Electronic Cigarette FAQ

• What is an Electronic Cigarette? 

It looks like a regular cigarette and provides the user with the perception that they are smoking, without all the harmful effects usually associated with the use of tobacco products. The user can choose from a wide range of flavors, including nicotine and menthol for a more realistic experience as these are the two flavors normally associated with tobacco.

The main difference is that the liquid flavoring is vaporized when the user inhales and the substance being drawn into the lungs and subsequently exhaled is an odorless water vapor.

• Are electronic cigarettes Better for us?

Medical research and historical information indicate clearly that tobacco contains many chemicals and carcinogens that have a sometimes fatal result for tobacco users. However, the harmful effects do not stop with the user and many individuals subjected to second hand smoke can become ill with smoking related diseases. In recent years bans on smoking in public places have been widely introduced to protect people from the effects of second hand smoke inhalation.

It is widely acknowledged that it is the smoke from the burning tobacco that is the health risk. Electronic cigarette producers recognize this fact and have removed the tobacco from their products. As the electronic cigarette produces an odorless water vapor rather than tobacco smoke, it should allow the users to revert back to enjoy a cigarette in their favorite places without breaking the law.

• Can Anyone Use Electronic Cigarettes? 

Anyone over 18 years of age can buy and use electronic cigarettes. They eliminate the use of tobacco products, which are acknowledged as harmful to health. However, the user can choose to purchase those with nicotine content or a brand that is nicotine free so some recommended exclusions still apply.

• Those under the age of 18 years of age, as smoking continues to be considered as an adult activity.

• Expectant mothers, or those that are breast feeding are recommended not to use any type of electronic cigarette.

• Anyone who is allergic to nicotine or any of the ingredients or other materials used in the construction of the electronic cigarette. Details of all the ingredients and materials can be found on the brand website.

• Anyone who has a chronic chest condition, such as bronchitis, asthma or severe breathing difficulties are recommended not to use electronic cigarette products.

• They should not be used by individuals that are dependent on tobacco products as a substitute to enable them to quit smoking. General Practitioners should be consulted on ways to stop smoking that may be more appropriate for the individual.

• Where can Electronic Cigarettes be used?

Smoking regular tobacco products has been banned in public places and the workplace to reduce the effects associated with second hand smoke inhalation. As the emissions from the electronic cigarettes are vaporized water, it seems sensible that they can be used almost anywhere.

However, some venues may carry the ban over to electronic cigarettes to avoid upsetting other clienteles, so it may be better to check the position before using your electronic cigarette to avoid a conflict situation. It will ultimately be the decision of the venue owner.

The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has recently won an Appeal Court Ruling to regulate the use of electronic cigarette products and are currently developing regulations. Watch this space.

• How to Get Started with Electronic Cigarettes?

There is a wide variety of electronic cigarette brands to choose from. Orders can be placed online with help from the Customer Service Team if required. The majority sell starter packs, which have everything needed to try the experience. However, if you are really not sure, the cheapest option is likely to be trying one of the single or disposable starter options, although several brands do provide a no question’s money back guarantees if you find it is not for you.

• What do they Look Like?

Electronic cigarettes are intended to look just like a normal tobacco cigarette. They are the same shape and a similar size to the regular cigarette. The tip glows and releases what looks like smoke when the user inhales. So from a slight distance it would be hard to tell it was an electronic cigarette and not a regular one.

• What are the Fluid Cartridges for?

The fluid cartridges are an important component responsible for the vapor and the taste of the electronic cigarette. The water based fluid is released in controlled amounts to be vaporized by the atomizer into a vapor that is inhaled and exhaled replacing the smoke associated with regular cigarettes. The fluid is also responsible for providing the taste that can be changed by using fruit and other types of food flavorings.

The flavor and strength of the fluid depend on the user’s preferences. In addition to the traditional tobacco and menthol flavors there are a range of fruits such as apple, strawberry and some sweets such as chocolate to choose from. There is also nicotine free flavors over a more restricted range. The strengths range from low, light, medium, regular and high depending on the brand.

• How Often does the Battery need Charging?
  

Each brand will differ slightly. However, the average usage with a full battery is four or five hours. Batteries are anticipated to last four or five years with normal usage.

• How Often do Cartridges need to be Refilled?

Again each brand will differ, but cartridges ten to provide between 250 and 300 inhalations. That works out as the equivalent of a pack of regular cigarettes.
Disposable cartridges will provide longer usage.

• How Often does the Atomizer need to be Replaced?

The atomizer is intended to last, but will vary depending on usage. It is up to the individual when they feel that the flavor is not as strong or the vapor experience seems to be less effective.

• How Can I Purchase Electronic Cigarettes?

All brands can be purchased online and delivered straight to your door. Alternatively, if you live in the USA and want to see what you are getting for your money you can check on the Internet to find your nearest retail outlet. However, retail outlets are not widespread and the few there are tend to sell only the specified top brands.

Searching on the Internet allows customers to take advantage of special deals and promotions that may not be available in store.