable solution for all your on‑the‑go power needs.
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Never charge batteries overnight unless using a smart charger with verified overcharge protection. Even with protection, removing batteries promptly after charging is best practice. Charge batteries before they’re completely drained—repeatedly discharging batteries to empty significantly reduces lifespan. Aim to recharge when batteries reach around quarter capacity.
Nitecore i4 Intellicharger
Charge smarter and faster with the Nitecore i4 Intellicharger, now available at Vaper’s Corner. This upgraded 4-bay charger delivers twice the speed of the original i4 and supports multiple battery types and voltages. With automatic current distribution, IMR battery optimization, and intelligent safety features, it’s the reliable charging solution for every vaper.
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Allow batteries to cool if they’ve been used intensively before charging. Charging hot batteries accelerates degradation. Similarly, avoid charging batteries in extremely cold environments, as temperature extremes stress battery chemistry.
Use dedicated battery chargers rather than USB charging built into mods when possible. External chargers distribute current more evenly and typically include better safety features. If you must use USB charging, ensure your mod includes proper charging circuitry and never leave it unattended.
Charge batteries in pairs if your mod uses multiple batteries. Remove both batteries from your mod simultaneously and charge them together, then reinstall them together. This practice, called “battery marriage,” ensures batteries wear evenly and maintains balanced performance.
Proper Storage Prevents Problems
How you store batteries between uses affects both safety and longevity. Never carry loose batteries in pockets or bags where they might contact metal objects like keys or coins. Contact between battery terminals and conductive materials can create short circuits, potentially causing batteries to vent or ignite.
Invest in protective battery cases designed specifically for vape batteries. The Chubby Gorilla Battery Quad Case provides secure storage for multiple batteries, preventing accidental contact and protecting battery wraps from damage. These inexpensive cases are essential safety accessories that every vaper using external batteries should own.
Store batteries at room temperature in dry locations away from direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures—both hot and cold—degrade battery performance and safety. For long-term storage of batteries you’re not using regularly, maintain them at partial charge rather than full or empty. Storing fully charged batteries for extended periods reduces their capacity, whilst storing completely drained batteries can render them unusable.
Keep batteries away from liquids, including e-liquid. If a battery contacts e-liquid, clean it immediately and thoroughly inspect the wrap for damage.
Chubby Gorilla Battery Quad Case
Chubby Gorilla Battery Quad Case. Engineered for 4x 18650 batteries, this ultra-durable, compact case features an “Easy Fit Application” that keeps your batteries secure and rattler-free—perfect for on-the-go protection in bold transparent black or solid yellow.
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Inspecting and Maintaining Battery Wraps
Battery wraps serve a critical safety function—they insulate the battery body from contact with your mod’s metal components. Even tiny tears, nicks, or worn areas compromise this protection and create potential short circuit risks.
Inspect your battery wraps before each use. Look for any damage, no matter how minor it seems. Pay special attention to the top and bottom areas where wraps commonly tear. If you spot any damage whatsoever, rewrap the battery immediately or replace it. Battery rewrapping is straightforward and inexpensive, whilst the consequences of using damaged batteries aren’t worth the risk.
Understanding Battery Specifications
Battery specifications help you choose appropriate batteries for your device and understand their limitations. The most relevant specifications include capacity (measured in mAh), continuous discharge rating (CDR measured in amperes), and chemistry type.
Higher mAh ratings indicate longer battery life between charges but don’t assume higher is always better. Batteries with extremely high capacity claims often sacrifice discharge capability or overstate their actual capacity. Balance capacity with appropriate discharge ratings for your vaping style.
The continuous discharge rating indicates how much current the battery can safely provide continuously. Match this to your device’s power requirements. Using batteries with insufficient CDR for your device’s demands creates safety risks and degrades batteries rapidly.
Most vape batteries use lithium-ion chemistry, specifically high-drain variants designed for the current demands of vaping. Never use batteries not specifically rated for high-drain applications in your vape mod.
Recognising When to Replace Batteries
Even with excellent care, batteries eventually degrade and require replacement. Noticeably shorter battery life compared to when new suggests diminished capacity. If batteries that previously lasted a full day now require midday recharging, they’re likely nearing end of life.
