Vaping terminology and technology can be confusing at first. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about vaping in simple terms, from how it works to what’s inside your device. Knowing the ins and outs of your vape kit, coils, and juice builds a relationship between you and your gear. This is one of the many aspects that make vaping the best smoke-reduction method.
TLDR
- Vaping is the act of inhaling vapour created by an electronic cigarette (aka a ‘vape’), which heats an oil specifically designed for use in vapes.
- It works when a battery powers a heating element (atomiser) that turns a flavoured e-liquid into vapour for inhalation
- Unlike smoking, vaping does not burn tobacco to create smoke; it vaporises a liquid, which may or may not contain nicotine depending on your preference.
So, What Does ‘Vape’ Mean? An Introduction
Vaping is the act of inhaling vapour from an electronic device, commonly called an e-cigarette or vape. The word ‘vape’ is short for vaporiser and refers to both the device itself and the action of using it.
Unlike traditional cigarettes that burn tobacco to create smoke, vaping devices heat an oil (called e-liquid or vape juice) to create an inhalable vapour. This process doesn’t involve combustion, which means no smoke, ash, or lingering smell.
How Does Vaping Work? The Basic Process Explained
Understanding how vaping works is simpler than you might think. Here’s the step-by-step process:
Activation
You activate the device by pressing a button or simply inhaling on the mouthpiece (depending on your device type)
Power
The battery sends power to a heating component called an atomiser or coil, which is fixed in a position that has it submerged in e-liquid. The coil consists of a wire or mesh heating element wrapped in a wicking material and encased in a steel body with ports for wicking.
Vaporisation
The heated atomiser warms the e-liquid that’s absorbed into the wick, turning it into vapour through “atomisation” (similar to heated water turning to steam).
Inhalation
You inhale the vapour through the mouthpiece, similar to taking a puff from a cigarette but with much less harmful vapour in place of smoke from combusted plant material.
Vape Parts Explained: Core Vaping Equipment
Every refillable vape device has four essential components that work together to create vapour:
Battery/Mod
The power source of your device. It provides energy to heat the coil and can be either built into the device or removable. Batteries can be recharged via USB-C connections.
Tank/Pod
The reservoir that holds your e-liquid. It feeds the liquid to the coil and wick system. Tanks are typically refillable, while pods can be either refillable or pre-filled.
Atomiser (or Coil)
This heating element contains a metal coil – usually a wire spring or mesh wrap – wrapped in cotton. When powered, it heats up and vaporises the e-liquid absorbed by the cotton.
Mouthpiece (Drip Tip)
The part you put your lips on to inhale the vapour. These come in different shapes and materials to suit personal preference.
What Is E-Liquid? A Look Inside Your Vape
E-liquid is the flavoured liquid that gets turned into vapour. It contains just a few main ingredients:
Propylene Glycol (PG) & Vegetable Glycerin (VG)
These form the base of e-liquid. PG is thinner and carries flavour well, providing a stronger throat sensation. VG is thicker and creates the visible vapour clouds you see when exhaling. In rare instances, some people experience PG intolerance that makes most vape juices uncomfortable to inhale, but 100% VG e-liquids are available.
Flavourings
Food-grade concentrates create the taste. The variety is vast – from menthol to fruits, desserts, beverages, and candy flavours. Tobacco flavouring is unique, in that it’s commonly not synthetic and is taken from the plant itself.
Nicotine
This is optional. E-liquids come in various strengths, from high nicotine content for heavy smokers down to zero nicotine for those who enjoy vaping without it. And some e-liquids are sold at 0% nicotine with the understanding that you’ll add your own later to suit your preference.
To know more about e-liquids, read our What Is E-liquid guide.
Common Types of Vapes for Beginners
| Type of vape | Pros | Cons |
| Pre-filled pod kit | Maximum convenience Zero maintenance Puff & go | No customisation Expensive Closed system |
| Refillable Pod Vape | E-liquid/Coil choice freedom Moderately customisable E-liquid savings | Limited functionality Rarely durable Disposable pods can be costly |
| Starter Kit (traditional) | Maximum customisation Often able to be disassembled for cleaning Maximum coil savings | More complicated functions Some degree of maintenance required Not as travel-friendly |
Still not sure which one you should get? We have a more comprehensive guide about the different types of vapes.
Quick Answers for New Vapers
How long do vapes last?
Rechargeable devices can last for a year or more with proper care, though you’ll need to replace coils every 1-2 weeks and refill e-liquid as needed.
How to start vaping?
Begin with a simple device like a pod kit or starter kit. Choose an e-liquid flavour that appeals to you and select a nicotine strength based on your smoking habits (if applicable). Start with lower power settings and shorter puffs until you get comfortable. We have a how-to vape to help you out.
Are there UK-specific rules?
Yes, the UK has TPD regulations for vaping products. These include a 2ml maximum tank size, 10ml bottle limit for nicotine e-liquids, and a 20mg/ml nicotine strength cap. These rules ensure product safety and consistency. Certain limits can be exceeded by the user themselves, and it isn’t illegal to own a tank larger than 2ml or e-liquid stronger than 20mg. But it is against the law for UK retailers to supply these products.
Conclusion
Vaping is straightforward once you understand the basics. A battery powers a coil, which heats e-liquid to create vapour you can inhale. Remember the four main parts: battery, tank, atomiser, and mouthpiece. With this foundation, you’re ready to explore beginner-friendly vapes and find what works best for you. Whether you’re looking to switch from smoking or simply curious about vaping, this knowledge gives you a solid starting point.