Convenience comes at a price with disposable vapes. Convenience that turns into frustration fast when a device that won't fire, tastes like ash, or clogs easily is something every vaper has experienced.
Most of the time, the fix is easier than you would ever think. Before you give up on what looks to be a broken product, here are a couple of things to try that should resolve your current problem.
My Vape Is Hard to Pull or Has Blocked Airflow
One of the most common complaints is having a difficult draw. It usually feels like sucking on a thick milkshake through a straw and is nearly always because of airflow obstruction.
- Quick Fix: First, check the most obvious places. Make sure your fingers are not inadvertently covering the small air holes on the sides or bottoms of the device. With a toothpick or pin, carefully remove any lint, dust or solidified e-liquids from the mouthpiece opening and from the air holes on the side and/or bottom of the device. When the problem still persists, perform the "blow through" method: Cover the air hole vents with your fingers and blow firmly but gently into the mouthpiece. This should reverse the airflow and dislodge internal clogs.
- Prevention: Store your vape upright in a clean area to prevent the e-liquid from flooding the airflow channels. Don't put it in a pocket with lint.
My Disposable Vape Won’t Hit or Produce Vapor
There are a variety of reasons why you cannot produce vapor when you inhale, including a locked device and dead battery.
- Quick Fix: Check if your device includes a power button. If it does, rapidly press the power button 5 times to unlock it or activate it. For draw-activated devices, verify that the auto-draw sensor is not jammed. Block the air holes and take short, powerful draws to see if you can reset it. Additionally, gently bang the bottom of the device against your hand to ensure the internal battery connections are properly secured.
The Vape Tastes Burnt or Harsh
A burnt taste is a clear indication that the heating coil is activating without sufficient e-liquid to saturate the wicking material and is burning.
- Immediate Solution: Immediately stop vaping. Continued use will create a permanent burnt taste. The root cause of the problem is a dry coil. Allow the device to stand upright for 5-10 minutes. During this period, the remaining e-liquid in the tank will re-wet the wick.
- Prevention: "Chain vaping" (taking multiple consecutive puffs in rapid succession) creates excessive stress on the wick. Allowing 30-60 seconds between puffs allows the wick to absorb the liquid again. At the end of a device's life and the tank is low, holding the device at an angle helps keep the wick holes submerged in the last remaining liquid.
The Device Is Gurgling or Spitting Liquid
Gurgling sounds or a feeling of spit-back of liquid in your mouth signify a flooded coil—there is too much e-liquid to allow the wick to maintain saturation of the heating element.
- Quick Fix: Hold the vape upside-down over a tissue and gently flick/tap it to allow any excess liquid to flow out of the mouthpiece. Wrap the device in a paper towel, then, hold it horizontally and swing it in a downward arc (similar to swinging a thermometer) to utilize centrifugal force to flush the chamber. Finally, take a couple of short, firm pulls without firing the device (if possible) to flush the air passage.
The Battery Dies Too Quickly or Won’t Charge
Disposable vapes generally are not rechargeable, but some are. Rapid battery depletion can be caused by either a design defect or misuse.
-
For Rechargeable Devices: Only utilize the recommended charging cable and avoid allowing the device to charge overnight, since prolonged exposure to a charger can cause damage to lithium-ion batteries. Verify that the USB port is clear of lint and debris.
- General Advice: If you discover you are constantly depleting batteries, it may mean your vaping style requires a larger battery (in terms of mAh rating). Both extreme heat and cold temperatures can significantly shorten battery life and performance.
There’s Visible Leaking from the Device
Liquid leaking from a vape is messy and can harm the internal electronics of the device.
- Quick Fix: Remove any visible liquid from the exterior of the device with a paper towel. For leaks from the mouthpiece, place the device upright for several hours. For rechargeable pod systems, check that the pod or tank is not over-filled, cracked or poorly connected to the battery.
- Key Cause: High temperatures are the primary contributor to leakage. Never leave a vape in a hot vehicle, as the elevated temperature causes the e-liquid to thin and greatly increases the likelihood of leakage.
The Indicator Light Is Blinking
Flashing indicator lights are error codes. One of the most common flashing patterns is three to five flashes, and this usually signifies that the battery is not properly contacting the coil or that a protective circuit is triggered.
- Quick Fix: Unplug the cartridge (if applicable), and use a dry cotton swab to clean the metal contact surfaces on the cartridge and battery. Tighten the cartridge back onto the battery firmly but don't overtighten. For disposables, gently tapping the base of the device may sometimes reestablish a loose internal connection.
The Vape Is Making a Strange Noise or Getting Hot
Abnormal operation is an early warning sign. If the device becomes extremely hot to the touch or produces unusual noises such as popping/crackling noises during use, discontinue use.
- Action: Set the device on a safe, non-combustible surface (such as a ceramic plate) away from combustibles. Do not reuse it. This indicates an internal malfunction or possibly a serious battery malfunction.
The E-Liquid Has Changed Color in the Tank
You may observe the liquid darken from clear to amber/brown. This is usually the result of oxidation of the nicotine and flavorings when they are exposed to oxygen and residual heat from previous use.
Is It Safe? Although it may impact the purity of the flavors, oxidation is not an immediate safety risk. To delay this process, store the devices in a cool, dark location, and never store them with a partially used e-liquid tank for long periods of time.
How Do I Know It’s Finally Time to Replace the Vape?
As previously mentioned, all disposables have a limited lifespan. Identify the following signs of nearing the end of life:
- Recurring burnt taste, even after resting the device.
- Severe reduction of vapor production.
- The battery no longer functions or retains a charge.
- The e-liquid tank is completely drained (view under a light source).
Conclusion: Troubleshoot Wisely, Choose Carefully
Most of the common vape-related issues — clogs, floods and sensor malfunctions — can be solved using the basic techniques presented above. Proper storage and moderate use will provide the best protection against clogs. However, if you've tried the methods presented and the issue persists or shows serious warning signs (i.e., excessive heat), it is likely time to dispose of the device.
The greatest amount of "trouble shooting" takes place prior to purchasing. Be an educated purchaser. Research the brands you are interested in, be cautious of very affordable products that appear to be "too good to be true," and recognize that the cheapest option may involve other hidden risks. Buying devices from reputable manufacturers who follow established safety practices will help minimize your chances of encountering problems and will help to protect your health.