Common Vaping FAQs
Find answers to common questions about vaping, vape devices, e-liquids, nicotine strengths, troubleshooting and choosing the right product for your needs.
Vaping is intended for adults only.
If you are not sure which product is right for you, please contact our support team before ordering and we will do our best to point you in the right direction.
What is vaping?
Vaping is the use of a device that heats e-liquid into vapour, which is then inhaled. E-liquids can contain nicotine or be nicotine free, depending on the product.
What is the difference between MTL and DTL vaping?
Mouth to Lung (MTL) vaping is a tighter draw that feels more similar to smoking a cigarette. It is commonly used with pod kits, starter kits and higher nicotine strengths such as nicotine salts.
Direct to Lung (DTL) vaping is a looser inhale that produces more vapour. It is more commonly used with sub-ohm devices, lower nicotine strengths and higher-powered kits.
What is an ohm (Ω)?
An ohm is a measure of electrical resistance in a vape coil.
In simple terms, lower-resistance coils are generally designed for higher power and more vapour, while higher-resistance coils are usually designed for lower power and a tighter draw.
What is the difference between nic salts and freebase e-liquid?
Nic salts are usually smoother on the throat and are commonly used in pod kits and lower-powered devices.
Freebase nicotine is often used in more powerful devices and can provide a stronger throat hit depending on the strength and setup.
How do I choose the right vape product for me?
The best device for you depends on how simple you want it to be, how much vapour you want, and what nicotine strength suits your needs.
As a general guide:
- Choose a pod kit or simple starter device if you want ease of use
- Choose nic salts if you want a smoother draw and a setup more suited to cigarette replacement
- Choose a more advanced kit only if you are comfortable with coils, wattage and maintenance
If you are unsure, contact us before ordering and we will help guide you.
How do I know your products are genuine?
We only source products from official distributors and suppliers.
Some brands include scratch-off verification codes on the packaging, which you can check directly with the manufacturer.
Not every product has a verification code, but all products sold by us are supplied through legitimate trade channels and must meet applicable UK requirements.
Is vaping safer than smoking?
Vaping is not risk-free, but it is widely considered less harmful than smoking cigarettes because it does not involve burning tobacco.
Vaping is most commonly used by adult smokers as an alternative to smoking. It is not intended for children, non-smokers or people who do not already use nicotine.
Can vaping help me stop smoking?
Many adult smokers use vaping as an alternative to cigarettes and as a tool to help them stop smoking.
Getting the right device type and nicotine strength can make a big difference, so if you are switching from smoking and need help choosing, contact our team.
Is vaping cheaper than smoking?
For many people, vaping can work out cheaper than smoking, especially when using refillable pod kits rather than continually buying cigarettes.
If you want a simple and cost-effective setup, a pod kit paired with nicotine salt e-liquid is usually a good place to start.
What does vaping taste like?
Vape products come in a wide range of flavours, including fruit, menthol, drink-inspired, dessert and tobacco-style options.
If you are moving away from cigarettes, some people start with tobacco or menthol flavours, while others prefer to switch straight to fruit or sweeter flavours.
How old do I need to be to buy vaping products?
You must be 18 or over to purchase vaping products in the UK.
For online orders, age verification checks may be required. For in-store purchases, valid photo ID may be requested.
How do I know which pod or coil I need?
Pods and coils are not universal. They must match the exact device or compatible product range listed on the product page.
Before ordering, check:
- Your device name
- The compatible pod or coil range
- The recommended wattage where relevant
If you are not sure, contact us before placing your order.
Why is e-liquid coming into my mouth?
This can happen if the coil or pod is flooded, over-saturated or has been left standing for a long time.
It can also happen if the device is being drawn too hard, the pod is overfilled, or the coil is not fitted correctly.
If e-liquid gets into your mouth, stop using the device, clean the mouthpiece and wipe away excess liquid before trying again.
Why is my vape leaking?
Light condensation is normal, but heavier leaking may be caused by:
- Overfilling the pod or tank
- A loose or incorrectly fitted coil
- Damaged seals
- Using the wrong e-liquid for the device
- Leaving the device on its side for long periods
Cleaning the device, checking the seals and replacing the pod or coil will often solve the issue.
Why does my vape taste burnt?
A burnt taste usually means the coil or pod is old, dry, damaged or has not been primed properly.
Common causes include:
- Using the coil before it is fully saturated
- Low e-liquid level
- Wattage set too high
- A worn-out pod or coil
Replacing the coil or pod and allowing fresh e-liquid to soak in before use will usually fix the problem.
Why is my vape not charging?
If your device is not charging, try:
- A different charging cable
- A different plug or power source
- Checking the charging port for dust or damage
- Leaving it on charge for a short time before retrying
If the device still will not charge, contact us with your order number and details of the issue.
Why is my vape not working?
If your vape is not working properly, first check:
- The battery is charged
- The pod or coil is installed correctly
- The pod or coil is compatible with the device
- The device is turned on or unlocked
- The pod or coil is not old or burnt out
If the issue continues, stop using the product and contact us for further support.
Does vaping produce a smell?
Yes, vaping can produce a noticeable smell, although it is usually less persistent than cigarette smoke. Please be considerate when using vaping products around other people, especially indoors or in enclosed spaces.
Is it legal to vape indoors?
Vaping indoors is not automatically banned in the same way as smoking, but many workplaces, shops, bars, transport providers and public venues have their own rules. Always follow the policy of the location you are in.
Is second-hand vapour harmful?
Vaping does not produce smoke in the same way as cigarettes, but it is still sensible to avoid vaping around children, pregnant people or anyone who may be sensitive to vapour.
Even where the risk is lower than tobacco smoke, it is best to be considerate and avoid using vaping products in enclosed shared spaces unless permitted.
Can I take my vape on a plane?
Airline and country rules can vary, so always check with your airline and destination before you travel.
As a general rule, vape devices and lithium batteries should be kept in your cabin bag rather than hold luggage.
You must not vape on the aircraft, and it is sensible to empty tanks before travelling as changes in air pressure can cause leaking.
How often can I vape?
Usage varies from person to person depending on nicotine strength, device type and personal habits.
If you are using vaping products instead of cigarettes, many people start by using them whenever they would usually have smoked, then adjust based on what works best for them.
What am I inhaling when I vape?
You are inhaling vapour created by heating e-liquid. Depending on the product, this can include propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerine (VG), flavourings and nicotine.
Do you sell clones or fake products?
No. We do not sell cloned or counterfeit products. We only source legitimate products from recognised distributors and suppliers.
Need Help Choosing a Product?
If you are not sure which product is right for you, contact our support team and we will do our best to help.
Email: Support@theecig.co.uk
Support Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am – 4:00pm
