Why Does My Vape Taste Burnt? Top Reasons & Easy Fixes

Introduction

Nothing ruins a vaping experience faster than a burnt taste. If you've ever taken a hit from your vape only to be met with an unpleasant, acrid flavor, you're not alone. A burnt vape taste can be frustrating and may even discourage you from vaping altogether. But don’t worry! Understanding the causes and solutions will help you get back to smooth, flavorful vaping in no time.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top reasons why your vape might taste burnt and provide simple yet effective fixes to resolve the issue.

Common Reasons Why Your Vape Tastes Burnt

1. Dry Hits: Insufficient E-Liquid in the Coil

Why It Happens:

If your coil isn't saturated with e-liquid, it can burn the cotton wick inside, leading to a harsh burnt taste.

How to Fix It:

• Always ensure your vape tank or pod has enough e-liquid before taking a puff.

• If using a refillable pod, refill it before it reaches a critically low level.

• Prime your coil (explained below) before using a new coil.

2. Not Priming Your Coil Properly

Why It Happens:

A new coil needs to be properly saturated with e-liquid before use. If not, the dry cotton inside burns quickly, causing a burnt taste.

How to Fix It:

• Before installing a new coil, add a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the wick.

• Allow the coil to sit in a filled tank for 5-10 minutes before using it.

• Take a few dry puffs (without pressing the fire button) to help the liquid saturate the wick.

3. Using Too High Wattage

Why It Happens:

Vaping at a wattage higher than the recommended range for your coil can burn the cotton wick and overheat the e-liquid, leading to a burnt taste.

How to Fix It:

• Check the recommended wattage range printed on your coil or in the manufacturer’s manual.

• Adjust your vape device settings to a suitable power level.

• Start at a lower wattage and gradually increase it to find your sweet spot.

4. Chain Vaping (Taking Too Many Puffs in a Row)

Why It Happens:

Taking multiple puffs in quick succession doesn’t allow the wick enough time to absorb more e-liquid, leading to dry hits.

How to Fix It:

• Take breaks between puffs to let the wick re-saturate.

• Consider using a vape with temperature control settings that prevent overheating.

5. Low E-liquid Quality

Why It Happens:

Some e-liquids contain excessive sweeteners and artificial flavors, which can lead to coil gunk buildup and a burnt taste.

How to Fix It:

• Use high-quality e-liquids from reputable brands.

• Avoid overly sweetened or thick e-liquids unless your device is designed to handle them.

• Clean your tank and coil regularly to prevent residue buildup.

6. Old or Overused Coil

Why It Happens:

Coils have a limited lifespan and degrade over time. An old coil may have excessive gunk buildup, leading to a burnt taste.

How to Fix It:

• Replace your coil every 1-2 weeks, depending on usage.

• If you notice a change in flavor, difficulty inhaling, or a consistently burnt taste, it’s time for a new coil.

7. Incorrect VG/PG Ratio in E-Liquid

Why It Happens:

VG (Vegetable Glycerin) is thicker than PG (Propylene Glycol). High-VG e-liquids may not wick properly in certain coils, leading to dry hits and a burnt taste.

How to Fix It:

• Use e-liquids with a VG/PG ratio that is suitable for your device.

• MTL (mouth-to-lung) devices work best with 50/50 VG/PG e-liquids.

• Sub-ohm devices can handle high-VG (70/30 or 80/20) e-liquids better.

8. Clogged or Dirty Coil

Why It Happens:

Residue from e-liquid, dust, and debris can clog your coil, preventing proper wicking and causing a burnt taste.

How to Fix It:

• Clean your coil by soaking it in warm water or rubbing alcohol for a few hours, then let it dry completely before use.

• Use a fresh coil if cleaning doesn’t help.

9. Temperature Control Malfunction

Why It Happens:

If your device’s temperature control is set too high or malfunctions, it can overheat the coil and burn the wick.

How to Fix It:

• Ensure your temperature settings are within a safe range.

• Check if your device has a temperature control mode and adjust it accordingly.

• Try using a new coil or a different e-liquid to see if the problem persists.

Read: The Ultimate Vape Troubleshooting Guide

Preventative Measures to Avoid a Burnt Vape Taste

1. Prime Your Coil Before Every Use

Always prime new coils before installing them to prevent dry hits and burnt tastes.

2. Use the Right Wattage Setting

Follow the manufacturer’s recommended wattage range to avoid overheating your coil.

3. Keep Your Tank Filled

Refill your tank before it gets too low to prevent dry hits.

4. Take Gentle Puffs

Avoid chain vaping and long, forceful inhales that can overheat the coil.

5. Clean Your Device Regularly

Regular maintenance prevents gunk buildup and extends the life of your coil.

6. Replace Coils When Needed

Don’t wait for a burnt taste—change your coil as soon as you notice a decline in flavor quality.

7. Store Your Vape Properly

Keep your vape device in a cool, dry place to prevent damage and leaks.

Conclusion

A burnt vape taste is one of the most common and frustrating issues a vaper faces. However, by understanding the causes and implementing the fixes outlined in this guide, you can prevent dry hits and enjoy a smooth, flavorful vaping experience. Whether it’s priming your coil, adjusting wattage, or using high-quality e-liquids, small adjustments can make a huge difference.

If you’re still experiencing a burnt taste despite trying these fixes, consider switching to a different device or consulting with a vape expert for further guidance. Happy vaping!