Physical changes like bulging, excessive heat during normal use, or any liquid leaking from the battery demand immediate replacement. Never continue using batteries showing these symptoms. Inconsistent performance—such as your device randomly shutting off despite showing charge remaining—indicates failing batteries.
If batteries no longer take a full charge or charge unusually quickly, their capacity has degraded significantly. When batteries in a married pair show drastically different charge levels after simultaneous use, replace both batteries as a set.
As a general guideline, expect to replace heavily-used batteries after several months to a year, depending on usage intensity and care practices. Monitor performance and physical condition regardless of timeframe.
FAQ: Battery Care Questions Answered
How long should vape batteries last?
With proper care, quality batteries typically provide reliable performance for several months to a year of regular use. Performance degradation rather than specific timeframes should guide replacement decisions.
Can I use any brand of batteries in my mod?
Only use batteries specifically designed for high-drain applications from reputable manufacturers. Consult your mod’s manual for recommended battery specifications and never exceed those recommendations.
What should I do if my battery gets hot during use?
Some warmth during intensive use is normal, but batteries should never become uncomfortably hot. If batteries heat excessively, stop using them immediately and allow them to cool completely. Inspect for damage and consider replacement if excessive heating continues.
How should I dispose of old batteries?
Never throw lithium-ion batteries in regular rubbish. Before recycling, cover battery terminals with non-conductive tape to prevent accidental short circuits during transport.
Invest in Battery Safety and Longevity
Proper battery care isn’t complicated, but it’s essential for safe, enjoyable vaping. Using genuine batteries, implementing smart charging routines, storing batteries properly, and replacing them when necessary protects your investment and ensures consistent performance.
Ready to optimise your battery setup? Visit any of our Vaper’s Corner locations at Atterbury, Equestria, or Kyalami where our team can help you select genuine batteries, smart chargers, and protective accessories.
Or browse our complete range online with detailed specifications and safety information. Contact our team for personalised advice on battery selection and care practices.
Your peace of mind starts with proper battery care.
by Terblanche Fourie | Jun 6, 2025 | Coils & Atomizers, Maintenance
Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes
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• Proper priming extends coil life by up to 300% compared to dry burning
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• Using the correct wattage range prevents premature coil burnout and maintains optimal flavour
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• Quality e-liquids with lower sweetener content significantly reduce coil gunking
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• Regular cleaning and maintenance can double your coil’s lifespan
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• Rotating between different e-liquid flavours prevents flavour fatigue and extends coil longevity
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Why Your Coil Care Routine Determines Your Vaping Success
Every experienced vaper has been there: you’re enjoying your favourite e-liquid when suddenly the taste turns harsh, the vapour production drops, and you’re left with that unmistakable burnt cotton flavour. At Vaper’s Corner, we’ve seen countless customers frustrated by coils that seem to burn out far too quickly, often within just a few days of use.
The truth is, most vapers unknowingly damage their coils through simple mistakes that could easily be avoided. After nearly a decade of helping South African vapers get the most from their devices, we’ve identified the key practices that separate coils lasting days from those lasting weeks. Whether you’re new to vaping or looking to optimise your current setup, proper vape coil care isn’t just about saving money—it’s about ensuring every puff delivers the flavour and satisfaction you expect.
The Foundation: Proper Coil Priming Techniques
Why Priming Makes All the Difference
The single most critical step in coil care happens before you even take your first puff. Proper priming ensures your coil’s cotton wick is fully saturated with e-liquid, preventing the dry burning that destroys coils instantly. We’ve observed that vapers who skip this step typically see their coils fail within 24-48 hours, whilst those who prime correctly often enjoy 2-3 weeks of consistent performance.
The Step-by-Step Priming Process
Start by applying 2-3 drops of e-liquid directly onto the visible cotton areas of your new coil. Install the coil into your tank, fill with e-liquid, and let it sit for at least 10-15 minutes. This waiting period allows the cotton to fully absorb the liquid, creating a protective barrier against heat damage.
For the first few puffs, start at a lower wattage than your coil’s recommended range, gradually increasing over the first day of use. This gentle break-in period helps establish proper wicking patterns and prevents thermal shock to the coil materials.
