Whether you’re transitioning from smoking or trying something new, one of your first tasks will be learning how to fill a vape tank. While it may seem tricky at first, filling your tank is a straightforward process once you understand the basics. Here at Go Smoke Free, we’re dedicated to helping you get the most out of your vaping experience.

Before diving into the practical steps, it's essential to get acquainted with the primary components of your vape device. Most vape kits, especially those suitable for beginners, consist of the following parts:

Battery/Mod: The power source of your device.
Tank: The component that holds the e-liquid and houses the coil.
Coil: The heating element within the tank that vaporises the e-liquid.
Drip Tip: The mouthpiece from which you inhale the vapour.

Understanding these parts helps you appreciate the filling process, ensuring minimal risk of leaks or spills.

E-liquid, or vape juice, is fundamental to your vaping experience. Consider these factors when selecting one:

Nicotine Strength: Determine the level that matches your previous smoking habits or personal preference. Most brands offer strengths ranging from 0 mg (nicotine-free) to 18 mg or higher (maximum 20mg).

PG/VG Ratio: E-liquids come in various ratios of Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG). A 50/50 blend is versatile, offering a balanced throat hit and vapour production, while high VG blends are suited for creating larger clouds.

Flavour: With countless flavours available, find one that appeals to your palate, whether it's traditional tobacco, fresh fruit, or sweet dessert.

Read More: The Best E-Liquid Flavours For New Vapers

Before filling your tank, ensure you have a clean, clutter-free workspace. Having some paper towels or tissues on hand is also a good idea to manage any spills. Here’s how to prepare your device and tank:

1. Read the Manual: Start by familiarising yourself with the manual provided by the manufacturer. Each vape model may have unique features or requirements, and understanding these will prevent unnecessary mistakes.
   
2. Prime Your Coil: If this is your first time using the coil, priming is essential. Place a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the cotton wicking inside the coil. This ensures the coil is saturated, reducing the risk of dry hits and prolonging its lifespan.

Read More: How to Properly Prime Your Coil

3. Disassemble the Tank: Gently unscrew the top of your tank from the main body, exposing the fill ports. Some tanks may have a top-fill design, while others could require bottom-filling, so consult your manual to determine the specific method.

Now that preparation is complete, it's time to fill your tank. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a seamless fill:

Step 1: Identify the Fill Port

Most modern vape tanks are designed for top filling, making the process quick and user-friendly. Look for a small opening or a designated fill port on the top side of the tank. These are typically marked with arrows or symbols.

Step 2: Hold the Tank Steady

Holding the tank securely prevents accidental spills. Grip the tank firmly with one hand while using the other to manage the e-liquid bottle. It's crucial to maintain good control during the filling process.

Step 3: Fill With E-Liquid

Carefully insert the nozzle of your e-liquid bottle into the fill port. Gently squeeze the bottle to slowly add liquid, watching the level rise towards the top of the tank. Be mindful to avoid the central airflow shaft, as filling will cause the liquid to leak or gurgle during use.

Step 4: Allow Space for the Coil

When filling, leave a small gap between the e-liquid level and the top of the tank. This space allows the coil to be reattached comfortably without overflowing and ensures proper air circulation within the tank.

Step 5: Seal the Tank

Once filled, securely reattach the top cap or whatever part was initially removed to open the fill port. Ensure all components are tightened to prevent leaks but avoid over-tightening, which could damage threading or seals.

With your tank filled and assembled, conduct these final checks before taking your first vape:

1. Examine for Leaks: Gently hold your device horizontally and check for any signs of e-liquid escaping through the seams. Adjust or tighten components if needed.

2. Soak and Settle: Allow the tank to sit for 5-10 minutes. This waiting period ensures complete saturation of the coil’s wicking material, minimising the risk of a dry hit.

3. Adjust the Airflow: Find and adjust the airflow ring located on your tank to suit your inhalation preferences. A tighter draw replicates the feel of smoking, while a looser setting facilitates larger vapour clouds.

4. Take a Primer Puff: Without activating the power button, take a few dry puffs to draw the e-liquid into the coil. This helps ensure even saturation and primes the coil for use.

Even when following steps meticulously, you might encounter some common problems:

Gurgling or Leaking: Occurring when the tank is overfilled or when e-liquid enters the central airflow shaft. Try detaching and reassembling the tank, ensuring a correct fill and snug connection.

Burnt Taste: A burnt taste may indicate a dry hit due to insufficient priming or a spent coil. Ensure proper priming during setup and replace coils regularly to maintain optimal flavour.

Read More: Top Tips & Tricks To Stop Your Coil From Burning

Weak Vapour Production: A possible sign of insufficient battery power or a coil issue. Ensure your device is charged and consider adjusting the wattage settings (for advanced devices). Replace the coil if necessary.

Read More: Troubleshooting Common E-Liquid Issues

Once your tank is filled and your device is ready, begin with slow, steady inhalations. Experiment with your device's settings, such as power levels or airflow, to find what fits best with your vaping style.  As you grow more familiar with your device, you may wish to explore a variety of e-liquid flavours, nicotine strengths, and device customisations. Vaping is all about personal preference, and the goal is to find a combination that enhances your experience and satisfaction.

Filling your vape tank for the first time is a significant step towards becoming a confident vaper. By understanding the parts of your vape, choosing the appropriate e-liquid, and carefully following filling procedures, you can enjoy a rewarding vaping journey. At Go Smoke Free, we're committed to providing expert advice and quality products to our customers, from a huge selection of e-liquids to all of the vaping accessories you need to keep your vape kit in top condition. Shop the full range today.