by Matt Ramage | Aug 16, 2024 | The Vapor Bar
Quitting smoking is no easy feat. But don’t worry, you’re not alone in this journey! For many, vaping has become a crucial ally in their mission to quit smoking. If you’re unsure about diving into the world of vaping because of all the mixed messages or just because you don’t know anyone who’s given it a whirl, don’t fret! Let’s explore how vaping can be the game-changer you need to kick that smoking habit to the curb as we look ahead into 2024.
Understanding the Role of Nicotine in Vaping
Vaping gives you the power to control your nicotine intake through e-liquids available in various strengths. This flexibility is key in managing those pesky cravings and withdrawal symptoms like irritability and mood swings. Nicotine has been used in patches and gums to help quit smoking for years, and for many, vaping is an even more effective way to ease off the nicotine dependence.
Want to know how much nicotine is in a vape juice or disposable vape? Just check the packaging! In Canada, all vape products are required to list the nicotine content clearly on the bottle or box.
The Familiarity of Vaping: A Comfort in Quitting
Old habits die hard, especially when stress hits. Vaping mimics the act of smoking, offering a familiar ritual minus the harmful smoke. This sense of familiarity can provide comfort, making the switch from cigarettes to vaping smoother and less stressful.
What Exactly is Vaping?
Vaping involves inhaling an aerosol created by heating a liquid in e-cigarettes. This liquid usually contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals. Unlike cigarette smoke, vapor doesn’t contain the same harmful constituents, making it a much less harmful alternative.
There are two types of vape juice on the market: freebase and nic salt. Salt nic is popular among vapers who prefer a smoother throat hit and higher nicotine concentrations. In contrast, freebase nicotine works with a variety of devices and allows for lower nicotine strengths, perfect for those looking to reduce their overall nicotine intake. You’ll commonly find nic salt vape juice in disposable vapes.
The Benefits: Vaping Over Smoking
Switching to vaping dramatically reduces your exposure to the thousands of toxins found in cigarette smoke. This reduction significantly decreases your risk of developing smoking-related illnesses like cancer, lung disease, and heart conditions. It’s important to remember that while vaping is less harmful, it’s not entirely risk-free due to its nicotine content.
Consulting with a healthcare professional is a must, especially if you’re considering quitting smoking. While vaping is generally a safer option than smoking, being aware of your individual health needs is crucial. For example, research on vaping’s effects on type 1 diabetes is still in its early stages. Like traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes deliver nicotine, which can affect blood glucose levels. So, a personalized approach guided by medical advice is essential for making informed decisions about your journey to quit smoking.
The Health Improvements: Vaping vs. Smoking
When you make the switch from smoking to vaping, your body begins to heal. Within a few weeks, you’ll notice improved circulation, and your lung function can increase by up to 10% within a few months, leading to fewer respiratory issues.
Tips for Switching to Vaping
Choosing the right e-liquid is key to your success. It should match your previous smoking habits in nicotine strength to help manage withdrawal symptoms effectively. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice from vape shops or Stop Smoking Services to find the best fit for you.
The best tip is to find what works for you. Buying the latest vape mods and the most expensive juice might sound exciting, but if you’re not ready for the upkeep and maintenance, you might complicate things and hinder your progress. Do some research and find what suits your lifestyle best.
In Conclusion: Vaping Over Smoking is a Step Towards a Smoke-Free Life
While vaping isn’t without its risks, it’s a much less harmful option than smoking. It offers a familiar and less daunting alternative to cigarettes, making the journey toward quitting more manageable. Remember, every step away from smoking is a step towards better health. Here’s to making positive changes in 2024!
Matt Ramage – The Vapor Bar
by Matt Ramage | Aug 16, 2024 | The Vapor Bar
Before selecting your first vape or e-cigarette kit, it’s essential to consider several factors that can significantly impact your vaping experience and satisfaction. Let’s explore the key aspects to help you choose the best starter kit for your needs.
Pod vs. Pen vs. Box Mod
Start by determining the shape and style of your e-cigarette kit. Vape kits typically come in three primary styles: pod vapes, pen vapes, and box mod vapes.
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Pod vapes are the simplest of the three. They are usually buttonless, easy to use, rechargeable, and an excellent option for beginners. Some pod vapes come pre-filled with e-liquid, while others allow you to refill them. However, pods are generally non-customizable and non-upgradeable.