Wattage Management: Finding Your Sweet Spot
Understanding Your Coil’s Limits
Every coil has an optimal wattage range printed on its side, but many vapers treat this as a suggestion rather than a guideline. Operating outside these parameters—whether too high or too low—significantly reduces coil lifespan and affects flavour quality.
Running your coil at excessive wattage causes rapid e-liquid consumption and overheating, leading to burnt cotton and metallic tastes. Conversely, insufficient power creates poor vapourisation, causing e-liquid to pool and potentially leak whilst delivering weak flavour and vapour production.
The Goldilocks Principle
We recommend starting at the lower end of your coil’s recommended range and gradually increasing until you find your personal sweet spot. Most vapers discover their optimal setting sits around 70-80% of the maximum recommended wattage, providing excellent flavour whilst maximising coil longevity.
E-Liquid Quality: Your Coil’s Best Friend or Worst Enemy
How Sweeteners Affect Coil Life
Not all e-liquids are created equal when it comes to coil preservation. Heavily sweetened e-liquids, whilst often delicious, contain sucralose and other sweetening agents that caramelise under heat, creating a sticky residue that clogs your coil’s cotton and heating elements.
Dark, dessert-flavoured e-liquids typically contain higher concentrations of these coil-killing compounds compared to lighter fruit or menthol varieties. This doesn’t mean you should avoid your favourite flavours, but understanding their impact helps you make informed choices about when to use premium coils versus backup options.
Choosing Coil-Friendly Options
When selecting e-liquids for daily use, consider rotating between different sweetness levels and flavour profiles. This practice not only prevents palate fatigue but also gives your coils a break from harsh compounds. Our extensive e-liquid collection includes options specifically formulated for extended coil life without compromising on flavour.
Daily Maintenance Habits That Make a Difference
The Power of Consistent Care
Simple daily habits significantly impact coil longevity. After extended vaping sessions, allow your device to cool down completely before refilling. This prevents thermal expansion issues and reduces stress on your coil’s components.
Keep your tank’s e-liquid level above the coil’s intake ports to prevent dry hits. When the liquid level drops below these openings, air enters the wicking system, leading to poor saturation and potential burning.
Weekly Deep Care Routine
Once weekly, disassemble your tank and inspect your coil for signs of wear or buildup. Dark discolouration around the cotton or metallic deposits on the heating element indicate it’s time for replacement. However, light browning is normal and doesn’t necessarily require immediate action.
For tanks with removable coils, gentle cleaning with warm water can extend life between replacements. Remove the coil, rinse under lukewarm water, and allow to dry completely before reinstallation. Never attempt to clean coils whilst they’re still warm, as thermal shock can damage the internal components.
Advanced Techniques for Maximum Coil Life
Temperature Control Benefits
If your device supports temperature control (TC) mode, consider investing in compatible coils made from stainless steel, nickel, or titanium. TC prevents overheating by automatically adjusting power output when the coil reaches preset temperature limits, virtually eliminating dry hits and extending coil life considerably.
The Rotation Strategy
Serious vapers often maintain multiple tanks with different coil types and e-liquid flavours. This rotation system allows coils to rest between uses, preventing oversaturation and buildup whilst ensuring you always have a fresh flavour experience available.
FAQ: Common Coil Care Questions
How often should I replace my vape coils?
Coil replacement frequency depends on usage patterns, e-liquid types, and maintenance practices. With proper care, most coils last 1-3 weeks for average users. Signs it’s time to replace include diminished flavour, reduced vapour production, gurgling sounds, or persistent burnt tastes that cleaning doesn’t resolve.
Can I clean and reuse my coils?
Some coils can be gently cleaned to extend their life, particularly those with removable cotton wicks. However, modern sub-ohm coils with integrated cotton generally aren’t designed for cleaning. Attempting to clean non-serviceable coils often causes more damage than benefit.
Why do my coils burn out so quickly?
Rapid coil failure typically results from inadequate priming, excessive wattage, poor-quality e-liquids, or chain vaping without allowing time for rewicking. Review your vaping habits and ensure you’re following proper priming procedures with appropriately powered devices.
Maximise Your Investment with Quality Components
Proper coil care transforms your vaping experience from a constant cycle of replacements to a smooth, enjoyable routine. The techniques outlined here aren’t just theoretical—they’re proven methods developed through years of helping South African vapers optimise their setups.
