Frequently Asked Questions

An electronic cigarette, or e-cigarette, is an electrical device that simulates the act of tobacco smoking by producing an inhaled vapor bearing the physical sensation, appearance, and often the flavor (with or without nicotine content) of inhaled tobacco smoke, without its odor. The device uses heat to vaporize a propylene glycol or glycerin-based liquid solution into an aerosol mist, similar to the way a nebulizer or humidifier vaporizes solutions for inhalation.

Are electronic cigarettes safe?

There has been media coverage about the safety of electronic cigarettes, which may be confusing and a bit scary. Electronic cigarettes are intended to be an alternative to smoking tobacco cigarettes, but not as a treatment for nicotine addiction.

Do electronic cigarettes cause cancer just like tobacco cigarettes?

Flavors and nicotine are dissolved in hygroscopic components, which turn the water in the solution into a smoke-like vapor when heated. Commonly used hygroscopic components include propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, and polyethylene glycol 400 (often sold under the abbreviations PG, VG, and PEG 400, respectively).

All three liquid bases are common food additives used in a variety of pharmaceutical formulations. Propylene glycol, the current dominating liquid base, has been utilized in asthma inhalers and nebulizers since the 1950s, and because of its water-retaining properties, is the compound of choice for delivering atomized medication. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) includes propylene glycol on its list of substances Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS), and it meets the requirements of acceptable compounds within Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations. In comparison, traditional tobacco cigarettes contain at least 80 cancer causing chemicals, including tar.

Are electronic cigarettes approved or regulated by the FDA?

The FDA currently considers e-cigarettes to be tobacco products. Originally, it claimed that e-cigarettes are being used as smoking cessation devices and therefore they needed to be regulated the same as pharmaceutical nicotine replacement therapy drugs (NRTs). In 2009, the FDA ordered customs officials to start seizing e-cigarette shipments coming into the country.

On April 25, 2011, FDA announced in a letter to stakeholders that it would not appeal the decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit in Sottera, Inc. v. Food & Drug Administration, stating that e-cigarettes and other products are not drugs/devices unless they are marketed for therapeutic purposes, but that products "made or derived from tobacco can be regulated as "tobacco products” under the FD&C Act. The FDA stated that it is aware that certain products made or derived from tobacco, such as electronic cigarettes, are not currently subject to pre-market review requirements of the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act. It is developing a strategy to regulate this "emerging class of products" as tobacco products under the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act. Products that are marketed for therapeutic purposes will continue to be regulated as drugs and/or devices.

Contrary to some media reports and comments by legislators, regulation as a "tobacco product" under FSPTCA does not mean that e-cigarettes are automatically regulated in the exact same manner as tobacco cigarettes, ie., subject to PACT, flavoring prohibitions and indoor use bans nor subject to the same tax rates. However, it does mean sales of these products to minors are finally prohibited by law.

Can electronic cigarettes help me quit smoking?

There is a lot of anecdotal evidence and even some scientific research surveys that strongly indicate that e-cigarettes are an effective alternative to smoking. However, while some users have gradually reduced the nicotine levels down to zero, the majority of e-cigarette users treat the devices as an alternate source of nicotine and not as a nicotine cessation program. So there is not as much scientific evidence yet that show how effective e-cigarettes are when used to treat or cure nicotine addiction. Yet, anecdotal reports by users who have used e-cigarettes as a way to wean from nicotine also indicates they seem to be very effective way to break smoking triggers and dramatically reduce nicotine levels. As with pharmaceutical NRTs, it depends upon the smoker and the strength of his or her addiction and resolve to quit. The most important thing for those who cannot or will not quit nicotine to do is to stop the exposure to the harmful chemicals in cigarette smoke.

Can I use electronic cigarettes in nonsmoking areas?

Technically, you should be able to use them almost anywhere. No smoking sections refer to the smoking of tobacco so legally there is no prohibition against these. However, you might have to let people know that you are not smoking tobacco. Even though you are not generating anything remotely like second hand smoke, some might prohibit your e-smoking simply because they disapprove of even the appearance of smoking. Over time, this should become less necessary to explain to people.

How do I know when to recharge the battery?

