Refilling your pod kit should be a seamless part of your daily routine, yet many vapers find themselves battling sticky e-liquid spills and frustrating leaks. Mastering the art of refilling your Vaporesso vape is not just about keeping your hands clean; it is about extending the lifespan of your coils and ensuring every puff delivers the optimal flavour intended by the manufacturer. Whether you are using the popular XROS series with its snap-top design or a device featuring a side-fill mechanism, the process is straightforward once you understand the specific engineering of your pod. By following a few professional techniques, you can eliminate the mess entirely and enjoy a consistent, high-quality vaping experience from your device.
How often should you refill your Vaporesso vape pod?
Maintaining the correct e-liquid level in your Vaporesso vape is arguably the most critical factor in preventing dry hits and burnt coils. You should aim to refill your pod before the liquid level drops below the small wicking ports visible on the side of the internal metal coil chimney. If you allow the tank to run completely dry, the cotton wick inside will burn almost instantly, ruining the pod permanently.
For the average user, refilling might happen once or twice a day, but this varies significantly based on your vaping frequency and the capacity of your specific pod. Heavy users might find themselves topping up more frequently. It is always better to top up "little and often" rather than waiting for the pod to be completely empty. This habit keeps the cotton fully saturated, ensuring that the heating element always has liquid to vaporise, which preserves the flavour quality and longevity of your pod.
Understanding the Two Main Types of Vaporesso Pod Filling Systems
Before you attempt to fill your device, it is essential to identify which specific pod system you are using. Vaporesso generally utilises two distinct filling mechanisms across their range, and confusing them is the primary cause of broken mouthpieces and spills. The most common type, found in the Vaporesso Xros series, is the "Top-Fill" or "Clamshell" style. These pods are designed for convenience, allowing you to refill without removing the pod from the battery. The black mouthpiece snaps off to reveal the ports.
The second common type is the "Side-Fill" or "Bottom-Fill" system, often found in devices like the Vaporesso Luxe X or older Eco Nano pods. These pods rely on a silicone rubber bung that plugs a hole on the side or bottom of the plastic cartridge. To refill these, you must remove the pod from the device entirely. Understanding which version you have is the first step toward a mess-free experience, as trying to pull the silicone plug out of a snap-top pod—or trying to snap the top off a solid-body side-fill pod—will likely result in damage to the unit.
Step-by-Step Guide: Refilling the Vaporesso Xros Series (Top-Fill)
The XROS series has set a gold standard in the industry for ease of use, primarily due to its accessible top-fill design. If you own a device like the Vaporesso Xros 4, you do not need to remove the pod from the battery housing to fill it, which reduces the risk of misplacing parts.
Start by holding the device firmly in one hand. With your other hand, push the flat side of the black mouthpiece firmly away from you. It functions like a lever; you are aiming to "snap" it off rather than pull it straight up. Once the mouthpiece is removed, you will see three holes on the top surface of the pod. This is where most beginners make a critical error. You must identify the correct filling port.
There is a central metal hole, which is the airflow chimney—never put e-liquid down this hole, as it leads directly to the coil and out the bottom, causing severe leaks and gurgling. The correct fill port is usually marked with a red silicone membrane or a black seal, located to the side of the center hole. Insert the nozzle of your e-liquid bottle into this port, pushing it through the membrane if necessary. Gently squeeze the bottle to fill the reservoir.
Watch the liquid level carefully and stop when the pod is approximately 90% full. Leaving a small air bubble at the top is crucial because it helps create a vacuum seal that prevents leaking. Once filled, snap the mouthpiece back onto the pod immediately. You should hear a distinct "click" confirming it is secure. If you do not secure the cap quickly, the loss of vacuum pressure can allow liquid to seep out of the bottom airflow vents.
Step-by-Step Guide: Refilling Side-Fill and Bottom-Fill Vaporesso Pods
While top-fill systems are convenient, many powerful Vaporesso devices utilise side-fill pods to accommodate larger e-liquid capacities or specific airflow designs. Refilling these requires a slightly different approach but is equally simple once mastered.
First, you must remove the magnetic pod from the battery section of the vape kit. Locate the silicone stopper on the side or bottom of the pod. There is usually a small arrow or indentation indicating where you can slip your fingernail in to lift the flap. Gently pull the plug out to reveal the filling hole, being careful not to pull so hard that you snap the silicone tether holding the plug to the pod.
Tilt the pod at a slight angle to prevent airlocks. If you try to fill it while holding it perfectly flat, a bubble may form over the filling hole, causing the e-liquid to spill back out over your hands. By tilting the pod, you allow air to escape as the liquid enters. Insert your bottle nozzle and squeeze gently.
Just like with the top-fill pods, do not fill it to the absolute brim. Leave a small gap for air. Once you are satisfied with the level, press the silicone plug back firmly into place. Run your finger over it to ensure it is flush with the surface of the pod. Any protruding rubber can prevent the pod from sitting correctly in the device or compromise the seal, leading to leaks. Wipe the pod down with a tissue to remove any surface condensation before inserting it back into the device.
