Feeling Quite Old..any advice?

[2pksAday]

I've been using the CE4 clearo's (2.4 ohm) on and off these past 12 months and while I was getting a 'decent' throat hit off them, I was never able to produce much 'vapor'. Sometimes I felt like I was just sucking air...other times I felt like I was sucking and sucking, and not getting anything.
The kit came with a standard voltage ego style battery. I'm not sure what mAh rating it has. I'm guessing it is 650mAh/3.2v...they came with the kit (two of them)

As a result, I kept going back to smoking. I'm a heavy, 2 pack a day, smoker
For me, even though I obviously have a 'nicotine' addiction, trying to quit smoking has been more psychological in that, you can pump me full of nicotine every day, but not having those other aspects of smoking such as the 'smoke' and the 'something in my hand' and that initial 'drag' first thing in the morning, that is what I MISS the most. Hoping I am making sense?

Anyways, Up until about 3 weeks ago I THOUGHT resistance (ohm) ratings on coils were chosen based on one's smoking habits, the lower resistance for those who smoked less than a pack, higher resistance for those that smoked more than a pack a day.

Needless to say, when I found out a few weeks ago that the ohm resistance has nothing to do with this, I quickly TOSSED the CE4's that I had, they were all 2.4 ohm, thinking that this was the reason why I wasn't getting much vapor action.

I bought 3 of the Aspire CE5 BDC clearomizers. I liked the idea that the coils were replaceable. The ones that I ordered came with 1.8ohm BDC coils.

HOLY SMOKES! The difference is pretty amazing. Much more vapor, no leaking problems, my CE4 were notorious for leaking) Overall I'm happy with these.


My question, because I'm using these bottom dual coils at 1.8ohm, am I messing up the standard ego battery that I am using with them?
I certainly don't want to blow myself up...or mess up my batteries. I have two of them and they last for a long time before needing to be charge, but I heard (or read somewhere) that you should using anything lower than a 2.2ohm with a standard volt ego battery.
Is this correct?

I really like the Aspire CE5 using the BDC 1.8ohm coils. I did buy the 2.1 ohm BVC (bottom vertical coil) to try but they don't work very good, very little vapor, not much hit much like what i was experience with the CE4 clearomizer, 2.4 ohm so I'm no longer using those.

Is it advisable, if I plan to continue using the 1.8ohm coils, that I should to switch to a variable battery?

Any and all advice would be greatly welcomed..I'm feeling quite old these days not knowing what the hell I'm doing. I know that the Aspire CE5 BDC clearo is probably very basic compared to what most people use, but it does what I need it to do....I just want to make sure though that I'm doing it safely and not in jeopardy of blowing up my battery.
I really feel confident that with the help of my e-cigg, I can finally quit smoking. I've been smoking for alost 30 years now..started when I was 14 years old..and like I mentioned, I'm up to approx. 1 1/2 - 2 packs a day.

 

[e-pipeman]

Hmmm. I like ego batteries and have used low resistance atomisers on them. It's not the best solution and isn't very good for the battery.

Low resistance attys are very good, however. As you've noticed you will get more vape compared to standard resistance at the same voltage.

A very cheap and reliable upgrade would be to get an iStick with an Aspire Nautilus Mini and some 1.8ohm bvc coils. You'll be amazed at the battery life and improved vapour. Also try using liquids with more vg in the mix. Good luck!

 

[Susan~S]

Hello and welcome to the forum. Glad to have you here!

Dual coils require more power than single coils to get a great vape. You won't blow yourself up but they put more stress on the battery. A variable v/w battery would work much better.

Below is what I recommend to new vapers or someone looking to upgrade.

================

If you are looking for an upgraded setup here are some possible options for you to consider:

A variable v/w (twist/spinner) is usually recommended over a "non variable" v/w battery. It allows you to adjust your settings to get a better "vape". Some flavors taste better at higher voltages than 3.7v

1. JoyeTech Ego-C Twist
2. Vision Spinner
3. Innokin iTaste vv v3 (or the new vv v4 - 750mah or 1000mah)
4. Innokin iTaste MVP v2 (or even better an MVP 20 watt) => Great price on the new MVP 20 watt (good until 1/16/15) $29.99
5. eLeaf iStick

The first 3 are fall into the "ego style" category of battery (with variable voltage). They range in size from 600mah to 1300mah. The higher the mah the longer the battery will last between charging.