Most electronic cigarettes blink the lighted LED a certain number of times to indicate that you should recharge the battery. Starter kits usually come with at least one spare battery so that you can continue to use the device while the battery is recharged. Should you experience little or no vapor ensure that your battery is fully charged and properly attached to the device and that the cartridge is firmly inserted in the end of the device. Also, check the cartridge to make sure that it doesn’t need to be replaced.

How long do the batteries typically last before needing a recharge?

Electronic cigarette batteries will last 1 – 3 days before re-charging, depending upon the style of battery (pen-style, mini, cigar etc.) and intensity of usage. Longevity will vary by individual as well.

How many times can a battery be recharged?

This varies by style (pen-style, mini, cigar etc.). On average a battery can be recharged over 300 times.

How do the ingredients in electronic cigarettes compare to those in regular smoking products?

Electronic cigarettes contain water, propylene glycol, nicotine, a scent that emulates a tobacco flavor, other flavorings, and a membrane to suspend the ingredients. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has determined propylene glycol to be "generally recognized as safe” for use in food, cosmetics, and medicines although use in simulated smoking devices is not currently included in the list of usages generally recognized as safe.

What is the “smoke” that is released?

The simulated "smoke” is simply the vaporized contents of the e-liquid. This smoke is water vapor that evaporates into the air within seconds and leaves virtually no odor. There are no additional / unwanted chemicals produced in the vaporization process because there is no chemical reaction or combustion taking place as with regular cigarettes.

What is propylene glycol?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has determined propylene glycol to be "generally recognized as safe” for use in food, cosmetics, and medicines. It is used in food coloring, and flavoring, as an additive to keep food, medicines and cosmetics moist, and in machines that simulate smoke, although usage in simulating smoking devices is not currently included in the list of uses generally recognized as safe by the FDA. Propylene glycol is used in electronic smoking devices to make the water vapor appear more like smoke and to keep the cartridges from drying out and losing flavor.

How much nicotine is in eliquid?

E-liquid has different levels of nicotine in them. The nicotine levels range from 0 – 24 mg. Each level is meant to correspond to real cigarettes in the following manner:

* High 24 mg of nicotine which is about as much as a regular full flavor cigarette

* Medium 12-18 mg of nicotine which is about as much as a light cigarette

* Low 6-8 mg of nicotine which is about as much as an ultra light cigarette

* Zero 0 mg of nicotine which means no nicotine

Update: Please note that vaping has evolved significantly. The e-cig devices on the market beginning around 2015 now use sub ohm tanks and atomizer coils. This simply means that more vapor is created so the user will get more nicotine per inhale. Approximately 90% of vapors use a 3mg eliquid in their sub ohm tanks. This is a sufficient amount of nicotine for most users.

What is nicotine?

Nicotine is an alkaloid found in certain plants, predominantly tobacco, and in lower quantities tomato, potato, eggplant, cauliflower, green peppers and some teas. When absorbed in small amounts, whether from cigarettes, cigars or e-cigs, nicotine can cause stimulation, a feeling of relaxation, calmness, and alertness. The effects of nicotine can last from minutes to hours, and nicotine is considered habit forming and addictive.

Can I get nicotine poisoning if I continue to vape electronic cigarettes for a long period?

No. Unlike products such as the nicotine patch, electronic cigarettes are also inhaled delivering nicotine almost instantaneously so you can use electronic cigarettes and regular cigarettes interchangeably with no worry of nicotine overdose. Additionally, many devices offer an indication of above average consumption by blinking the lighted tip a specific number of times. Also, the nicotine levels in an electronic cigarette cartridge or eliquid are somewhat lower than regular cigarettes since nicotine intake can be spread out and is more continuous with an electronic cigarette.

Does nicotine cause cancer?

No. It is widely believed that nicotine does not cause cancer by the medical community. Nicotine research is on-going and the medical research has found some advantages and disadvantages of nicotine consumption. Determine through your own research if nicotine alone is a net gain or loss for your health.

Does electronic cigarette vapor smell?

The odor is barely noticeable and is completely unlike traditional cigarettes. Traditional cigars and cigarettes create lingering smells in rooms and cars that is difficult if not impossible to eliminate.

Do I have to be a legal age to purchase and use electronic cigarettes?

No one under the legal smoking age in your country or state should use any electronic smoking device.

Can I use electronic cigarettes if I am pregnant?

Electronic cigarettes should NOT be used by anyone who is pregnant, nursing or has health other serious health concerns without first consulting the advice of a physician.

