In recent years, vaping has gained immense popularity among Brits, with approximately 3.6 million individuals embracing this alternative to traditional smoking. If you're considering making the switch to vaping or simply want to explore this fascinating world, it's essential to familiarise yourself with shortfill e-liquids. This article aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of shortfills and how they can enhance your vaping experience.
Understanding Shortfill E-Liquids
Before diving into the specifics, let's clarify what e-liquids are. Also referred to as "e-juice," e-liquids are the essential component of a vape, providing both flavour and, if desired, nicotine.
In May 2017, the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) introduced stringent vaping regulations to ensure vaper safety. One of these regulations stipulated a maximum size of 10ml for e-liquids containing nicotine. To comply with these regulations, manufacturers developed shortfill e-liquids, which contain 0% nicotine. These e-liquids are sold in larger quantities, such as 50ml or 100ml, and allow users to add nicotine shots as desired.
Deciphering the Flavour-Vapour Ratio
Vapers often have different preferences when it comes to e-liquids: some prioritise flavour, while others focus on producing thick vapour clouds. It's crucial to understand that e-liquids consist of four main ingredients: vegetable glycerine (VG), propylene glycol (PG), food-grade flavourings, and optional nicotine. VG contributes to dense vapour production, while PG, along with flavourings, provides the unique taste.
How to Use Shortfill E-Liquids
Using shortfill e-liquids is incredibly straightforward. After purchasing a nicotine shot, which is separate from the shortfill, simply add it to the shortfill bottle. Shake the bottle vigorously to ensure proper mixing, and allow the liquid to settle for a few minutes. If desired, you can also explore nicotine salt shots, which deliver a stronger throat hit and blend more effectively with shortfills.
Perfecting the Mix: How to Calculate Nicotine Strength
To achieve the desired nicotine strength in your e-liquid mix, you may need to perform a few calculations. Factors to consider include the quantity of your e-liquid, the strength of the nicotine shot, and the number of shots used. Fortunately, online shortfill calculators are available, simplifying this process and providing accurate results in seconds.
Factors Affecting E-Liquid Consumption
The duration a bottle of e-liquid lasts varies depending on multiple factors. These include the frequency of vaping, the length of each inhalation, and the type of device used. Similar to how households differ in their usage of olive oil, vapers experience varying rates of e-liquid consumption.
Unravelling the Nicotine Dilemma
Not all e-liquid nicotine is created equal. Two main types exist: freebase nicotine and nicotine salts. Freebase nicotine, the traditional form, remains popular in e-liquids. On the other hand, nicotine salts offer a smoother throat hit and faster absorption into the bloodstream, making them a preferred choice for many former smokers.
Choosing the Right Nicotine Strength
The appropriate nicotine strength depends on personal preference and smoking history. Common strengths range from 3mg to 20mg. Beginners or light smokers may opt to start with 3mg and gradually increase the strength until they find their comfort zone.
Exploring E-Liquid Options
E-liquids come in various formulations, each catering to different preferences. High VG e-liquids, with a VG-to-PG ratio of 30:70, produce voluminous vapour clouds. For a balanced experience, a 50:50 VG-to-PG ratio strikes a harmonious blend of vapour and flavour. DIY enthusiasts may choose concentrates for creating custom flavours, while CBD liquids offer the benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects.
Vaping with Confidence
As you embark on your vaping journey, keep these tips in mind:
- Opt for PG-heavy shortfills if you desire a stronger throat hit.
- Consider nicotine salts for smoother throat hits.
- Shake your shortfills thoroughly to ensure consistent flavour distribution.
- Clean your tank before switching e-liquids to prevent flavour mixing.
- Store your e-liquids in a cool, dry place for optimal preservation.
At Rolling Refills, we provide an extensive range of shortfill e-liquids to elevate your vaping experience. Explore our collection and discover the perfect blend that suits your preferences. Remember to always vape responsibly and enjoy a safe and enjoyable vaping journey.