When you’re ready to upgrade your coil game, explore our comprehensive selection of premium vaping coils designed for longevity and performance. Our knowledgeable staff can recommend the perfect coils for your device and vaping style, ensuring you get maximum value from every purchase.
Ready to put these techniques into practice? Visit any of our Vaper’s Corner locations in Atterbury, Equestria, or Kyalami for personalised advice, or browse our complete range online. Contact us at 010 110 1060 or info@vaperscorner.co.za for expert guidance on extending your coil life and enhancing your vaping journey.
by Terblanche Fourie | Nov 22, 2024 | Coils & Atomizers, Maintenance
Key Takeaways
- Sweetened e-liquids and high wattage vaping can cause coil buildup, shortening coil lifespan.
- Cleaning your vape coils can extend their life and improve performance.
- Soaking coils in ethanol or ultrasonic cleaning are effective methods for cleaning.
- Cleaning doesn’t restore coils to brand-new performance but can save costs.
- Always prime your coils before reuse to enhance their performance.
Does Your Vape Coil Need a Reset? Here’s How to Save It
If you’ve ever found yourself replacing vape coils far too often, you’re not alone. Sweetened e-liquids and low-resistance vaping can wreak havoc on your coils, making them clog up quickly and forcing you to toss them out sooner than you’d like.
The good news? You don’t always have to splurge on replacements. Cleaning your coils can extend their lifespan, save you money, and even bring some life back into your vape’s flavor. While it won’t make your coils brand new again, it’s a practical way to keep your vaping experience smooth without constantly replacing hardware.
Let’s walk you through how to clean vape coils effectively, so you can make the most of every puff.
Why Do Vape Coils Get Dirty So Quickly?
- Sweetened E-Liquids and Coil Gunk
Many e-liquids are sweetened with sucralose, an artificial sweetener that caramelizes when exposed to heat. This sticky residue builds up on your coils, forming what’s often referred to as “coil gunk.” Over time, this not only diminishes the flavor of your vape but also burns and renders your coils unusable.
- High Wattage and Sub-Ohm Coils
Low-resistance (sub-ohm) coils vaporize a larger volume of e-liquid with each puff. Combine this with sweetened e-liquids, and you have the perfect storm for clogged coils.
- Heavy Usage
If you’re a frequent vaper, your coils will naturally experience more wear and tear. The good news is that with regular maintenance, you can slow this process down.
How to Clean Your Vape Coils: Two Proven Methods
1. Cleaning Coils by Soaking
This method is simple yet effective, using common household items to clean your coils:
- Soak the coil in ethanol, vinegar, or vodka for a few hours.
- Agitate the coil occasionally to loosen any buildup.
- Rinse thoroughly under running water, then with distilled water for a final cleanse.
- Blow air into the coil to expel excess water from the wicking holes.
- Let the coil air dry completely before reusing.
To save on cleaning supplies like vodka, wait until you have several coils to clean at once.
2. Using an Ultrasonic Cleaner
An ultrasonic cleaner, typically used for jewelry, can clean vape coils with remarkable efficiency:
- Fill the cleaner with water and submerge your coil.
- Turn on the cleaner and let it agitate the coil for several minutes.
- Remove the coil, rinse under distilled water, and let it dry completely.
This method offers a deep clean, often making coils look and perform nearly like new.
Is Cleaning Vape Coils Worth It?
The answer depends on your vaping habits:
- If you’re using sub-ohm coils and sweetened e-liquids, cleaning coils can save you significant money.
- For low-wattage MTL (mouth-to-lung) vapers whose coils already last a few weeks, cleaning might not be worth the time and effort.
Remember, even cleaned coils won’t deliver the same flavor quality as brand-new ones, but they’ll still provide a smoother and more cost-effective vaping experience.
FAQ
- How often should I clean my vape coils?
It depends on your usage and the type of e-liquid you use. If you vape sweetened e-liquids or use sub-ohm coils, cleaning once every couple of weeks is a good start.
- Can I use water instead of alcohol for soaking coils?
While water can help remove light buildup, ethanol or vodka dissolves coil gunk more effectively, giving you a deeper clean.
- What does it mean to “prime” a coil?
Priming a coil means saturating the wicking material with e-liquid before use. This prevents dry hits and extends the coil’s lifespan.
