Sasquatch you didn't say what ohm coils you are using.If you are using a low ohm coil 1.5-1.8 you will get a hotter vape 2.0-3.0 ohm will give you a cooler vape. On your liquids you may have to let them age for a week or two in order for them to be like what is at the vape shop.On using a lower nicotine you may have to vape more in order to get the same amount of nicotine in order to curb your cravings. This is what I have figured out while I have been reducing my nicotine level down from 12mg/ml to 1mg/ml.There is a lot of knowledge here on ECF that can get you over this hump don't give up my friend.