Why Does My Vape Taste Burnt? Causes & Fixes

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