Every vaper knows the problem: Sometimes a vape tastes burnt . There are various reasons behind this burnt taste. Examples include an empty tank, over-puffing, vaping too quickly after filling, worn coils, incorrect setup of the device, or improper storage of the liquid.
We'll show you what you need to keep in mind to prevent dry hits and a burnt taste, and we'll also discuss common vaping mistakes.
In this guide, you'll find practical tips and advice to avoid this problem. At the end of the introduction, you'll also find a clear explanation of the causes and various solutions for eliminating the burnt taste when vaping.
- The e-liquid has been used up
- You draw too quickly and often on the vape
- You start steaming straight away with pod systems
- The coils / vaporizer heads are worn out
- You have not commissioned the device correctly
- You have stored the liquid incorrectly
- You should take better care of your e-cigarette
1. the e-liquid has been used up
Does your vape taste burnt? The most common cause of a burnt taste in e-cigarettes is a very simple one: the e-liquid has run out . As soon as you draw on the vape but there's no more liquid left, the cotton on the atomizer head burns. This creates an unpleasant burnt taste and also produces toxic substances that you shouldn't inhale. Charred coils due to a lack of liquid can occur in an Elf Bar disposable vape, an e-shisha, or a pod system.
Solution: Ensure you always have enough e-liquid in the tank and check the level regularly to ensure you refill it in a timely manner. Having the right amount of liquid in the tank is crucial to preventing refill problems and a burnt taste. Many products offer this through a viewing window or transparent liquid pods. However, disposable vapes generally don't allow you to see the liquid level. In any case, stop vaping as soon as you notice a significant deterioration in the vaping experience. This is often a sign of a "dry hit," meaning a drag on the e-cigarette without liquid.
Glycerin (VG) and propylene glycol (PG) determine the consistency of the liquid. The respective proportions of VG and PG influence the afterflow and the vaping experience. A high glycerin content makes the liquid thicker, which can lead to afterflow problems in some vaporizers. Too low a PG content or too high a VG content can also lead to problems such as delayed afterflow or a scorching taste. Therefore, ensure a balanced mixture for optimal results.
Choose an e-cigarette with long-lasting coils or systems that offer a clear view of the liquid level . There are some e-cigarettes that rarely cause burn hits. We present our favorites:
SKE Crystal Plus – Transparent prefilled pods
With the SKE Crystal Plus prefilled pod system, the e-liquid pods are completely transparent, so you can easily see when the e-liquid is running low. In this product category, the Crystal Plus is the best product on the market Crystal Plus this regard. But don’t forget to wait 5 minutes after removing the silicone plug from the pod.
The new Crystal Plus Starter Kit with Airflow in the color Aurora Blue.
Vaporesso Eco Nano – Large tank & long-lasting coils
The Vaporesso Eco Nano Plus is a pod system with a massive 10-milliliter e-liquid tank. The tank is transparent, making it extremely easy to see the e-liquid level. For this reason, it’s very rare to miss the moment when the e-liquid runs out. In addition, the Eco Nano is known for its extremely long-lasting coils, which often last more than two weeks even with heavy use.
The Eco Nano Upgrade with 10 ml of e-liquid and a 1400 mAh battery is here!
Elfbar Elfx – robust coils with a long service life
The leading pod system from Elfbar, known as Elfx, is characterized by exceptionally long-lasting coils that don’t burn out easily, even with heavy use.
Get the brand new ELFX PRO Pod System in elegant black with color display!
2. you draw too fast and too often on the vape
Do you vape intensely and does your e-cigarette taste burnt? If you take frequent puffs from your vape in very short intervals or take them too quickly puffs , it’s possible that not enough e-liquid is being drawn in, resulting in a“burn hit.”Too many or too rapid puffs puffs often lead to e-liquid flow issues, which can result in undesirable outcomes such as a burnt taste.
Solution: Draw slowly and enjoyably on your vape to optimize the vaping experience and flavor. Users with less experience should pay particular attention to their drawing technique, as incorrect technique can quickly lead to problems. Sometimes it helps to give the device some time after several draws to allow the liquid to flow. Alternatively, you can use a pod system with overload protection. With these devices, the heating of the coil is automatically stopped if you draw too quickly. This automatically regulates your drawing technique and helps prevent your e-cigarette from tasting burnt.
3. you start steaming directly with pod systems
When filling a pod system with e-liquid, it's important to wait approximately five minutes after filling to allow the coil to fully absorb the liquid. Note: Waiting too short after filling can cause the atomizer head to carbonize, resulting in a burnt taste. This, too, doesn't require much investigation: If the atomizer head is dry, the cotton will burn, producing smoke instead of vapor.
Tip: Fill slowly and evenly, making sure not to overfill the pod. This will avoid refill issues and ensure an optimal vaping experience.
Solution: Always wait 5 minutes when you have filled liquid into a new pod for the first time.
4. the coils / vaporizer heads are worn out
Atomizer heads, also known as coils, have a limited lifespan. Depending on the product, the coil's condition, and usage intensity, this lasts between 3 and 14 days . After this time, the atomizer heads can become carbonized, and e-cigarettes will begin to taste burnt. Regularly check the condition of all components to detect potential problems early and prevent damage. The choice and quality of your e-liquid also plays an important role in the lifespan of the coils.
