With good cause, vaping has grown in popularity as a smoking cessation method. It’s considered by many to be a less harmful way of enjoying nicotine or other substances like CBD. At the heart of the vaping experience lies the vape tank – a critical component of your device. Whether you’re a newbie or looking to deepen your understanding of vape tanks, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What is a Vape Tank?
A vape tank is the part of a vape mod that holds the e-liquid and contains the coil responsible for vaporizing it. It’s where the magic happens – turning your e-juice into flavorful vapor that you inhale. Vape tanks come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles, but they all serve the same fundamental purpose: delivering a satisfying vaping experience.
Types of Vape Tanks:
There are several different types of vape tanks available, and the one you choose will significantly impact your vaping experience. Let’s explore the most common ones:
1. Sub-Ohm Tanks:
Sub-ohm tanks are designed for vapers who prefer large clouds and intense flavor. These tanks use low-resistance coils (less than 1 ohm), which allows for more power to flow through the coil, creating larger clouds of vapor. Sub-ohm tanks are great for direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping, where the vapor is inhaled directly into the lungs, similar to how a shisha is smoked.
Pros:
- Massive vapor production
- Enhanced flavor
- Compatible with high-wattage devices
Cons:
- Consumes more e-liquid
- Shorter battery life due to high power usage
2. Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Tanks:
MTL tanks are ideal for vapers who prefer a more cigarette-like experience. These tanks are designed to mimic the draw of a traditional cigarette, where you inhale the vapor into your mouth first and then into your lungs. MTL tanks typically use higher resistance coils (above 1 ohm), which provide a smoother, more restricted hit.
Pros:
- Better for nicotine salts and high-nicotine e-liquids
- Uses less e-liquid
- Conserves battery life
Cons:
- Less vapor production compared to sub-ohm tanks
- May not be suitable for cloud chasers
3. Tank Atomizers that can be rebuilt (RTAs)
RTAs are for the more advanced vapers who prefer to build their own coils. These tanks allow you to customize your vaping experience by using your own wicks and coils, which can enhance flavor and vapor production. RTAs typically have a deck where you mount your coils and a tank that feeds e-liquid to the wicking material.
Pros:
- Customizable vaping experience
- Cost-effective in the long run (you don’t have to buy pre-made coils)
- Better flavor control
Cons:
- Requires knowledge of coil building and safety
- Can be time-consuming to set up and maintain
4. Rebuildable Dripping Atomizers (RDAs):
RDAs are similar to RTAs but with one key difference: they don’t have a tank to hold e-liquid. Instead, e-liquid is dripped directly onto the coils, offering an intense and direct hit. RDAs are popular among advanced vapers who prioritize flavor over convenience.
Pros:
- Exceptional flavor production
- Easy to swap out coils
- Maximum vapor control
Cons:
- Requires frequent dripping of e-liquid
- Not suitable for beginners
How Vape Tanks Work:
Understanding how a vape tank works can help you choose the right one for your needs and get the best performance from your device. Here’s a breakdown of the key components of a typical vape tank:
1. Drip Tip:
The drip tip is the mouthpiece of your vape tank where you inhale the vapor. Drip tips come in various sizes and materials, which can affect airflow and heat. For example, wider drip tips are common in sub-ohm tanks because they allow more vapor to pass through, while narrow tips are used for a tighter, MTL draw.
2. Glass or Plastic Tank:
The tank is where your e-liquid is stored. Most tanks are made from either glass or durable plastic. Glass is generally preferred as it doesn’t react with e-liquids and is easy to clean. However, plastic tanks are more resistant to breakage if dropped.
3. Coil Head:
The coil is the heart of your vape tank. It contains a piece of wire (often made from materials like Kanthal, stainless steel, or nickel) and a wick (usually made from cotton). When you fire your vape mod, the coil heats up and vaporizes the e-liquid that’s soaked into the wick.
4. Airflow Control:
Most modern vape tanks feature adjustable airflow control, allowing you to fine-tune the amount of air passing through the tank when you inhale. Wide-open airflow settings provide more vapor and a cooler vape, while restricted airflow produces a warmer, more intense hit.
How to Select the Appropriate Vape Tank
When selecting a vape tank, several factors should guide your decision. Here’s what to consider:
1. Your Vaping Style:
Are you a direct-to-lung vaper who loves massive clouds, or do you prefer the tighter, cigarette-like draw of mouth-to-lung vaping? Your preferred style will determine whether you should choose a sub-ohm tank or an MTL tank.
2. E-Liquid Preference:
Different vape tanks are better suited for different types of e-liquids. If you’re using high VG e-liquids (which are thicker), a sub-ohm tank is a good choice as it can handle the viscosity. If you’re using nicotine salts or high PG e-liquids, an MTL tank is more appropriate.
3. Coil Compatibility:
Check the compatibility of the tank with different coil types. Some tanks are versatile and can use different kinds of coils, allowing you to switch between MTL and DTL vaping styles. It’s always a good idea to check how easy it is to replace the coils and the cost of replacement.
4. Ease of Use:
If you’re new to vaping, look for a tank that is easy to fill, clean, and maintain. Some tanks have convenient top-fill designs, which make refilling your e-liquid mess-free and simple. Others may require disassembling to refill or replace coils, which can be tricky for beginners.
5. Size and Capacity:
Tanks come in various sizes, and the capacity refers to how much e-liquid the tank can hold. Larger tanks mean less frequent refilling, but they may make your device bulkier. Smaller tanks are more portable but will require more frequent refills
Tips for Maintaining Your Vape Tank:
Proper maintenance can prolong the life of your vape tank and ensure consistent performance. Here are a few tips to keep your tank in top shape:
- Clean Regularly: It’s essential to clean your tank regularly, especially if you’re changing e-liquid flavors. A simple rinse with warm water can prevent residue build-up that affects flavor.
- Replace Coils Frequently: Coils will wear out over time and will need to be replaced. Signs of a burnt-out coil include a burnt taste, reduced vapor production, or leaking. Replacing the coil every one to two weeks is a good rule of thumb, depending on how often you vape.
- Check for Leaks: If your tank starts leaking, check for worn-out seals or O-rings and ensure everything is tightened properly. Most tanks come with spare seals that you can use if the originals wear out.
- Store Safely: When not in use, keep your vape tank in an upright position to prevent leaks. Avoid storing it in extremely hot or cold environments, which can affect the performance of your e-liquid and device.
Vape tanks play a crucial role in defining your vaping experience. From sub-ohm tanks that produce dense clouds to MTL tanks that mimic the experience of smoking, there’s a tank for every preference. By understanding the different types of vape tanks, how they work, and how to maintain them, you can enhance your vaping experience and find the right setup for your needs.
Whether you’re a cloud chaser, flavor enthusiast, or just starting out, taking the time to learn about vape tanks will help you make informed decisions and enjoy the best possible experience.
