How To Prevent Your Device From Spitting E-Liquid

For vapers, few things are as unpleasant as the unexpected taste of hot e-liquid popping into your mouth – a phenomenon commonly known as “spit-back.” Not only can it disrupt an otherwise enjoyable session, but it also raises concerns about the overall performance of your device. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned vaper, spit-back can happen to anyone, and fortunately, it is a problem with solutions.

In this guide, we will explore the causes of spit-back, effective ways to prevent it, and tips to keep your vaping device running smoothly for a better experience.

What Is Spit-back And Why Does It Happen?

Spit-back occurs when e-liquid does not vaporise fully in the coil, leading to small droplets of hot liquid being expelled up through the mouthpiece. Instead of inhaling smooth, flavourful vapour, you get an unpleasant and slightly off-putting “pop” of liquid.

This issue typically happens due to:

• Flooded coils: Too much e-liquid in the coil overwhelms the heating process.
• High wattage or over-saturated wicks: Pushing power too high or improper wicking can cause e-liquid to vaporise inconsistently.
• Draw style: Taking sharp or aggressive pulls can pull excess e-liquid into the coil.
• Condensation: Residual vapour inside the mouthpiece can condense and settle into liquid droplets.

Preventing E-Liquid Spitting

Understanding what is causing spit-back is the first step to preventing it. Let us get into the specific strategies to keep it under control.

Prime Your Coils Properly

Improper coil priming is one of the biggest culprits for spit-back, especially with new devices or coils. Priming ensures that the wick (typically made of cotton) is properly saturated before you start vaping.

Be sure to prime your coils effectively by following these guidelines: 

• Drip e-liquid onto the coil: Apply a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the exposed wick inside the coil head.
• Fill the tank and wait: After installing the coil, fill the tank and let it sit for 5 -10 minutes. This gives the wick enough time to fully absorb the liquid.
• Take a few dry pulls: Before activating the device, take a few gentle, non-powered pulls to ensure e-liquid has traveled into the coil

Skipping these steps can result in oversaturation or dry spots in the wick, which contributes to spit-back.

Avoid Overfilling The Tank

Filling your tank to the absolute brim might seem efficient, but it can lead to flooding. Overfilled tanks often force e-liquid into the coil housing, which overwhelms the wick and creates spit-back. An additional tip is to leave a small air pocket at the top of your tank when refilling. This space helps regulate pressure and prevents liquid from seeping into the coil prematurely.

Use The Correct Wattage For Your Coil

Every coil is designed to operate within a specific wattage range, which is usually printed on the coil itself or listed in the manual. Vaping at too low a wattage can cause the coil to heat inefficiently, leaving excess e-liquid in the chamber. This lingering liquid eventually leads to spit-back. Avoid this by:

• Checking the recommended wattage: Always start at the lower end of the suggested range and gradually increase the power to find your “sweet spot.”
• Avoiding levels to drop too low: Underpowered coils do not vaporise e-liquid properly, leading to gurgling and spit-back.

If your device has variable wattage, experiment to see what works best for your particular setup.

Adjust Your Draw Style

The way you inhale plays a significant role in your vaping experience. Aggressive, sharp pulls can pull excess e-liquid into the coil, making it harder to vaporise everything evenly. Instead, focus on:

• Slow, steady draws: Take smooth, consistent puffs to allow the coil to keep up with vaporisation.
• Avoid chain vaping: Taking rapid hits doesn’t give the coil enough time to heat properly, increasing the chances of spit-back.

If you are used to smoking cigarettes, transitioning to this slower draw style might take some practice, but it can make a significant difference.

Clear Out Flooded Coils

If you notice gurgling sounds or consistent spit-back, your coil is likely flooded. Luckily, there are quick fixes to clear out excess e-liquid:

• Blow through the mouthpiece: Remove the tank from your device, cover the airflow holes, and blow gently through the mouthpiece to expel liquid.
• Fire the device without inhaling: Briefly activate the device for 1-2 seconds without taking a puff. This can help vaporise any excess liquid.
• Shake out excess e-liquid: Remove the tank and gently flick it downward (like shaking a thermometer) to force out any trapped e-liquid.

Maintain Your Vape Device

Regular maintenance is key to a smooth vaping experience. Accumulated residue or condensation in your device can contribute to spit-back over time.

• Clean your tank weekly: Disassemble the tank and rinse all parts (except the coil) with warm water. Allow everything to dry thoroughly before reassembling.
• Check the coil: Replace old or burnt coils regularly, as degraded wicks will not absorb e-liquid properly.
• Clear condensation from the mouthpiece: Remove the mouthpiece and wipe away any moisture with a paper towel.

Taking time to clean your device keeps everything working as intended and reduces the risk of spit-back.

Use High-Quality E-Liquids

The quality and consistency of your e-liquid also affect spit-back. Thinner e-liquids (those with higher PG content) are more prone to flooding because they wick faster, while thicker, high-VG juices are less likely to overwhelm the coil.

• Opt for 70/30 VG/PG ratios: Higher VG liquids create a thicker consistency that reduces flooding and spit-back.
• Avoid cheap e-liquids: Lower-quality e-liquids may have inconsistent formulations that contribute to spitting issues.

If you are unsure which e-liquid to choose, start with a balanced 50/50 VG/PG ratio and adjust based on your device and preferences.

Make Use Of Spit-back Reducing Accessories

Some devices and accessories are specifically designed to minimise spit-back:

• Drip tips with mesh screens: These mouthpieces include a mesh layer that blocks droplets of e-liquid.
• Spit-back guards: Certain tanks include built-in features to trap excess liquid before it reaches the mouthpiece.

Upgrading your setup with these small adjustments can make a noticeable difference.

Spit-back might be an occasional nuisance for vapers, but it is not an unsolvable problem. By understanding what causes it – whether it is flooded coils, overfilling, or improper wattage – you can take proactive steps to prevent it from happening. Proper coil priming, adjusting your draw style, maintaining your device, and choosing the right e-liquid all contribute to a smoother, more enjoyable vape session.

Remember, vaping is meant to be an enjoyable and hassle-free experience. If spit-back is interfering with that, take the time to fine-tune your device and habits. With a little effort and regular maintenance, you will be able to eliminate spit-back and focus on what truly matters – enjoying the flavours and satisfaction that vaping has to offer.