How to Refill a Vape: Guide for Tanks, Pods, and Pens
Jessica Tyson
25/02/2025 • 5 min readRefilling your e-cigarette or vape device is a key skill for maintaining consistent flavour and performance. Whether you’re using a vape tank, pod, or pen, knowing the correct way to refill can prevent leaks and spills while ensuring you get the most out of your e-liquid. This guide walks you through the step-by-step process for each device type, helping you refill like a pro.
Preparing to Refill
Before refilling your vape device, make sure you have the following:
- A vape device with a refillable tank or pod
- E-liquid of your choice
- A vape juice bottle with a dropper or nozzle
- A few drops of e-liquid to prime the coil (optional)
It’s also a good idea to read the user manual for your device and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for refilling. Additionally, make sure to clean and maintain your device regularly to ensure optimal performance and flavour.
By preparing properly, you can avoid common pitfalls like leaks and spills, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable vaping experience every time.
How to Fill a Vape Tank with E-liquid for the First Time
Filling a vape tank for the first time may seem intimidating, but it’s simple once you understand your tank’s design. Vape tanks, commonly used in sub-ohm devices, come in two styles: Top-fill and bottom-fill. Identifying whether your tank unscrews from the top or bottom is the first step.
Browse sub-ohm devicesTo fill your tank, start by detaching it from the device. If it’s a top-fill tank, unscrew the top cap to reveal the fill port or filling port; for bottom-fill tanks, unscrew the bottom cap instead. Tilt the tank at a slight angle and pour the e-liquid along the inner wall, ensuring the liquid doesn’t enter the central airflow tube. Once filled, secure the cap tightly to avoid leaks. Let the tank sit for five to ten minutes so the coil can absorb the liquid properly, ensuring smooth performance and rich flavour.
For the best results, use a needle-nose bottle or dropper for precision and avoid overfilling to prevent spills. Additionally, always check the O-rings to confirm they’re in place, as they play a crucial role in creating a leak-proof seal.
How to Refill Vape Pods
Pod systems are compact and beginner-friendly, making them a popular choice for those new to vaping. Refillable pods feature a dedicated fill port, typically covered by a silicone plug, designed for easy access.
See all refillable podsTo refill a pod, start by removing it from the device. Locate the silicone plug, usually found on the side or bottom of the pod, and gently lift or slide it aside to reveal the fill port. Insert the nozzle of your e-liquid bottle into the port and fill the pod slowly, leaving a small air gap to accommodate liquid expansion. Once filled, securely replace the plug and reinsert the pod into the device.
To optimise performance, use e-liquids with the recommended PG/VG ratio specified by the manufacturer. Clean any spills on the pod to prevent sticky connections, and remember not to overfill, as pod systems have limited capacity and can leak if overfilled.
How to Refill a Vape Pen
Vape pens, often used for nicotine or CBD vaping, are a type of e-cig known for their simplicity. These devices typically have a small, tank-like reservoir or refillable cartridge. To refill, detach the tank or cartridge from the battery section of the pen. If you’re using a refillable cartridge, unscrew the mouthpiece or cap to expose the filling chamber.
Slowly insert the e-liquid into the cartridge, ensuring it doesn’t enter the central tube or coil, which can lead to flooding. Once filled, reassemble the pen by attaching the tank or cartridge back to the battery, making sure all components are secure but not overtightened.
Choosing the right e-liquid is crucial for vape pens, as their lower power output often works best with higher nicotine strengths or specific VG/PG ratios. Regular cleaning of your vape pen is also important to maintain its performance and prevent residue build-up.
General Tips for Refilling Vape Devices
Before refilling any device, always turn it off to avoid accidental activation during the process. Prepare a clean, flat surface to work on to reduce the chance of spills or messes. Selecting a high-quality e-liquid that matches your device’s specifications is also important. Following expert vaping advice can also help you avoid common pitfalls and enhance your vaping experience, and, be sure to pay attention to nicotine strength and flavour compatibility with your coil and wattage settings.
To prevent leaks, avoid overfilling and always leave a small air gap in your tank, pod, or cartridge. Check seals, gaskets, and O-rings for wear and replace them as needed to ensure a proper seal. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning your tank or pod and priming new coils, will enhance flavour delivery and extend the lifespan of your device.
Refill Like a Pro
The way you refill a vape device may vary depending on whether you’re using a tank, pod, or pen, but the process is straightforward when approached with care. By following the proper steps and tips for each device type, you can ensure a leak-free and flavourful vaping experience. And, as always, a little bit of routine maintenance and the right e-liquid choices further enhance performance, making your vaping journey hassle-free and enjoyable.