FAQ
TL;DR: Power‑bank 2200 mAh 18650s are often 2C cells (~4.4 A); "May also explode" if overloaded. For Pico‑class mods, avoid reclaimed cells; choose high‑drain batteries matched to your wattage and current needs. [Elektroda, Freddy, post #17050893]
Why it matters: Picking under‑spec cells for vaping can overheat, vent, or fail; this FAQ helps Pico users choose safe 18650s and charging.
Quick Facts
- 35 W at 0.3 Ω needs about 11 A (P = I²·R), so select cells with headroom. [Elektroda, krzysiek_krm, post #19036711]
- Many 2200 mAh power‑bank cells are ~2C max, i.e., ~4.4 A continuous; overload risks venting/explosion. [Elektroda, Freddy, post #17050893]
- In‑mod USB charging is acceptable on many devices. “You can easily charge with an e‑cigarette.” [Elektroda, mariuszp19, post #17050817]
- High‑drain cells like LGABHG21865 (>20 A CDR reported) cope better with sub‑ohm tanks. [Elektroda, zjo, post #19036432]
- Even 15 W at 1.2 Ω draws ~3.5 A; reclaimed laptop cells struggled in Joyetech Exceed. [Elektroda, zjo, post #19036823]
Can I safely use 2200 mAh power‑bank 18650 cells in my Eleaf iStick Pico?
Not recommended. Many power‑bank 2200 mAh cells are low‑drain 2C, about 4.4 A continuous. Vaping setups often exceed that. Overstressing cells can overheat, vent, or worse. “May also explode.” Use high‑drain cells sized to your wattage instead. [Elektroda, Freddy, post #17050893]
How many amps does 35 W at 0.3 Ω draw?
Use P = I²·R. Solve I ≈ √(P/R). At 35 W and 0.3 Ω, current is about 10.8–11 A. “Assume P = I²·R.” Choose a cell with continuous rating above that, with a safety margin. [Elektroda, krzysiek_krm, post #19036711]
Will 2200 mAh cells handle 17.5 W on a 0.3 Ω coil?
No. Typical 2200 mAh power‑bank cells are about 2C, or ~4.4 A continuous. Even modest vaping often exceeds 4 A. That stresses these cells and raises failure risk. Choose a high‑drain 18650 with ample continuous current. [Elektroda, Freddy, post #17050893]
Are reclaimed laptop 18650s okay for vaping?
Avoid them. “E‑cigarettes take very high currents and not every link is suitable for this!” Reclaimed laptop cells are usually low‑drain. They can sag, overheat, or fail in vaping use. Select known high‑drain models instead. [Elektroda, Freddy, post #17050846]
Do low‑drain cells work for 15 W MTL vaping?
Often poorly. At 15 W and 1.2 Ω, current is ~3.5 A. A user reported laptop‑sourced cells “did not work well” in a Joyetech Exceed. Even modest power can expose low‑drain limits. Use higher‑drain 18650s for reliability. [Elektroda, zjo, post #19036823]
Which 18650s are better for sub‑ohm tanks?
Use high‑drain cells with >20 A continuous capability. One user reports LGABHG21865 cells, rated over 20 A, “calmly” handle ~0.3 Ω at 35 W. Keep a safety margin between your draw and the cell’s rating. [Elektroda, zjo, post #19036432]
Is charging the 18650 inside the mod via USB okay?
Yes on many devices. “You can easily charge with an e‑cigarette.” Use the mod’s USB port as intended by the manufacturer. If unsure, follow the mod’s manual guidance. [Elektroda, mariuszp19, post #17050817]
Should I build a charger from a power‑bank board?
No. Power‑bank boards target pack charging and output regulation. Lithium‑ion cells need a proper CC/CV charger with precise 4.2 V cut‑off. Use the mod’s USB charging or a dedicated Li‑ion charger designed for 18650s. “BU‑409: Charging Lithium‑ion”
How much current can 80 W vaping pull?
At 80 W, a user’s Aegis X showed about 22 A draw. That is a very high current for a single 18650. Such demand requires true high‑drain cells. Low‑drain power‑bank cells are unsuitable at these levels. [Elektroda, Aegisx, post #20003252]
What are warning signs an 18650 is failing?
Stop using any cell that hisses, squeaks, or emits odor. One user noted squeaking and hissing before issues. Treat any noise, swelling, or unusual heat as a red flag. Isolate and recycle the cell appropriately. [Elektroda, Radiokiller, post #17050917]
Are power‑bank/laptop 18650s safe as backup batteries for mods?
No. They are typically not high‑current cells. “With this application they can cause a lot of damage.” Reserve such cells for low‑drain electronics. Use only appropriate high‑drain cells in vaping devices. [Elektroda, Freddy, post #17050865]
How do I check if my battery is strong enough for my wattage?
- Note your power setting (W) and coil resistance (Ω).
- Estimate current: I ≈ √(P/R) using P = I²·R.
- Pick a cell whose continuous rating comfortably exceeds that current.
Example: 35 W and 0.3 Ω ≈ 11 A. [Elektroda, krzysiek_krm, post #19036711]
Do I need an expensive (≈120 PLN) external charger?
Not strictly. You can charge in‑mod if supported. Some users note recommended chargers start around 120 PLN. Decide based on features you want versus budget. External chargers can add convenience and cell metering. [Elektroda, mikerpl, post #17050806]
I see no difference using power‑bank cells; is it still risky?
Yes. Many 2200 mAh cells are ~2C, only ~4.4 A continuous. Vaping can silently exceed that limit. “May also explode” under stress. Use high‑drain cells even if performance seems fine today. [Elektroda, Freddy, post #17050893]