Solution : As soon as you notice the first signs of a deteriorating vaping experience, you should immediately install a new pod or replace the coil. In some cases, replacing the coil is the only way to achieve an optimal vaping experience.
5. you have not commissioned the device correctly
Especially with the new hybrid systems, it often happens that devices are not set up correctly. Note: Insufficient e-liquid flow to the heating coil can result in a burnt taste. If you remove the silicone cap from the refill reservoir on theElfbar NX7000, the Lost Mary BM6000, or the Instaflow, the e-liquid cannot be drawn into the small 2-milliliter tank as intended. This can result in a burnt taste when vaping. Also, be sure to use the correct system and check compatibility with various vaporizers to achieve optimal results. Note: The correct wattage setting is crucial—excessive wattage can damage the atomizer head and negatively affect the flavor. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the recommended wattage and how to use your system.
Solution: With products like the ElfaElfbar , it’s important to make sure the liquid pods are squeezed before vaping. This is the only way to ensure the e-liquid is distributed evenly around the coil and heating element.
6. you have stored the liquid incorrectly
Storing your vape liquid at temperatures that are too cold or too warm can reduce its quality and shelf life. This also increases the chance of a burnt taste when vaping.
Note: Proper storage of your liquid is crucial for the taste.
Solution: Always store your liquid at room temperature and away from direct sunlight to maintain quality!
7. Maintenance and cleaning: How to keep your vape in top shape
To ensure your e-cigarette always delivers an intense vaping experience and the full flavor of your liquid, proper maintenance and cleaning are essential. Many problems, such as a burnt taste or diminished vapor production, can be avoided by regularly caring for your device. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced vaper, a few simple steps will keep your atomizer in top condition and allow you to utilize your e-cigarette's full potential.
Why regular cleaning is important
A clean e-cigarette is the foundation for an optimal vaping experience. Residues from old liquids, deposits in the tank, or dirt on the atomizer head can not only distort the flavor but also significantly shorten the lifespan of your coil and atomizer. Especially with frequent liquid changes or with sweet, thick liquids, residues quickly build up, which can impede the flow and lead to a burnt taste.
By regularly cleaning your tank, atomizer head, and coils, you prevent old flavors from mixing or unpleasant aftertastes from developing. The heating coil and cotton also benefit from a clean environment, as they can absorb and vaporize the liquid more effectively. A clean atomizer ensures that each new fill of liquid develops its full flavor and you don't notice any unwanted aftertastes.
Make sure to rinse your tank regularly with warm water and replace the atomizer head when necessary. This will not only prevent a burnt taste, but also extend the lifespan of your e-cigarette and ensure consistent vapor enjoyment. With a little care, your device will remain reliable, and you can rely on an intense, pure flavor experience – no matter which liquid you prefer.
FAQ: Vape tastes burnt
We have compiled the most important questions and answers on the topic of "Burnt taste when vaping".
What is a dry hit or burn hit?
A puff on the e-cigarette is called a dry hit or burn hit when there is no more liquid left. This usually results in an unpleasant burnt taste.
To explain: A dry hit occurs when the cotton in the vaporizer is no longer sufficiently saturated with liquid and therefore burns.
Is it harmful to vape despite the burnt taste?
Yes, inhaling vapes with a burnt flavor is harmful. The combustion process produces toxins—just like smoking cigarettes—that should not be inhaled.
Note: Inhaling burnt vapor can lead to additional health risks. To protect your health, be sure to maintain your device regularly and take immediate action if you notice any signs of a burnt taste.
Do you have to replace coils once they are coked?
Tip: Check your coils regularly and replace them immediately if you notice a burnt taste. Yes, coils that exhibit a burnt taste should always be replaced.
Is the discoloration of the e-liquid a sign that the vaporizer head is burnt?
Yes, if the e-liquid turns brown, it's an indication that the coil is burnt. Note: Discoloration of the liquid can be a warning sign of a burnt coil. In this case, always insert a new liquid pod or coil.
E-shisha tastes burnt
Does your disposable vape taste burnt? That's usually a very bad sign. Disposable e-cigarettes don't have replaceable atomizer heads, unlike reusable systems where individual components like batteries and coils are interchangeable. Therefore, you have no other option than to dispose of the device properly. Make sure the battery belongs in the electronic waste so it can be recycled in an environmentally friendly manner. Batteries from disposable e-cigarettes should never end up in household waste, but should always be taken to a suitable collection point.
E-cigarette tastes burnt: Shisha Heaven Conclusion
Almost every vaper experiences a burnt taste from time to time. This article has covered all the potential problems and solutions related to burn hit and burnt taste when vaping. The e-cigarette industry has not yet found a viable way to solve this problem with technological developments. Many pre-filled liquid pods are now transparent so that the liquid level can be checked. However, it is still the consumer's responsibility to prevent a burn hit. There are various solutions to avoid the problem of burnt taste, such as proper vaporizer care or adjusting the liquid ratio. It is hoped that e-cigarettes will come onto the Swiss market in the future that use sensor technology to prevent you from drawing on the vape even if there is no more e-liquid or the coil is burnt.
Vape & e-cigarettes
Tobias is the marketing director at Shisha Heaven and is responsible for the online store's product lineup. He has been working with tobacco alternatives, such as e-cigarettes and vapes, for years.