Vaping isn’t just the most popular alternative to smoking, but it’s also a healthier option that allows you to choose the perfect strength and eventually even quit the nicotine addiction. However, if you’ve never vaped before, starting this venture could be tricky with so many options out there.
Walk into a vape shop and you’ll find literally hundreds of options, each with its own safety standards, batteries, e-liquids and maintenance requirements. With this thought in mind, here’s a full safety guide for new vapers.
Device and E-Liquids
Starting your vaping venture begins with a proper e-cig kit. Make sure you purchase your kit from a reputable and licensed seller who meets local safety regulations. Each country has its own rules.
While the black market could provide cheaper products, but these counterfeit products can be extremely dangerous. Poorly made devices and liquids are more likely to have unsafe batteries, mislabelled nicotine strengths or contaminated ingredients.
If this is your first kit, stick to a simple one, rather than a sophisticated alternative. You need to work your way into the vaping experience, so pick a user-friendly device with some safety features, as well as clear instructions. Features like short circuit protection, overcharge protection and auto cutoff make beginner devices far more forgiving.
Pick the right liquid too, meaning you should choose something that matches your smoking strength. For example, you can find C liquid vape in more varieties. A lower concentration is a good idea at first, only to get used to it.
At the same time, it might be a good idea to take a look at the ingredients too, yet reputable brands won’t mess about with harmful additives.
Battery and Charging Requirements
You’ll notice that e-cigs come with standard charging slots, meaning you can probably use other types of chargers as well. It’s still a good idea to use the provided charger only. A different charger could work much faster, causing the device to heat up and malfunction.
Besides, while modern e-cigs are considered safe, it’s still a good idea to charge it while attending it. Don’t leave it charging overnight either, it’s just a safety measure. Unattended charging on sofas, beds or under pillows is especially risky because heat cannot dissipate properly.
Some vaping kits come with more batteries, so you have some backup in case you run out of “juice”. Store all batteries in a safe way, usually at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. Extreme heat, such as leaving them in a hot car, can damage lithium cells and increase the risk of failure.
If you do carry batteries with you, don’t carry them loose because they can short-circuit. Other metallic objects around them could cause similar issues. Carry extra batteries in plastic bags or small boxes.
Finally, it’s worth inspecting batteries for damage every now and then. Look for swelling signs, especially after too many uses. Dents or other signs of wear and tear could also cause them to malfunction.
If you see any damage, replace the affected batteries straight away.
Use and Care
Whether this is your first vaping kit or you’ve purchased a different type, take a few minutes to go through the manual of instructions. While most devices operate by the same principles, there are small differences that could make the operation unique.
Become familiar with the unique features, as well as the care requirements.
Coils are extremely important when vaping. If you’ve hung around vapers before, you’ve probably heard them talk about coils. To prime new coils, simply let the liquid soak into them for at least 10 or 15 minutes before using them.
It’s the most effective way to prevent the burnt taste. Once it settles in, you’ll have to change the coil in order to get rid of it.
When using the device, take short puffs, rather than very long puffs. You’ll see some people take long puffs, but that’s what reduces the device’s lifespan. It overheats the coil and device, meaning they’ll need replacement much sooner.
Finally, keep the device clean and wipe it weekly. Also, replace parts when needed, such as coils or pods when the taste changes. Regularly clearing condensation and e-liquid from contacts helps prevent leaks, sticky buttons and misfires.
These days, more and more brands release universal parts that work for all kinds of devices. Some people use them interchangeably. While manufacturers often recommend it, you’re not guaranteed to get the best experience.
If you can, try to stick to parts and replacements from the same brand or manufacturer. It’s the optimal way to ensure full functionality, even if other parts promise higher performance or better results.
Health and Safety
In terms of health and safety, make sure kids and pets can’t reach your e-cig. Liquids also contain nicotine, which is poisonous if swallowed.
As for how you feel, always pay attention to your body. Headaches, nausea and dizziness indicate you’ve had too much nicotine, so stop using the device. Reduce the nicotine strength as well.
Vape mindfully too. Avoid doing it around kids or pets. Overcrowded or enclosed spaces could also make others feel uncomfortable. If you’re in a shared space, ask for permission first.
When you change or replace the e-cig, dispose of it responsibly. Old devices or batteries should be recycled, as well as unused liquid.
In the end, this guide should give you a full overview of what it takes to be a vaper, let alone vaping in a healthy and responsible manner.
From picking the right device and e-liquid to replacing coils or paying attention to the taste, all these things can guarantee a safe and pleasant vaping experience, regardless of the flavor or nicotine strength.
Like other electronic devices, your vaping device requires care and maintenance. You’ll usually be able to identify small problems in the taste or quantity of vapors released. Replace parts as needed, vape responsibly and make the most of it.