Bring New Life to Your Coils—and Your Vaping Experience
Cleaning your vape coils isn’t just about saving money; it’s about getting the most out of your vaping sessions. Whether you’re a seasoned vaper or just starting your journey, maintaining your coils can elevate your experience.
Need quality vape products or advice on coil care? Visit our online store today or call us—we’re here to help you make every puff count!
by Kerrin Atkinson | Aug 25, 2024 | Maintenance
Getting the most from your vape’s battery
We all know that sinking feeling – the anticipation of a long, sweet draw from your most favourite electronic device (and let’s face it, our vapes are quite close to our hearts). And then… nothing! Battery gone!
But aside from devising a charging routine to keep the good stuff flowing, there are other reasons for giving attention to how you treat your vape battery. One of the reasons why vapes or e-cigarettes have such a bad rap, is that it seems to make the news only due to bad news – mostly because of batteries exploding. The main reason for this is bad management of your device, using fake parts and not storing it correctly.
Ensuring that your e-device’s battery is in good nick will not only extend the life of your device but also ensure that you avoid any unpleasant incidents.
Avoid extreme temperatures
A vape is much like us: it likes being cool (!), and it likes being dry. Ever forget your device on a table out in the rain after a braai? Or, lo and behold, left it to the mercy of the sun on the dash of your car? Oops! Except to be in for a new one sometime soon – his type of treatment could shorten its lifespan quite considerably. Always keep your device and batteries cool and dry for longevity.
Follow the instructions
Depending on your device it’s important to unplug it when it’s done charging. As technology develops, batteries and chargers get better and will give you a longer battery span, but it’s still better to unplug as soon as you have a full charge. Overcharging could damage your battery.
Conversely, try not to let the battery die completely. For one thing, it’ll take more power to charge from zero per cent than if it had a bit of charge left.
Never use a battery that looks damaged in any way or that has been in contact with moisture. It’s a good idea to give your device’s batteries a once-over every now and again, inspecting them for damage or anything untoward. Any impact, like dropping your device, could damage the batteries and cause pressure to build up. This could lead to an explosion. Make sure no damage has been caused if you ever should drop it.
And by the way, always make sure you dispose of old batteries responsibly the moment it they don’t hold their charge any longer.
Storing your device
If you won’t be using your device for any period of time, charge it to 100% before storing it – this will prolong your battery life. Make sure it’s turned off completely before putting it away. This will ensure the button isn’t accidentally activated when not in use. Most devices have a safety lock feature, like pressing the power button a few times or holding it in for a few seconds.
Also important is to disconnect the tank and emptying any e-fluids – if your device allows for this – before storage. Leaving the tank connected could draw power, shortening the battery life. The tank could also leak, resulting in damage to the battery and other parts of the device.
Remember: Any battery prefers to be used regularly. Like with your car’s battery, using your vape often could give you better results, while leaving it in storage for too long could result in damage.
Use the right charger
Most of the reported instances of batteries in e-devices exploding were due to the use of off-brand or incorrect chargers.
It is tempting to save a buck or two by buying off-brand equipment, but beware – cheap alternatives could be hazardous to your own safety, and they could damage your device and batteries.
Another safety measure is to ensure that the battery is charged with the right power output. Most laptops and phone chargers are too powerful to charge a vape with.
Safety alert: Only ever use factory chargers and follow the instructions that came with your device. Vaper’s Corner stocks a wide variety of battery packs and chargers, especially designed for your device.
Never leave a charging battery unattended
It is good practice not to leave any type of rechargeable battery unattended while plugged into a power source. Batteries are classed as hazardous objects, and the charging procedure could lead to accidents. You don’t have to sit and watch your device while it is on charge, but do place it somewhere visible, apart from other objects that could be damaged if there were an incident, and check it every now and again. It’s a good idea to put a reminder on your phone or watch so you can take off charge once the battery is full, too, so it doesn’t overheat.
If your battery should start overheating or making a hissing sound while charging, it’s time to replace it.
Takeaway
Your device will be safe to use as long as you follow the guidelines. Make sure you use only factory products, charge it with its own hardware, and store it safely, in a cool dry place. That way you you’ll be able to enjoy your device for much longer, without having to replace the batteries too often, and you’ll avoid any preventable accidents.
by misha | Aug 12, 2024 | Maintenance
Most modern vape devices can be cleaned and maintained quite easily to make them last longer and improve flavour.
