A vape tank is a key part of a vape kit. It holds the e-liquid and ensures it is delivered to the coil, where it gets vaporised. The tank can be either disposable or refillable, with a lot of modern kits offering refillable options to save money and provide flexibility.
It is generally made from materials that last long. The materials are made to withstand heat, so you don’t need to worry about leaks or cracking. The design of your vape tanks also plays a role in how much e-liquid it can hold, so if you prefer longer sessions without having to refill constantly, a larger tank may be a good option.
If you're new to vaping, having knowledge of the different components of a vape tank and how they constitute a part of your vaping experience can seem overwhelming. But don’t worry, this guide is here to walk you through the basics of what a vaping tank is and how it works, all without the confusing terminology.
Anatomy of a Tank
Each vaping tank has several important parts that work together to result in an enjoyable vaping experience. Here's a breakdown:
Drip Tip (Mouthpiece): This is the part where you inhale. It can vary in size and shape, and it plays a role in how your draw feels.
Top Cap: This part covers the top of the tank and usually includes a filling port. Some tanks feature a sliding or twisting mechanism to make refilling easy.
Coil: The coil is the heating element within the tank that converts the e-liquid into a vapour. There are many types of coils, such as mesh, ceramic, and traditional wire, and they all influence the production of vapour.
Wick: The wick draws the e-liquid to the coil. Cotton is typically used, but some advanced tanks use ceramic wicks for a longer-lasting experience.
Airflow Control: This allows you to adjust the airflow to change how tight or loose your draw will be, impacting both flavour and vapour production.
Different Types of Tanks
Not all e cig tanks are the same, and each one offers something different. Let’s take a look at the most common types:
Clearomizers: These are simple, beginner-friendly tanks, often made from plastic or glass. They are easy to use and typically come with pre-installed coils.
Sub-Ohm Tanks: They are made for coils with low resistance, often below 1 ohm. Sub-ohm tanks are suitable for cloud chasers as they produce bigger clouds of vapour.
Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Tanks: Ideal for those who want a tight draw, similar to smoking. They work best with higher strengths of nicotine, and are popular with people transitioning from smoking.
Rebuildable Tanks (RTAs, RDAs): These kinds of e-cig tanks allow users to build their own coils. They offer a more personalised vaping experience but require more knowledge and experience.
Disposable Tanks: They come pre-filled with e-liquid and are intended to be disposed of once the e-liquid runs out. They’re very convenient, but not the most environmentally friendly option.
Pod-Tank Hybrids: These are small tanks that bring together features of pod systems as well as traditional tanks, which offer portability and better flavour.
How Coils and Wick Work in an e-Cig Tank
The coil and wick are the heart of the clearomiser. When you inhale, the wick absorbs e-liquid from the tank, delivering it to the coil. The coil then heats up the e-liquid, which converts into vapour that you inhale.
Different coil types (like mesh or ceramic) will heat the e-liquid differently, which influences the production of vapour. Low-resistance coils (under 1 ohm) are usually used for larger clouds of vapour, while higher-resistance coils are better for a more subdued experience with a tighter draw.
Refilling Your Vape Tank
Most tanks today are refillable, meaning you can easily add e-liquid when it’s running low. Here’s how you can refill your vaping accessory:
Remove the Tank: Take the e-cig tank off your device, making sure to turn it upside down to avoid spillage.
Open the Filling Port: Most tanks have a top cap that you either twist or slide to reveal the filling port.
Add E-liquid: Fill the tank with your preferred e-liquid, but make sure you don’t overfill it.
Prime the Coil: Before using a new coil, allow it to soak in the e-liquid for a few minutes to avoid dry hits.
Reattach and Vape: Once you’ve filled the tank and primed the coil, you can securely reattach it to your device and start vaping.
How to Maintain Your Vape Tank
Maintaining your clearomiser is important for ensuring a consistent vaping experience. Here is some advice:
Cleaning on a Regular Basis: Clean your tank regularly to remove any leftover e-liquid residue. This will help keep the taste of your e-liquids consistent.
Change Coils When Needed: Coils wear out over time. You’ll know it’s time for a replacement when you notice a burnt taste or diminished flavour.
Check for Leaks:If your tank is leaking, check the seals, airflow ring, and coil to make sure everything is tightened properly.
What to Look for in a Vape Tank
When choosing a tank, consider these factors:
Vaping Style: If you prefer a cigarette-like experience, go for an MTL tank. For bigger vapour clouds, opt for a DTL tank.
Airflow Control: If you like to adjust your draw, look for a tank that offers airflow control.
E-Liquid Suitability: Make sure the tank can handle your e-liquid of choice, whether it’s high VG (for thick clouds) or high PG (for a stronger throat hit).
Common Problems with Vaping Tanks
E-cig tanks can experience a few issues, such as:
Leaking: A common issue usually caused by overfilling or worn-out seals. Check all parts of your tank to ensure they’re tight and intact.
Burnt Taste: This can happen when the coil is not properly primed or when the coil has worn out. Make sure your coil is soaked with e-liquid before use.
Low Vapour Production: This could be due to a clogged coil, low e-liquid levels, or the need for a coil replacement.
Final Words
Understanding your vape tank and how to maintain it is essential for a great vaping experience. Whether you’re just starting with a simple clearomizer or exploring rebuildable tanks, there’s a clearomizer for everyone. By keeping your tank clean and using the right e-liquid, you can have consistent flavour and, as such, make each vaping session enjoyable.
If you have any questions or are unsure about which tank to choose, feel free to contact us for advice. With the right setup, you’ll be ready to enjoy your vaping experience.
Step into the world of vaping with Toby Jones, a "Vape Product Reviewer” of the VapeGala team in Liverpool. Toby
didn't just learn about vaping, he lived it, transforming his own life 12 years ago by leaving traditional
cigarettes behind. Now, he's here to cut through the noise, offer insights gained from countless customer
conversations and personal discoveries. From researching the latest product to sharing product reviews and
helpful guides, he makes sense of it all to help the vapers in the best way possible.