Why Is My Vape Spitting? Causes and How to Fix Spitback (UK Guide 2026)

If you've ever felt small droplets of hot e-liquid reaching your mouth while vaping, you've experienced what's commonly known as vape spitback.

Although it can be unpleasant, spitback is usually easy to resolve and is often linked to excess e-liquid inside the coil or pod.

In this guide, we'll explain what causes vape spitback, how to fix it and how to prevent it from happening again.

What Is Vape Spitback?

Spitback happens when hot droplets of e-liquid are propelled through the mouthpiece instead of being fully vapourised by the coil.

It often occurs alongside:

• Gurgling sounds
• Flooded coils
• Minor leaking
• Reduced vapour production

Fortunately, most cases can be fixed without replacing your device.

Flooded Coil

A flooded coil is one of the most common causes of spitback.

When too much e-liquid reaches the coil, it cannot vapourise everything efficiently.

Signs include:

• Gurgling
• Bubbling noises
• Hot droplets
• Weak vapour

If your vape is also making bubbling sounds, read our guide on why your vape is gurgling and how to fix it.

Overfilling Your Pod

Filling your pod above the recommended level can force excess e-liquid into the airflow chamber.

To reduce the risk:

• Fill only to the maximum fill line.
• Close the fill port securely.
• Wipe away any excess e-liquid.

If your vape is leaking as well, read our guide on why your vape is leaking and how to fix it.

Worn-Out Coils

Old coils may not absorb e-liquid efficiently, increasing the risk of spitback.

Replacing your coil regularly helps maintain:

• Better flavour
• Smooth vapour production
• Reliable performance

Learn when to change your coil in our guide on how long vape coils last UK.

Incorrect Coil Priming

Improperly primed coils can flood during their first few uses.

To avoid this:

• Fill the pod.
• Allow the coil to soak for 5–10 minutes.
• Take a few gentle puffs before regular vaping.

For more advice, read our guide on how to prime a vape coil properly.

Drawing Too Hard

Taking very forceful puffs can pull excess e-liquid into the coil.

Instead:

• Take slow, steady draws.
• Let the device do the work.
• Avoid repeated rapid puffs.

This is especially important with MTL pod kits.

If you're new to MTL vaping, read our guide on what is MTL vaping?

Choosing the Right E-Liquid

Most refillable pod kits are designed for nicotine salts.

Using an appropriate e-liquid helps the coil perform efficiently and reduces the likelihood of flooding.

If you're unsure which nicotine strength is right for you, read our guide on the best nicotine strength for pod kits UK.

How to Prevent Vape Spitback

You can minimise spitback by:

✔ Filling the pod correctly.

✔ Priming new coils.

✔ Replacing worn coils.

✔ Cleaning condensation regularly.

✔ Taking smooth, steady draws.

✔ Using the correct e-liquid.

🎁 Get More from Your Vape with Vaperz Way

At Vaperz Way, every vape kit includes 1 FREE nicotine salt, helping you get started with a refillable pod system straight away.

Using quality nicotine salts together with regular maintenance can improve flavour and help reduce common issues such as spitback.

Frequently Asked Questions - Vape Spitting 

Why is my vape spitting hot liquid?

This usually happens because excess e-liquid has flooded the coil and isn't being fully vapourised.

Is vape spitback dangerous?

Spitback is generally not dangerous, but it can be uncomfortable. It usually indicates a maintenance issue that should be addressed.

Can an old coil cause spitback?

Yes. Worn coils often struggle to absorb e-liquid efficiently, increasing the chance of spitback.

Does overfilling cause spitback?

Yes. Overfilling your pod can lead to flooding, gurgling, leaking and spitback.

Final Thoughts

Vape spitback is a common issue that can usually be fixed by filling your pod correctly, replacing worn coils and maintaining your device.

With the right e-liquid and good maintenance habits, your refillable pod kit should provide smooth, consistent performance.

If you're looking for a reliable device designed for nicotine salts, start with our guide on how to choose the right pod kit for MTL vaping.