Common Vaping Mistakes and How to Fix them

Vaping has become an increasingly popular alternative to smoking in the UK, and for good reason. By offering smokers a route away from traditional cigarettes, many people find vaping a more pleasant, customisable, and potentially less harmful experience. But as with any new skill or hobby, there’s a learning curve—and plenty of opportunities for small slip-ups along the way.

At Select Vape Club, we’ve encountered just about every vaping mistake imaginable. Fortunately, most issues can be easily resolved with a bit of know-how and the right approach. If you’re new to vaping—or even if you’re a seasoned cloud-chaser—you might find yourself frustrated by burnt coils, leaky tanks, or unsatisfying throat hits. This friendly, expert guide will walk you through the most common vaping mistakes and provide simple, effective solutions to keep your vape sessions smooth, flavourful, and safe.

1. Not Priming Your Coils Properly

The Mistake:
One of the top culprits behind burnt or “off” tasting hits is forgetting to prime your coil. Priming means saturating your coil and wick with e-liquid before you start vaping, which prevents dry hits and extends coil life. If you neglect this crucial step, your coil can burn almost immediately, leading to a horrible taste and wasted money.

How to Fix It:

• Step 1: Drip e-liquid directly onto the cotton – Before installing a new coil, locate the wick openings and drip a few drops of your chosen e-liquid onto them. This saturates the wick and helps avoid burning.

• Step 2: Fill the tank and let it sit – After installing the primed coil in your tank, fill the tank and let it stand for roughly 5–10 minutes. Allowing the coil to soak means the wick is fully saturated.

• Step 3: Start at lower wattages – When you finally start vaping, begin at a lower wattage than normal. Gradually increase the power to your usual level. This gently ‘breaks in’ the coil.

Proper priming makes a massive difference. Coils are not cheap, so take a few minutes to prime correctly. You’ll preserve coil longevity, enjoy better flavour, and avoid that dreaded burnt taste.

2. Using the Wrong Nicotine Strength

The Mistake:
Choosing an unsuitable nicotine strength is a significant stumbling block for people transitioning from smoking to vaping. Going too low can leave ex-smokers feeling unsatisfied, leading them back to cigarettes. Conversely, going too high might result in a harsh throat hit, nausea, or headaches.

How to Fix It:

• Estimate based on smoking habits – As a general guide, heavier smokers might start around 12–20mg of nicotine in freebase form or 10–20mg in nic salts. Light or social smokers might opt for 3–6mg.

• Consider nic salts – Nicotine salt e-liquids absorb quicker into the bloodstream, offering a smoother throat hit even at higher strengths. If you’re looking for a gentler inhale, nic salts might be a good option.

• Experiment and adjust – Try various strengths and brands until you find the ‘sweet spot.’ Many UK vapers enjoy the freedom to adjust nicotine levels in shortfill bottles by adding or reducing nic shots.

If you’re uncertain, don’t worry—Select Vape Club stocks a wide range of e-liquids in different strengths to help you find exactly what works for you.

3. Incorrect PG/VG Ratios

The Mistake:
PG (propylene glycol) and VG (vegetable glycerine) are the two main ingredients in e-liquid (apart from nicotine and flavourings). PG delivers more throat hit and carries flavour well, while VG produces thicker vapour and a smoother inhale. Vaping a liquid with the wrong ratio for your device or preference can lead to coughing, dry hits, or insufficient vapour.

How to Fix It:

• Check your device’s requirements – Some coils and tanks are designed for higher VG blends (like 70VG/30PG), while simpler pod systems often do better with a 50/50 ratio to avoid clogging.

• Match ratio to your vaping style – If you enjoy a strong throat hit or use mouth-to-lung devices (similar to smoking a cigarette), a 50/50 or 60PG/40VG ratio might work best. Direct-lung, sub-ohm devices usually perform well with 70VG or higher.

