When to change coils in an RDA/RDTA

[domct203]

I tried to use search to find info on this but no luck.

What is the general rule for when a coil is to be changed?

I'm not talking premade coils, just the coil wire itself.

I have been using a Steam Crave Aromamizer for the last few weeks, re-wicking every 30-50ml, but re-using the coils. I rinse the entire deck, dry burn them to get the gunk off, then just re-wick.

What are the signs that it's time to change the coils? Does it matter if they are Kanthal or Nichrome?

I have 26AWG Kanthal A1 in there right now, and I've noticed that they are starting to look dull, almost like they are oxidizing.

I have plenty of wire, it's not about that. I just figure why fix something that is not broke?

Dom

 

[Huckleberried]

I just figure why fix something that is not broke?

That.

Coils can last quite a bit. You'll notice a drop in the performance of the coil when it needs changing.

 

[freemind]

They can last months if you care for them right.

The only real time they require replaced is if they break.

 

[domct203]

Thanks for the info!

Dom

 

[zaroba]

Technically you could use a coil until it deteriorates to the point of breaking.
How long that takes will depend largely on the wire gauge.
A coil made from 20 gauge wire will last a lot longer then a coil made from 30 gauge wire.

Currently my oldest coils that get regular use are 6 months old 20 gauge kanthal.
When new, last June:


Cleaned and burned about an hour ago, dingy and dark from a layer of rust (since kanthal is iron based).
Camera flash made it stand out a lot more then is visible from the naked eye, especially around the bottom: