If you've been interested in vaping for a while and have come across different forums or blogs dedicated to vaping, you may have heard the term "dry burning" being mentioned here and there. If it left you wondering what dry burning is exactly and whether or not you need to do it, you're in the right place! We are going to delve into everything you need to know about this technique.
What Is Dry Burning?
Dry burning refers to the process of "cleaning" or preparing a coil by heating it without any e-liquid or wicking material. This causes the coil to heat up and burn off any impurities or buildup that may have accumulated on the surface over time.
However, it is important to note that dry burning should be done cautiously and in short bursts to avoid damaging the coil or overheating it.
What is the Purpose of Dry Burning Your Coil?
Dry burning can be done accidentally or intentionally. People dry burn their coils on purpose for several reasons. Let's look at some of those reasons:
- Cleaning: The process of dry burning helps to remove residue or impurities that may have accumulated on the coil. Over time, e-liquids can leave behind a buildup, which can impact the flavour of your vape. So, by dry burning the coil, you basically burn off this residue, restoring its clean state.
- Extend Lifespan of the Coil: Dry burning coils can help prolong their lifespan. It allows the coil to function optimally, resulting in better vapour production and flavour delivery. Some vapers use this technique to save money as they don't need to replace coils as frequently.
- Better Heat Distribution: It also helps to ensure even heat distribution across the coil. This is particularly beneficial for coils made from materials like stainless steel or nichrome, as it helps eliminate hot spots. Even heat distribution ensures a consistent vaping experience and prevents dry hits.
It's important to note that dry burning should be done with caution. It should only be performed on coils made from heat-resistant materials like Kanthal, stainless steel, or nichrome. Nickel or titanium coils should not be dry burned due to the risk of releasing toxic fumes.
How to Dry Burn Vape Coils?
Here's a simple guide on how to safely dry burn vape coils:
- First and foremost, make sure you are dry burning your coils in a clean and well-ventilated space, away from any easily combustible materials. Make sure to protect your mouth from inhaling the fumes and particles, as well as your hands from getting burnt.
- Next, disassemble your atomiser, remove the tank or dripper from your vaping device and make sure there is no e-liquid left inside. Then, detach the coil from the atomiser.
- Now, you will need to completely remove the wicking material to expose the heating element (unless you're using silica wick or SS mesh). If you use a cotton wick, you can throw it out.
- Attach the coil to your device or mod and activate the fire button on your device. We recommend doing it in short bursts or pulses and starting at a low wattage for initial pulses.
- Watch the coil closely. You should notice the coil heating up and glowing evenly from the centre outwards. If you see any hot spots or uneven heating, stop pulsing and adjust it accordingly.
- If the coil still has some stubborn residue after the initial pulsing, repeat the process as necessary until the coil is clean.
- After you are done, turn off your device and let the coil cool down completely. Once the coil is cool, reassemble the atomiser and replace your wicking material with fresh cotton or your preferred wicking material.
- Make sure to prime the coil with e-liquid before use. Apply a few drops of e-liquid to the wick and let it saturate. Once primed, reattach the atomiser to your vaping device and enjoy!
Is Dry Burning Dangerous?
The dry burning process can be potentially dangerous if not done correctly. Here are a few things you should take into consideration and pay attention to:
Dry burning at excessively high wattage or pulsing for too long can cause the coil to overheat, leading to damage or even a complete failure. This can result in a burnt taste while vaping or a completely ruined coil that has to be replaced with a new one.
Certain materials used in vape coils, such as nickel or titanium, can release toxic fumes when dry burned. Therefore, it's really important to know the type of coil you have and avoid dry burning coils made from these materials. Inhaling these harmful particles into your lungs could potentially lead to health issues. For example, the inhalation of these particles, especially nickel, could cause allergies, skin rashes, and itching.
Additionally, improper dry burning techniques can lead to a fire hazard. Continuous firing for an extended time period or using wattages that are too high can cause the coil to become extremely hot and potentially ignite nearby flammable materials.
So, make sure that if you decide to give dry burning a go, you are being careful and taking all the necessary precautions to protect your health.
Ask the Expert! Sam – Your Trusted Vape Connoisseur
Introducing our resident professional vape expert, Sam – a seasoned connoisseur and owner of Rhythm N Vape with a wealth of knowledge and a passion for all things vaping. Sam is here to be your go-to guide, answering your questions, offering tailored advice, and sharing insider tips to elevate your vaping experience.
Is Dry Burning Suitable for All Types of Coils?
Dry burning is generally suitable for coils made of heat-resistant materials, such as Kanthal, stainless steel, or nichrome. However, it is important to avoid dry burning coils made from nickel or titanium as they can release toxic fumes when heated.
Does Dry Burning Completely Clean My Vape Coils?
It can help remove some residue and extend the lifespan of your coils, but it may not completely clean them. It is recommended to combine dry burning with other cleaning methods, such as soaking the coils in isopropyl alcohol, for more thorough cleaning.
Can I Dry Burn a Coil with Wicking Material Still Inside?
Always try to completely remove the wicking material before dry burning a coil to prevent it from burning or getting damaged. Dry burning with the wick still in place can lead to uneven heating and potential dry hits.
Are There any Alternatives to Dry Burning for Cleaning Coils?
Yes, there are other methods for cleaning your coils. You can simply soak them in warm water or use specialised coil cleaning solutions. These methods can help remove residue without the need for dry burning, especially for pre-built coils that cannot be easily disassembled.
Can Dry Burning Extend the Lifespan of Vape Coils?
Yes, dry burning can help extend the lifespan of your coils by removing residue and restoring their performance. Regular cleaning, in general, can prevent bad flavour and enhance the longevity of your coils.
Can Dry Burning Damage my Vape Device?
If done properly, dry burning should not damage your device. However, excessive dry burning, using high wattages, or pulsing for too long can potentially damage the coil or even the device itself. Always follow recommended wattages and pulsing intervals to avoid any risk of damage.
How Can I Reach Out to Sam for Personalised Vaping Advice?
Feel free to submit your questions to info@rhythmnvape.co.uk
I hope that helps and if you have any more questions I would be happy to answer them! Get in touch today! Sam.
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