Are electronic cigarettes considered smoking cessation products?

No. Electronic cigarettes are not an approved smoking cessation product. The proper testing and research has not been conducted to prove the efficacy of electronic cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid and manufacturers and suppliers of the devices are not permitted to market them as such.

Do electronic cigarettes taste the same as regular cigarettes?

Electronic cigarettes cartridges and e-liquid are offered in many flavors, such as, tobacco and menthol flavors that taste similar to light cigarettes and cigars but are smoother and less harsh. Electronic cigarette cartridges and eliquid are also offered in a wide variety of other flavors that you may like better than tobacco and menthol flavors.

Does smoking electronic cigarettes cost less than traditional smoking products?

The answer is generally yes. The amount saved depends both on the smoking habits of the individual and the style of electronic cigarette.

Do electronic cigarettes require any maintenance?

In general, the only maintenance required is charging and replacing batteries, as well as inserting fresh cartridges or e-liquid. Occasionally atomizers or cartomizers go bad and need to be replaced as well.

Are there any other safety concerns I should be aware of regarding electronic cigarettes?

Electronic cigarettes should only be used by committed smokers age 18 years and older, not by nonsmokers or by children, pregnant women, women breast feeding, or persons with or at risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or taking medicine for depression or asthma. Consult a physician if you experience nicotine misuse symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, diarrhea, weakness and rapid heartbeat. If you smoke tobacco products, you are encouraged to stop. Keep electronic cigarette products out of the reach of children and pets. Ingestion of the certain pieces can present a choking hazard and ingestion of the non-vaporized concentrated ingredients in the cartridges and Black Mesa Juice can be poisonous. The electronic cigarette is not a smoking cessation product nor is it an approved nicotine replacement therapy and is not to be used as such.

How do you fill the DCT Tank?

DCT Tank Assembly includes:

1 - Tube Assembly

1 - Dual Coil Cartomizer

1 - Plastic Drip Tip

---

1. Obtain DCT tank assembly and a bottle of eliquid.

2. Remove the drip tip from the cartomizer.

3. Fill the cartomizer by dripping 15-20 drops of eliquid around the edges into the fabric filler. Be careful not to get eliquid into the center hole.

4. Slide the cartomizer partially out of the DCT tank.
5. Drip eliquid into the DCT tank around the cartomizer. As it fills, slide the cartomizer up to prevent

liquid from going into the cartomizer. You can fill as close to the top as you would like without allowing the

liquid to leak into the cartomizer.

6. Slide the cartomizer back into the top hole of the tank and align the bottom (threaded end) with the slot on the end of the DCT tank so it is fully inserted into bottom of the DCT tank.

7. Replace the drip tip. You will need to apply pressure to the bottom of the cartomizer while pushing the drip tip on to prevent the internal cartomizer from sliding out of the tube tank.

8. Screw onto your battery device and you are ready to use the DCT tank assembly.

Note: Although the pictures do not show it, I recommend leaving the battery attached to the cartomizer when filling the DCT cartomizer and tank.

Next, you should "prime” the tank. This is only used on the initial use of a new cartomizer.

1. Unscrew your battery from the DCT tank assembly.

2. Apply pressure to bottom of the cartomizer with your thumb to cut off all air flow.

3. Take two to three quick drags on the drip tip while still applying pressure with your thumb.

4. You should notice the eliquid in the DCT tank drop by about 1/4” to 3/8” which means it is now inside the cartomizer via the small laser hole in the cartomizer.

5. Now you should screw your battery onto the DCT tank assembly.

6. Hold down battery button for about 2 to 3 seconds while inhaling the vapor. Remember most eGo batteries have a 5-click on/off function. The button should light up when activated.

7. If you get a burnt taste, then repeat priming steps. If you get a smooth taste, then you can now enjoy your electronic cigarette!

How many puffs on an electronic cigarette equals a tobacco cigarette?

Currently there have not been any tests to determine the number of puffs on an electronic cigarette compared to that of a tobacco cigarette. The quantity of nicotine in vapor has yet to be determined. We do know that vaper's blood test results have shown about the same levels as smoker's blood test results. The end result is that nicotine consumption will vary by individual.

How long does a 10ml bottle of eliquid last?

A 10ml bottle of eliquid typically lasts a 1-2 pack/day smoker about 1 week.

How much nicotine is in a 10ml bottle of eliquid?

