How Long Does a Vape Last?

There's no simple answer to this question. The lifespan of your vaping device can vary depending on multiple factors, including the type of vape and your usage habits. Disposable vapes, tech mods, and rechargeable vape pods all have different lifespan expectations. You can easily determine their lifespans based on how long it takes to deplete the e-liquid, battery, and coil.

In this article, we'll present the estimated lifespan of the most popular forms of vaping devices and provide some useful advice on how to maximize each.

Lifespan by Vaping Device Type

1. Disposable Vapes: The Short-Term Solution

Exactly how long do disposable vapes last? These devices are convenient and easy. You don't need to recharge, refill, or swap out the vape coils. The drawback is that they're not as long-lasting as other vapes.

Metric: Puff Count

If you’re wondering how a vape works and what it contains, a typical disposable would hold between 500 and 600 puffs, which is about the same as a packet of cigarettes. A 2020 research in the journal, Tobacco-Induced Diseases, by Aherrera et al. found that a standard e-cigarette user vapes on average a range of 50-360 puffs a day.

Thus, for a new vaper, 600 puffs should last between 5 to 12 days. Heavy users can expect their disposable vape's lifespan to be somewhere between 2 to 5 days due to a higher daily puff count.

When it comes to higher-capacity disposables, some devices can offer 2000 puffs, and even 20,000 nicotine-filled puffs and beyond. Such devices contain more mls of vape juice, sometimes a rechargeable battery, and can last from 2 weeks to a month, depending on how often you hit.

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What Kills a Disposable Vape?

The significant components of a disposable vape that drain out are the e-liquid, battery, and coil.

• E-Liquid Depletion: When the e-liquid depletes, the vape is no longer usable. If the device is rechargeable, it could last longer, but if the battery fails before you deplete the e-liquid, you’ll have a dead device.
• Dead Battery: In disposables without a rechargeable battery, flashing lights or a reduced vapor output are common signs that your vape is about to run out of life.
• Worn-Out Coil: If your vape tastes burnt or there's no vapor at all, then it's likely because of the coil drying out, which typically happens when the e-liquid is out or if you haven’t used it for some time.

2. Refillable Vape Pod Systems (MTL/Lower Power)

For those who prefer something a bit stronger, reusable vape pods (that smokers often use for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping) are the ticket. Pods are more versatile, and you have the option of choosing your own e-liquid, making them easily customizable.

Device Lifespan

The battery in a pod system can typically last anywhere from 6 months to 1 year with proper maintenance. The solution to extending battery life is using the right charging practices and avoiding overcharging or running the battery down completely.

Pod/Cartridge Lifespan

The pods in these systems usually last for 5 to 10 refills. After that, you’ll notice a degradation in flavor and airflow, signaling that it’s time for a replacement.

Coil Lifespan

Vape coils in pod systems often last 2 to 4 weeks, especially with coils of higher resistance. Regularly cleaning and properly storing your pod can prevent early wear on the coil, which is important in maintaining that good flavor.

3. Advanced Mods and Box Kits (DTL/High Power)

Advanced mods and box kits are the best choice for vapers who desire more control over their experience. These vaping devices allow for direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping and can produce thick vapor clouds. Even though these devices run longer than disposable vapes and pod systems, they need more maintenance.

Device Lifespan

The outer casing or chassis of a mod can last from 1 to 3 years with proper handling. If your mod contains internal electronics, such as a chipset, you might need to replace it within a shorter timeframe due to wear and tear. However, these devices can last for a long time, assuming you treat them with proper care.

External Batteries

For removable battery mods (e.g., 18650 or 21700 cells), the batteries typically last between 6 to 12 months. The capacity will decrease over time, resulting in reduced usage time per charge. Replace the lithium-ion batteries when they no longer charge efficiently.

Coil/Atomizer Lifespan

Sub-ohm coils and Rebuildable Dripping Atomizers (RDAs) typically have a lifespan of 1 to 2 weeks, especially when you use them at high wattages. The high e-liquid burn rate in these setups wears out coils more quickly, so you might need to replace them often.

Tank/RDA Lifespan

Proper maintenance of an advanced mod's tank or RDA will ensure it lasts a lifetime, as long as the threads and seals are not compromised.

Factors Affecting Vape Lifespans

Two components are usually to blame when your vape malfunctions, and these are the coil and the battery. Much like how a computer's performance can degrade based on usage habits, the lifespan of a vape is also directly affected by how you use and care for it. Let us look at these factors in a bit more detail.

1. Coil/Atomizer Head Lifespan

The coil is the core component of any vape unit. The quality of the coil determines the quality of the vapor that you produce. Factors that affect a coil's lifespan include:

• Usage Frequency: Chain vaping or prolonged vaping is bound to heat the coil excessively and render it incapable of cooling. This burns out the coil prematurely. Here’s a detailed guide on how to use a vape pen in the right way.
• Composition of E-Liquid or Vape Juice: Liquids high in sweeteners (like sugars) have a tendency to caramelize quickly and clog your coil. High-VG (vegetable glycerine) liquids also lead to a thick consistency, which can result in sluggish wicking and eventually a burnt flavor.
• Wattage Setting: Using a coil above its recommended wattage limit causes immediate stress to the coil due to extreme heat. This leads to overheating and coil degradation.
• Wicking: Proper priming is important for new coils. Priming means wetting the cotton wick of the coil thoroughly before use. Without priming, the wick will burn out, leading to an exhausted coil and a terrible burnt taste.