• Test different e-liquids – There’s no one-size-fits-all ratio. Try a few different blends to find which best suits your desired flavour, throat hit, and cloud production.

Balancing PG and VG ensures your vaping is comfortable, flavourful, and satisfying—regardless of your device.

4. Ignoring Wattage Guidelines

The Mistake:
Every coil and device has an optimal wattage range. Exceeding this can burn your coil (or cotton) in seconds, while underpowering might result in lacklustre vapour and poor flavour. Some users simply set their mod to “max power” or “auto,” resulting in scorching coils.

How to Fix It:

• Check the coil’s recommended range – Most coils list a recommended wattage range on the packaging or coil housing. Start near the lower end of that range and move up to find your preferred sweet spot.

• Adjust gradually – Increase wattage in small increments (1-5 watts at a time). This allows you to sense changes in flavour and vapour production without risking an instant coil burn.

• Monitor taste and heat – If your vapour starts feeling too hot or you sense any burnt flavour, dial it back. Pay attention to changes in flavour intensity to ensure you’re not scorching the wick.

Following wattage guidelines not only preserves coil life but also guarantees a consistently pleasant vaping experience.

5. Poor Tank Assembly and O-Ring Issues

The Mistake:
Leaky tanks or improper assembly are all too common. Some vapers forget to clean their tanks when switching e-liquids, or they might inadvertently damage or misplace the tiny O-rings that seal the tank, causing leaks and wasted e-liquid.

How to Fix It:

• Inspect O-rings regularly – Each tank has small silicone rings that prevent e-liquid from escaping. If you notice any cracks, tears, or misalignment, replace them.

• Don’t over-tighten – Screwing your tank together too forcefully can pinch or warp the O-rings. Tighten just enough to form a seal.

• Clean between refills – When changing flavours or replacing coils, rinse your tank in warm water, and ensure all parts are fully dry before reassembly. This prevents residue build-up or mixing of flavours.

A properly assembled tank means less mess, less waste, and better performance.

6. Overfilling (or Underfilling) Your Tank or Pod

The Mistake:
Overfilling can lead to spillage, leaks, and gurgling. Underfilling might dry out the wick, causing sporadic dry hits. Although this seems straightforward, it’s surprisingly easy to do when you’re rushing or not paying attention to fill lines.

How to Fix It:

• Use the tank’s fill line – Many modern tanks have a max fill indicator. Keep e-liquid below that line to maintain proper pressure.

• Leave a small air pocket – A little empty space at the top helps regulate air pressure within the tank.

• Refill promptly when low – If you notice your e-liquid dipping below the wick ports, it’s time to top up. This prevents the wick from partially drying and burning when you vape.

Proper filling might seem like a simple step, but it’s crucial for avoiding leaks and guaranteeing a smooth, flavourful draw.

7. Failing to Store E-Liquids Properly

The Mistake:
Leaving e-liquids in direct sunlight or storing them in extremely hot or cold conditions can degrade flavour and nicotine strength. Additionally, some users keep multiple bottles unlabelled and forget which flavour or nicotine level is in each.

How to Fix It:

• Cool, dry, dark storage – Keep your e-liquids in a cupboard or drawer away from heat and direct light. Extreme conditions accelerate oxidation and flavour degradation.

• Labelling – If you transfer e-liquid to smaller containers or have multiple shortfill bottles, label them with flavour, nicotine strength, and date of opening.

• Mind the expiry date – E-liquids do have a shelf life. If you notice a change in smell, colour, or flavour, it might be time to discard or replace it.

By storing your e-liquids correctly, you preserve their freshness and ensure you’re always vaping at optimal quality.

8. Neglecting Coil Maintenance and Replacement

The Mistake:
Coils do not last forever, and each coil’s lifespan depends on factors like usage frequency, wattage, and e-liquid sweetness. Continuing to use a coil well past its prime leads to a burnt taste, diminished vapour production, and potential health concerns.