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Pen vapes are named for their long, thin, pen-like design. They are refillable and rechargeable, often with a longer battery life than pod vapes. Some pen vapes offer adjustable power features, but their customizability and upgradability remain limited.
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Box mod vapes offer the most features and flexibility. The battery (or ‘mod’ section) usually has a cuboid shape, hence the name. These devices often include a small computer chip that provides a digital display screen and other features to personalize your vaping experience.
Mouth to Lung vs. Direct to Lung
Another crucial consideration is the type of draw you prefer.
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Mouth to lung (MTL) vapes mimic the inhale of a cigarette, where vapor is first drawn into the mouth before being inhaled into the lungs. MTL kits provide a familiar throat hit and satisfaction for those transitioning from smoking. However, they typically have limited power and produce moderate vapor, similar to a cigarette.
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Direct to lung (DTL) vapes are usually more powerful and produce larger vapor volumes. The vapor is drawn directly into the lungs without holding it in the mouth. DTL e-cigarettes are designed to emulate the performance of a hookah, making them ideal for those seeking more vapor production.
Internal Battery vs. Removable Battery
Consider whether you prefer an internal or removable battery.
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Internal battery e-cigarettes have a built-in battery cell that cannot be removed. These devices are charged using a charging cable, and while convenient, they become unusable once the battery’s ability to charge depletes.
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Removable battery e-cigarettes allow you to replace the battery cells. These devices can often be charged within the vape, but removable batteries tend to stay healthier when charged externally. Removable battery devices offer longevity since the cells can be replaced as needed, but they require more maintenance and can incur additional costs over time.
Buttonless vs. Single-button Operation vs. Multi-button Operation
The type of operation is another factor to consider.
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Buttonless vapes are the simplest to use, as the battery is engaged by your inhale, closely mimicking the smoking experience. These devices are convenient and portable for on-the-go vaping.
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Single-button operated vapes are easy to use, with vapor created by pressing a single button. These devices offer simplicity without additional features to worry about.
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Multi-button operated vapes are more complex but offer the most customizable features. They usually include at least three buttons: a fire button to engage the battery and plus/minus buttons to adjust power levels. These devices may also allow customization of the screen, heat settings, and other features.
Fixed Power vs. Adjustable Power
Lastly, consider whether you prefer fixed or adjustable power.
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Fixed power e-cigarettes do not allow manual power adjustment. The battery provides the necessary voltage for the coil, reducing as the battery charge depletes. Fixed power vapes are typically buttonless or single-button operated, making them simple to use.
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Adjustable power vapes allow users to control how much power is directed to the coil. This requires an understanding of appropriate wattage, voltage, or temperature settings and how to navigate the device’s settings. While adjustable power e-cigarettes have a learning curve, they offer the most customization and compatibility with upgraded tanks.
Matt Ramage – The Vapor Bar
by Matt Ramage | Aug 14, 2024 | The Vapor Bar
When it comes to smoking versus vaping, there are numerous misconceptions that need to be addressed. Let’s delve into the health and financial benefits of vaping over smoking, backed by medical research and facts.
Health Benefits of Vaping
According to a study published by the Royal College of Physicians, vaping is considered to be at least 95% less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes. This is due to the fact that vaping does not involve combustion, which eliminates the harmful toxins produced by burning tobacco.
Furthermore, Public Health England has stated that vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking and can help smokers quit the habit. Vaping allows users to control their nicotine intake, making it easier to gradually reduce nicotine levels and eventually quit altogether.
Financial Benefits of Vaping
From a financial standpoint, vaping is also more cost-effective than smoking. A study conducted by the NHS found that vaping is approximately 80% cheaper than smoking traditional cigarettes in the long run. This is because vaping devices can be reused, and e-liquids are more affordable than packs of cigarettes.
Moreover, the cost of healthcare associated with smoking-related illnesses is significantly higher than that of vaping-related issues. By switching to vaping, individuals can potentially save thousands of dollars in medical expenses over time.
Debunking Common Myths
One common myth about vaping is that it is just as harmful as smoking. However, as mentioned earlier, numerous studies have shown that vaping is a much safer alternative to smoking and can help smokers transition to a healthier lifestyle.
