Introduction

If you're a vaper, you know that coils are the heart of your setup. But nothing kills a smooth vaping session faster than a burnt, gunked-up coil. So, how long do vape coils last and how can you make them last longer? In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about vape coils, from how they work to practical tips for maintenance.

The short answer: Anywhere from 3 days to 3 weeks, depending on usage, e-liquid, and maintenance. But if you want to maximize coil life and save money, keep reading—we’ll cover:

1. How Do Vape Coils Work?

2. How Long Does a Vape Coil Last?

3. Top signs your coil needs replacing

4. How to Make Your Coils Last Longer

5. Best DIY tricks for coil maintenance

Let’s dive in!  

How Do Vape Coils Work?

Vape coils are the heating elements in your vaping device that turn e-liquid into vapor. When you press the fire button on your vape, the battery sends power to the coil, which heats up and vaporizes the e-liquid in the wick. This vapor is then inhaled through the mouthpiece.

Coils are typically made from materials like Kanthal, Nichrome, or stainless steel, each with properties and performance characteristics. The coil's resistance (measured in ohms) affects how much power it draws from the battery and how hot it gets. Lower resistance coils produce more heat and vapor but drain the battery faster and wear out quicker.

How Long Does a Vape Coil Last?

The lifespan of a vape coil can vary widely depending on several factors. On average, most vape coils last anywhere from 1 to 2 weeks with regular use. However, some coils may last longer, while others might need to be replaced more frequently.  

The most important thing to understand about how long a vape coil should last is that a coil doesn’t just stop working when it reaches the end of its life. In reality, a coil degrades much more slowly than that. Over time, the coil begins to break down, and its flavor changes gradually. As you use the coil, it begins to take on a burned flavor and slowly becomes less enjoyable to use. Deciding when to replace the coil, though, is entirely up to you.

5 Signs Your Coil Needs Replacing

Don’t wait until you’re coughing from a burnt hit—watch for these red flags:

• Burnt Taste
  The #1 sign your coil is done. If your vape tastes like charred cotton, it’s time for a new coil.
• Weak Vapor Production
  If clouds are suddenly thin, your coil may be clogged or burnt out.
• Strange Gurgling/Spitting
  Excess e-liquid pooling means the coil isn’t vaporizing properly.
• Dark, Gunky Residue
  Open your tank—if the cotton looks black or crusty, it’s toast.
• Loss of Flavor
  Fresh coils deliver crisp flavor. If your juice tastes muted, the coil is likely worn out.
  A vape coil virtually always burns out because of a failure with either the heating surface or the wick. Here’s how it happens.

How to Make Your Coils Last Longer

Here at Thunderhead Creations, we believe that every vaper has the right to enjoy longer-lasting equipment. What are the things that you can do to keep your coils from burning out? Here are some of our pro tips to help extend the life of your e-cigarette coils:

• Prime Your Coils Properly
  Drip e-liquid onto the cotton before installing
  Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before vaping
  Start at low wattage and gradually increase
• Avoid Super-Sweet E-Liquids
  Dessert/candy flavors contain sweeteners that caramelize and gunk up coils
  Opt for clearer, less sweet juices for longer coil life
• Keep Your Tank Clean
  Regularly rinse your tank with warm water (when changing flavors)
  Remove excess e-liquid from the coil’s contact points
• Don’t Chain Vape
  Let your coil cool between puffs to prevent overheating
• Use the Right Wattage
  Check your coil’s recommended range (printed on the side)
  Too high = burns cotton, too low = leaks & poor vapor

Best DIY tricks for coil maintenance

If you're into DIY vaping, here are some tricks to help you maintain your coils and extend their lifespan:

1. Regular Cleaning: Clean your coils with isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol). Soak the coil in alcohol for a few minutes, then use a cotton swab to remove any residue.
2. Check the Wick: Inspect the wick regularly for any signs of wear or damage. If the wick is frayed or burnt, it's time to replace it.
3. Avoid Dry Hits: Always ensure your wick is saturated with e-liquid before vaping. Dry hits can damage the coil and reduce its lifespan.
4. Use High-Quality E-Liquids: Opt for e-liquids from reputable manufacturers. Lower-quality e-liquids can contain impurities that can damage your coils.
5. Experiment with Coil Materials: Different materials have varying levels of durability. Stainless steel coils are generally more durable than Kanthal or Nichrome coils.

Conclusion

The lifespan of vape coils can vary depending on usage patterns, e-liquid composition, and maintenance practices. By understanding how vape coils work and following our tips for extending coil life, you can enjoy a better vaping experience and save money in the long run. Remember, regular maintenance and proper usage are key to getting the most out of your vape coils. 

Ready for Better Coils?
At Thunderhead Creations, we design long-lasting coils for DIY vapers who demand performance, including Fused claptons, aliens & more.  Check out our Premium Coil Collection for enhanced flavor and durability! Happy vaping!