Vaping has become a popular alternative to traditional smoking for many, but it comes with its own set of quirks and issues. One common problem that vapers encounter is the need to suck hard on their vape device to get a satisfying draw. This can be not only frustrating but also tiring, and understanding the root causes can help you resolve the issue and enjoy a smoother vaping experience.
1. Device – Related Factors
- Airflow Settings
Most modern vape devices come with adjustable airflow settings. These settings control the amount of air that enters the device during inhalation, which in turn affects the draw resistance. If your vape has a very restricted airflow setting, it will require you to suck harder to pull in enough air to atomize the e – liquid properly. For example, pod – based devices often have fixed, relatively tight airflow for a more mouth – to – lung draw, similar to smoking a cigarette. On the other hand, sub – ohm tanks typically have wider airflow holes, allowing for a looser draw that requires less effort. If you accidentally tighten the airflow control ring on your tank too much or have a device with a default tight airflow that doesn’t suit your preference, you’ll find yourself having to exert more force when inhaling.
- Coil and Atomizer Issues
The coil is a crucial component of a vape device as it heats up to vaporize the e – liquid. Over time, coils can become clogged with residue from the e – liquid, especially if it contains a high amount of sweeteners or flavorings. When a coil is clogged, it restricts the flow of e – liquid to the heating element and also impedes the passage of air. This makes it difficult for the atomizer to produce a sufficient amount of vapor, forcing you to suck harder in an attempt to get a decent hit. Additionally, using a coil that is not compatible with your device’s power output can also lead to this problem. For instance, if you try to use a high – resistance coil with a low – wattage device, the coil may not heat up adequately, and you’ll have to suck harder to compensate.
- Battery Power
A weak or depleted battery can also contribute to the need to suck hard on your vape. Vape devices rely on battery power to heat the coil. When the battery voltage drops, the coil may not reach the optimal temperature for efficient vaporization. As a result, the vapor production is reduced, and you’ll find yourself having to inhale more forcefully to get the desired amount of vapor. Some devices also have built – in safety features that limit the power output as the battery level gets low, further exacerbating the problem.
2. E – Liquid – Related Factors
- Viscosity
The viscosity of the e – liquid you’re using plays a significant role in the draw of your vape. E – liquids with a high viscosity, usually those with a higher proportion of vegetable glycerin (VG), are thicker and flow more slowly. This can make it harder for the e – liquid to reach the coil, especially if your device has a relatively small e – liquid flow path or if the coil is not wicked properly. As a result, you may have to suck harder to ensure that enough e – liquid is delivered to the coil for vaporization. On the contrary, e – liquids with a higher proportion of propylene glycol (PG) are thinner and flow more easily, generally resulting in a smoother draw.
- Clogged E – Liquid Inlet or Tank
Sometimes, the e – liquid inlet in the tank can get blocked, either by a piece of debris or by thickened e – liquid that has dried around the opening. When this happens, the flow of e – liquid to the coil is restricted, and you’ll notice a decrease in vapor production. To overcome this, you’ll instinctively suck harder. Similarly, if the tank itself has a build – up of residue or sediment at the bottom, it can impede the flow of e – liquid and cause the same issue.

3. User – Related Factors
- Incorrect Inhaling Technique
Believe it or not, your inhaling technique can make a big difference in how hard you have to suck on your vape. If you’re not inhaling in a way that is compatible with your device’s design, you may experience a difficult draw. For example, mouth – to – lung devices are designed to be inhaled like a cigarette, with a relatively slow and steady draw. If you try to use a direct – lung inhaling technique, which is more suited for sub – ohm devices, on a mouth – to – lung vape, you’ll likely find that you have to suck much harder to get any vapor. Conversely, using a mouth – to – lung inhaling style on a sub – ohm device can also lead to a less – than – ideal draw and the need to exert more effort.
- Wicking Issues Caused by User Error
Proper wicking is essential for a smooth vaping experience. If you haven’t wicked your coil correctly, either by not using enough cotton or by packing it too tightly, it can cause problems. Insufficient wicking means that the coil won’t get enough e – liquid, and you’ll have to suck hard to try and draw more liquid to the heating element. Over – packing the wick, on the other hand, can restrict the flow of both e – liquid and air, making the draw more difficult.
In conclusion, there are multiple reasons why you might have to suck hard on your vape, ranging from device – specific problems to issues with the e – liquid and your own vaping technique. By understanding these factors, you can troubleshoot the problem and take the necessary steps to improve your vaping experience, whether it’s adjusting the airflow, replacing the coil, choosing the right e – liquid, or perfecting your inhaling technique.