Comparison of Vaporesso Filling Mechanisms
|
Feature |
Top-Fill (e.g., XROS Series) |
Side/Bottom-Fill (e.g., Luxe X) |
|
Pod Removal |
Not required |
Required |
|
Port Access |
Snap-off mouthpiece |
Silicone rubber plug |
|
Leak Resistance |
High (Vacuum seal) |
Moderate (Plug seal) |
|
Convenience |
Excellent for on-the-go |
Good for capacity |
|
Common Mistake |
Pouring in center hole |
Not closing plug fully |
The Importance of Priming Your Coil Correctly
One of the most overlooked steps in the refilling process, especially with a brand-new pod, is priming. When you fill a fresh pod for the first time, the cotton wick inside the heating element is completely dry. If you attempt to vape immediately, the heat will singe the dry cotton, resulting in a harsh, burnt taste that cannot be fixed.
To avoid this, you must let the pod sit for at least five to ten minutes after the initial fill. This waiting period allows the e-liquid to fully saturate the wicking material by capillary action. You can speed up this process slightly by taking a few "dry hits"—taking a puff on the pod without attaching it to the battery. This creates a vacuum that pulls liquid into the cotton.
Using high-quality e-liquid is also vital for coil longevity. We highly recommend using Vaporesso Deliciu Nic Salt E-liquids, as they are formulated to work perfectly with Vaporesso's COREX heating technology, ensuring the liquid is thin enough to wick efficiently but thick enough to prevent leaks.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Leaks and Spills
Even experienced vapers can encounter messy leaks if they rush the refilling process. The most common culprit is overfilling. When a pod is filled to 100% capacity, there is no room for air. As the e-liquid warms up during use, it expands, and without an air cushion, the pressure forces the liquid out through the path of least resistance—usually the airflow holes at the bottom of the pod.
Another frequent error involves the viscosity of the e-liquid. Vaporesso pods, particularly the XROS and MTX series, are generally optimized for 50/50 VG/PG ratios. Using a very high VG liquid (like 70/30 shortfills) in a small pod can cause the coil to burn out quickly, while using very thin, high PG liquid can lead to leaking because the liquid is too runny for the coil ports.
Finally, ensure you are not squeezing the e-liquid bottle too aggressively. A high-pressure jet of liquid can cause turbulence inside the pod, creating foam and bubbles that block the fill port. This often results in the liquid backing up and spilling down the side of the pod. Gentle, steady pressure is the key to a clean refill.
Troubleshooting: Why Does My Vaporesso Vape Taste Burnt After Refilling?
It can be incredibly frustrating to refill your tank only to be met with a burnt or acrid flavour. If you have already primed the coil as described above and the taste persists, the issue might be an airlock. Sometimes, a bubble of air can get trapped against the wicking port, preventing liquid from reaching the coil even if the tank is full.
To fix an airlock, try flicking the side of the pod firmly with your finger to dislodge any bubbles. You can also open the fill port (either the top cap or the silicone plug) for a second to release the internal pressure, then close it again. If the burnt taste continues despite these efforts, the coil itself has likely reached the end of its lifespan.
Coils generally last between one to two weeks depending on usage and the sweetness of your e-liquid. Once the cotton is degraded, no amount of refilling will restore the flavour, and the entire pod needs to be replaced. Regular maintenance and keeping your battery charged also help, as a low battery can sometimes cause the device to vaporise liquid inefficiently, leading to spit-back and coil gunk.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vaporesso Vape Refilling
Can I wash out my Vaporesso pod and reuse it with a different flavour?
Technically, you can rinse out a pod, but it is generally not recommended for pods with built-in coils like the XROS series. Water can get trapped in the cotton wicking, which dilutes the flavour and causes popping or spitting. It is better to use a fresh pod for a drastically different flavour profile, or simply vape the current pod empty and refill with the new flavour, accepting a period of mixed taste.
Why is my Vaporesso XROS leaking from the bottom?
Leaks from the bottom are usually caused by overfilling, drawing too hard on the mouthpiece, or a compromised vacuum seal. Ensure the black mouthpiece cap is snapped on immediately after filling. If it is left off for too long, the pressure balance is lost, and gravity will pull the liquid through the coil and out the bottom vents.
Which hole do I put the juice in for a Vaporesso XROS?
You must put the e-liquid nozzle into the hole marked with the red silicone membrane (or the black side hole on some versions). Never put liquid into the centre metal hole; this is the airflow chimney. Putting liquid here will flood the device and result in hot liquid spitting into your mouth.
How many times can I refill a Vaporesso pod before replacing it?
A standard Vaporesso pod can typically be refilled 5 to 10 times before the coil performance degrades. You will know it is time to change the pod when the flavour becomes muted, you get a burnt taste, or the vapour production decreases significantly despite a full battery.
Can I use shortfill e-liquid in my Vaporesso pod?
Most Vaporesso pods are designed for 50/50 VG/PG e-liquids, such as nic salts. Thick high-VG shortfills (70% VG or higher) are often too viscous for the small wicking ports in these pods, leading to dry hits and burnt coils. However, some lower resistance pods (like the 0.4ohm XROS pods) can handle high-VG liquids better than the 1.0ohm or 1.2ohm versions.
Conclusion
Refilling your device does not have to be a chore filled with spills and frustration. By identifying whether you have a top-fill or side-fill system and following the correct procedures, you can ensure a clean and efficient process every time. Remember to avoid the central airflow chimney, leave a small air gap to prevent pressure leaks, and always give your new pods time to prime.
Taking care of your Vaporesso vape ensures it takes care of you, delivering the satisfying throat hit and flavour clarity the brand is famous for. At Grey Haze, we understand the importance of reliable hardware and expert advice. Whether you are looking for the latest pods or premium e-liquids to fill them with, following this guide will help you get the absolute best out of your vaping setup.