How to prime an e-cigarette coil correctly?

To prime a coil, you must let its cotton become completely saturated with e-liquid before firing it for the first time. With a standard coil, applying a few drops to the cotton openings, then filling the tank and waiting approximately 5 to 10 minutes is a good method. With a pod featuring an integrated coil, simply fill the pod and let it sit before vaping.

Why priming is essential

When new, the coil’s cotton is dry. If you activate the heating immediately, the resistance wire heats up before the cotton is sufficiently saturated. It can then deteriorate and retain a lasting burnt taste.

This issue is explained in detail in our guide why does my electronic cigarette taste burnt.

The 6-step method

1. Check compatibility: use only a coil designed for your tank or pod.
2. Saturate the accessible cotton: if the liquid inlets are visible, apply a few drops of e-liquid to them without flooding the central airflow tube.
3. Install the coil: make sure it is properly pushed in or screwed in, depending on the system.
4. Fill the tank: do not exceed the maximum fill level.
5. Wait: let the liquid penetrate the cotton for approximately 5 to 10 minutes.
6. Start gently: begin at the lower end of the recommended power range, then increase gradually.

Should you put drops directly into every coil?

No. In many pod cartridges, the coil is integrated and the cotton is not accessible. Do not disassemble the pod: fill it and simply allow time for the liquid to soak in.

This applies to systems such as the Vaporesso XROS Series pods, available with several resistance values.

How long should you wait exactly?

Five minutes is the minimum commonly recommended by manufacturers, while 10 minutes provides a comfortable margin when the cotton is very dry or the liquid is more viscous. If your device’s instructions specify an exact time, follow them first.

Priming and the PG/VG ratio

A very viscous liquid takes longer to penetrate certain small coils. Conversely, MTL pods are often designed for thinner liquids. Before filling, therefore, check that your ratio is suitable for your coil.

Our article which coil to use with 50/50 e-liquid explains this compatibility in greater detail.

Examples of coils to prime before use

Replaceable coils such as the Vaporesso GTX V2, Aspire Nautilus BVC or Geekvape B Series V2 must be properly saturated before their first use.

Mistakes to avoid

• vaping immediately after filling;
• exceeding the coil’s maximum wattage;
• taking long, repeated puffs right from the start;
• letting the tank run almost empty;
• using an e-liquid that is too viscous for the coil’s liquid inlets.

Proper priming helps preserve the coil, but its lifespan also depends on your power level, e-liquid and vaping frequency. Find our advice in how long does an electronic cigarette coil last.

FAQ

Can a coil that has been burnt due to improper priming be recovered?

If the cotton has actually burnt, the taste generally persists. Replacing the coil is then the most reliable solution.

Should I inhale without pressing the button to prime the coil?

This technique can help with certain tanks, but inhaling too strongly can also flood the coil. Filling it and waiting remains the safest method.

Do I need to prime the coil again after every refill?

No, not if the same coil remains properly saturated. Complete priming is mainly necessary for a new coil or a new pod.