Why Does My Vape Taste Burnt? Common Causes & How to Prevent It

If you’ve ever taken a puff from your vape and been hit with a harsh, burnt taste — you’re not alone. A burnt vape hit is one of the most unpleasant experiences for vapers, and it can ruin both your coil and your mood. But the good news is: it’s preventable. 

In this guide, we’ll break down why your vape might taste burnt, what causes it, and — most importantly — how to stop it from happening again. 

🔥 Why Does My Vape Taste Burnt?



There isn’t just one cause of a burnt hit. Here are the most common reasons: 



1. You Didn’t Let the Coil Prime Properly
One of the biggest beginner mistakes is not letting the e-liquid fully soak into the coil before vaping. This is called priming your coil, and skipping it can instantly burn the cotton. 



Tip: After installing a new coil, fill your tank and wait at least 5–10 minutes before taking your first puff. You can also manually saturate the coil by adding a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the cotton. 

2. You’re Using the Wrong VG/PG Ratio
Using a high VG liquid (like 70VG/30PG) in a coil designed for MTL vaping can clog the wick and cause dry hits. Thicker liquids don’t wick as easily in small coils.

 

Tip:

• Use 50/50 e-liquid for pod systems and MTL kits. 
• Use 70VG shortfills for sub-ohm vaping and DTL kits. 



👉 Explore our 10ml e-liquids and shortfills based on your device.

3. Your Coil Is Burnt Out


Coils don’t last forever. Over time, residue builds up and the cotton degrades, which leads to a burnt taste — even if you’ve been vaping correctly. 



Signs of a burnt coil:

• Burnt or metallic taste 
• Darkened e-liquid 
• Gurgling or reduced vapour production 



Tip: Replace your coil every 1–2 weeks, depending on how often you vape and the type of e-liquid you use. 

4. You’re Low on E-Liquid


If your tank or pod runs too low on e-liquid, the wick can dry out and burn — especially when tilting or vaping horizontally. 



Tip: Always keep your tank at least half full, and avoid vaping when e-liquid is below the coil level. 

5. You’re Chain Vaping Too Quickly

Taking hit after hit without a break doesn’t give the wick enough time to re-saturate. This can dry out the cotton and lead to burnt hits. 



Tip: Give your coil a few seconds between puffs, especially with higher wattages or thick e-liquids. 

6. You’re Vaping at Too High a Wattage
Running your vape above the recommended wattage range can burn the cotton inside the coil. 

Tip: Check the side of the coil for the recommended wattage range, and stay within that range to extend coil life and avoid burnt hits. 

7. Previous Burnt Flavour is Lingering

Even after you change your coil, a burnt taste can sometimes stick to your tank or pod, specially if it was badly scorched. 

Tip:

• Rinse your tank or pod with warm water only (soap can ruin your tank!) and let it dry before inserting a new coil 
• For stubborn residue, soak in warm water for a while for a deeper clean 

✅ How to Prevent a Burnt Taste in Your Vape
Here’s a quick checklist to keep your vape tasting fresh: 

• ✅ Always prime new coils properly 
• ✅ Use the correct VG/PG ratio for your device 
• ✅ Keep your e-liquid topped up 
• ✅ Stick to the recommended wattage 
• ✅ Take breaks between puffs 
• ✅ Change your coil regularly 
• ✅ Clean your tank when changing coils 

Final Thoughts
A burnt-tasting vape can be a real buzzkill — but with the right knowledge and habits, it’s easy to avoid. Whether it’s your e-liquid ratio, coil lifespan, or vaping technique, small adjustments can make a big difference to your flavour and coil longevity. 

👉 Need new coils or the perfect e-liquid for your device? 

Browse our full range of coils & pods and e-liquids — all TPD-compliant and ready to elevate your vape.