Vaping FAQs
Electronic cigarettes (vapes) have become increasingly popular. They are safer and cheaper to use than tobacco cigarettes. The world of vaping is worth exploring if you wish to quit smoking but may seem confusing. We hope that our Vaping FAQs will resolve any queries you may have. You will find more detailed information regarding each aspect of vaping in our guides.
WHAT IS AN ELECTRONIC CIGARETTE?
Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes/vapes) are small devices that are healthier alternatives to smoking traditional cigarettes. Although the devices vary in size and functionality, they all work in much the same way. Each consists of a battery to provide power, an e-liquid reservoir in the form of a tank or pod, and a heating coil that vaporises the e-liquid in the reservoir when you fire the device. The battery is contained in a casing that may feature controls and a screen. Vapour is inhaled via a mouthpiece.
HOW DO THEY WORK?
Some e cigs are activated by simply inhaling on the mouthpiece, others by pressing a button. When the device is fired, the coil heats up and vaporises e-liquid which can then be inhaled.
DOES THE VAPOUR SMELL?
E-liquids are flavoured and the vapour produced will smell of the flavour concerned. However, any odours are pleasant and don't tend to linger on clothing.
HOW DO I KNOW WHEN MY E-CIGARETTE BATTERY NEEDS CHARGING?
The tip flashing or the push button flashing is a low power warning indicating that the lithium battery needs to be recharged.
HOW DO YOU CHARGE AN E-CIGARETTE BATTERY?
E-cigarette batteries can be recharged conveniently using a USB charging cable.
HOW LONG WILL A BATTERY TAKE TO CHARGE?
Vape batteries vary in capacity. The greater the capacity of the battery, the longer it will take to charge. These days, most devices feature USB-C fast charging and many can be recharged in jut 30 minutes.
WHAT IS VAPE WHILE CHARGING?
Most devices feature what is known as passthrough technology which means you can use them while they are charging.
HOW DO I KNOW WHEN MY BATTERY IS FULLY CHARGED?
Battery charge indicators vary. With devices that have fire buttons, those buttons often feature LED battery life indicators. These will generally turn red when the device is almost out of charge, amber when partly charged and green when well-charged. If connected to a power source, the LED indicator will generally extinguish when the device is fully charged. Some devices have screens and these usually incorporate an indicator of battery charge. This may be a graphic or the charge expressed as a percentage.
WHAT IF MY BATTERY WON’T CHARGE?
If this is the case you need to check that you are using the correct charger for your battery. A battery that won't charge using the correct charger is likely faulty and should be replaced.
ARE E-CIGS EASY TO USE?
Vapes vary in their complexity but most are incredibly easy to use. Choose a device that is described as suitable for beginners and you will be vaping minutes after opening the box.
WHAT ARE THE INGREDIENTS IN E-LIQUID?
E-liquids have four ingredients - propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerine (VG), flavourings and nicotine.
WHAT IS PROPYLENE GLYCOL?
Propylene glycol is an odourless, colourless and slightly sweet organic binding agent. Research has showed that it is safe for human inhalation over long periods of time and has been classified as GRAS (Generally Regarded As Safe). It does not represent a cancer hazard. PG carries flavour well.
WHAT IS VEGETABLE GLYCERINE?
Vegetable glycerine is a carbohydrate that is normally sourced from plant oils. It can be found in many products including toothpaste. It helps to increase vapour and is thicker in consistency that propylene glycol but does not carry flavour as well.
WHY DOES THE E-LIQUID IN MY CLEAROMISER/TANK CHANGE COLOUR?
Some e-liquids change colour when exposed to air and light, a well used coil can also cause discolouration. This is perfectly normal and nothing to be concerned about.
IS NICOTINE HARMFUL?
Nicotine is not a known carcinogenic and links to health issues are mostly inconclusive. However, nicotine is highly addictive.
HOW LONG DOES A 10ML BOTTLE OF E-LIQUID LAST?
The length of time a bottle of e-liquid will last will depend on how intensively you vape and the resistance of the coil installed to your device. Low resistance coils heat to higher temperatures and so vaporise more e-liquid each time you fire the device.
DO ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES SAVE YOU MONEY?
They most definitely do but the nature of your savings will depend on which device and e-liquid you choose as both vary in price.
WHERE CAN I USE MY ELECTRONIC CIGARETTE?
Vaping is generally not permitted in any public places or workplaces where smoking is banned.
ARE E-CIGARETTES EFFECTIVE SMOKING CESSATION AIDS?
Many smokers have successfully quit smoking by turning to vaping. That's because vaping relieves nicotine cravings, replicates the action of smoking, provides a throat hit and gives you something to hold in your hand. In other words, vaping replaces all of the habitual aspects of smoking.