The 4th & 5th ones are a step up from an "ego style" battery in that they are smaller variable v/w box mods with a very big battery (2400-2600mah). It will last many vapers a whole day before it needs recharging. The MVP is probably one of the most popular batteries for someone upgrading from an "ego style" battery. The iStick is also very popular.

I suggest buying only name brand Joyetech Twist or Vision Spinner ego batteries if you choose to go this route. BTW, "ego" is merely a type of battery, not a brand name. Buying "generic" ego batteries is always going to be hit or miss...mostly miss.

You will also need to purchase a tank (the juice attachment) and extra coils. The mini or full size Nautillus, mini Aerotank or regular size Aerotank (all made of glass & all have adjustable airflow control) are very popular. Personally, I love the the Aspire Nautilus with the new BVC's (bottom vertical coils). Just a notation regarding the BVC's. There are two different ones. Make sure and purchase the BVC's meant for the Nautilus (if you should decide to go this route).

 

[2pksAday]

Thank you so much for the quick reply..
It's funny that you mentioned the iStick, I was actually looking at purchasing the Eleaf iStick 20w. they have been in my shopping cart for about a week now. I was unsure though if I really needed to buy one or if I could just continue using my standard v battery.
I use different flavors of e-liquid, generally staying with a 80vg20pg ratio or 5050 ratio w 18mgs nicotine. I do agree with you that the higher VG does give off more vapor.

There are so many VV and VW batteries out there, it's hard to determine which one to buy. I mean, eventually, they will all have to be replaced. If I can get away with buying a cheaper version that will last as long as the more expensive ones, that is what I would prefer to do.

What is the general overall battery life of a Eleaf iStick 20w before needing to be replaced with another one. I'm sure it varies depending on how much it is being used, but say if a person is using it frequently, what would you estimate it to be?

 

[Grimwald]

There is not a problem with 1.8ohm coils on a standard ego battery. You will get less battery life on a full charge, but it is within the range for an ego battery. No need to worry.

 

[Susan~S]

It's funny that you mentioned the iStick, I was actually looking at purchasing the Eleaf iStick 20w. they have been in my shopping cart for about a week now. I was unsure though if I really needed to buy one or if I could just continue using my standard v battery.

I have 3 iSticks and love them BUT you will most likely need to upgrade your tank if you are going to use them. I use my Nautilus (with the new BVC's) on my iSticks and use my Aerotanks on my MVP v2. Both tanks have airflow control.

There are a few problems with regard to the iSticks circuitry (it measures mean not RMS). I runs HOT. It is not capable of down regulating power (it is widely inaccurate, especially at lower voltages). As long as you're aware of it and don't need a battery that can output voltages between 3v and 4.2 volts, you may like it. It does go up to 20 watts (but only using a 1.1 ohm coil).

There is a new iStick 30watt but I don't know if they made any changes in the circuitry. I am purchasing the new 50watt iStick in a group buy and it is reported that the circuitry has been changed to RMS on this one.

 

[St0rm]

I would go with the mvp 20w, the Istick can not accurately go down in volts.

You are on the right path. What nicotine is your juice?

 

[DavidOck]

Hi, 2pks, and welcome to ECF.

Single coils at 1.8 won't hurt your existing batteries, and will certainly provide more vapor, flavor and TH. Dual coils may be a bit of a strain on them, though.

I agree, anything with VV or VW will be a definite upgrade. Being able to fine tune the vape to YOUR tastes is priceless, and coils aren't always the value they're marked.

While the iStick is a dandy device with a big mAh rating, it uses mean voltage regulation, so it runs "hot", especially at lower settings. The Innokin MVP20 (or even the lower power MVP2) provides a better regulated voltage, so would possibly be better if using it / them at the low end.

