Refilling Cartomizers: Condom Method versus Popping the cap off and filling it by the sides.

[Nutsnbolts]

I see how easy the condom method is, actually, both are relatively easy but the method of popping the cap off, people have stated that they should be careful not to get the juice/e-liquid into the inner tube that sits between the filler in a cartomizer.

The condom method obviously will flow some juice into that inner tube/hole so is there a right and wrong way with any of these two methods?

I would think that the one with popping the cap off would be the preferable because you're not getting it into the inner tube/hole but then again, it's not like you can't blow into the hole to clear it out if you use the condom method.

So....any comments regarding any of the two methods?

 

[chuckle_berry]

Sort of a newbie but its not like ecigs are rocket surgery. IMO condom filling is horribly messy and a total waste of ejuice. Not too difficult or time consuming to pop off the cap and drop 20 drops in.

 

[Nutsnbolts]

The condom method didn't look messy. Of course if you put too much liquid but that's the case with any refilling methods. Either way, you're right, it's not rocket science but there is or usually there is a right and wrong way. Honestly, I think it's user preference but the reason I'm asking this question is that there is a tube inside between the fiber and was wondering why after filling it through the condom method, you can just blow it out etc...

 

[Redbone]

Well, blowing juice out after using the condom method certainly will be messy and will waste some juice. I used the method about twice before I went to just popping the cap off and filling it thru the sides of the carto. Much cleaner and you can actually see when its saturated and ready to go. No blowing juice all over the place and no waste of juice.

 

[Nutsnbolts]

Makes sense and so far with the response, I did fill my first KR808D-1 cartomizer and did it by popping the top off and doing what was stated. I haven't done the condom method but the videos make it look so easy.

 

[Dooter]

The condom method really IS a waste of juice. And a mess. In my opinion.

I used it up until the last couple weeks, when I realized it's just better to take your time and just drop it onto the filling around the edges.

 

[Liv2Ski]

I always Hated Condoms so no condom method for me. I drip my cartos bareback!

 

[markfm]

I use both methods. Some cartos have a hard tip, so until first cleaning the condom fill is it (I top off periodically, am not about to schlep syringes just to get the juice in the carto).

Also, condom method can be particularly good for first fill, to thoroughly fill the carto. Fill the condom about 2/3, slowly push the carto in, and just let it sit for a bit. You can then do a top-fill top-off if you choose.

In either top or condom fill, blowing out the carto onto a tissue and wiping the threads before attaching it to the battery is quick, easy. It really doesn't take long, and I use that tissue to wipe the battery-side contacts, too.

 

[Nutsnbolts]

I use both methods. Some cartos have a hard tip, so until first cleaning the condom fill is it (I top off periodically, am not about to schlep syringes just to get the juice in the carto).

Also, condom method can be particularly good for first fill, to thoroughly fill the carto. Fill the condom about 2/3, slowly push the carto in, and just let it sit for a bit. You can then do a top-fill top-off if you choose.

In either top or condom fill, blowing out the carto onto a tissue and wiping the threads before attaching it to the battery is quick, easy. It really doesn't take long, and I use that tissue to wipe the battery-side contacts, too.

That was my thought but it seems like whichever method we are lazy to perform (blowing and wiping it to a tissue) versus popping the top off, they both seem to work well...right?

Also I guess the consideration as well is whether you want to waste juice but from the videos I have seen performing the condom method there is a risk to wasting juice since you don't know how much you can fully fill a cartomizer versus dropping it one at a time.

 

[ValleyGirl]

I tried the condom method a couple of times. Maybe I did it too fast, but it just immediately came up through the center and just made a mess

Now I pop the cap, drip about 15 drops directly onto the filler (with carto at an angle), put the cap back on, "Taryn Spin" (YouTube - A double demo! The Cartomizer Condom Filling Method, and the Taryn Spin.), then pop the cap back off and add about 10 more drops. Spin again, and it's good to go.

 

[Shining]

I use the condom method but I only fill it half full instead of 3/4 full. Then I top it off. I've found that way I don't have to blow out any juice. I usually fill at night then top off the next morning before I leave for work, it lets the juice absorb in the filler better (IMO)

 

[Ardeagold]

I just use a syringe. It's so much easier and cleaner...and much less waste, for me. I pop the top off and push the needle directly into the carto filler...and go all the way around. No waiting for it to soak in all night, no getting it into the tube...nothing.

 

[Nutsnbolts]

I just use a syringe. It's so much easier and cleaner...and much less waste, for me. I pop the top off and push the needle directly into the carto filler...and go all the way around. No waiting for it to soak in all night, no getting it into the tube...nothing.

Unfortunately I don't know where to find a syringe, unless prescribed.

 

[lilhurricane]

Some suppliers carry syringes..
Personally, I got mine at my local CVS..no Rx required. They have insulin gauge ones that are kind of fine for drawing liquid up, but if I drop into them with the plunger out..they work just dandy for filling (VG or PG..no issues)

A box of 100 is about $15.00

 

[Nutsnbolts]

Some suppliers carry syringes..
Personally, I got mine at my local CVS..no Rx required. They have insulin gage ones that are kind of fine for drawing liquid up, but if I drop into them with the plunger out..they work just dandy for filling (VG or PG..no issues)

A box of 100 is about $15.00

I have to check out CVS again. I did go there but they told me about the whole having a prescription bit and then they gave me the dropper syringes.

 

[lilhurricane]

Go in with your e-cig..and show them the size of the hole


Edit: I see NJ may very well require it: http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/off-mic/item/11638-21pgsyringe
Would your Dr write you one for the purpose of using an e-cig?


From da intrawebs:

STATES THAT REQUIRE A PRESCRIPTION FOR SYRINGES ARE:

Alaska, California, Conneticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Mass, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island

 

[BsgD68]

I also drip directly onto the filler, 5 drops at a time with a couple of minutes in between. Usually get 20-25 drops in there before things get messy. I fill 5 at the same time, so I'm good for a while. Trick is once they're filled, top them up often. I use a drip tip, and just angle the juice so that it runs down the side, 2 drops every six to eight draws.

 

[ValleyGirl]

I also drip directly onto the filler, 5 drops at a time with a couple of minutes in between. Usually get 20-25 drops in there before things get messy. I fill 5 at the same time, so I'm good for a while. Trick is once they're filled, top them up often. I use a drip tip, and just angle the juice so that it runs down the side, 2 drops every six to eight draws.

Why is the "trick" to keep topping it off every 6-8 draws? Just curious...always looking to perfect my system, lol

 

[BsgD68]

Why is the "trick" to keep topping it off every 6-8 draws? Just curious...always looking to perfect my system, lol

From what I understand, you don't want the filler to dry out. It shortens the life of the carto and contributes to that "burnt" taste. The filler should always appear slushy, but at the same time, you don't want any dripping down the tube. Periodically, I'll unscrew the cartomizer and check for leakage. A quick dab with a paper towel will take care of that should it occur. Good luck!!

 

[Nutsnbolts]

Out of curiosity, how many drops can a cartomizer hold if it's completely dry?

I don't think I have burned a cartomizer yet, at least I don't sense the burnt taste but I also have a Revolver Ion (atomizer/cartridge) and I know that with the blue foam mod, I can get 20-22 drops in there before it starts to get overfilled. I have filled it several times already and always trying to push more drops in it but after trial and error, optimally, 20-22 drops is what works.

For a KR808D-1 cartomizer, how many drops before it is considered overfilled?

I actually found syringes and I'm thinking of filling it with a syringe as well but am curious about how many drops it technically can handle.