Share
Clearomiser and Vape Tank Basics
A clearomiser is the transparent tank section of a vape device that holds your e-liquid and houses the coil. It lets you monitor liquid levels, prevents dry hits, and delivers smooth flavour. Learn how to fill, clean, and maintain your vape tank with Tidal Vape’s expert UK guide to clearomisers and coils.
When you begin your vaping journey you’ll quickly encounter the term clearomiser. At Tidal Vape we believe it is one of the most important pieces of kit to understand so you can vape tanks enjoy smooth flavour and worry-free performance. A clearomiser is the tank section of your vape device that holds the e-liquid and houses the coil so you can see how much remains.
Knowing how clearomisers work will help you pick the right one and maintain it properly. From the way e-liquid reaches the coil to how airflow and wicking affect your draw, each aspect influences your vaping experience. In this post we cover everything from what clearomisers are to how you fill them up change coils and avoid common issues.
We want to empower you to choose and maintain your clearomiser with confidence and enjoy your device for longer.
What are Clearomisers
A clearomiser is a type of vape tank that features transparent or translucent walls so you can easily monitor your e-liquid level. According to a general overview of e-cigarette construction the clearomiser was invented in 2009 and combines the chamber for liquid the wicking material and the coil within one component.
The transparent design means you can see when your e-liquid bottles is low or when there are bubbles or leaks forming. For users at Tidal Vape we recommend clearomisers because they make maintenance simpler and reduce guesswork about when to refill or replace parts.
How do Clearomisers Work
A clearomiser works by drawing e-liquid from the tank into the coil’s wicking material then heating the coil so the liquid evaporates into vapour you inhale. For example inside the device the wick may sit above or below the coil depending on design and liquid moves through by capillary action or gravity.
When you press the fire button or inhale (depending on device) the vape mods battery provides power to the coil. Air passes over the coil and the vapour is drawn up through the mouthpiece. The transparent tank allows you to observe e-liquid levels and any issues like flooding. This visibility is why clearomisers are favoured for both beginners and experienced vapers.
What Types of Clearomisers Are There
In today’s market there are several types of clearomisers, each suited to different styles of vaping. Two of the main distinctions are top-coil vs bottom-coil designs and also whether the clearomiser is designed for mouth-to-lung (MTL) or direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping.
Here are some bullet points to summarise:
- Top-coil clearomiser where the coil sits near the top and the liquid must travel upwards to reach the wick.
- Bottom-coil design where the coil is at the base of the tank so the liquid is pulled downward by gravity to the wick.
- MTL vape tanks clearomisers that offer tighter airflow and higher resistance coils, mimicking a cigarette like draw.
- DTL clearomisers with more open airflow and lower resistance coils for bigger clouds and direct lung inhalation.
- Rebuildable clearomisers or tanks (for advanced users) where you replace or build the coil yourself rather than use pre-made coils.
How Do You Prime a New Coil
Priming a new coil means prepping it so you avoid dry hits or burning the coil before it has been saturated with e-liquid. Doing this step helps extend the life of your coil and gives you a smoother start.
Here’s how to do it properly:
- Remove the tank from the battery and open the clearomiser to access the coil.
- Drop a few small drops of e-liquid directly onto the exposed cotton or wicking material of the coil.
- Reassemble the clearomiser then fill the tank with your chosen liquid.
- Wait about five minutes before using the device so the e-liquid can fully saturate the wick.
- Take a few gentle pulls without pressing fire to start the liquid flowing into the coil and then proceed normally at lower wattage until the coil breaks in.
With the correct priming your first few puffs will taste clean rather than burnt. At Tidal Vape we always remind our customers to prime new coils regardless of how experienced they are.
How to Fill Up a Clearomiser
Filling up your clearomiser is a basic but essential task. Doing it correctly ensures you do not flood the coil or leak e-liquid. Here are the steps and best practices drawn from retail guides and customer feedback.
Follow this quick how-to:
- Detach the clearomiser from the battery or device to prevent accidental firing.
- Check what type of fill port or chimney your tank uses (top fill or bottom fill).
- Slowly add e-liquid along the side of the tank – avoid pouring directly into the central chimney which can cause flooding.
- Leave a small air gap at the top so pressure changes do not force liquid out.
- Reconnect the clearomiser to the battery, allow a short moment for e-liquid to settle then vape at lower power for the first few pulls.