How to Fix It:

• Recognise the signs – A burnt or ‘off’ taste, reduced vapour, or persistent gurgling often means your coil is done. Most coils last anywhere from a few days to two weeks, depending on usage.

• Use sweet e-liquids cautiously – Desserts and sweet flavours often contain more sweeteners that can caramelise on coils, reducing their lifespan.

• Proper priming – (As noted earlier) ensures the coil isn’t damaged prematurely.

• Scheduled replacements – As a rough guideline, replace your coil every 1–2 weeks or whenever you detect a drop in performance. Have spares on hand to avoid being stuck with a foul-tasting vape.

Replacing coils regularly is one of the easiest ways to guarantee consistent flavour and vapour quality.

9. Not Letting Your Wicks Soak (Chain Vaping on Fresh Coils)

The Mistake:
While it’s related to priming, chain vaping on a new coil without waiting can quickly lead to dry or burnt hits. This is particularly an issue for sub-ohm vapers who prefer direct-lung inhales at higher wattages.

How to Fix It:

• Take short, gentle puffs initially – Give the wick extra time to absorb e-liquid, especially in the first few minutes of using a brand-new coil.

• Space out your draws – If you like to take multiple puffs back-to-back, consider short breaks every few pulls to let the wick re-saturate.

• Lower the wattage – If you’re chain vaping, reduce the wattage slightly to avoid burning the coil.

Patience pays off when using fresh coils—it can mean the difference between a coil lasting a few days versus a couple of weeks.

10. Improper Battery and Device Care

The Mistake:
Batteries are at the heart of any vaping device. Failing to respect basic battery safety can lead to battery failure, device malfunctions, or even rare but serious accidents. Overcharging, using damaged batteries, or carrying them loosely in pockets with coins or keys is a significant hazard.

How to Fix It:

• Use the right charger – Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. If your device has USB-C charging, ensure you use a cable and charger designed for it. Overcharging or using an incompatible charger can stress the battery.

• Check for damage – Inspect batteries for tears, dents, or compromised wraps. Replace any damaged batteries immediately.

• Carry batteries safely – Use a battery case or sleeve when carrying spare cells. Avoid letting them rattle around with metal objects.

• Monitor charging – Don’t leave your device charging overnight or unattended. Most modern devices have built-in safety features, but caution is still wise.

With proper battery care, you can vape confidently, knowing that you’re minimising potential risks.

11. Trying to “Cloud Chase” with the Wrong Kit

The Mistake:
Cloud chasing is fun—there’s no denying that blowing huge plumes can be entertaining. But if you’re using a basic mouth-to-lung device, you might find yourself disappointed or even cause coil and device issues by cranking the power beyond its limits.

How to Fix It:

• Research sub-ohm setups – Devices with low-resistance coils (below 1.0 ohm), higher wattage power, and plenty of airflow options are designed for big vapour production.

• Get the right e-liquid – High VG (70% or more) is key to thick clouds. A 50/50 blend won’t achieve the same effect and can even lead to dry hits at high wattages.

• Understand battery demands – Cloud chasing often requires higher wattages, so invest in reliable, high-drain batteries, and maintain them properly.

If you’re all about big, showy clouds, ensure your kit can handle it safely and consistently.

12. Overlooking Airflow Adjustments

The Mistake:
Many tanks and pods have adjustable airflow rings or settings. Some users never tweak their airflow, missing out on a more personalised vape. Too little airflow can lead to a tight draw and overheated coil, while too much can dilute flavour.

How to Fix It:

• Experiment with the airflow ring – If your tank has an adjustable ring, open it gradually to increase airflow, or close it for a tighter, more flavourful draw.

• Watch for leaking – If your airflow is wide open and you’re not inhaling strongly, it can sometimes encourage leaks or gurgling.

• Match airflow to coil type – Some sub-ohm coils perform best with more open airflow, while MTL coils provide a cigarette-like draw with tighter airflow.

