How to clean your atomizer

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The atomizer or “atty” is probably the most important component in your electronic cigarette. You probably know that most ecigarettes are made out of 3 major components: the battery, the atomizer and the flavor cartridge. Some newer cig-a-like models have the cartridge and atomizer in a single component called a cartomizer, but we won’t talk about these devices now. While each of the parts are necessary for the device to function properly, arguably the single most important component is the atomizer; it is responsible for heating the eLiquid in order to create breathable vapor.

ecig coil headOver time, atomizers may become dirty or clogged due to the flavorings added to eLiquids accumulating inside of the device as they are vaporized. Some flavors may be more responsible in this area than others due to the variety of ingredients in different flavors, but as a general rule darker color eJuices tend to dirty or clog atomizers more quickly than lighter color ones, though this is not always the case.

Your atty may need cleaning when you start experiencing some of these symptoms:

  • You feel a burned/harsh taste every time you use your device
  • Vapor production has reduced dramatically
  • It has become very difficult to draw air through the device
  • The device isn’t producing any more vapor

If any of these phenomena occur, it’s recommended that you clean your atomizer for restoring initial performance and increasing its lifespan.

There are a few methods of cleaning your atty, and you may use them all depending on the situation. The first and most commonly used is to “blow out” of it. This may resolve the clogged devices and you’ll be able to enjoy your vaping right away. Another method is to rinse the atomizer in hot water, because this will fix a lot more problems. Just use very hot water, “blow out” the device in order to remove excess and leave it to dry in an upright position for at least 24 hours.

But if you want to really clean the device and to solve all problems you may need to use this final method called soaking which is the most efficient but time consuming as opposed to the others. First of all remover your atomizer and then place it in a bowl filled with 3 parts warm water and 1 part vinegar. Some people boil their atomizers in this solutions but this is not always recommended because it can damage the coil. Instead just leave it to soak for 30-45 minutes and let the acetic acid in the vinegar dissolve any impurities on the component. After it is done soaking you must put the atty on a paper towel or cloth and leave it to dry for at least 24 hours before mounting it back to your ecigarette.

If this is your fist time cleaning your atomizer then you will probably notice a big difference and taste and vapor production and will probably make you aware of the fact that this operation need to be done constantly in order to keep your ecig in perfect working condition.

Posted by Dave Allan

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Former pack-a-day smoker, I discovered electronic cigarettes back in 2011. Since then vaping has slowly turned into my hobby and my full time job. I’ve tested hundreds of e-cigarettes and mods across the years and constantly used my knowledge and experience to help others make the switch. I’m passionate about technology, I enjoy reading and I love big flavorful clouds.

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