By using this method you minimise leaks and maintain the performance of your device. Tidal Vape often recommends specific clearomisers with easy fill systems to make this process simpler.
How to Clean a Clearomiser
Cleaning your clearomiser is often overlooked yet it plays an important role in keeping the flavour pure and the tank functioning well. Over time residue from e-liquid and minor deposits can build up and affect taste.
Here is how you can clean your clearomiser:
- Disassemble the tank completely – remove the coil, glass, base and mouthpiece.
- Rinse the tank components (except coil) under warm running water until clear.
- For stubborn residue you may use a small amount of isopropyl alcohol then rinse thoroughly with water.
- Let all parts dry completely (preferably overnight) before reassembling with a fresh coil and e-liquid.
- Inspect O-rings and seals – replace any that are worn or cracked for better leak resistance.
We encourage regular cleaning especially if you switch flavours often or notice muted taste. Simple attention like this extends the life of your tank and keeps your vaping experience sharp.
How to Change Clearomiser Coils
Changing the coil in your clearomiser is something you will do frequently depending on usage and e-liquid type. The coil is effectively the consumable part and replacement vape coils when performance drops is important.
Here are bullet points to guide you:
- Remove the clearomiser from the battery and empty remaining e-liquid if required.
- Unscrew the base of the tank and take out the old coil carefully.
- Screw in a new coil snugly – avoid overtightening.
- Prime the new coil as described earlier with a few drops of e-liquid on the wicking material.
- Refill the tank, let it sit for a few minutes and then use at lower power for a few minutes before stepping up.
Changing coils regularly ensures you get consistent flavour and avoid burnt hits or cloud loss.
How to Replace Your Clearomiser
There will come a time when the clearomiser tank itself needs replacing rather than just the coil. Reasons may include damaged glass, persistent leaking or the best vape tanks UK desire to upgrade to a newer tank model. Replacing is straightforward but choosing the right one makes all the difference.
Key considerations when replacing:
- Check compatibility with your device’s battery or mod in terms of thread size (commonly 510) and power range.
- Decide whether you want the same style (MTL vs DTL) or upgrade to a different type of draw.
- Look for features like easy fill ports, adjustable airflow, and durable glass or metal construction.
- Ensure you know how to bleed/prime and maintain the new tank just like you did with your old one.
Common Clearomiser Issues That Can Be Avoided
Even the best clearomisers may encounter issues over time but many problems are avoidable with correct use and maintenance. Awareness of common faults helps you act early rather than wait for failure.
Here are typical faults and what you can do about them:
- Leaking: often caused by poor assembly, worn seals or filling too fast. Regularly check O-rings and ensure correct assembly.
- Dry hits or burnt flavour: usually due to insufficient priming, running at too high wattage or using thick e-liquid in the wrong tank. Prime coils and match e-liquid viscosity to tank.
- Muted flavour or cloud drop off: can result from dirty tank, old coil or clogged airflow. Clean the tank and replace coils when flavour dips.
- Gurgling or e-liquid flooding into the mouthpiece: often happens if you fill above the recommended level, leave too much idle time or store device sideways. Leave slight air gap and store upright.
- Poor compatibility or coil life: using the wrong coil resistance for your device or power setting reduces coil lifespan. Ensure you follow manufacturer’s recommended range.
- By following good practices and using the correct parts you avoid many service trips and keep things running smoothly. Pro tip: correct matching of parts and user maintenance to maximise your kit’s life.
Why Choose Tidal Vape for Clearomisers and Tanks
Tidal Vape is committed to giving you the knowledge and kit you need. Our UK-wide online store and 30+ physical stores offer a broad range of tanks clearomisers coils and e-liquids.
When you shop with us you get:
- A wide selection of clearomisers and compatible tanks from trusted brands.
- Expert advice on matching your device, choosing the right coil and maintaining your system.
- Reliable service including next-day UK delivery for orders over a set amount.
- Friendly staff reviews indicating high levels of customer satisfaction.
Whether you are replacing your first coil or upgrading to a new tank system Tidal Vape has you covered. Drop by our blog section for guides and feel free to contact us for personal advice.
Understanding clearomisers and tanks gives you control over your vaping experience. From knowing how they work to repairing and replacing parts you minimise issues and maximise enjoyment.
Tidal Vape is here to support you every step of the way. Explore the selection of tanks clearomisers and accessories awaiting you.