Your preferences might differ day by day, so don’t be afraid to play around with the airflow to find the perfect balance between vapour volume and flavour intensity.

13. Mixing Flavours (Ghosting)

The Mistake:
If you switch e-liquids without cleaning your tank or replacing your coil, you may end up with a confusing mashup of flavours—commonly referred to as “ghosting.” This can ruin the taste of a new e-liquid and make it tough to gauge its actual profile.

How to Fix It:

• Rinse your tank – When changing flavours, remove your coil and rinse the tank components in warm water (but avoid soaking the coil). Dry thoroughly before reassembly.

• Use a fresh coil or separate tank – For drastically different profiles—say menthol followed by a custard dessert—consider using a new coil or having an extra tank dedicated to certain flavour categories.

• Shortfill mixing – If you’re making your own shortfill mixtures, take care not to mix multiple leftover flavours indiscriminately. You can create some bizarre (and not always pleasant) results.

Keeping tanks clean and coils fresh ensures every new e-liquid tastes as it’s meant to.

14. Vaping in Extreme Temperatures

The Mistake:
Exposing your vape gear to extreme heat (like a hot car seat in summer) or cold (left in a car overnight during winter) can cause your device to malfunction. Low temperatures can thicken VG-based e-liquid, while high heat can degrade batteries and e-liquid flavour.

How to Fix It:

• Store at comfortable room temperature – Vaping gear is best kept where you’d normally feel comfortable.

• Warm up cold e-liquid gently – If your e-liquid is too thick from the cold, let it sit at room temperature. Avoid microwaving or extreme heat sources.

• Monitor battery performance – If your device is cold, allow it to gradually warm to room temperature before use. Batteries discharge more quickly in cold conditions.

Moderate temperatures help maintain battery longevity, preserve e-liquid quality, and ensure consistent performance.

15. Ignoring TPD Compliance and Legal Restrictions

The Mistake:
In the UK, the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) enforces specific regulations on e-liquid bottle sizes, nicotine strengths, and tank capacities. Buying or using non-TPD-compliant products can lead to legal and safety issues.

How to Fix It:

• Buy from reputable UK retailers – Ensure your supplier is fully TPD-compliant, so you’re not inadvertently purchasing illegal or poorly tested products.

• Follow shortfill guidelines – Shortfill bottles over 10ml contain zero nicotine; you add nic shots if needed. Always confirm the final nicotine content is within the legal limit.

• Check tank sizes – TPD restricts vape tanks to 2ml capacity for sale in the UK. If you’re buying or importing from abroad, verify compliance to avoid fines or confiscation.

Sticking to TPD-compliant gear is also a good indicator of product quality and safety standards.

16. Chain Vaping High-Nicotine or Harsh E-Liquids

The Mistake:
Some vapers chain vape (taking frequent puffs in rapid succession) on high-nicotine e-liquids. This can lead to nicotine overdose symptoms (dizziness, headache, nausea) and intensify throat irritation.

How to Fix It:

• Lower your nicotine strength – If you enjoy frequent draws, consider reducing the nic level to prevent discomfort. Alternatively, try nic salts for a gentler throat hit.

• Pace yourself – Set the vape aside periodically to avoid overwhelming your system with nicotine.

• Stay hydrated – Nicotine and PG can dehydrate the mouth and throat, so drink water to maintain comfort.

Vaping is meant to be enjoyed—so if you’re feeling ill or noticing harsh throat hits, adjust your approach immediately.

17. Using Outdated or Poor-Quality Hardware

The Mistake:
Holding onto a battered old tank or mod with outdated technology can lead to inconsistent performance, frequent coil issues, or battery safety risks. Additionally, cheaper eBay or “clone” devices may not meet quality and safety standards.

How to Fix It:

• Upgrade periodically – Newer vape kits often feature better airflow, improved coils, and safer battery tech. Don’t be afraid to treat yourself to an updated device.

