A truly burnt coil is usually beyond repair. However, if you suspect your coil is only slightly singed, you can try to salvage it. This is a temporary fix, not a long-term solution, and replacing the coil is highly recommended.

Warning: Potential Risks of Using a Burnt Coil

Vaping on a burnt coil can expose you to:

  • Acrylamide and other harmful chemicals: Burning cotton releases chemicals linked to health problems.
  • An awful taste: A dry, harsh, burnt flavor makes vaping unpleasant.
  • Reduced coil lifespan: Any fix is likely short-lived.

Safety First: If the coil is severely burnt, replace it.

Identifying a Slightly Burnt Coil

Before attempting fixes, ensure you’re not misdiagnosing the issue. A slight burnt taste and minor cotton discoloration might indicate a salvageable coil. Dark black charring means it’s beyond saving.

Attempting a “Fix”: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Disassemble Your Vape:

  • Carefully take apart your tank and remove the coil head.

2. Priming with a Twist:

  • Use a very small pin or needle and create small channels along the discolored cotton wicking to improve liquid penetration.
  • Prime the coil by saturating the cotton with e-liquid. Drip e-liquid directly onto the cotton until fully saturated.

3. Gentle Cleaning (If Necessary):

  • Use a clean, dry cotton swab to gently wipe away any visible residue on the outside of the coil. Avoid damaging the wicking material.
  • Avoid using water or alcohol, as they may alter the taste.

4. Reassemble and Prime Thoroughly:

  • Reassemble your tank and fill it with e-liquid.
  • Allow the coil to sit and soak for at least 15-20 minutes.

5. Start Low and Slow:

  • Begin vaping at a much lower wattage than usual, around 50%.
  • Take short, gentle puffs.

6. Gradually Increase Wattage (Maybe):

  • If there’s no burnt taste after several puffs at the lower wattage, slowly increase the wattage in small increments (1-2 watts at a time).
  • Monitor the flavor closely.

7. Be Realistic:

  • If the burnt taste persists, replace the coil.

Prevention is Better Than a Cure

  • Prime your coils properly: Always saturate the cotton before first use.
  • Use the correct wattage: Stay within the recommended range.
  • Avoid chain vaping: Give your coil time to re-saturate.
  • Use e-liquids with less sweetener: Sweetened e-liquids gunk up coils faster.
  • Maintain your tank: Regularly clean your tank.

Trying to fix a burnt coil is often futile. Replacement is the best and safest option.