How Long Does a Vape Coil Last & How to Make Vape Coils Last Longer

Many adult vapers who are new to vape devices with replaceable coils may wonder, how long does a coil last?

Usually crafted from a thin piece of wire, vape coils generally do not last as long as other components in a vape. For certain devices, it’s worth noting that vape coils will likely need to be maintained and replaced during the device’s lifetime.

As a guide, you could expect a vape coil to last between one to two weeks before it needs replacing. However, how long a vape coil lasts is never guaranteed, and each coil will depend upon the product in question. In fact, there are a number of variables which may affect how long a vape coil lasts, such as:

How frequently you vape - an adult vaper who uses their device more often will probably need to replace their coil more regularly than one who vapes less. This is because the coil may wear down faster with more regular use.
Different coil types – there are different coil types, each with a varying lifespan and durability. Therefore, the type of coil in use will likely determine how often it needs changing.
Whether you have primed your coil effectively - this process only needs to be done with certain types of vapes. Find out more in our guide ‘How to Prime a Vape Coil’.

In addition to all this, the overall quality of your vape device and the coil itself could also impact the answer to the question of how long do vape coils last.

This range of variables means that knowing how often to change vape coils may vary, even if you’re vaping the same amount each day, and using the same type of coils each time. It’s important to keep an eye on the device and regularly check for signs of a degraded coil.

How Do I Know When to Change Vape Coil Parts?

If you’re unsure on when to change vape coils, there are a few things to look out for that may indicate it’s time to change it. The first potential sign that your vape coil is on the way out could be a burnt taste from your vape - however, if your vape tastes burnt, this can also be caused by expired e-liquid. In addition to this, you may also hear a bubbling or crackling sound.

There are also other indicators that could signify a problem with your vape, and may therefore be good to keep an eye out for. This includes a weak flavour, a leaking vape, and in some cases, not much vapour being produced. A faulty coil can be a common reason for no vapour production. If, after changing the coil, your device is still not producing vapour, explore further information in our guide on ‘How to Diagnose a Broken Vape’.

Why You Should Change Vape Coils

If a vape coil is faulty or degrading, a new one might improve the vaping experience. Ignoring the signs of degradation may eventually lead to the coil burning out, which can give off a burnt taste the next time you vape. Swapping the vape coils beforehand could avoid this issue entirely.

When vapourised, some e-liquids deposit a gradual build-up of residue, which can collect around the coil and the wick. Over time, these deposits can clog the device. That’s why it’s also worth remembering - cleaning the device regularly may help to reduce the sticky residue build-up that often comes with daily usage.

How Do You Change Vape Coils?

The infographic below shows you some common steps that may apply to changing your vape coil.

The instructions in the infographic above may only apply to some vapes, not all. Always follow manufacturer guidance when changing coils for vapes, and follow the advice specific to your device.

First, you should usually disassemble the device and carefully remove the coil. Always follow the manufacturer's guidance when disassembling your device.
With step one complete, you can then usually insert the new coil. Follow manufacturer’s guidance when fitting a new coil.
In some devices, adult users can prime the vape’s coil by saturating the wick. Fill a vape tank or pod with e-liquid and allow the new coil to absorb this for a short period of time.
Finally, you may test your device to ensure it works as intended by the manufacturer.

How to Make Vape Coils Last Longer

Here’s a short checklist of things you can do to potentially help prolong the life of a vape coil:

Regularly cleaning your tank and coil. This may help to prevent residue build-up and possibly extend the lifespan of your coil.
Priming your coil before its first use. This could help it to wick the e-liquid from the tank more effectively and prevent burnt-tasting dry hits.
Being consistent with your e-liquid. Regularly changing the VG/PG ratio of your e-liquid might make your coil more likely to clog.

Do All Vaping Devices Require Replacement Coils?

Some users may find the need to change coils an inconvenience. However, not all vaping devices require coil replacements. Unlike box-mod vape devices, or many ‘pen style’ vape devices, pre-filled pod vapes could be more straightforward. You might be able to simply replace the whole pre-filled pod once the liquid has run out, without the need to change the device’s coil.

Coil-less Devices

In addition to certain vapes, there are other devices that may not require vape coils at all - including heated tobacco products.

Heated tobacco products generally use real tobacco instead of e-liquids. Take IQOS ILUMA for example, a series of innovative heated tobacco products by IQOS, which utilise IQOS ILUMA Smartcore Induction Technology. This IQOS ILUMA Smartcore Induction Technology heats tobacco instead of burning it to deliver the taste of real tobacco.

IQOS ILUMA is designed to be used exclusively with TEREA sticks and it's only by using both together that you will fully take advantage of all the benefits. Furthermore, IQOS ILUMA is easy to use and enjoy. With simpler insertion and removal of TEREA sticks compared to previous generations of IQOS.

IQOS ILUMA does not need cleaning. In fact, IQOS ILUMA leaves no tobacco residue in your pocket or bag. And what’s more, IQOS ILUMA is a better alternative to cigarettes.

Important information: IQOS ILUMA is not risk-free.

Switching completely to IQOS ILUMA presents less risk to your health than continuing to smoke.* Find out more about heated tobacco.

Important information: IQOS ILUMA is not risk-free, and provides nicotine which is addictive.

* Based on the totality of evidence available for IQOS in comparison with continuing to smoke. See Important Information on IQOS.com.

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

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.