How to Use a Pod System: Fill, Prime and Replace Pods

A pod system is a rechargeable battery with a small refillable pod. It costs less to run than disposables, in exchange for a few minutes of upkeep a week. This is how to set one up and keep it working.

What is in the box

Most kits contain the device, one or two pods, a USB-C cable and a manual. E-liquid is not included. The “Includes” list on each product page says exactly what comes with that kit.

1. Choose the e-liquid

Pods with a resistance around 0.8 to 1.2 ohm are made for nicotine-salt e-liquid. Lower-resistance pods, around 0.4 to 0.6 ohm, produce more vapor and suit lower strengths. Match the strength to the device using the nicotine strength guide.

2. Fill the pod

1. Remove the pod from the device.
2. Open the fill port. On top-fill pods, pull off the mouthpiece; on side-fill pods, lift the silicone plug.
3. Put the bottle tip in the port and fill slowly to just below the top. Do not pour into the centre airflow tube.
4. Close the port firmly.

3. Prime the coil

Stand the filled pod upright for five to ten minutes before the first puff so the wick soaks through. Skipping this step is the most common way to burn a new pod.

4. Set the power

If the device has adjustable output, start at the low end of the range printed on the pod or coil and raise it gradually. Devices without controls set the power themselves.

5. Vape and refill

Draw-activated devices fire when you inhale. Button devices usually switch on and off with five quick presses. Refill when the liquid is low, before the wick openings are exposed.

When to replace the pod or coil

Every one to two weeks of regular use, or sooner if the flavor fades, the liquid darkens, the pod leaks or it tastes burnt. See why a vape tastes burnt.

Leaks and spitting

• Check that the fill plug is fully closed and the pod is seated.
• Do not overfill, and keep liquid out of the centre tube.
• Wipe condensation from the pod contacts and the device.
• Do not leave the device in heat or pressure changes, such as a hot car or a flight, with a full pod.

Charging

Use the USB-C cable on a computer port or a basic 5V adapter. See vape battery safety.

Questions

How do I refill a vape pod?

Remove the pod, open the fill port, fill slowly to just below the top while avoiding the centre tube, close the port and wait five to ten minutes before use.

How do I prime a vape coil?

Fill the pod and let it stand upright for five to ten minutes so the wick is fully soaked before the first puff.

How long does a vape pod last?

Roughly one to two weeks of regular use. Sweet e-liquids and high power shorten that.

Compare devices: Vaporesso XROS, Uwell Caliburn, SMOK Novo, SMOK Nord, or browse all pod systems.

Sources: the manufacturers' specification lists as published in the Vaperan catalog; prices shown are live. Written by the Vaperan team. Last reviewed September 30, 2026. How we write our guides.