Regardless of the type of vape device they're using, most vapers will experience a burnt taste at some point. A burnt taste is easier to diagnose (and fix) on some devices than others. However, again, it depends on the type of device. In this article, we'll look at common causes of that burnt taste in your mouth, how to ensure it doesn't happen, and whether or not a burnt coil is salvageable.

1. E-Liquid is low

If you experience burnt hits while vaping, it could be due to low e-liquid levels in your device. When there is not enough e-liquid on the wick inside your vape, you may end up with a burnt taste in your mouth. The wick in your device soaks up the e-liquid, which is then turned into vapor when the coil heats up. In the absence of e-liquid, the heat generated by the coil starts heating the dry wick, leading to an unpleasant burnt taste.

2. Coil issues

If you're using a device with a 'Clearomiser' or other refillable tank and coil-based system, it's important to prime the coil head before filling the tank with e-liquid - especially when using a new coil. This is a common mistake that inexperienced and novice users make, and involves saturating the wick with e-liquid before using the device.

If you've been using your current coil for a while and begin to notice a burning taste, it's likely that it needs to be replaced. The onstant heating and cooling can lead to wear and residue build up in coils as well as degrade the wicking material inside the atomiser, both of which will negatively impact flavour and performance. To help improve the lifespan and performance of the coil and wick, regular cleaning and maintenance should be carried out as part of a routine.

3. You’re chain vaping

One of the most common causes of a burnt tasting device is chain vaping, which is when multiple puffs are taken in quick succession with little to no pause between. Not only will these lead to quicker e-liquid depletion, it can also affect the coil as it won't ave enough time to re-saturate with e-liquid.

4. Wattage

If you use a Box Mod or Sub-Ohm device, vaping at higher a wattage than your coil can handle can lead to e-liquid can vaporising too quickly, causing your coil to burn the wick. Get familiar with your coil's wattage range and adjust your device's settings accordingly - the higher the wattage, the faster the e-liquid is heated. For this reason, it's good practice to start lower and work your way up.

5. E-Liquid issues

Not all e Liquids are created equal, and the ratio of PG to VG in your e-liquid can also contribute to burnt hits. E-liquids with a higher Vegetable Glycerin (VG) content (30/70 or 20/80 blends) need to be paired with a suitable device that can handle the thickness and viscosity. High VG e-liquids are thicker than those made with a 50/50 VG to PG ratio, which means the coil on your device may not absorb the liquid efficiently. Because they are thicker, VG liquids can also lead to residue build-up over time, even in compatible devices such as sub-ohm devices and box mod

FAQs

Can a burnt vape recover?

Yes and no. If the burnt taste is down to chain vaping or a coil that hasn't been properly primed, allowing more time between sessions or the wick to fully saturate with e-liquid might help solve the issue. Similarly, using e-liquids with a high VG mix, cleaning the wick and atomiser can sometimes help. However, if the coil is burnt due to extensive use or high wattage, you'll need to replace it. This is also true of disposable vapes and non-refillable pods, which are designed to be disposed of responsibly once the e-liquid is depleted.

Why does my vape taste burnt with a new coil?

If you experience a burnt taste when you use a new coil, it may be because the coil was not primed correctly before use. This means that the wicking material did not have enough time to soak up the e-liquid. Another reason could be that you are vaping at a wattage that is too high for the coil's resistance, causing it to overheat.

Why does my disposable vape taste burnt?

The reason for your disposable vape tasting burnt is that your device may be running out of e-liquid. Most disposable vapes run out of battery before they run out of e-liquid. However, it can be the reverse, leaving you with power but no e-liquid. All Vuse disposable vapes have a suggested number of puffs you can expect; these will differ for each user based on how they vape and how often.