How to Fill a Vape Pod Step-by-Step (Beginner Guide)

Simple illustrated guide showing how to fill a vape pod step by step - VAPESALES UK

 

Reviewed by VAPESALES UK · Updated

How to Fill a Vape Pod — Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to fill a refillable vape pod safely, avoid leaks, prime coils correctly and choose the right e-liquid. Perfect for beginners using pod vape kits.

TL;DR:
  • Find the pod’s fill port (top, side or bottom).
  • Use a needle-tip bottle for a mess-free fill.
  • Let the coil soak for 5 minutes to avoid a dry hit.
  • Use 50/50 or nic salts for MTL pods · high-VG for low-ohm pods.

Before You Start — Quick Prep

  • Wash your hands and prepare a tissue or paper towel.
  • Check your pod design: top-fill, side-fill, or bottom-fill.
  • Use the correct e-liquid: 50/50 & nic salts for MTL, 70/30 VG for sub-ohm pods.
  • Turn off the device if it has a fire button.

How to Fill a Vape Pod (Beginner-Friendly Steps)

  1. Remove the pod from your device.
  2. Locate the fill port — usually a silicone plug or flap.
  3. Open the plug carefully without tearing it.
  4. Insert your e-liquid nozzle into the opening.
  5. Fill slowly and leave a small air bubble to prevent leaks.
  6. Seal the plug tightly and check for gaps around the edges.
  7. Reinsert the pod and let it soak for 5 minutes (new coils may need 10).
  8. Take 2–3 unpowered puffs to help prime the cotton.
  9. Start at low power and increase gradually.

How to Prime a Pod/Coil Properly

Priming stops your coil from burning on the first puff. For visible cotton, add 1–2 drops directly on the wick. Otherwise, just fill the pod and wait 5–10 minutes. Start at low wattage and slowly increase.

Different Pod Filling Styles Explained

  • Top-Fill Pods: Remove cap → fill → replace securely.
  • Side-Fill Pods: Lift side plug → fill → press firmly back.
  • Bottom-Fill Pods: Remove pod → open base plug → fill → reinsert carefully.

Troubleshooting Common Pod Problems

• Leaking: Overfilling, loose plug, damaged seals, or thin e-liquid in low-ohm pods.

• Gurgling/Spitback: Excess liquid in the chimney — remove pod and gently blow through mouthpiece.

• Weak Flavour: Coil nearing end of life, unprimed cotton, dirty contacts, or incorrect e-liquid.

Maintenance Tips for Longer Pod Life

  • Don’t let pods run dry — always keep wicks soaked.
  • Replace coils/pods every 1–2 weeks.
  • Wipe contacts weekly with a dry tissue.
  • Store e-liquids upright in a cool, dark place.

Quick Checklist Before Vaping

  • ✔ Pod filled and plug sealed.
  • ✔ Coil soaked for 5 minutes.
  • ✔ Device charged.
  • ✔ Start low, work up slowly.

Final Thoughts

Filling a vape pod is easy once you know where to look and how to prime the coil. Whether you're using nic salts or 50/50 blends, following these steps keeps flavour strong and prevents leaks or burnt taste. For your next upgrade, check out our Pod Vape Kits for the latest refillable options.

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FAQs

How long do I wait after filling a pod?

Normally 5 minutes. New coils may need up to 10 minutes.

Why is my pod leaking?

Common causes: loose fill plug, overfilling, cracked pod, or using thin e-liquid in low-ohm pods.

Can I use any e-liquid?

No—match your coil: 50/50 for MTL pods, high-VG for DTL pods.

Why does it taste burnt?

The cotton is dry or the coil is worn out. Prime properly and refill earlier.