- How do e-cigarettes work?
- Are electronic cigarettes safe?
- Disposable vs. rechargeable
- How do I choose the best e-cigarette?
- What are the benefits of e-cigs?
- How much money can I save?
- What’s inside e-cig liquid and vapor?
Other General Information
Where can I use e-cigarettes?
Unlike traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes produce no harmful smoke or odors and are not heavily regulated like tobacco products (yet). The rules vary by state, but currently e-cigs are allowed almost everywhere, including in non-smoking establishments. As the debate continues, rules and regulations are sure to change, so please follow our “News & Discussion Blog” for news and updates.
* For the latest rules and regulations in the United States – CLICK HERE
Do I have to be 18 years or older?
When it comes to the debate about electronic cigarettes, one area that both sides can agree on is that they should not be available to minors. While many states have no restrictions (yet), a growing number of states are adopting new legislation that prevents the sale of e-cigs to anyone under 18.
Currently, the following states have specific laws in-place to prevent the sale of electronic cigarettes to minors: AL, AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, IL, IN, KS, MA, MD, MN, MS, NE, NH, NJ, NY, SC, TN, UT, WA, WI, WY
* Updated: 2/27/14
How long will the battery last?
Battery life will vary based upon the brand and battery model you choose, but generally, most e-cigarette suppliers will provide a standard battery that lasts 150 to 200 puffs – equivalent to about one pack of cigarettes. Many companies also provide extended versions that will last longer, but these are also larger and move beyond the size of traditional cigarettes.
Life wise, most rechargeable e-cigs include lithium-ion batteries and should last anywhere from 250 to 350 charges. How long it actually lasts depends on the amount you vape and the frequency you’re required to recharge. For regular users, 4 to 6 months is about average.
How long does it take to recharge the battery?
Typically, it takes about 1 to 2 hours to recharge an e-cigarette battery (depending on the product.)
What’s the difference between automatic and manual batteries?
Every e-cigarette brand offers automatic batteries. This is the easiest way to use your electronic cigarette, just take a puff and a computer chip will activate the atomizer and produce the vapor. Although the vapor production is sufficient for some users, most automatic batteries will require you to take a long ‘priming puff’ (or two) to build a stronger, thicker vapor. Afterwards, all subsequent puffs will remain strong and you can continue using your e-cig as normal.
A manual battery gives you more control by allowing you to heat the liquid prior to inhaling. Normally, it’s as simple as pressing a small button on top of the battery, quickly producing a thicker, more satisfying vapor. Generally, manual batteries are ideal for heavy smokers or serious vapers looking for the strongest vapor production. If you can deal with a few priming puffs or aren’t overly concerned about super strong vapor, then an automatic battery should be fine.
How long can I expect a cartridge to last?
Most standard e-cig cartridges are equivalent to one to two pack of cigarettes. How long the cartridge actually lasts depends on your vaping habits. You can replace the cartridge after it runs out with a fresh cartridge, or you can refill the cartridge with e-liquid or ‘smoke juice.’ As you get into more advanced devices with tanks and ‘clearomizers’, each refill will last significantly longer.
What’s the difference between ‘PG’ and ‘VG’ based liquids?
If you’re shopping for e-cigs, you’ve probably read about the different liquids being used by each company. E-liquids are generally made up of four ingredients: water, nicotine, flavoring, and VG (vegetable glycerin) or PG (propylene glycol). Some use VG or PG, while others use a combination.
Vegetable glycerin (VG) is a thick liquid derived from vegetable / plant oils and is considered completely natural and safe. It gives your e-cig a slightly sweet flavor and creates extremely large amounts of vapor. It also produces a softer, smoother throat hit that users may or may not prefer.
Propylene glycol (PG), by comparison, is very thin and chemically created in a lab. It’s used in thousands of consumer products, is FDA-approved and is generally considered safe, but there have been random reports of negative reactions, often allergic in nature. Known to produce a great throat hit, PG is preferred by some users because of it’s stronger feeling and richer flavor.
Because each base has slightly different qualities, the right one for you will depend on your personal preference. Some people prefer VG-based liquids, while others prefer PG. Most companies use a combination of both to appeal to the broadest range of customers.