2. The Battery Lifespan (Rechargeable Devices)

Your battery's capacity and health are connected to your device's lifespan. Most modern vapes use lithium-ion batteries, similar to those in smartphones, which offer a good balance of capacity, size, and rechargeability. Consider the following:

• Charge Cycle Limitations: Li-ion batteries will lose value after a few hundred charge/discharge cycles. When your battery is not retaining its charge as well, or your vape needs more frequent charging, it might be time to replace it.
• Charging Best Practices:
  • Avoid Charging to 100%: You want to keep your battery between 20% and 80% for optimal lifespan.
  • Avoid Overcharging: Leaving your device plugged in overnight will accelerate wear and tear.
  • Use the Right Charger: Use the approved charger by the manufacturer or an external battery pack charger for removable cells.
  • Environmental Factors: High temperature or severe cold can badly compromise a battery, reducing its total capacity and performance.

How Your Habits Affect How Long Your Vape Lasts

Vaper habits also play an equal role in determining how long a vape will last. Some small variations in your normal usage and care can do magic in extending the life of your device.

1. Vaping Style and Habits

Puff Length and Frequency

The manner in which you puff greatly affects the life of both the battery and the coil. Long, consistent draws, or chain vaping as it's otherwise known, will burn up the coil and battery and shorten their lifespan. Short, regular puffs give the device a chance to cool down between hits and can prolong the life of both the coil and the battery.

• Expert Tip: If you want your device to last longer, take shorter puffs and allow it to cool in between hits. This small habit will help in avoiding premature coil burnouts and battery wear.

Wattage Management

When using a refillable vape pod system or an advanced mod, sticking to the recommended wattage range for your coil is crucial. Overpowering the coil by using too high a wattage can cause the coil to burn out quickly due to extreme temperatures, especially if you’re using a sub-ohm coil.

• Expert Tip: Keep your coils within their recommended wattage rating. Experiment within those ratings to find the perfect setting that gives you the best possible flavor and vapor volume while maintaining coil life.

Airflow Settings

Airflow settings also influence how long your device will last. Wide-open airflow takes more power to produce thicker vapor, which may drain the battery quicker and weaken the coil faster. The opposite, constricted airflow (tighter draw from the mouthpiece), usually takes less power and can extend the life of the battery and coil.

• Expert Tip: Experiment with more constricted airflow settings to conserve battery energy and maximize coil life.

2. Cleaning and Proper Storage

Taking your vape and cleaning it thoroughly can make a big difference when it comes to its overall lifespan. A dirty disposable vape or pod will leak more and just be generally less efficient.

Regular Cleaning

Wipe down your vape tank, battery contacts, and charging ports regularly. Residue buildup, dust, or liquid deposits can interfere with the device's internal electronics, resulting in malfunction or reduced performance. Clean the residues in areas where they may accumulate using a dry cloth or cotton swab.

• Expert Tip: Clean your vaping device at least once a week if you're a light user, and more times if you vape heavily, to prevent residue from building up. This is particularly applicable to pod vapes and upscale mods, where airflow and touchpoints become clogged by use.

Storage Tips For Vaping Devices

When you're not vaping, how you store your vape is the secret to its longevity. Store your device upright and in a cool, dry place to prevent exposure to excessive heat or cold that may degrade both the battery and e-liquid. If you’re storing it for extended periods, charge the battery to 50% and turn off the device.

• Expert Tip: Don't leave your vape in direct sunlight or areas with high temperatures, like your car. Extreme cold and heat can kill the battery and cause it to lose capacity more quickly.

E-Liquid Management

Never allow your tank to go completely dry. Using a vape on a low e-liquid is a simple way to burn out the coil, resulting in a burnt taste and potentially killing the unit. Also, e-liquid sitting in the tank for a long time will begin to lose its flavor. It's better to drain and flush the tank if you won't be vaping with it for a while.

• Expert Tip: Always refill the tank of your vape when it’s about one-third to halfway empty, and avoid letting it run completely dry.

Quick Reference Chart and When to Replace Your Vape

Here's a reference chart that breaks down how long each vape component typically lasts and the signs that indicate it's time for a replacement:

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens 20 Minutes After Vaping?

In approximately 20 minutes after vaping, your heart beats faster and your blood pressure gets higher, and you may begin to feel the effect of the nicotine, including a buzz or a feeling of relaxation, depending on your nicotine tolerance level.

How Many Puffs of Vape a Day Is Normal?

The normal amount of puffs varies from person to person; however, a light user may use 100-200 puffs a day, whereas heavy smokers may puff 300 or more, depending on their usage.

How Long Should a 600 Puff Vape Last?

A 600 puff vape may last anywhere from 2-7 days, depending on usage, with light users lasting 7 days and heavy users around 2-3 days.

How Long Do You Stay High on a Vape?

The "high" of vaping, particularly from THC vapes, has a duration of 1-3 hours depending on factors like dose and tolerance.

Is Vaping Better Than Smoking?

When it comes to vapes vs. cigarettes, vaping is generally safer than smoking because it doesn't involve combustion. However, it also has health effects, particularly from nicotine and other chemicals. Choose nicotine-free options, like these flavorful mint hookah vapes, for a healthier vaping experience.

Conclusion

The next time you ask yourself how long does a vape last, remember that it will depend on several factors, like your puff count and the device itself. It doesn't matter if you're using a disposable vape or a box mod; handling your coil, battery, and e-liquid with proper care will increase your device's overall lifespan.

Reference

1. Aherrera, A., Aravindakshan, A., Jarmul, S., Olmedo, P., Chen, R., Cohen, J. E., ... & Rule, A. M. (2020). E-cigarette use behaviors and device characteristics of daily exclusive e-cigarette users in Maryland: Implications for product toxicity. Tobacco-Induced Diseases, 18, 93.