If you have recently stopped using disposable vapes, switching to a refillable kit is one of the best upgrades you can make. Refillable vapes deliver better flavour, far lower running costs and significantly less waste, but they also work a little differently from the single use devices many people were used to before the ban. The good news is that maintaining a refillable vape is simple once you understand a few basics. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to keep your device clean, efficient and performing at its best.

Disposable vapes never required upkeep because the coil, battery and liquid were thrown away together. A refillable vape works more like a small appliance. When you keep the pod or tank clean and the coil in good condition, you get smoother vapour, stronger flavour and fewer issues such as spitting or leaking.

A well looked after refillable pod kit from brands such as OXVA, Vaporesso, Aspire or Voopoo can last a long time. Most of the problems new vapers face come from small things like liquid build up, worn coils or incorrect refilling. With a little routine care, you can avoid all of these easily.

Refillable pod devices are very popular with ex disposable users because the design is simple and compact. Maintenance is minimal, and most pods only take a minute or two to clean.

Remove the Pod: Detach the pod from the device and check whether it is a refillable pod or a sealed prefilled pod. Prefilled pods cannot be opened or washed and never need cleaning. Once the liquid is finished, they are replaced as a whole unit.

Empty the Pod: If you are changing flavour or refreshing the pod, pour out any remaining liquid. This prevents flavour overlap, especially when switching from strong blends like mint or berry.

Rinse Only When the Coil Is Removable: If your pod uses a removable coil, take the coil out before rinsing. Rinse the pod with warm water and allow it to dry naturally. Do not rinse pods that have built in coils. These should be wiped with a dry tissue only because water damages the cotton inside the coil.

Clean the Device Contacts: Use a tissue or cotton swab to clean any condensation around the pod connection points. Even a small drop of liquid can interrupt the connection and cause misfiring or weak vapour.

Let Everything Dry Fully: A pod that still has moisture inside can water down your e liquid and cause gurgling. Always wait until it is fully dry before refilling.

Reassemble and Refill: Insert a fresh coil if needed, fill the pod, and let the coil sit for a few minutes to fully saturate before vaping.

Vape tanks used in sub ohm kits and vape pens have more components than pod systems but are still easy to maintain once you know the steps.

Disassemble the Tank: Remove the tank from the device, separate the glass, coil, top section and base.

Rinse All Non Coil Parts: Use warm water to rinse each part. This clears old e liquid residue and improves flavour clarity. For stubborn liquid build up, a little dish soap can be used, but rinse well to remove any trace.

Dry All Parts Thoroughly: Leave the components to air dry fully. Any leftover moisture can dilute liquid and weaken the coil.

Insert a New Coil: Once a tank coil begins to taste dull, burnt or muted, it cannot be revived. Cleaning the tank is the best moment to insert a fresh coil.

Reassemble and Prime: Place the tank back together and fill it. Allow the coil to sit for several minutes before vaping to prevent dry hits.

A few simple habits can extend the life of your refillable vape kit, reduce coil burnout and keep flavour strong!

Avoid Chain Vaping: Giving the coil a few seconds between puffs allows the cotton to stay saturated. This prevents burnt taste and extends coil life.

Keep Pods Topped Up: Coils burn more quickly when the liquid level is very low. Refilling before the pod is nearly empty keeps the wicking material healthy.

Clean the Pod Connection Frequently: Condensation naturally builds over time. Wiping the contacts every few days prevents gurgling and misfires.

Use the Correct E Liquid: Most pod kits work best with 50/50 e liquid or nic salts. Thick high VG liquids can struggle to wick properly in smaller coils.

Recharge Before the Battery Fully Empties: A low battery can reduce vapour and strain the coil. Regular top up charging keeps performance more consistent.

Store Your Vape Correctly: Avoid leaving your vape in direct sunlight, warm rooms or cars. Heat expands liquid and can cause leaks.

These simple habits can double the lifespan of coils and help your device stay performing at its best for far longer.

Here’s some of the most common questions we get from vapers switching from disposables to refillable kits. If you can’t see your query, get in touch with a member of the team who will be happy to help. 

How often should coils be changed?

Most vapers change their coil every one to two weeks, although this varies by usage, flavour type and wattage. If you notice muted flavour, a slightly burnt edge to the inhale or darker-than-usual e liquid inside the pod, it is time for a replacement. Do not continue vaping a burnt coil as the flavour will only worsen.

Do I need to clean the pod every time I refill?

Not always. If you stick to similar flavours, a quick refill is usually fine. When switching between strong flavours such as mint, menthol or desserts, rinsing the pod (only when the coil is removable) prevents leftover flavour from blending into the new one.

Why is my pod leaking?

Small leaks usually come from worn coils, overfilling or sudden temperature changes. Make sure the coil is firmly seated and avoid leaving your vape in warm areas. Keeping the device upright when not in use also helps reduce leaking.

Why is my vape producing less vapour than before?

A fading battery, an older coil or a partially blocked airflow path can cause weaker vapour. Try recharging the device fully and check the pod contacts for condensation. If the vapour or flavour still feels weak, replace the coil.

Can I wash my vape coil to make it last longer?

No. Coils contain cotton that cannot be exposed to water. Washing them will destroy the wick and cause harsh burnt hits. Once a coil begins to taste off, it must be replaced.

Should my refillable pod vape make noise?

A faint crackle or pop is normal and often indicates the coil is heating liquid correctly. Loud spitting or gurgling usually means the pod has excess liquid inside or the coil is reaching the end of its life.

Why does my device say the pod is not detected?

This usually happens when the pod contacts are wet or blocked. Remove the pod, dry both connection points thoroughly and reinsert. If the issue continues, the coil may be incorrectly seated or worn out.

If you are ready to move from disposables to a refillable vape setup, Go Smoke Free has everything you need to get started. Our collection includes reliable pod kits from OXVA, Vaporesso, Aspire and SMOK, along with a huge range of nic salts and 50/50 e liquids to pair with your device. 

Every product is sourced from trusted manufacturers and fully TPD compliant, giving you confidence in quality and safety. Whether you want something simple and beginner friendly or a device with adjustable airflow and custom power settings, Go Smoke Free offers options that fit every vaping style. Switching to a refillable vape is one of the easiest ways to save money and enjoy better flavour. Explore the range and find your new everyday kit today!