Another myth is that vaping leads to an increase in youth smoking. Contrary to this belief, research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse has shown that vaping among teenagers is not a gateway to smoking traditional cigarettes. In fact, vaping rates among youth have been declining in recent years.
Overall, the evidence supports the notion that vaping is a safer and more cost-effective alternative to smoking. By understanding the health and financial benefits of vaping, individuals can make informed decisions about their smoking habits and potentially improve their overall well-being.
Matt Ramage – The Vapor Bar
by Matt Ramage | Aug 14, 2024 | The Vapor Bar
A burnt-tasting disposable vape is the worst—right up there with stepping in gum or spilling coffee on your shirt! It’s annoying, feels like a waste of money, and can leave you wondering, “Why does my vape taste burnt?” Is it the vape itself or something you’re doing? Let’s get to the bottom of this mystery!
This guide dives into the common causes behind that unpleasant burnt taste, and more importantly, how you can avoid it. Whether you’re new to the vaping world or a seasoned pro, this info is essential. Let’s kick off the journey to smooth vaping!
Why Your Disposable Vape Tastes Burnt
Dead Coil
One of the main culprits behind that burnt flavor is a dead coil. This happens when the coil isn’t wet enough, causing the cotton inside to burn. The lifespan of your vape can depend a lot on the quality of the coil. A quick tip: keeping your vape upright helps ensure the e-juice reaches the coil and cotton. Higher-quality disposable vapes usually feature better coil systems, maintaining that consistent flavor and avoiding the dreaded burnt taste.
Out of Juice
Another common reason for a burnt taste is running out of e-liquid. If you vape too much without letting the device rest, the cotton might burn. Keeping an eye on your e-juice level is essential to know when your disposable is running low. Many disposables have a small window or indicator showing the e-liquid level. Regular checks can save you from the unpleasant burnt taste.
Blocked Airflow
A blocked airflow can also lead to a burnt taste. If the air holes in your vape are obstructed, the coil can overheat, burning the cotton. I’ve got a friend in construction who faced this issue—dirt and debris often found their way into his vape. His ingenious solution was to keep his vapes in a ziplock bag in his pocket. Proper airflow keeps the coil at the right temperature, preventing it from burning.
Cheap Vapes
Sometimes, you get what you pay for. Cheap vapes often come with lower-quality materials, leading to a burnt taste faster. Affordable e-juices might also be harsh, irritating your throat. Opting for a higher-quality vape can make a significant difference in flavor. Premium disposable vapes are made with top-notch materials, including high-grade coils and wicking materials, ensuring a smooth and consistent taste.
Vape Left Unused
Leaving your vape unused for a long period can dry out the cotton. For instance, I left my pineapple-flavored vape alone for a week, and when I tried it again, it tasted awful. Remember to keep your vapes upright and use them regularly. Consistent use helps keep the e-liquid flowing and prevents the coil from drying out and burning.
Why Your Vape Device Tastes Burnt
Chain Vaping
Chain vaping, or continuous vaping without breaks, can burn the coil and give off a burnt taste. It’s important to take breaks between puffs. Chain vaping can overwork the coil, causing it to dry out and burn, leading to that dreaded burnt flavor.
Old Coil
Using an old or worn-out coil can also make your vape taste burnt. Knowing when to replace the coil is key to maintaining good flavor. Coils generally last between one to two weeks, depending on usage. Regular replacement ensures a better vaping experience and prevents a burnt taste.
Incorrect Wattage
Vaping at the wrong wattage settings can affect the coil and cause a burnt taste. Make sure you’re using the recommended wattage for your device and coil type. Each coil has a specific wattage range, and using the correct wattage helps maintain optimal performance and flavor.
Leaving Vape Unused
Leaving your vape unused for too long can dry out the cotton, causing a burnt taste when you use it again. To avoid this, store your vape properly and use it regularly. Proper storage includes keeping the device upright and in a cool, dry place, maintaining the e-liquid and coil’s integrity.
How to Fix a Burnt Taste in Your Vape
Refilling E-Liquid
Make sure your vape has enough e-liquid. Properly refill your device to prevent the coil from drying out. Fill the pod or tank to the recommended level and let it sit for a few minutes to fully saturate the coil.
Replacing the Coil
If your coil is old or burnt, it’s time to replace it with a new one. Follow the instructions in your device’s manual for changing the coil. Regular replacement ensures consistent flavor and prevents that burnt taste.
