Step 1: The Disposable
Confused about disposables, pod kits, or mod kits? Let’s break it down. Vaping devices have evolved significantly over the past 15 years, with the introduction of the clearomizer marking a significant shift in the market. Today’s devices are more complex, offering a wide range of features and flavors to suit every preference.
Commitment and Willpower
Before diving into vaping, it’s crucial to commit to the journey. Quitting smoking is challenging, and success depends on your determination. Vaping isn’t a cure but a tool to aid in quitting. If you’re committed to quitting, vaping can increase your chances of success.
Choosing Your First Device
For beginners, disposable devices are an excellent starting point. They’re affordable, easy to use, and come in various flavors. Disposables typically provide a tighter draw similar to a cigarette, making the transition easier. Canada Vapes offers a wide selection of brands and flavors, such as the Vuse GO Series.
Getting Started
Using a disposable device is straightforward. Simply remove it from the packaging and draw on it like a cigarette. It will activate automatically, producing vapor. Some coughing is normal initially, as vaping differs from smoking. Many users continue to smoke while vaping, but the goal is harm reduction.
Charging and Maintenance
Disposable devices feature indicator lights to show activation and battery status. When the light changes or turns off, it’s time to charge the battery. Most disposables are rechargeable via USB-C, similar to smartphone chargers. Some devices offer additional features like adjustable airflow or dual flavours.
Harm Reduction
Vaping is about harm reduction, and if you find yourself craving your vape over cigarettes, you’re on the right track. If vaping isn’t for you, that’s okay too. Studies have shown vaping to be 95% less harmful than smoking, making it a compelling alternative.
Next Steps
In the next entry, we’ll explore refillable devices, their differences from disposables, and the pros and cons of using them. Refillables offer cost savings and a broader range of flavors, making them an appealing option for many vapers.
For those interested in the evidence supporting vaping’s harm reduction, refer to the report linked here: Nicotine Vaping in England 2022 Evidence Update
Step 2: The Pod
In the previous step, we discussed disposable vape devices and their role in starting the vaping journey. Now, let’s explore refillable pod devices, which serve as an excellent entry point into the world of vaping.
Introduction to Refillable Pod Devices
Refillable pod devices are compact and user-friendly, making them an ideal choice for beginners. Even experienced vapers often keep simple refillable devices for convenience. One such device we’ll focus on is the Vaporesso Eco Nano.
Understanding E-Liquids
E-liquids, regardless of type, contain four main components: Propylene Glycol (PG), Vegetable Glycerin (VG), flavorings, and nicotine. These ingredients create the vapor you inhale.
- Propylene Glycol (PG): Commonly used as a food additive, PG helps maintain consistency and flavor in food products.
- Vegetable Glycerin (VG): Another food-grade ingredient, VG contributes to the sweetness and viscosity of e-liquids.
- Flavorings: Flavorings are sourced from various natural and artificial sources, carefully blended to create unique flavors.
- Nicotine: Nicotine provides the smoking cessation effect in vapes. It can be derived from tobacco or synthesized in a laboratory.
Types of E-Liquids
E-liquids differ based on PG/VG ratio and nicotine type. Salt Nicotine (Salt Nic) e-liquids contain nicotine salts and are suitable for beginners. They offer a smoother throat hit compared to traditional freebase nicotine.
Choosing Your E-Liquid
When starting with a refillable pod device, opt for a 20mg Salt Nic e-liquid. Gradually reducing nicotine content is recommended to manage addiction. Canada Vapes offers a variety of flavors to suit your preferences.
Filling and Using Your Device
Filling a refillable pod is simple. Remove the top clear piece, fill the pod, and let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the juice. Then, reattach the pod to the device. Using the device involves inhaling like a cigarette, with minimal adjustments needed.
Maintenance and Charging
Most pod devices feature USB-C charging ports, with indicator lights to show battery level. Charging is quick due to the small battery size. Pods should be replaced when they no longer provide a satisfactory taste.
End of Your Vaping Journey?
Refillable pod devices offer a satisfying vaping experience, and there’s no harm in stopping here. You can gradually reduce nicotine levels or switch to traditional e-liquids. Traditional e-liquids offer a wider flavor variety and are cheaper.
Next Steps
In the next step, we’ll explore hybrid pod systems, which accommodate both Salt Nic and traditional e-liquids. These devices offer more customization options but may require slightly more user involvement.
Refillable pod devices offer a convenient and satisfying vaping experience, making them a popular choice for beginners and experienced vapers alike.
Step 3: The Pod Mod
In this step, we’ll explore devices that bridge the gap between simple pod systems and full-blown mod kits: Pod Mods. These devices offer more customization options while remaining user-friendly. We’ll discuss the Smok Nord GT as an example.