Having to clean anything – whether it’s washing floors or rubbing the genie out of your vaping device – can be a bit of a show stopper. Think of it this way, though: replacing your coil and regularly cleaning the parts could actually save you a buck or two. Newer devices mostly rely on a reusable tank for e-liquid, meaning that apart from the device itself, the tank too will thank you for some TLC.
While each device comes with maintenance instructions, we’ve put together a few simple rules for you for easy reference.
So what’s the big deal with cleaning one’s vape?
Maintaining your vape will not only help it live longer – it’ll also remove that burnt taste that develops after a while.
- Cleaning your device will make both your tank and coil last longer, while neglecting to do so will kill it before its time.
- A bit of a scrub will put the tiger back in your tank. Build-up in the tank and coil can tune down performance quite dramatically, as can clogged air vents.
- And best of all, you get to savour the flavour – cleaning your tank and coil will give you a fresher taste sensation. At the very least, make a point of rinsing your vape tank if you switch flavours to stop ghost-flavouring, where two different flavours overlap.
When should I clean my device?
Your vape is calling out for a good clean when you start getting that nasty burnt taste, or you find you can still pick up an earlier flavour (called ghost-flavouring, as explained above). Ghost-flavouring can even happen while continuing to use the same flavour, from residue that starts tasting bad.
The removal of residue also helps extend the life of your device.
Easy cleaning steps to follow
There are different ways of cleaning your vape. The easiest is to take it apart and clean the separate parts with warm water to get rid of the build-up. You can also deep clean the separate components with flavourless, high-proof alcohol (vodka works well).
Although each device and brand works slightly differently and comes with its own set of instructions, most contain the following essential components:
- The tank: The e-liquid is stored in a vape tank, from where it is converted into vapour. The tank is usually combined with an atomiser to form a unit.
- Coil: The coil is the heating element that converts the e-liquid into vapour.
- Battery: This is the power source. It can look different on different devices. Batteries are normally rechargeable using a USB connection.
Cleaning the vape tank
- Take off the top and bottom of the tank by unscrewing the different components. Discard any remaining e-liquid from the chamber.
- Rinse the tank in some warm water to wash away any leftover liquid.
- To deep clean the tank and break down sticky deposits, moisten a microfibre cloth or paper towel with some high-proof alcohol and wipe the tank all over. Then rinse it with warm water.
- You can also run the tank through a jewellery cleaning machine to get rid of stubborn dirt.
- Dry the tank with a piece of paper towel. Pull it back and forth through the tank until it is completely dry.
- Leave the device to air-dry for at least ten minutes before reassembling it and refilling the tank. Be sure to prime the coil before using it again.
- Never use boiling water or soak your device overnight. This might damage some of the parts.
Cleaning and replacing the coil
The job of the coil is to heat up the e-liquid and turn it into vapour. Simply put, it is a wire wrapped in a spiral shape around the wick that connects the positive and negative parts of the battery inside the atomiser head.
To improve the lifespan and enjoyment of your device, you need to clean or replace the coil regularly – depending on how often you use it. A new coil should last between one and two weeks, depending on how fast the e-liquid residue builds up.
It’s possible to stretch out the life of your coil a bit by throttling back on the power – using your device on a lower setting means the coil will last longer. And, of course, the more you vape, the quicker you’ll use up the coil.
It’s worth noting that not all coils can be cleaned. Fixed, absorbent wicks could retain water and dirt and it might be better to replace the part. Vaper’s Corner stocks a wide variety of coils for vape pens and e-cigarettes.
Making the best of a new coil
The best way to improve the lifespan of a new coil is to prime it. This can also save you from having to replace the atomiser head.
When installing a new coil, the wick is still dry and you run the risk of burning the atomiser. To prevent this, leave the device upright for a few minutes to soak in e-liquid. Then inhale before you switch on the device.