• Buy from trusted brands – Names like SMOK, Aspire, GeekVape, Vaporesso, and others are well-known for reliability and TPD compliance.

• Check for authenticity – Legitimate brands include verification codes or QR codes on packaging. Steer clear of suspiciously cheap knock-offs.

Investing in quality gear keeps your vaping experience safe, enjoyable, and up-to-date.

18. Inadequate Cleaning of Drip Tips

The Mistake:
We often focus on cleaning tanks or coils, but your drip tip (the mouthpiece) is in constant contact with your lips. Over time, it can accumulate e-liquid residue, dust, or bacteria, which can affect flavour and hygiene.

How to Fix It:

• Regular washing – Remove the drip tip and rinse it under warm water every few days. Use a mild soap if needed, then thoroughly dry before reattaching.

• Use alcohol wipes – Quickly disinfect the mouthpiece surface, especially if you share your vape or set it down on tables frequently.

• Replace if damaged – If the drip tip is cracked or discoloured, consider purchasing a new one to maintain hygiene and proper airflow.

A clean drip tip ensures a pure flavour and a more pleasant overall experience.

19. Dismissing Professional Advice or Community Input

The Mistake:
Sometimes, vapers refuse to seek guidance from experts or fellow vapers. This can mean missing out on valuable tips, troubleshooting help, or new product recommendations. The UK vaping community is incredibly supportive, from brick-and-mortar shops to online forums.

How to Fix It:

• Ask questions – At Select Vape Club, we encourage questions—whether it’s about device compatibility, best coil choices, or new e-liquids.

• Join online groups – Platforms like Reddit’s r/electronic_cigarette (with a UK focus) or local vape forums can offer real-world solutions from experienced members.

• Visit a local vape shop – If you prefer face-to-face help, visiting a physical store can be incredibly helpful. Many shops let you test flavours or troubleshoot issues on the spot.

Vaping has a learning curve, but engaging with the community helps flatten it quickly.

20. Forgetting That Vaping Is Personal

The Mistake:
Lastly, a common pitfall is trying to imitate someone else’s setup or style without considering your own preferences. Maybe your mate loves an intense menthol in a high-wattage sub-ohm tank, while you prefer subtle dessert notes in a discreet pod system. There’s no single ‘right’ way to vape.

How to Fix It:

• Focus on personal satisfaction – Explore different devices, e-liquids, and nicotine strengths until you discover what you genuinely enjoy.

• Adapt gradually – If you decide to experiment with a new style (like sub-ohm direct-lung vaping), ease into it. Don’t throw away what already works for you.

• Embrace change – Your taste buds may evolve over time. A flavour you once disliked might become a favourite months later.

Remember, the journey is about finding your sweet spot. Vaping’s beauty lies in its customisation. Embrace it.

Wrapping Up: Master Your Vape Experience

Vaping is a thoroughly enjoyable, highly customisable alternative to smoking, but mistakes can spoil the fun. The good news is that every issue we’ve discussed in this troubleshooting guide has a relatively straightforward fix—whether it’s priming coils, adjusting wattage, cleaning your tank, or choosing the right nicotine strength. By learning from these common pitfalls, you can:

• Extend your coil life, saving money and hassle.

• Enhance your flavour experience, ensuring every puff tastes amazing.

• Maintain a safer vape routine, protecting both your health and device.

• Boost overall satisfaction, making vaping a hobby you’ll truly enjoy and stick with.

At Select Vape Club, we’re committed to helping UK vapers avoid these common blunders. From expert guidance to curated product recommendations, we aim to simplify your journey and make sure you always have the best vaping experience possible. If you have any questions or need personalised advice, don’t hesitate to reach out or explore our extensive range of TPD-compliant devices, e-liquids, and accessories.

Happy Vaping—and may your coils remain unburnt, your flavours pop, and your clouds be as mighty (or discreet) as you desire.