How should you puff an e-cigarette? – A friendly guide for anyone vaping for the first time
If you're reading this blog, you're probably preparing to vape for the first time – or you're switching from traditional tobacco cigarettes to e-cigarettes. For most people, this process feels both exciting and unfamiliar: Why doesn't vaping feel like a "real cigarette"? Why do I cough when I inhale? How do I use the device? How do I refill the e-liquid? These are perfectly normal questions – you're definitely not alone.
As a brand deeply involved in the vaping experience and working with products and users daily, we understand that feeling of uncertainty that comes with trying something new. This blog isn't meant to overwhelm you with complicated technical terms. Think of it more like a conversation between friends – someone explaining everything they wish they'd known when first encountering an e-cigarette. The goal is to provide you with the smoothest, most pleasant introduction to vaping possible – without coughing, frustration, or unanswered questions.
Are you on the go? Here we'll clarify whether you Using an e-cigarette while driving You may.
If you feel unwell, read more about it here. Headaches when vaping and the nicotine strength.
Why you shouldn't inhale from a vape like you would from a traditional cigarette
Many people switching from conventional cigarettes initially inhale very deeply, quite automatically. After all, that's exactly how a tobacco cigarette works: the harder you inhale, the faster the tobacco burns, and the more intense the aroma and throat hit become. This logic makes perfect sense in the world of tobacco cigarettes – they are essentially a "the harder you inhale, the harder it burns" system.
But with e-cigarettes, it's completely different.
A vape doesn't automatically produce more vapor just because you inhale harder. On the contrary, if you inhale too hard, the exact opposite can happen – a burnt taste, leaking e-liquid, or that slight gurgling sound that usually indicates too much e-liquid has entered the coil. This doesn't mean your device is broken – it's simply how an e-cigarette works. The device heats e-liquid to produce vapor, and if you inhale too forcefully, too much e-liquid floods the atomizer before it can be fully vaporized.
So if you're used to smoking, the biggest adjustment will actually be your puffing technique. Think more about... gently, slowly, evenly instead of strong and with a lot of pull. This softer draw results in a calmer, more pleasant vapor, reduces throat irritation, and makes it significantly easier for you to get started with vaping.
What components belong to an e-cigarette?
Before you take your first puff, it helps a lot to understand what's inside the device and how it works. Even though the different models of
An e-cigarette consists of a Device (the main device), which contains the battery and control electronics – essentially the "heart" of your vape. Connected to this is a Pod, in which the liquid is located. Some pods are pre-filled, others can be refilled multiple times. The Liquid The vapor itself is the component that, after being absorbed into the cotton, is heated and converted into vapor. If you have a Kit If you have purchased the device, the device and pods are usually already included together in a set – ideal for beginners.If you have a rechargeable vape If you use it, you will also need a charging cable to to supply power to the battery Vapes do not "burn" on their own like cigarettes; they are entirely dependent on electrical energy.
Knowing what each part is responsible for makes you feel much more confident when using it for the first time – and the behavior of your device suddenly becomes much more understandable.
How do you inhale from a vape correctly?
This guide covers the most common beginner mistakes – and shows you how to avoid them. If you follow these steps, you'll find that vaping is much easier than it initially seems.
Step 1: Read the instructions – it's really worth it.
Every device has its own way of being started, operated, and maintained. Taking just a minute to read the instruction manual can save you a lot of unnecessary problems and ensure your device functions reliably for longer.
Step 2: Keep your battery charged (if you are using a disposable battery, you can ignore this step)
The battery level affects vapor production. If the battery is almost empty, the vapor can be thin, weak, or even slightly harsh on the throat. For a consistent experience, it's advisable to vape with a higher battery level.
Step 3: Make sure everything is assembled correctly.
Is the pod properly inserted? Is the device fully connected? If anything is loose, it can lead to leakage or insufficient heating. After inserting the pod, gently press or twist it to ensure it's securely in place.
