There is a wide range of vaping equipment out there, ranging from simple to more complex devices. However, all vape gear and user practices come with a level of risk if you don’t follow these practices. Even seasoned vapers can be guilty of these 10 mistakes when complacency takes precedence.
- Failure To Read Instructions For New Equipment No one wants to spend time reading instruction manuals after tearing into a new vape. Unfortunately, failing to learn how to properly assemble, use and maintain new equipment is a big no-no when dealing with high-wattage vaporizers. Don’t end up in the media as another exploding mod victim. If you’re just learning how to vape, make sure you read up on how to properly take apart and reassemble your tank. Follow the instructions for properly filling the tank with e-liquid and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for coil replacement. Finally, take the time to actually learn how to operate your vape mod, whether it’s a pen device or a complex, high-performance machine.
- Carrying Backup Batteries Without a Case This is a common bad practice amongst most vapers. It’s easy when you are in a hurry to just throw your extra batteries into your pocket or bag. Any contact with change and other metals like keys can cause your batteries to discharge in your pocket. Most battery companies include a free battery case with your purchase. If not, they are very inexpensive and can be found for about a buck. It’s worth protecting the life of your batteries and to keep them, and you, from being damaged.
- Leaving Your Device Powered On When your mod is not in use it’s always a good idea to power off your device. This can help avoid any unexpected surprises in case something in your pocket or bag will trigger your mods fire button. This also helps prevent children from playing with your equipment and burning it up. Next time you are heading to work or school take a minute to power down your device so they don’t over-discharge.
- Using Damaged Batteries This is another common bad habit in the vaping community. It’s also one of the most common causes of exploding batteries. Damaged batteries are unreliable and can spontaneously discharge while in use or during the charging process. If you notice nicks and deep scuffs in the metal, perforations in the plastic coating, or peeling of the plastic sleeve this is a sign that it’s time to either re-wrap or replace your batteries. Battery wraps can be gotten for $1 for 10 so there’s no excuse for vaping unsafely.
- Not Using the “Lock” Feature Again, you never know when your device will take a fall, and can be even worse if you don’t notice the power button firing away. If you are in doubt about how to activate your mod’s lock function check your users manual. Many mods come with this feature pre-set so if the mod is inactive for a certain amount of time the device will disable itself.
- Failing To Clean Up When dealing with eJuice there will be spills, drips, and leaks. Leaks and spills leave a residue on your tank and/or mouthpiece and can be harmful. E-liquid can taste great but concentrated nicotine should not be ingested. Take the time to clean up any spills and use alcohol or sanitary wipes to keep your mouthpiece clean and prevent the spread of germs.
- Using The Wrong Charger It’s easy to misplace your vape’s charging cable. We often grab for our mobile phone’s cord because it has the same port but this can be dangerous. Just because a cable has the same type of plug doesn’t mean it’s a suitable replacement for your vape. Your devices cable has a specific wattage and amperage flow that is ideal for safely charging the batteries. Using another charger can cause batteries to overcharge or can shorten the lifespan of your batteries.
- Not Protecting the Tank Most tanks are made of glass. This makes it easier to see your e-liquid level and doesn’t retain flavors and colors from previous juices. Although the glass is durable it can easily crack or break if you drop your mod. This is why we recommend using vape bands on all your tanks to protect the glass. Vape bands are inexpensive and you can order your Soul Vapor vape bands in any color to match your setup.
- Charging Batteries Unattended A lot of vapers don’t think twice about plugging up their batteries while out-and-about, or before going to bed. However, something as simple as a badly seated battery or a loose cord can result in disaster. Make sure you attend your charging batteries so you can deal with any mishaps. Make a habit of routinely checking your equipment for any signs of damage to ensure everything is functioning properly.
- Using High Wattage on a Low Wattage Coil If you find yourself coming across too many bad coils the issue may be your wattage is set too high on your device. Low wattage coils can’t handle high watt power. This will cause an audible popping sound and a nasty burnt taste. It’s important to understand vaping voltage and Ohm’s Law if you are using a variable voltage mod. If you aren’t sure what coil to buy consult your mod’s book to find out what range of ohms is acceptable. Using the wrong coil can be costly and dangerous.Â
Vaping is a great way to quit smoking and can be quite a fun hobby. There is some learning involve so make sure you remember these safety guidelines in the future and vape safe!
Main image courtesy of Vaping360.