Vaping is the act of inhaling and exhaling vapor produced by a vaping device. A liquid solution, like vape juice, is heated by a battery-powered element inside the device and converted into vapor that you inhale. There are many types of vaping devices, but they all work on the same basic principle: heat a liquid, inhale the vapor.
How Do Vaporizers Work?
Vaporizers are made up of three main parts: the housing, a battery inside the housing, and a heating element surrounded by a liquid-filled cartridge or tank. The battery powers the heating element, which heats the liquid to vaporization temperature. The resulting vapor is what you inhale. The battery can be activated by a button or an automatic draw mechanism depending on the device.
What Vaping Products Should I Buy To Get Started?
Disposable vapes are hands-down the best starting point. They come pre-filled, pre-charged, require zero maintenance, and are affordable. If you want something longer-lasting, a vape pod system is a solid next step. Pod systems have a rechargeable battery and use replaceable or integrated coils. Either way, you'll need vape juice, and we've got a massive selection from the best brands in the industry.
Vape Juice Questions
What Is Vape Juice?
Vape juice is the liquid solution used inside vaping devices. It's made from four main ingredients: propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), natural or artificial flavoring, and optionally liquid nicotine. Not all devices are compatible with all vape juice types, so it's worth knowing which type you need before you buy.
Quick tip: Salt nicotine vape juice is designed for pod systems and low-wattage devices. Freebase nicotine vape juice is better suited to sub-ohm tanks and higher-powered mods.
What Strength of Vape Juice Should I Start With?
Getting the nicotine strength right is one of the most important parts of starting out. Too low and you won't feel satisfied. Too high and it'll be uncomfortable. Here's a straightforward guide:
User Type
Freebase Nic
Salt Nic
Former smoker switching to vaping
6mg – 12mg
35mg – 50mg
New to vaping, never smoked
3mg
20mg – 35mg
Experienced vaper
3mg – 6mg
25mg – 50mg
What Types of Vape Juice Are There?
There are three main types available today, each suited to different devices and preferences:
Freebase Nicotine
The original standard e-liquid. Lower nicotine strengths, best for sub-ohm tanks and higher-powered devices.
Salt Nicotine
Higher nicotine, smoother throat hit. Designed for pod systems and low-wattage devices.
Synthetic (TFN)
Tobacco-free nicotine made synthetically. Available in both freebase and salt nic formats.
Safety & Nicotine
Is Vaping Safe?
Due to federal regulations, West Coast Vape Supply isn't permitted to make specific safety claims about vaping products. There is a significant amount of published research available online from health organizations and independent researchers. We encourage you to review those resources and make an informed decision that's right for you.
Should I Quit Smoking and Start Vaping?
Vaping was originally developed as an alternative to traditional cigarette smoking, with the goal of giving smokers a different way to get nicotine without tobacco combustion. There's a lot of research published on the web covering this topic in depth. We aren't able to make medical recommendations, but we do encourage you to look into the available studies and talk to a healthcare provider if you have questions about making the switch.
Still Have Questions?
Our support team is available Monday through Friday, 9:30am to 5:30pm PST. Reach out by email or use our contact form and we'll get back to you as quickly as we can.