Why Does My Vape Taste Burnt After a Few Puffs?

A burnt taste from your vape can be one of the most unpleasant experiences for any vaper. You load your favorite flavor, take a few satisfying puffs—and suddenly, a harsh, acrid, burnt flavor hits your throat. Not only does it ruin the vaping session, but it can also indicate underlying issues with your device or vaping habits. If you’re wondering why your vape tastes burnt after just a few puffs, you’re not alone. Let’s break down the most common causes and how you can prevent this from happening.

1. Dry Hits and Insufficient Wicking

The most common reason for a burnt taste is a dry hit, which occurs when the coil heats up without enough e-liquid in the cotton wick. When the cotton dries out, it burns, resulting in that unpleasant scorched flavor. This usually happens when you vape too frequently in a short time, not allowing the wick to re-saturate between puffs.

To avoid dry hits, take slow, spaced-out puffs and ensure your tank or pod always has enough e-liquid. If you’re chain vaping, pause for a few seconds between draws to let the wick soak properly.

2. Not Priming the Coil Properly

When you install a new coil, it’s essential to “prime” it—this means saturating the wick with e-liquid before using it. If you fire the coil before the cotton is fully soaked, it will burn almost immediately, leaving a permanent burnt taste even if you add more juice later.

To prime your coil, add a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the exposed cotton inside the coil, let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes after filling your tank, and take a few dry pulls (puffs without firing) to help the liquid soak in.

3. High Wattage Settings

Using wattage that’s too high for your coil can cause the coil to overheat and burn the wick. Most coils are designed to work within a specific wattage range, which is usually printed on the coil or packaging. Exceeding this range can instantly scorch the cotton.

Always check your coil’s recommended wattage and adjust your device accordingly. If your vape allows variable wattage, start at the lower end of the range and increase gradually for optimal performance without risking a burnt hit.

4. Low E-Liquid Levels

Some vape tanks and pods rely on gravity or wicking ports to keep the coil saturated. When the e-liquid gets too low, especially below the wick holes, the cotton may dry out even if there’s still a little liquid left in the tank.

Make it a habit to refill your tank or pod before it runs too low. This is especially important for sub-ohm devices that use a lot of e-liquid with each puff.

5. Using the Wrong E-Liquid VG/PG Ratio

The viscosity of your e-liquid can also affect wicking. High-VG (vegetable glycerin) liquids are thicker and may not wick properly in certain coils—especially in high-resistance coils with small wicking ports, commonly found in pod systems. This can lead to dry hits and a burnt taste.

If you’re using a device meant for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping or nic salts, stick with a 50/50 VG/PG ratio. For sub-ohm devices, high-VG liquids (like 70VG/30PG) are more suitable. Always match your e-liquid to your coil type and device.

6. Expired or Overused Coils

Coils don’t last forever. Over time, residue from e-liquid builds up on the coil and wick, leading to reduced flavor and eventually a burnt taste. How long a coil lasts depends on how often you vape, the type of juice you use, and your wattage settings—but most last between 1 to 2 weeks.

If you’re consistently getting a burnt taste and your coil is old, it’s time to replace it. Dark, sweet, or heavily flavored e-liquids may gunk up coils faster, so consider rotating flavors or cleaning your tank regularly.

7. Chain Vaping and Overheating

Taking too many puffs in a short time can overheat your coil, drying out the wick and causing premature burning. Chain vaping doesn’t give the wick enough time to reabsorb e-liquid between hits, which increases the risk of dry hits and burnt cotton.

Give your device a short break between puffs to allow the coil to cool and the wick to re-saturate. Some vapes have auto temperature control features that help prevent this, but manual pacing is still important.

8. Poor Quality Coils or Devices

Not all coils are created equal. Cheap or counterfeit coils may have poor wicking material or inconsistent resistance, making them more likely to burn out quickly. Always buy authentic coils from reputable brands and sellers.

Likewise, using a poorly designed device that doesn’t regulate temperature or wattage properly can contribute to burnt hits. Invest in a reliable device that lets you control your settings or includes protections to avoid overheating.

A burnt taste after just a few puffs is more than a minor inconvenience—it’s often a sign that something is wrong with your setup or vaping habits. From not priming coils to using the wrong wattage or e-liquid, there are many factors that can contribute. By understanding how coil resistance, wicking, wattage, and e-liquid type interact, you can prevent burnt hits and extend the life of your coils.

Making small adjustments to your vaping technique and staying attentive to your device’s needs can lead to a smoother, more enjoyable experience with every puff.