When your vape isn't delivering the same amount of vapour, it can be disheartening as though the device is broken. However, this is a common problem for vape users in the UK, particularly with pod systems and "starter" vape kits.
And it's usually temporary. It has to do with cleanliness, settings and/or long-term usage.
Battery is not supplying sufficient energy
The battery affects the vapour output. With a low battery, there is insufficient power to heat the coil, resulting in less vapour production. At middle battery levels, some devices will reduce efficiency to conserve battery.
Many of the devices used in the UK today have power output that is adjusted according to battery level. So while you might get a lot of vapour with a full battery, you get less as the battery charge falls, despite the device still operating.
Coil is burnt out or partially burnt
The coil is a key component of your vape and wears out over time. As the coil is used, the cotton absorbs e-liquid residue, decreasing its ability to heat and produce vapour.
But what most people don't understand is that coils begin to falter well before they burn. This can result in reduced vapour production, less flavour, or a delayed hit, even if the coil doesn't appear burnt. On average in the UK, coils will need to be replaced every 7-14 days, depending on the amount vaping.
E-liquid type is not suitable for vapour production
The type of e-liquid makes a huge difference to vapour production The higher the PG content, the stronger the throat hit and the quicker the nicotine hit, which are the main aims of the nicotine salt products used in the UK.
So, if you are vaping a high PG liquid, you will have less vapour even if your vape is functioning correctly. High VG liquids, particularly 70VG/30PG liquids, will give you more dense vapour than high PG liquids due to the cloud creating nature of VG.
Airflow is too restricted
Airflow is the amount of air which is mixed with the vapour when inhaled. When airflow is too restricted, the vapour is "choked" and weak, even if the other parts of your rig are all working.
This is a common problem as airflow is often inadvertently changed when cleaning and refilling devices. The airflow is often best slightly open to provide the best combination of taste and vapour, or completely closed to reduce the amount of cloud.
Wattage is too low (adjustable devices)
If your vape kit has an adjustable wattage, wattage is critical. With low wattage, the coil will not heat up enough to produce good vapour and efficient e-liquid flow.
Coils have their optimal wattage range and lower wattage will always result in poorer vapour. Gradually increasing the wattage within safe limits may enhance vapour and performance.
Chain vaping is affecting coil performance
Chain vaping is taking several puffs in a row, without the coil having time to re-wick. This can result in the wick within the coil not remaining saturated, and a subsequent decrease in vapour production and dry coil performance.
It's a common problem with pod systems as they are often used all day long. By taking a few seconds in between puffs, this will allow the coil to return to saturation and produce a consistent amount of vapour.
Device is dirty or airflow is blocked
Condensation and traces of the e-liquid can accumulate over time. This may obstruct airflow or affect its efficiency.
These can reduce the strength or consistency of the vapour you produce. Cleaning the mouthpiece, tank connection and airflow vents regularly also helps to ensure good airflow and consistent vapour output.
Device is not designed for high vapour output
Not all vape devices are designed to be cloud producers. Pod systems and starter kits are popular in the UK for an emphasis on delivering nicotine and throat hit, rather than generating vapour.
If you are vaping with a low-powered device, you will have low vapour production even with a perfect device. Sub-ohm kits and high-power devices are set up to produce more vapour.
How to fix weak vapour quickly
In most cases, poor vapour can be resolved by inspecting a number of factors. Often, people report an immediate improvement after changing their coil, and adjusting airflow and wattage settings.
This includes checking the battery is fully charged, using the correct e-liquid ratio, fresh coil and not too tight airflow settings. Most of the time, these changes will return normal operation.
Final thoughts
Low vapour is generally not a fault but a lot of factors. By understanding how the different components work, you'll have an easier time keeping your vape performing at its best.
If you have made all the above adjustments and your device is still not producing sufficient vapour, then it may just be time for a change of vape kit.
