Why Does My Vape Taste Burnt? 6 Causes and Fixes

A burnt taste is the most common vaping problem, and it is nearly always the coil. Here are the six usual causes and what to do about each.

1. The pod is new and was not primed

If you vaped straight after filling a new pod, the cotton was still dry and has burnt. Fix: replace the pod, and next time wait five to ten minutes after filling. See How to Fill and Prime a Refillable Pod Kit.

2. The pod is worn out

Pods last about one to two weeks. A fading, then burnt, taste means it is done. Fix: change the pod. Find yours in Replacement Pods.

3. The liquid is running low

When the level drops below the coil’s wicking holes, the cotton dries out. Fix: top up before it gets too low.

4. You are chain vaping

Lots of puffs in quick succession do not give the cotton time to re-soak. Fix: leave a few seconds between puffs.

5. The power is too high

On adjustable kits, too much power burns the coil faster than it can wick. Fix: turn it down, and check the pod’s recommended range.

6. Very sweet liquid

Sweetener builds up on coils and shortens their life. Fix: expect to change pods more often with sweet flavours, or switch to a less sweet one.

Is it ever the battery?

Rarely. If a brand-new, properly primed pod tastes burnt straight away, check the pod is seated correctly and the contacts are clean and dry.

Still not sure which pod you need? Read How to Choose the Right Replacement Pod.

Related guides

• Vaporesso Luxe Pods Guide: Luxe X COREX 2.0 vs Luxe Q Pods
• OXVA Xlim Range Compared: Go, Go Lite, Pro 2, Pro 3, 3 Ultra and V3 Pods

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