Understanding Pod Mods
Pod Mods, like the Smok Nord GT, provide additional adjustments beyond basic pod devices. They typically feature buttons for control and adjustment, offering options like variable wattage and airflow settings.
Anatomy of a Pod Mod
- Mod: The bottom part containing the battery, circuitry, and control buttons.
- Pod: The top part holding the e-liquid reservoir and coil.
- Coil: Inside the pod, responsible for vaporizing e-liquid.
Operating a Pod Mod
Pod Mods are activated by pressing a button, usually requiring five quick presses for on/off. Wattage adjustment is common, allowing users to fine-tune their vaping experience. The Smok Nord GT offers a wattage range of 5-80W, providing versatility.
Coils for Pod Mods
Coils vary in resistance and are tailored to different vaping styles:
- Direct Lung (DL): Lower resistance coils suited for inhaling vapor directly into the lungs, producing more vapor. Recommended for freebase nicotine.
- Mouth-to-Lung (MTL): Higher resistance coils for drawing vapor into the mouth before inhaling, mimicking cigarette smoking. Ideal for salt nicotine.
Operating Your Pod Mod
Using a Pod Mod involves inhaling while pressing the button to activate vapor production. Refilling the pod and changing coils are straightforward processes, typically involving removing the pod and accessing the filling port or coil compartment.
Customizing Your Experience
Pod Mods offer customization options like airflow adjustment and wattage control. Users can adjust settings to suit their preferences for vapor production, flavour intensity, and throat hit.
Tips for Coil Maintenance
- When changing coils, ensure the pod is empty to prevent spills.
- Prime new coils by allowing them to soak in e-liquid for 10 minutes before use.
- Start at the lower end of the recommended wattage range for new coils to “break in” and enhance flavour.
- Avoid exceeding the recommended wattage range to prevent coil failure and dry hits.
Conclusion
Pod Mods provide a balance between simplicity and customization, making them suitable for users seeking more control over their vaping experience. In the next step, we’ll delve into full Mod and Tank setups, offering even greater customization options for advanced users.
Step 4: The Mod and Tank
In our journey through vaping devices, we’ve covered everything from basic disposables to intermediate pod mods. Now, we delve into the realm of advanced vaping with Mod and Tank setups.
Understanding Mod and Tank Setups
Mod and Tank setups, often associated with producing large clouds, offer advanced customization options and versatility. While pod mods have gained popularity, Mod and Tank setups remain favored by experienced vapers.
Components of a Mod and Tank Setup
- Tank: Holds e-liquid and coil head, featuring a glass or plastic tank section and a drip tip (mouthpiece).
- Mod: Contains batteries, circuitry, screen, and control features like wattage adjustment.
Introducing the Freemax Maxus 3
For this guide, we’ll reference the Freemax Maxus 3, a cutting-edge device offering advanced features and customization options. You can find a detailed review on YouTube.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKMX5-ehwtw
Using the Tank
Tanks in these setups typically have a larger capacity (5ml or more) and are top-filled for convenience. The Maxus 3 utilizes a sliding top design for easy refilling. Additionally, it includes spare glass in case of breakage, ensuring uninterrupted use.
Coils and Wattage
Coils for these tanks vary in size and resistance, with options ranging from 0.1Ω to 1.0Ω or higher. The Maxus 3 supports 13 different coil heads, each customizable to suit your preferences. Wattage requirements for coils generally fall between 70-100W, though mods can often reach up to 200W.
Battery Safety
Mod setups utilize one or two removable batteries, offering flexibility and convenience. However, proper battery safety practices are crucial to prevent accidents:
- Inspect batteries for damage before use.
- Ensure correct battery orientation when inserting them into the device.
- Use a dedicated battery case to transport loose batteries.
- Employ a reliable external battery charger whenever possible, avoiding unattended charging.
Charging Considerations
While the Maxus 3 features a USB charging port, external battery chargers are recommended for optimal safety and battery lifespan. Always prioritize safety when handling batteries.
Conclusion
Whether you opt for a prefilled device or an advanced Mod and Tank setup, vaping offers a pathway to smoking cessation. With proper knowledge and willpower, you can successfully transition away from smoking and embrace a healthier lifestyle. Remember, vaping saves lives. If it helps you quit smoking, you’re on the right track.