Eliquid states the number of milligrams (mg) of nicotine on each bottle. Example: 24 mg is the amount of nicotine, expressed as the number of milligrams (mg) per milliliters (ml) of eliquid . In other words, 24 mg/ml. So a 10ml bottle of 24 mg strength nicotine of eliquid is equivalent to 240 mg of nicotine.

What ingredients are in eliquid?

Eliquid ingredients:

Water
Liquid nicotine
Flavoring
Propylene glycol
Vegetable glycerin

Liquid Nicotine

Eliquid is available in different nicotine strengths as well as nicotine-free.

Flavoring

The eliquid solution is available in a wide variety of flavors. The taste is very subjective, so it is a good idea to try many flavor in order to find the ones you most enjoy. Sample packs are a great way to get started on your taste-testing adventure.

Many e-cig users begin with tobacco flavored eliquid, but quickly find that others flavors are better. Vaping is a method of smoking enjoyment, but it is different from smoking cigarettes. Some of the most surprising flavors turn out to be more enjoyable that tobacco flavored eliquid.

Non tobacco flavors include just about every flavor you can think of, including: fruit (blueberry, watermelon), beverages (blue cola, dr habanero, beer, rootbeer), and desserts (chocolate, cream, caramel, double mint).

Propylene Glycol and Vegetable Glycerin

Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG) are added to the eliquid to produce smoke-like vapor. The eliquid contains a mix of the two. Both are common food additives approved by the FDA.

How do you fill the Clearomizer Tank?

Clearomizer Tank Assembly includes:

1 - Tube Assembly

1 - Plastic Mouthpiece

1. Obtain Clearomizer tank assembly and a bottle of eliquid.

2. Screw the clearomizer onto your battery device.

3. Unscrew the mouthpiece from the clearomizer.

4. Fill the clearomizer tank by dripping eliquid around the edges of the tank until you reach the fill line as shown above. Be careful not to get eliquid into the center hole (venting hole).

5. Screw the mouthpiece back on the clearomizer.

6. Take 2 to 3 quick drags on the mouthpiece without pushing the button on the battery. This will help the eliquid fill the coils.

7. Place the e-cigarette on its side for about 2 minutes to let the eliquid fill the coils completely.

8. Hold down battery button for about 2 to 3 seconds while inhaling the vapor. If you get a burnt taste then repeat steps 6 and 7. If you get a smooth taste, then you can now enjoy your electronic cigarette!

Note: Although the picture does not show it, I recommend leaving the battery attached to the clearomizer as described in the instructions when filling the clearomizer tank. Tilting the clearomizer at a 45 degree angle will also aid the filling process.

How do you fill the ARO tank and change the coil?

ARO Tank Assembly includes:

1 – ARO Tank shell
1 – Bottom Atomizer Head
1 – Bottom Coil (heating element)

___

To fill the ARO Tank:

1. Obtain ARO tank and a bottle of eliquid.
2. Unscrew the bottom atomizer head from the tank.
3. Hold the ARO tank upside down.
4. Fill the ARO tank by dripping eliquid around the edges of the tank until you reach the top of the center post. Be careful not to get any eliquid inside the center hole of the center post.
5. With the ARO tank mouthpiece end down, screw the bottom atomizer head back on the ARO tank.
6. Wait at least 1 minute for the eliquid to soak into the atomizer.
7. Screw the ARO tank onto a battery.
8. Hold down battery button for about 3 seconds while inhaling the vapor. If you get a burnt taste then repeat step 6. If you get a smooth taste, then you can now enjoy your electronic cigarette!

To replace the Bottom Coil (heating element):

1. Unscrew the bottom atomizer head of the ARO tank.
2. Unscrew the Bottom Coil (heating element).
3. Replace with a new Bottom Coil (heating element).
4. Screw bottom atomizer head back on the ARO tank.

How do I charge my eGo battery?

Charge eGo Battery

How do you fill the Aspire Triton tank?

Fill Aspire Triton Tank

Why does my nicotine change color?

In its purest form, nicotine is naturally colorless. However, exposure to air and light will change its color over time. Opening a bottle of nicotine will immediately begin the oxidation process, and after a while you should notice the liquid transform into a yellow, rusty, or even pink shade. The color of nicotine is ultimately cosmetic and only suggests its age or exposure to air, light, and heat.