Most of the batteries are rated in number of charge cycles, based on full charges, of 250 to 300 or so. So if you run it down to shut-off and fully charge daily, that's 8 to 10 months. Since you probably don't use them in that fashion, a longer time period is to be expected. And even after that, while the run time will be shorter, they're probably still going to work. The iStick hasn't been out long enough for "real world" verification, but it's the same battery tech as the others, so....

If you don't care for the box styles, the Vision Spinner II, at 1600 mAh will give you a big, long vaping device with VV. (Most, but not all, of that style are VV only. There are a couple that sport VV and VW.)

 

[sparkky1]

Your going to find that the 10.00 - 15.00$ more is well worth the investment, more vape time and not have to be limited to certain ohm coils not to mention better safety features.

Eleaf iSmoka iStick 30W Box Mod Kit

 

[2pksAday]

I would go with the mvp 20w, the Istick can not accurately go down in volts.

You are on the right path. What nicotine is your juice?

I'm using 18mgs nicotine in my eliquids. I've been using approx. 2 x 1.6 tank fulls of e-liquid each day...a little less most days plus 2-3 'real' cigarettes (can't seem to let go just yet of the real thing) Smoking 'real' cigarettes is always on the back of my mind..even though I actually prefer the taste of the e-liquid better....especially first thing in the morning and I will usually smoke my first cigarette within 5 minutes of waking up. It's been incredibly hard to give that up even though my e-cigg is sitting right there.

Thank you all for your advise, I really do appreciate it.

 

[St0rm]

Don't worry much about those last couple cigs, you have already cut back a lot! You're doing great, just keep at it and you will let go those final few when you are ready.

 

[DingerCPA]

Welcome 2pks!

I don't typically use dual coil setups, but the couple I had (iClear 16 and iClear 30) I wasn't overly fond of (but I think that's more because they're top coils, and I seem to prefer bottom coils)

The 1.8ohm coils should be fine on your current setup, but you'll probably notice the battery needing recharged a touch more often. I'm an MVP fan (I have 3) because it's got great battery life compared to my original stick batteries. So, picking a different rig always means something different for everyone.

That you're still having those 2 or 3 smokes a day - don't crucify yourself over that. Look at how many you're NOT smoking. You've dropped NINETY PERCENT!!!! That's HUGE!!! And for that, congratulations!!!!! The time likely will come that you'll kinda forget about those last few, and then you'll be smoke-free. Yes, getting the right setup is very important - it's what I needed to get over my hump. You'll get there when YOU are ready

 

[philoshop]

Welcome 2pksAday!
Sounds like your ego batteries might be losing their oomph. They'll still make good backups and they've gotten you this far, but it's time for an upgrade. They do wear out. As mentioned above, something with VV and a bigger battery will make a world of difference in your enjoyment of vaping. In a couple of weeks you'll be starting a thread about upgrading the tank(s), but a decent battery will work well with what you have now.
Looking forward to to your tank upgrade post.

 

[Riff]

I am a big fan of the MVP2 even more now that it has "become more obsolete" as the price is very nice for gifting to friends looking for a step up from ego style batteries. I have a bad habit of giving an MVP 2 and Nautilus mini to friends. Okay well only 1 friend and my little brother (23 but always going to be "little" to me) but you get my point. I still have an MVP even though I usually carry my SVD. The MVP is a workhorse that just does the job so well that I could say I'll keep one as a solid back up for as long as I vape.

When it comes to tanks I'm a bit of an Aspire fanboy. I love the Nautilus and mini. I honestly prefer the mini, but both are great. just get the BVC or bottom vertical coil and go to town. I haven't really tried the BDC or bottom dual coil very much, just got my first few when I bought the full size Nautilus. So far I get some dry hits and I've never gotten those from the BVC.

 

[UnclePsyko]

First things first...
Hi 2pks, and Welcome to ECF! You came to the right place, let me tell ya!
All the advice above is excellent advice. I agree with everyone that it sounds like you are serious about getting away from the smokes and are ready to graduate to something a little more advanced and efficient! I loved my MVP and can recommend it... but I hear great things about the others as well.

I'm using 18mgs nicotine in my eliquids.