Step 4: After filling, let the cotton wool "rest" for 5 minutes.
With open-system vapes like the ELFX Series After filling the pod with e-liquid, you should allow the cotton about 5 minutes to become fully saturated. If you inhale too soon, a burnt taste may occur.
In closed pod systems like the ELFA Series The whole thing is simpler: Pre-filled pods are simply replaced once they are empty. ELFA Refillable Pods However, you can fill it yourself with your favorite flavor. The only important thing is: you have to buy the liquid separately.
Step 5: Learn how to start your device
Some devices are activated by a button, others work with automatic pull activation. Regardless of which type you use – once you understand the starting mechanism, you'll find your own rhythm much faster.
Step 6: Find the resistance that suits you
Some models – for example ELFA MASTER and ELFX PRO They offer adjustable airflow. A tight draw feels more like a classic cigarette, while a more open draw produces softer, freer vapor. There's no "right" setting – the only important thing is that it feels good to you.
The ELFA series is characterized by a lower power output of 9 to 18 watts and offers a smoother vaping experience. The ELFX series, on the other hand, offers a higher power output of 30 to 45 watts, resulting in more vapor production and a more intense throat hit. This is recommended for vaping beginners. ELFA base unit from the ELFA series.
Step 7: Gentle, slow, rather short puffs – the most pleasant vaping style
Think of your vape like a friend who appreciates it when you take your time. It responds best to gentle, slow inhalations – not quick, hard puffs.A draw of about 1.5 to 3 seconds usually provides the most pleasant, even vapor.
Step 8: Store your vape in a quiet, dry place.
Both excessively high and low temperatures negatively affect the quality of the e-liquid and the battery's performance. The safest way to store your device is in a shady spot at room temperature – please don't store it in a hot car or in the refrigerator. For more detailed tips on storing devices, pods, and e-liquids, please refer to our dedicated storage guide.
What types of e-cigarettes are there?
With such a wide selection on the market, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. However, all e-cigarettes can actually be divided into three main categories. Once you understand these, choosing the right one becomes much easier.
Disposable Vapes are the simplest – unpack and start vaping right away, no setup required.
Closed pod vapes as the ELFA series, Devices compatible with pre-filled pods offer an easier entry into vaping and are therefore ideal for beginners. Certain models feature multiple adjustable parameters, providing more scope for a personalized vaping experience.
Open-system vapes as the ELFX Series They are particularly flexible – you can fill them with different liquids, continue using the device and adjust the desired draw strength.
If you're completely new to vaping, you'll probably start with Disposable models such as
How do you find the right vape?
A few practical tips for beginners:
Choosing a vape isn't actually that difficult. The most important thing is what you like and what feels comfortable with. The following considerations will help you reach a suitable decision more quickly – and find a device that truly fits your habits.
First, you should consider how simple you want it to be. If you just want to pick up your device and start vaping immediately, disposables or pod systems are probably ideal. However, if you prefer more control and customization, an open-system device will suit you better.
Next, we'll discuss nicotine strength. It can be high (20 mg/ml), low (10 mg/ml), or completely nicotine-free – depending on how strong you want the throat hit to be and whether you're switching from tobacco cigarettes.
And finally: Discover the world of flavors! Do you prefer something more intense? Fresher? Sweeter?
Here are some of our most popular varieties.If you're not sure where to start, these flavors are a great starting point for your e-cigarette journey:
- Blue Razz Lemonade: A fruity blend of blue raspberries and a tangy, sour lemonade
- menthol: Cool, fresh and clear – like a gentle breeze with every breath
- Pineapple Ice: Tropical sweetness with an icy finish for a truly invigorating effect.
- Strawberry Raspberry Cherry Ice: A trio of berry varieties, rounded off with a cool, creamy iced note.
- Watermelon: Juicy, refreshing watermelon – summery, light and simply satisfying.
