Last updated on June 17th, 2023
The Advanced Vaping Safety Feature – Temperature Control (TC)
A Sampling of TC Vaporizers
Just when I was getting used to my latest and greatest high powered advanced MOD with 50Watts and sub-ohm capabilities, I discovered TC MODS, or those equipped with temperature control features.
FYI, TC has nothing to do with your variable high powered MOD’s automatic shut-off feature. That’s the one that kicks in should you violate ohm’s law by setting your wattage too high for your low ohm atomizer. TC is far better.
Enter Temperature Control Vaping
I first tested TC vaping in 2015 when discount ecig vendor DirectVapor sent me an iStick 40W TC by eLeaf to review. After getting the preliminary email asking whether I had previously tested a high powered, advanced TC MOD, I unabashedly admitted I had not. I wasn’t even aware that these MODs, geared to more efficient low and sub ohm vaping existed. I guess it proves even a veteran ecig reviewer can lag behind in the world of high-speed electronic cigarette innovation.
TC MODS have advanced since my first test and they are swiftly becoming a preferred model for advanced vapors. They were first sold at high prices and were not heavily promoted. That’s all changed.
Having overcome by my initial fear of venturing deep into sub-ohm cloudchaser territory, I was eager to try one of the newer TC models. I chose to test one of the most popular TC vape Mods of the day – The SMOK Alien 220W TC vaporizer and was not disappointed. I recently learned that the SMOK Alien has since been discontinued as newer, easier to navigate models have been released.
The Best Features of TC – Temperature Control MOD Vaporizers
The principles behind TC vaping have not changed.
1- Protection Against Overheating
- A TC MOD senses a change in coil resistance as it is heated. If the coil gets too hot, or if your ejuice level gets too low, the device will adjust the temperature automatically, thus preventing your wicks from drying out and burning. That means no burnt hits and no higher level of carbonyls in your vapor.
- Temperature Control may also prevent quick Battery Burnout. I definitely noticed an improvement in battery life, but your own experience will depend on your vaping routine.
2- Most TC MODS have Variable Wattage Settings as well as TC Setting
- You can toggle between setting watts or setting temperature leaving plenty of room to experiment in finding your vaping sweet spot. Just make sure you are using the correct atomizer for the respective setting. (see below).
3- You Can Also Forget About Using Coils Made from Kanthal or Ni-Chrome!
One of the key features (and must haves) with TC vaping is that they require either Ni-200 Nickel Coil, or TI Pure Titanium or Stainless Steel SS316 & 316L wire atomizers. These advanced coils typically have many more wraps.
What About the Tank?
If you don’t buy a complete TC kit, you’ll need to buy a tank that is compatible with your Mod. Very few TC Mods come with a tank; however, the Geek Vape Aegis Mini Vape does, and it has a big customizable touchscreen.
Regarding the Safe Use of TC Devices
- Vapers should have a basic understanding of battery safety basics.
- Always read the user manual that comes with your TC MOD and follow the directions carefully! If you have questions, call the company’s customer support line for answers.
- All temperature control (and high powered vaporizers) come with LED WARNINGS. Pay heed.
- Advanced vapor products must be used “at your own risk”.
- Despite innovations that make your advanced device easier to use and your vape more satisfying, you must take proper precautions and handling.
- If you’re using a TC tank, you also need to know if you’re allergic to nickel wire.*
- When using a Sub-Ohm coil (under 1 ohm) I suggest begin by setting your Wattage at about 25Watts. Okay, you can go higher, but few find their “sweet spot” higher than 40Watts.
*NOTE!! Nickel can cause a rash in sensitive individuals. It’s commonly found in many items we have contact with daily, including costume jewelry, earring posts, watchbands, eyeglass frames, hairpins, snaps, buttons, and zippers.
TC Vaping in a Nutshell
You’ll get a very “cool”, vape..literally. Forget getting a burnt taste when your e-liquid runs down; forget having to keep changing your overheated coils or inhaling burnt wick vapor.. and expect a better battery life.
Cost of a TC MOD
Prices for TC Mods have come down considerably over the past few years. You can get a Geek Vape Aegis Solo 100W TC Box Mod for under $45. Most other TC Mods range from $45 to over $200 with the average cost being about $60.
Of course, prices can change in an instant and there are always those holiday, (and pseudo holiday) sales.
If you’re a TC fan, or you’re not..please share your experiences by commenting on this post.
Happy Vaping!
