How does a vape work?
Want to know how a vape works or switch from traditional cigarettes to e-cigarettes? In this guide to vape basics, we’ll explain in simple, easy-to-understand terms how an e-cigarette is built, how it works, and what to look for when buying a vape.
What does “vape” mean?
The term“vape”comes fromtheEnglishword “vaporizer.”It refers to an e-cigarette that heats a liquid and turns it into vapor that can be inhaled. Unlike a tobacco cigarette, no tobacco is burned; instead, a liquid is vaporized.
How does a vape work?
- You pull on the mouthpiece
- The automatic braking system responds
- The vaporizer head is heated
- The surrounding e-liquid is vaporized
- The steam can be inhaled
Components of a vape
Every e-cigarette basically consists of the same components, which we’ll describe in detail below:
Mouthpiece
A plastic element shaped like a beak or a circle, with an integrated air channel, which can be placed against the mouth for inhalation.
Rechargeable battery / Battery
It goes without saying that an electronic cigarette needs a power source. This is exactly what a battery—either a disposable or rechargeable one—is for, and these can usually be charged via USB-C. Almost all manufacturers use lithium-ion batteries with a capacity ranging from 500mAh to 2000mAh. The higher the mAh, the longer the runtime.
Atomizer head / Coil
The atomizer head, also known as a coil, is one of the most important components of a vape, as it plays a key role in flavor production. You can think of the coil as a mesh of wire (mesh coil) that heats up when you inhale through the mouthpiece, thereby vaporizing the e-liquid. The lower the resistance of a coil, the more heat and vapor it produces. The most popular atomizer heads have a resistance of 0.6 to 1.2 ohms. The coil is wrapped in cotton, which absorbs the liquid and ensures even vaporization.
➜ Want to learn more about this topic? Check out our detailed guide,“Atomizer Heads / Coils”
Liquid Tank
Every e-cigarette contains an e-liquid tank. Depending on the model, this may be pre-filled or empty, so you can fill it with e-liquid yourself. Pre-filled e-liquid pods are limited to 2 ml in Switzerland, while refillable e-liquid pods can hold up to 10 ml of e-liquid.
E-Liquid
The term “e-liquid” or “vape liquid” refers to the flavored liquid that produces vapor and delivers flavor when vaping. E-liquids consist of a base of propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavorings, and, optionally, nicotine (0 mg to 20 mg).
Automatic train
Almost all modern vape models feature an automatic draw mechanism. This simply means that the coil heats up automatically as soon as you take a puff. So there’s no longer any need to press a “fire button.”
Buying a vape – what should you look for?
Want to buy a vape online but new to the world of vaping? Check out our comprehensive beginner's guide to buying vapes and get all the information you need.
Vaping vs. Smoking – The Major Differences
Unlike traditional cigarettes, vapes do not involve combustion. As a result, the vapor from e-cigarettes does not contain any tar. Enjoy the following benefits when you switch to vapes:
- No combustion – no tar
- less odor
- Countless flavors
- Nicotine content can be chosen freely
FAQ
We'll answer your most important questions about vaping.
Is vaping healthier than smoking?
The use of vapes is not risk-free, but according to various studies, the potential for harm is considered to be significantly lower than that of tobacco cigarettes.
Where are vapes manufactured?
Almost all e-cigarettes are manufactured in China. This applies to disposable vapes, pod systems, and cartridge systems. E-liquids often come from the United Kingdom and France.
How many puffs are in a cigarette?
Most vapes provide 300 to 600 puffs. That's equivalent to 30 to 60 cigarettes.
Is vaping harmful?
The use of e-cigarettes is recommended only as an alternative to tobacco cigarettes. Non-smokers, adolescents, and pregnant women are advised against using them.
How long does a vape last?
A vape typically provides between 300 and 600 puffs. Modern hybrid vapes promise up to 10,000 puffs. In our vape lab, we regularly test vape models to determine their puff count.
Vape & e-cigarettes
Tobias Schneider is a member of the management team at Shisha Heaven and is responsible for the leading online store's product range. He has been dealing with tobacco substitute products such as e-cigarettes and vapes for years.