Adjusting Airflow and Wattage
Properly set up your device by adjusting the airflow and wattage settings. Follow the recommended settings for the best vaping experience. Correctly adjusting these settings helps maintain optimal performance and prevents the coil from burning.
Cleaning the Device
Regularly cleaning your vape can prevent a burnt taste. Clean the pod, coil, and other parts to maintain good performance. Cleaning removes any residue that can cause a burnt taste and ensures a smooth vaping experience.
Dangers of Vaping with a Burnt Coil
Health Risks
Inhaling burnt cotton and coil residue can be harmful to your health. If you taste a burnt flavor, stop using the vape immediately. Burnt cotton and metal particles can irritate your throat and lungs, leading to discomfort and potential health issues.
Device Damage
Vaping with a burnt coil can also damage your vape device. Look out for signs of damage and replace the coil as needed. Continuous use of a burnt coil can cause permanent damage to the device, reducing its lifespan and performance.
Tips to Prevent a Burnt Taste in Your Vape
Regular Maintenance
Clean and maintain your vape regularly to prevent a burnt taste. Follow a routine maintenance checklist to keep your device in good condition. Regular maintenance includes cleaning the tank, replacing the coil, and checking for blockages.
Quality Products
Using high-quality vapes and e-liquids can significantly improve your vaping experience and prevent a burnt taste. Invest in reliable brands for better results. Quality products are made with better materials, providing a more consistent and enjoyable vaping experience.
Proper Storage
Store your vape correctly to prevent issues. Keep it upright and clean to avoid blockages and drying out the cotton. Proper storage ensures the e-liquid stays in contact with the coil, preventing it from burning.
Moderate Use
Vape in moderation to avoid chain vaping and burning the coil. Take breaks between puffs to keep your vape in good condition. Moderating your vaping helps maintain the coil’s integrity and prevents it from drying out and burning.
FAQ
Why does my vape taste burnt even with a new coil?
If your vape tastes burnt with a new coil, it might be due to improper priming. Ensure the coil is fully saturated with e-liquid before use. Also, check your device settings to ensure they are within the recommended range for your coil.
How often should I change my vape coil?
Typically, you should change your vape coil every 1-2 weeks, depending on how often you vape. Heavy users might need to replace their coils more frequently.
Can using cheap e-liquid cause a burnt taste?
Yes, low-quality e-liquids can cause a burnt taste. They often contain impurities that can build up on the coil and burn. Using high-quality e-liquids can prevent this issue and provide a better vaping experience.
What wattage should I use to avoid a burnt taste?
Refer to your device’s manual for the recommended wattage settings. Each coil has a specific wattage range, and using the correct wattage helps prevent burning the coil.
Is it safe to vape with a burnt taste?
No, vaping with a burnt taste is not safe. It can harm your health by exposing you to burnt cotton and metal particles. If you taste a burnt flavor, replace the coil or e-liquid immediately.
Conclusion
We hope this guide helps you understand why your vape might taste burnt and how to fix it. Remember, don’t try to refill disposable vapes. When they’re done, recycle or dispose of them safely. If you’re interested in refillable options, check out the Vaporesso Xros 4, Vaporesso Eco Nano Open Pod Kit or the Uwell Caliburn G3 Pro Open Pod Kit. Whatever your choice, vape responsibly and enjoy! And don’t forget to explore our collection at The Vapor Bar for all your vaping needs!
Matt Ramage – The Vapor Bar
by Matt Ramage | Aug 1, 2024 | The Vapor Bar
The Price Benefits of Vaping Over Smoking: Navigating the New Provincial and Federal Excise Tax
In recent years, many Canadians have turned to vaping as a less harmful alternative to smoking. With the recent implementation of new provincial and federal excise taxes on tobacco and vaping products as of July 1st, 2024, it’s more important than ever to understand the cost implications of each habit. In this blog, we’ll explore the price benefits of vaping over smoking, taking into account the average costs and consumption patterns.
The Cost of Smoking: A Pricey Habit
As of mid-2023, the average price of a pack of cigarettes in Canada ranges from CAD 12 to CAD 15, depending on the province and local taxes. With the new excise taxes, smokers may see an increase in these prices. On average, a smoker consumes about 10 to 15 cigarettes per day, translating to approximately half a pack to three-quarters of a pack daily. Over the course of a month, this can add up significantly. For instance, if a pack costs CAD 14 and a smoker consumes 10 cigarettes daily, they would spend around CAD 210 per month, or CAD 2,520 per year.