Takeaway
Improve the lifespan of your e-device, vape tank, atomiser head and coils by keeping to a regular cleaning routine. This will not only save you a lot of money in the long run but will improve your enjoyment of your vape. Also important is to make sure you follow the instructions for your particular device and replace the parts with the right brand. Vaper’s Corner stocks a host of parts, cleaning kits and brand new devices and will deliver right to your doorstep.
by Riaan Gerber | Jul 25, 2024 | Maintenance
Vaping devices, like any other technology, require proper care and maintenance to ensure they function optimally and last as long as possible. Whether you’re a vaping connoisseur, just starting your vaping journey, or looking to quit smoking, understanding how to take care of your vape device is essential. Let’s explore how to keep your vape device in top condition and extend its lifespan.
Understanding the Basics of Vape Device Care
Taking care of your vape device involves understanding the components and how they work together. Typically, a vape device consists of a battery, a tank or cartridge, a coil, and a mouthpiece. Each part plays a crucial role in the vaping experience, and proper maintenance can prevent common issues such as leaks, poor vapor production, and short battery life.
Keep Your Device Clean
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to extend the life of your vape device is to keep it clean. Residue from e-liquids can build up over time, leading to clogs and reduced performance. Regular cleaning ensures that each component works efficiently.
- Disassemble Your Device: Remove the tank, coil, and mouthpiece from the battery.
- Rinse the Tank: Use warm water to rinse the tank thoroughly. For stubborn residue, you can use a bit of dish soap.
- Clean the Coil: Coils need regular replacing, but between changes, you can soak them in alcohol to remove residue.
- Wipe the Battery: Use a cloth to wipe down the battery, being careful to avoid getting it wet.
Proper Storage
How you store your vape device can significantly impact its lifespan. Here are some storage tips:
- Keep It Upright: Storing your device upright prevents leaks and keeps the e-liquid where it belongs.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Store your vape in a cool, dry place. Extreme heat or cold can damage the battery and other components.
- Use a Case: A protective case can prevent physical damage when your vape device isn’t in use.
Regular Maintenance Checks
Performing regular maintenance checks can help you catch and fix minor issues before they become major problems. Here’s what to look for:
- Check for Leaks: Ensure there are no e-liquid leaks, as these can damage the battery and other components.
- Inspect the Coil: Coils typically need replacing every 1-2 weeks, depending on usage. If you notice a burnt taste or reduced vapor production, it’s time for a new coil.
- Battery Health: Ensure your battery is charging properly and holding a charge. Replace the battery if you notice it’s not performing as well as it should.
Using the Right E-Liquids
Not all e-liquids are created equal. Using high-quality e-liquids can make a significant difference in the performance and longevity of your vape device.
- Avoid High-VG Liquids: While VG (vegetable glycerin) produces large clouds of vapor, it can also gunk up your coil faster. Opt for a balanced PG/VG ratio.
- Choose Trusted Brands: Stick with reputable e-liquid brands to ensure you’re getting a quality product that won’t damage your device.
Battery Care
The battery is the heart of your vape device. Proper battery care is crucial for safety and longevity.
- Charge Properly: Use the charger that came with your device, and avoid overcharging or letting the battery completely drain.
- Avoid Overheating: Batteries can overheat during use or charging. If your battery feels too hot, let it cool down before using or charging it again.
- Store Safely: When not in use, store your batteries in a case to prevent short-circuiting.
You can also read our in depth 2 part Series on how to clean your vape device here
FAQ
How often should I clean my vape device?
Cleaning your vape device once a week is generally sufficient for most users. If you vape frequently or use high-VG e-liquids, you might need to clean it more often to prevent buildup.
How do I know when to replace my coil?
You should replace your coil every 1-2 weeks, depending on usage. Signs that your coil needs replacing include a burnt taste, reduced vapor production, and gurgling sounds.
Can I use any charger for my vape battery?
No, it’s important to use the charger that came with your device or a charger recommended by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can damage your battery and even pose a safety risk.
Conclusion: Keep Your Vape Device in Top Shape
Extending the life of your vape device comes down to proper care and maintenance. By keeping your device clean, storing it properly, performing regular maintenance checks, using the right e-liquids, and taking care of your battery, you can ensure your vape device continues to deliver a great experience for as long as possible.
If you you require replacements parts for your device you can visit our store here:
At Vaper’s Corner, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality vaping products and expert advice to help you make the most of your vaping journey. If you need help with your device or have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team is always here to assist you.
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