Methods to Solve the Gunked-Up Atomizer Coil Issue in an Electronic Cigarette

The atomizer coil is an important component of an electronic cigarette, but it typically has a limited lifespan. Exceeding the recommended usage period or improper operation of the electronic cigarette can result in a gunked-up atomizer coil. When the coil gets gunked up, it not only affects the taste of the e-liquid, giving it a burnt flavor, but it can also lead to clogging. So, what should you do when the atomizer coil of an electronic cigarette gets gunked up? Below, I will explain six approaches to solving the gunked-up atomizer coil issue in an electronic cigarette.

1. Choose the Right E-liquid
   The VG/PG ratio of the e-liquid is an important factor that can contribute to coil gunking. VG, or vegetable glycerin, has lower fluidity compared to PG. Therefore, e-liquids with a high VG content can reduce the wicking speed, resulting in dry hits when the vaporization speed exceeds the wicking speed, leading to coil gunking. Additionally, e-liquids with high sugar content, such as some dessert flavors, are more prone to carbon buildup, which can also cause coil gunking. To avoid coil gunking due to e-liquid issues, it is recommended to choose e-liquids with a slightly higher VG content or reduce the frequency of use. Furthermore, cold weather can affect the fluidity of e-liquid, especially minty flavors, which can contribute to coil gunking. Therefore, it is advisable to warm up the e-liquid with the heat from the vape device before using it, particularly in colder regions.

2. Power Setting
   Higher power settings increase the vaporization speed, while the wicking speed remains the same. This can lead to coil gunking. In such cases, simply lowering the power setting can solve the issue. However, when using a regulated device, inconsistent resistance readings can also cause coil gunking, which is related to the user's proficiency in DIY coil building. Additionally, if the coil is not properly prepared during DIY coil building or the cotton is causing deformation to the coil, uneven heating can occur, leading to coil gunking.

3. Usage Time
   Atomizer coils have a limited lifespan, and using them beyond their recommended usage time can lead to various issues, including carbon buildup. Carbon buildup is typically black residue that accumulates on the heating wire and directly affects the taste. It can also contribute to coil gunking. When carbon buildup occurs on the heating wire, it is necessary to replace the coil.

4. Atomizer Coil Quality
   In most cases, coil gunking is not caused by the e-liquid itself but rather by factors such as poor wicking, high viscosity of the e-liquid, or uneven heating. These issues can be avoided with proper attention during regular use. Pay close attention to the condition of the atomizer coil, and with more experience in DIY coil building, proficiency will naturally improve.

5. Priming the Atomizer Coil
   Before using a pre-built atomizer coil, it is important to prime it. Drip e-liquid three times onto the cotton visible at the top and around the coil. After installing the atomizer and filling the tank with e-liquid, let it sit for approximately 15 minutes to allow the cotton to fully absorb the e-liquid. This helps prevent coil gunking.

6. Even Heating
   Uneven heating, where one or two coils heat up significantly faster than the others, can increase the likelihood of coil gunking. It is important to properly heat the coil after building it to ensure even heating.

These six methods address the prevention and resolution of coil gunking issues in electronic cigarettes from different angles. However, using an electronic cigarette can be more challenging than smoking traditional cigarettes. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the maintenance and care of your electronic cigarette when using it.