Why Does My Disposable Vape Taste Burnt? A Complete Guide to Causes, Internal Structure, and How to (Unofficially) Replace the Coil

Disposable vapes have taken the UK market by storm in recent years. Known for their convenience, affordability, and sleek design, they’ve become a go-to choice for new and seasoned vapers alike. However, there’s one unpleasant experience that nearly every user encounters sooner or later: a harsh, burnt taste.

So what’s causing it? Is your device faulty, or is it something you’re doing wrong? More importantly—can anything be done to fix it?

In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore:

• Why disposable vapes start to taste burnt
• The internal structure of a disposable vape
• Practical tips to extend your vape’s lifespan
• A DIY method to replace the coil and wick (not recommended for beginners)

Let’s dive in.

1. What Is a Disposable Vape?

A disposable vape is a pre-filled, ready-to-use e-cigarette device designed for single use. Once the e-liquid or battery runs out, you simply dispose of the entire device.

Key Features:

• Pre-filled with e-liquid (usually 2ml to 15ml)
• Built-in, non-rechargeable battery (though some allow recharging)
• Integrated coil and wick—non-replaceable by design
• No buttons or settings—just inhale to activate
• Offers a fixed number of puffs (usually between 300 and 5000, depending on brand and size)

2. Internal Structure of a Disposable Vape

Although it looks simple from the outside, a disposable vape has a fairly intricate internal design.

Main Components:

✅ Outer Shell

Usually made from aluminium alloy or food-grade plastic. It protects the internal parts and often features branding or colour indicators.

✅ Battery

Typically a lithium-ion cell ranging from 280mAh to 1000mAh. Once it’s drained, the device becomes unusable unless it supports USB charging.

✅ E-Liquid Tank

A sealed pod filled with flavoured nicotine e-liquid (usually 20mg/ml nicotine salt in the UK). It cannot be refilled.

✅ Coil (Atomiser)

A small heating element that vaporises the e-liquid. The coil is surrounded by a cotton wick that soaks up the liquid. Most disposable vapes use ceramic or mesh coils with pre-packed organic cotton.

✅ Airflow System

Guides air from the mouthpiece through the coil to produce vapour. Some devices offer adjustable airflow, but most are fixed.

✅ Mouthpiece

Where you inhale from. Usually integrated into the top shell, designed for a comfortable mouthfeel.

3. Why Does Your Disposable Vape Taste Burnt?

There are several common reasons a disposable vape can start tasting burnt. Here’s a breakdown:

1. E-Liquid Has Run Out

This is the most common cause. When there’s no liquid left to saturate the wick, the coil starts to heat dry cotton—resulting in a burnt, acrid taste.

Symptoms:

• Sudden bitter or harsh taste

• Reduced vapour output

• Dry feeling at the back of your throat

What to do:

• Don’t try to “squeeze out the last puff”—just replace the device.

2. Chain Vaping (Puffing Too Frequently)

Taking repeated puffs without giving the coil time to re-saturate leads to dry hits, which degrade the wick and produce that unmistakable burnt flavour.

Tip:

• Give it at least 15–30 seconds between puffs to allow the wick to reabsorb e-liquid.

3. Poor Quality E-Liquid or Thick Formulations

Some brands use overly sweetened or poorly formulated liquids. These can caramelise or leave gunk on the coil, leading to premature burning.

Solution:

• Choose reputable UK-compliant brands with quality control and TPD certification.

4. High Temperatures or Sun Exposure

Leaving your vape in a hot car or under direct sunlight can thin the liquid or cause it to evaporate, leaving the wick dry and vulnerable to burning.

Advice:

• Store your vape in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving it in hot pockets or near radiators.

5. Coil Degradation

Over time, even if the e-liquid hasn’t run out, the coil can become oxidised or the wick degraded. This is more likely on higher puff models (3000+ puffs) that are used for weeks.

Sign:

• Flavour begins to change or become muted, then shifts to a burnt taste.

Solution:

• Consider replacing the device even if there’s still liquid inside—it’s likely no longer functioning properly.

4. Can You Replace the Coil in a Disposable Vape?

The Official Answer: No

Disposable vapes are not built for maintenance. The coil and tank are sealed inside the casing, and manufacturers don’t expect or recommend users to tamper with them.

However…

The DIY Answer: It’s Possible (But Risky)

Some experienced vapers have developed ways to disassemble disposable devices, replace the wick or even refill the tank. This isn’t safe or easy and can lead to:

• Battery damage or short-circuiting

• E-liquid leaks

• Fire hazard or chemical exposure

• Voided warranties and no consumer protections

Disclaimer: This DIY method is strictly for educational purposes and not recommended for general users.

5. How to (Unofficially) Replace the Wick in a Disposable Vape

If you’re curious or want to try salvaging a partially used device, here’s a step-by-step guide.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Precision screwdriver or small flat tool

• Tweezers

• Tissue or cotton buds

• Fresh organic cotton

• Optional: spare e-liquid (matching flavour)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Open the Vape

• Carefully pry off the mouthpiece or bottom cap using your tool.

• Slide out the internal components (battery, coil, tank).

 Step 2: Remove the Old Wick

• Use tweezers to remove the burnt cotton from the coil.

• Be gentle to avoid breaking the heating wire.

Step 3: Clean the Coil

• Gently wipe the coil with a dry cotton bud or tissue.

• If you notice carbon build-up, carefully scrape it off.

 Step 4: Insert New Wick

• Twist a small piece of organic cotton and thread it through the coil.

• Make sure it fits snugly—not too tight or too loose.

Step 5: Saturate With E-Liquid

• Drip a few drops of e-liquid onto the wick until it’s fully soaked.

• Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb properly.

Step 6: Reassemble the Device

• Put all components back in the shell and snap the cover on.

• Test with a gentle puff—if it tastes clean, you’ve succeeded!

6. How to Know When Your Disposable Vape Is Finished

Since most disposables don’t have a battery or liquid indicator, you’ll need to look for physical signs:

7. Tips to Extend the Life of Your Disposable Vape

Although disposable vapes are meant for short-term use, these tips can help you get the most out of them:

✅ Puff Slowly and Steadily

Avoid quick or deep inhales. Smooth, measured draws reduce the risk of dry hits.

✅ Take Breaks Between Puffs

Let the wick reabsorb liquid after each puff, especially on smaller models.

✅ Don’t Store in Hot Places

Heat accelerates liquid evaporation and battery degradation.

✅ Stand Upright When Not in Use

Helps prevent leaks and keeps the wick fully saturated.

✅ Buy Quality Brands

Look for UK-legal brands with TPD compliance and consistent performance.

8. Conclusion: Burnt Taste Doesn’t Always Mean It’s Over

Disposable vapes offer a fuss-free vaping experience, but they’re not immune to issues. The burnt taste is usually a sign that the e-liquid is finished or the wick has degraded.

The good news? You can avoid this unpleasant experience by:

• Knowing when to stop using the device

• Avoiding chain vaping

• Keeping your vape cool and upright

And if you’re handy and curious, you can even try replacing the coil—though we recommend that only for experienced users.

In the end, treat disposables as what they are: temporary, convenient solutions for vaping on the go. But with the right knowledge, you can make each one last just a little bit longer—and taste a whole lot better.