What does the ohm rating mean?
Ohms measure a coil’s resistance. Higher-ohm coils (about 0.8–1.2Ω) run at low power and give a tight, mouth-to-lung draw. They pair well with nic salts.
Lower-ohm coils (below 0.5Ω) need more power, produce more vapour and suit direct-lung vaping with freebase or shortfill e-liquid.
How to prime a new coil
- Drip a few drops of e-liquid straight onto the cotton in the coil.
- Fit the coil, fill the tank or pod and wait five to ten minutes.
- Take a few gentle puffs without firing, then start at a low power setting.
Signs it is time to change your coil
- A burnt or bitter taste.
- Flavour that is weaker than usual.
- Gurgling or leaking.
- Dark, gunky build-up on the coil.
How long do vape coils last?
Most coils last one to two weeks. Sweet and dessert flavours wear coils out faster, while clear fruit and menthol e-liquids are gentler. Running a coil above its recommended power also shortens its life.
Mesh coils vs standard coils
Mesh coils use a flat strip of metal mesh instead of a round wire. The larger surface heats evenly, so mesh coils usually give fuller flavour and last a little longer.
Standard wire coils heat up slightly faster and suit a tight mouth-to-lung draw. Both work well. Choose the one your device was designed for, and you will get the best results.
Why coils burn out early
- Chain vaping: taking puffs back to back does not give the cotton time to soak.
- Low e-liquid: letting the tank or pod run nearly empty dries the cotton.
- Too much power: always stay inside the wattage printed on the coil.
- Thick juice in a small coil: high-VG shortfills can starve small pod coils.
Vape coils guide: quick checklist
- Match the coil to your exact device or coil series.
- Pick the ohm rating that suits your e-liquid and draw.
- Prime every new coil for five to ten minutes.
- Start at low power and work up.
- Keep the tank or pod topped up.
- Change the coil when flavour fades or tastes burnt.
- Keep a spare coil or pod so you are never caught short.
Coils, pods and tanks: finding the right replacement
Coils are made for specific devices, so always check the product name lists your kit. Pod kits often use a pod with a built-in coil, which you replace as one piece.
Shop vape coils, replacement pods and vape tanks, or browse everything in coils, pods and tanks.
Battery safety
Use the right batteries and chargers for your device, and replace any battery with a torn wrap. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has helpful lithium battery safety advice. Shop vape batteries and chargers.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I change my vape coil?
Every one to two weeks for most people, or sooner if you notice a burnt taste or weaker flavour.
Why does my new coil taste burnt?
It was probably not primed long enough, or the power is set too high. Prime coils for five to ten minutes before use.
Can I clean and reuse a coil?
Rinsing can help a little, but the cotton wears out. Replacing the coil gives the best flavour.
Are all coils interchangeable?
No. Coils fit specific devices or coil series. Check the product name matches your kit before you order.