The Cost of Vaping: A More Economical Choice
Vaping, while not without its costs, generally proves to be a more economical choice. The initial investment in a vaping device can range from CAD 30 to CAD 100, depending on the type and brand. The ongoing cost primarily involves e-liquids and replacement coils or pods. The average vaper uses about 2 to 5 milliliters of e-liquid per day. With prices ranging from CAD 20 to CAD 30 per 30ml bottle, the monthly expense can be as low as CAD 40 to CAD 150, depending on usage. This is significantly lower than the monthly cost of smoking, even when considering the initial setup cost.
Impact of the New Excise Tax on Vaping and Smoking
The new provincial and federal excise taxes introduced on July 1st, 2024, apply to both tobacco and vaping products. While these taxes have increased the prices of both, vaping products remain generally more affordable. For example, the tax impact on a bottle of e-liquid is typically less severe than the tax on a pack of cigarettes, making vaping a cost-effective alternative even with the new tax policies.
Long-Term Financial Benefits of Vaping
Switching from smoking to vaping can lead to substantial long-term savings. Considering the cost per pack of cigarettes and the average daily consumption, smokers can spend upwards of CAD 2,500 annually. In contrast, vapers might spend around CAD 500 to CAD 1,800 annually, depending on their consumption and choice of devices. Over several years, these savings can accumulate significantly, offering a compelling financial incentive to switch from smoking to vaping.
Conclusion: Vaping as a Budget-Friendly Alternative
The implementation of new excise taxes has impacted the cost of both smoking and vaping in Canada. However, vaping continues to offer a more budget-friendly alternative, with lower average daily and annual costs. As Canadians navigate these new regulations, the financial benefits of switching to vaping become increasingly apparent. At The Vapor Bar, we offer a wide range of affordable vaping products and e-liquids, helping you make the switch in a cost-effective way. Explore our collection today and start saving while enjoying a satisfying vaping experience!
by Matt Ramage | May 30, 2024 | The Vapor Bar
New Excise Duty on Vaping Products in Canada: What You Need to Know
On October 1st, 2022, the Canadian federal government implemented an excise tax requiring every e-liquid bottle or pre-filled pod sold in Canada to bear an excise-duty stamp, akin to the stickers seen on tobacco and cannabis products.
Provincial Participation and Tax Rates
When this regulation was established, it allowed provinces to “piggyback” on the federal excise duty, collecting additional excise duty if they opted in. Effective July 1st, 2024, the following provinces and territories will begin collecting excise duty on all vapeable vaping products, including e-liquids, disposables, and pre-filled pods:
– Ontario
– Quebec
– Northwest Territories
– Nunavut
– Alberta
– Manitoba
– PEI
– New Brunswick
In addition to this provincial duty, the 2024 Finance budget introduces a 12% increase on the general duty rate. The provincial excise duty rate matches the federal rate, effectively doubling the excise duty in the provinces that have opted in.
Excise Duty Breakdown
Implementation Date
Manufacturers must start adding provincial stamps to products by July 1st, 2024.
Affected Customers
This regulation will affect all customers purchasing e-liquid within Ontario, Quebec, Northwest Territories, or Nunavut. Customers buying from The he Vapor Bar for shipping outside these provinces will not incur additional provincial excise duty taxes.
Importing Products from Outside Canada
The Canada Border Services Agency and the Canadian Revenue Agency have stipulated that products shipped into Canada from abroad must be duty-stamped. Products without the stamp are deemed illegal for sale or import, and customs officials have been confiscating and denying entry to unstamped packages.
Cost Comparison: Vaping vs. Smoking
Despite this new tax, vaping remains significantly cheaper than smoking. A pack-a-day smoker spends approximately $126 on cigarettes per week, while a vaper spends around $40 on e-liquid in the same period.
Affected Products
The new excise duty applies to all vapeable products, including disposable vapes and pre-filled pod systems such as Juul and STLTH. It also affects DIY products like VG, PG, flavoring, and nicotine base at 20mg/mL when sold for vaping purposes. However, it does not impact hardware (non-filled, refillable devices).