You know I’ve been vaping since 2014 or 2015. It’s been so long now I’m losing track of the exact year. Doesn’t matter really. I was around near the beginning. not quite the first vapers but darn close. Vaping is the sole reason why I don’t smoke. Same with my Wife. She was the original one who got me going. We started on a bet with some friends. We won…. lol They didn’t. But that’s OK. Since then it’s been nothing but evolution of the industry. Evolution of my Experience. I started with some Pens. That lasted like two weeks. They were Crap. Then I went to Isticks. More Power. More Flavor. Wow like 15 Watts or something. I always saw the guys in Fat Panda Chucking the Big Clouds. I wanted to do that too. So Istick 50 was next. So on and so fourth. Next was Kangertech Subohm tanks. But the coils kept burning out and i didn’t want to keep buying coils. So I started to Rebuild those. Remove the insulator and pull out the Wire and make a quick coil wick and install. Almost like vaping for Free lol. Finally I upgraded to a RDA. RTA etc etc. taught myself how to build some basic coils. Fused Claptons. Juggernaut. Clapton. Zipper. Half Staggs. I sucked at Aliens so I just didn’t. once made a wicked looking Mohawk by accident. Also what I called a Grooved Fused Clapton. To this day I still Use RDA’s My Wife RTA’s I Build Our Coils and Make our own Juice. I even have a business number and sell a bottle of Cherry under the Names D’s Liquids from my Buddies shop. I just collect some royalties from it as he handles all the Logistics due to the taxes and bottling specifications. I started that up as a way to share my appreciation of the hobby with my local community. Speaking of community we used to have a very engaging community and group. In past years we really focused on Charity events with a local group. I’d rather not say who that is due to not involving someone else in my rant. My very dear friend created all of this from a bottle of Eliquid back in the day. It was a bustling engaging community. Always fighting for our rights. Trying to bring a positive light to vaping. Informing others that vaping is a great harm reduction tool. It’s a safer alternative. I have personally never felt better since vaping entered my life. But now the Canadian Government has bastardized vaping. demonizing it and putting it in same light as Traditional Cigarettes. When we all know it helps. It works. The offering in Canada is currently in my opinion a Joke. Pods and disposables have destroyed the current Vaping Landscape. The community Once Vibrant and inclusive is a shadow of its old self. Vapers just trying to improve their overall position in the battle against smoking are being punished at the tills. you know I bought a 4L bottle of Nic at 20% $400 + went to the government in taxes. Lucky us we can freeze it and it should last us 2 years. We don’t use alot of Nicotine any more. When we started my Wife was more than a Pack a Day smoker. I was around 1/2 pack a day. She started at 18mg and I 12Mg. we now vape less than 2mg. What other substance is geared for you to want less over time. The trade off with less Nic is More Flavor. Juice gets tastier. Clouds get bigger. With Cigs you can look forward to More Death. Then Jule and all those other 50nic Shit started and got a whole new group of people hooked. All of a sudden Vaping is more Dangerous than smoking Bla Bla Bla. idk. You know back in 2015 or so a bunch of us here in Winnipeg got together to speak on behalf of Vaping at the Mantioba Legislative Building. Trying to Fight for our rights. It felt liberating. But yet nothing seemed to happen. But I’m glad I did it. I’ve Sent countless emails to our Government officials throughout the years. Always getting the old Plight of the Youth. For (edited for expletive) sakes Youth are Youth. They will Smoke Drink Vape and Do Drugs. Because that’s what we do. Humans are curious. People are scared and addicted to Money. Not Helping. So I saw you post and I mentioned something about Advanced Hardware and I laughed to myself. There isn’t advanced anything anymore. And that Sucks. I wish there was something we could do and reverse all the damage that has been done. To bring back the Community. My personal Climax in the world of Vaping was attending CVE 2017 in Toronto. I helped my friend at another shops stand. We drove all the way to Toronto in a Toyota Prius with a trunk and back seat packed with Eliquid and such. It was a blessing to be part of the show. Celebrating my love for the culture and community. Now…… It just feels distant. Maybe just maybe someone will convince the powers that be we need to remove the over taxation. Yes regulations and such are important. But so are options. RDA RTA. Childproof if that’s what you require for your own personal needs. I’ll quit vaping before I buy a Pod or Use a disposable. That was part of the problem. Thanks so much for reading and I truly hope who ever sees this knows my thoughts are coming from a very dear place in my heart and I wish everyone would embrace this life changing tech. Thank you Kindly.
Thanks for your insight Don, I had to take out some swears, we need to keep it PG.
That is why I chose this job. We have a good crew at Canada Vapes, and everyone here has a story similar to yours. We are a passionate crew that just wants to help people make healthier choices. Myself, being part of the rebuildable “scene” of yesteryear made a lot of awesome memories, I wish the government hadn’t taken that away. I do agree with some of their decisions, with making sure our kids are safe, mandating child safety on bottles and things like that. However, outlawing rebuildable stuff was not the answer. That’s an argument for another day.
At the end of the day though, if my posts make one person double-guess smoking vs. vaping, it did it’s job. Each person that quits smoking because of help I provided (not only as a vape employee but as an enthusiast as well… ) is a feather in my cap, and I am proud of the feathers I’ve collected for that cap over the years!