If you don't feel like your getting the satisfaction at 18, getting a few juices at 24mg isn't a bad thing! When you need the boost, then bump it up to 24mg for a while. The first battle to win here is the smokes, not the nic! Many of us started out at 24mg. When it starts to feel too strong, back down to 18... then to 12... etc.
And... don't get down on yourself for having a few cigs, not a big deal at this point. Do this at your pace!

Smoking 'real' cigarettes is always on the back of my mind..even though I actually prefer the taste of the e-liquid better....especially first thing in the morning and I will usually smoke my first cigarette within 5 minutes of waking up. It's been incredibly hard to give that up even though my e-cigg is sitting right there.

Thank you all for your advise, I really do appreciate it.

There is something called WTA... (Whole Tobacco Alkaloid). It's an ejuice that contains a few other compounds found in cigarettes that many people found extremely helpful for the first couple months... I'm one of them. Some people swear by it, others don't think it's a good idea, something to think about.
There are many other chemicals in tobacco smoke that are also addictive on top of the nicotine and you will feel that craving for a while until your body adjusts to not getting them.
Here's a link to some information about WTA if it interests you...
http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/general-e-liquid-discussion/230570-wta-e-liquid-issues.html
Once you settle on a device and atomizer combo that really works for you, a handful of juices that you really like, it starts to get much easier!
Good luck from a former 1.5 - 2 pack a day smoker!

 

[scottymarchbanks]

Man I got the Aspire Atlantis tank with the Aspire CF Sub Ohm batt...with 0.5 ohm bvc coils..its ready when u are..as hard or as light as u need...def start using tobacco blends..I started with cowboy blend when I started vaping...3 months and counting..no cigs...yeehaw..

 

[Racehorse]

I'm using 18mgs nicotine in my eliquids. I've been using approx. 2 x 1.6 tank fulls of e-liquid each day...a little less most days plus 2-3 'real' cigarettes (can't seem to let go just yet of the real thing)

You are actually a pretty "light" vaper, also considering that you are using non VV batteries.

I suspect you would appreciate VV, and a delivery device/clearo that gives you a *little more*. I suspect you willl be able to forgo those few cigarettes if you did this.

I really do not think you need to up your nicotine level.

No need to get *real* fancy. Most of the suggestions for a spinner, mvp2, eleaf, or even joyetech twists would be an *upgrade* for you.

You might also consider getting a little VV "mod" with replaceable loose batts.......and a charger. That way, you will not have to worry so much about end of life with your gear.

Decide if you want your mod to be shaped like a tube, or a box. That is first.

 

[2pksAday]

I just came on a posted a new thread..didn't realize there were additional replies to my thread from this morning...
I took the PLUNGE!! of course, I kept my clothes on, haha..

I bought the MVP 20W
Actually I bought two of them, lmao...I couldn't pass up the $29.95 price tag on each one (with coupon code) at the vapor beast website.
I also 'upgraded' to the Aspire Vivi Nova-S Glass Version Clearomizer. It's almost twice as big as the Aspire CE5, and this one is glass with the metal sleeve, so I'm thinking I may even get a better 'flavor' using this new glass-omizer ??

I will be sure to come back on when my new MVP's come in and let you know how they do...

if anyone has any additional advice, perhaps advance instructions that I should know about when using the MVP, again, I would be very grateful.

I am so looking forward, to one of these days, being able to say, NO, I do NOT smoke! but I'm thrilled that, after almost 30 years of smoking 2 packs a day, I am able to cut back to 3 ciggs a day without the anxiety I would normally have if not for 'vaping'

(((HUGS))) you guys are awesome!

 

[DavidOck]

Do get some extra heads / coils for your toppers. They do go bad over time, so have some on hand.

Yes, good price on a good device

 

[2pksAday]

Do get some extra heads / coils for your toppers. They do go bad over time, so have some on hand.

Yes, good price on a good device

Hi David,
After being a lurker on this forum for many months and reading up a lot of the threads, I have come to learn many things...one of which is to ALWAYS make sure to have spare parts, including coils, tanks and batteries.