Vape Coils Explained

Vape Coils Explained

A vape’s coil - otherwise known as the atomizer’s head - is the wire that is responsible for heating and consequently vapourising e-liquid in many wick and coil devices. As a crucial part of the vapourisation process, a vape coil’s condition will typically impact the vaping experience. The coil can often be identified as the spiraling wire within a vape – see our useful vaping coil chart below for a reference of what some coils might look like in particular vapes.



There are different types of vape coils, and they all have a unique impact on the vaping experience. For a more detailed explanation of how vape coils work, and the difference in resistance and wattage - important factors that should not be overlooked - read our vape wattage calculator article.

Fortunately, extensive coil knowledge is not something an adult smoker or vaper needs to worry about. It is possible to enjoy a vape without the same level of “know-how” as other adult vapers. Generally, vapes come with a built-in coil that has been designed specifically for that device. Using the coil as intended by the manufacturer is not only good practice, it may also help to avoid preventable problems within a vape. This also means when it comes to replacing the coil, do so like for like.

How to Look after a Vape Coil

Some coils may be maintained, usually those in vape mods and particular tank devices. Where coil maintenance is possible, a proper care routine should be a top priority to maintain the coil’s longevity. Regular cleaning is a good place to start. Vaping could result in a build-up of residue over time, which, if left unchecked, might clog up the device’s coil. In those devices where coils can be removed and cleaned, adult vapers should follow manufacturer guidance on how to clean their vape coil.

Cleaning is an important first step, but maintenance should not necessarily stop there. Keep an eye out for telltale signs of coil degradation. After all, even with the best care routine, a vape’s coil is likely to need replacing at some point. Vapourisation problems, and a foul or burnt taste, can sometimes be signs that it is time to replace your device’s coil. Other issues, such as frequent crackling or gurgling sounds may also be indicative of a faulty coil. It is important to only replace the coil with a like for like. Device modification that is not instructed by the manufacturer could have unintended consequences on a vape.

While good maintenance of a vape coil – where possible - may prolong its lifespan, ultimately, a coil will probably and eventually need to be replaced.

How Long Do Vape Coils Last?

While there is no single answer to how long a vape coil will last, there are certain factors that could play an important role, and this includes frequency of use. Adult vapers who use their device regularly will likely find themselves replacing their coil more often. That’s because the coil is under more pressure, more often - and therefore it is unlikely to last as long as a vape that is used less. The type of e-liquid in use is another factor to consider - particular e-liquids may not last as long as others.

Faulty coils may be identified by noticeable symptoms like a burnt taste or poor vapourisation. While regularly changing the coil might be an inconvenient procedure, do not be tempted to persist with a faulty coil. Operating with a degraded component - whether it is a coil, tank or battery - might have a more widespread impact on a vape in the long run. Follow manufacturer guidance if you are unsure about when to change or discard a coil.

Changing a Vape Coil

A vape or e-cig coils explained guide would not be complete without an explanation about why you should replace the coil. As such an important part in some vapes, the coil needs to work properly to allow such vapes to function. Leaving a worn out coil in a device is usually a bad idea, and here’s why.

Over time the coil may burn completely and in turn, this may impact the e-liquid inside. As well as a foul-tasting vape, the cotton is likely to degrade, and may cause the device to leak. Finally, all of this could amount to lasting problems with your vape and, what might have been an easy fix, could turn into a much more challenging problem. Therefore, it is often wise to regularly replace the coil. The good news is that it is usually a relatively simple process. Read our how-to guide on replacing vape coils.

With a new coil, you may be able to enjoy your vaping experience - at least until another replacement is required. Unfortunately, this practice is a common necessity in many vape devices. However, it is not the case for all of them. Some vapes do not require frequent coil replacements. Read on to discover which vapes and smoke-free alternatives come without coils.

What Are the Types of Smoke-Free Devices without Coils?

When it comes to smoke-free devices, there are various options that could suit your preferences. Many vapes, especially older models, require frequent coil replacements. With IQOS VEEV, there is no need to replace wick and coil. If, on the other hand, you are an adult smoker and would like to avoid coils altogether, then heated tobacco might be a better choice for you than continued smoking. These devices should heat tobacco instead of burning it, providing a tobacco experience without relying on combustion - more on this below. Of course, the absence of combustion should be substantiated on a product-by-product basis.

* Reductions in levels of a range of harmful chemicals (excluding nicotine) compared to the smoke of a reference cigarette. See Important Information on IQOS.com.

Heated tobacco products are a smoke-free option that should heat tobacco instead of burning it - without the need for a coil. Unlike cigarettes, IQOS does not burn tobacco and therefore produces no smoke. Instead, IQOS devices make use of innovative heat not burn technology. The accompanying HEETS sticks slot into the IQOS device. Discover the range of HEETS, with options for every adult smoker. Shop for an innovative IQOS heated tobacco device on the online store.

* 90% agreement amongst 300 adult consumers in Japan, 2022.

IQOS products are not risk-free and provide nicotine, which is addictive. The best decision any adult smoker can make is to quit tobacco and nicotine use altogether. IQOS products are not alternatives to quitting and are not designed as cessation aids.

Vaping coils may seem complicated at first, which could be frustrating considering how important they are in many wick and coil devices. With the above vaping coils explained information and knowledge, you may be able to take care of the coil and replace it at the right time – so long as you follow manufacturer guidance for coil maintenance and replacements. Above all, you should adhere to manufacturer guidance to ensure the device continues to operate as intended.

This article is for general information and educational purposes. Some of the information in this article is based on external, third-party sources and we make no representations or warranties of any kind regarding the accuracy, validity or completeness of such information.