When your vape device works as it should,enjoying an exceptional everyday vape experience is a breeze. Whether youconsider yourself a cloud chaser or prefer to aim for flavor nirvana, afunctioning vape is key to a satisfying vape session.
Unfortunately, nearly every vaper hasexperienced a vape issue of one kind or another – and there are fewthings more frustrating than when your vape starts acting up right when you’re hoping tofit in a solid vape session. Even the most expensive, top-of-the-line vaporizercan run into problems and the most common vape issues aren’t limited tobeginner vapers, either.
No matter how experienced you may be, whatyou’re vaping with, or what your personal vape style looks like, theodds are that you’ll run into at least a few vape problems somewhere along the line.
But before you assume that a misbehavingvape device is one that requires replacement, it’s important to knowthat there are plenty of ways to fix the most common vaping problems. Beingabout to troubleshoot your vape, and tackle some of the issues you’re mostlikely to encounter, will not only help you extend the life of your vapeinvestment. You’ll also be able to cut down on the time wasted not vaping, and getback into the regularly scheduled vape sessions that you know and love.
Common Vape Issuesand How to Solve Them
Is your vape acting up? Here are some ofthe most common problems that vapers encounter, what causes them, and exactlyhow you can fix each one.
Why won’t my vape turn on?
One of the most common – and oftenmost easy to fix – vape problems is a device that simply won’t turn on.There are myriad reasons that your vaporizer might be refusing to power up,many of which have fairly straightforward solutions:
Your vape deviceis turned off
It might sound obvious to say that if yourvape won’t turn on, it might just be switched off – but this isactually a very common problem. Whether you’re new to vaping orjust working with a new-to-you vape device, it’s an easy mistake tomake.
If you’ve confirmed thatyour vape is completely charged, but it won’t turn on, it couldjust be completely switched off. Many modern vapes have a default feature thatswitches them off completely when not in use. The purpose of this feature is toprevent a discharge in the event of an accidental firing – as youlikely already know, you definitely don’t want your vapegoing off while it’s in your pocket or purse.
Depending on your device, there will be aspecific button sequence that switches it off completely. For example, manyrequire you to hit the firing button five times within two seconds. Often, thissame sequence will command the device to switch back on. Double-check yourinstruction manual to confirm the button sequence that applies to your deviceand give it a try.
Your batteriesneed to be recharged or replaced
If you can’t get your vape toturn on, try connecting it to the charging cable or placing the batteries inthe charging station. Allow ample time for batteries to recharge, then try again.If you notice that your batteries aren’t charging, makesure it’s not an issue with the charger or cable itself.
Also, keep in mind that the average vapebattery has a lifespan of about two to three years, though some can stopfunctioning before that. If your vape won’t power up, it couldbe as simple as a case of dead batteries. If your batteries won’t hold acharge, and the charging mechanism is working fine, it’s time toreplace the batteries. If your device uses built-in batteries, you’ll need topurchase a new device.
The battery doorisn’t completely closed
If your battery door hasn’t beenclosed properly, it could easily prevent your vape from turning on. Themajority of vape devices require the battery door to be completely closed inorder to complete the electrical circuit, which is required for power to bedelivered to the device. Double-check that your battery door is correctlyclosed and locked. If you are unable to close the door, you can check to see ifa part replacement is an option.
Your vapebatteries are uneven
Sometimes, a simple error in the batterymanufacturing process can be the culprit behind a vape that won’t turn on.Occasional faults in the process of making batteries can result in batteriesthat are unevenly sized, causing connection issues.
Try swapping the batteries (making sure youinsert them in the correct configuration). If this solves your problem, thepositive poles of the battery could be slightly uneven or one battery’s pole maybe deformed resulting in an incomplete circuit. If you notice any damage toyour battery, discontinue use, dispose of it responsibly, and replace itimmediately.
Your mod is instealth mode or set to a low brightness display level
Many of today’s vape devicesfeature a display screen, which is very useful for viewing your vape stats,adjusting settings, and more. On these vapes, you have the option to set it to “stealthmode,” which turns the display off while still maintaining full vapefunctionality. If your device is firing the tank, then you can confirm that it’s receivingpower – in that case, you might just have accidentally activated stealthmode. A quick adjustment to your display settings can fix the issue in seconds.
Another display-related issue is lowbrightness, which will also cause the appearance of a display that won’t turn on.If your mod still fires the tank, but you can’t see anything onthe screen, check the brightness setting and adjust if possible.
The batteryconnection is blocked by e-juice residue
Sometimes, vape juice can leak into thebattery connection. Once there, it turns into a residue that can block theelectrical circuit. Disassemble your device so you can check the vape mod’s terminalsand battery poles. Look for residue, dust, and other contamination, then gentlywipe it off using a clean tissue or cloth.
Your vape devicehas been damaged
Sometimes, a vape won’t turn onsimply because it’s been damaged beyond repair. If your vape recently got wet or wasdropped, there could be internal damage that’s preventing it fromworking. If none of the above solutions work for you, it might just be time tobuy a new device.
Why is my vapenot producing vapor?
When your vape doesn’t makeenough vapor (or worse, stops producing vapor altogether), don’t jump tothe conclusion that it’s completely shot – you might be able to figure out the cause and find an effectivefix. Here are a few simple causes behind a vape that doesn’t producevapor at all:
Your device isturned off
Again, this might sound like a mistake onlythe newest vapers would make, but you’d be surprised howoften it happens. Luckily, it’s incredibly easy to fix. Double-check that you’ve actuallypowered up your vape, and if it still doesn’t produce vapor,move on to the next possible cause.
The battery is low
Another common issue with another simplefix: batteries that are running low on power. Take a quick look at your vape’s batteryindicator light, if it has one. If the light is orange and/or red, it’s anindication that the charge is extremely low. Sometimes, the batteries have justenough power to turn on the vape, but can’t produce vapor.Recharge your batteries (or replace if necessary), then try again.
There’s an issue with your device’s atomizer pin
Atomizer, or “center”, pins canalso cause issues with vapor production because a pin problem can prevent theproper electrical flow. Examine the pin at the center of your atomizerconnector (you’ll likely have to disassemble your device to do this), and see if it’s beenpushed down away from the connector. If so, use a small tool to gently pull itback into position.
You’re low on vape juice
If your tank is running low on vape juice,it won’t be able to deliver vapor – simple as that.Check to make sure your tank isn’t in need of a refill. Top off the vape tank, then try again.
You’ve overfilled your e-juice
On the opposite end of the spectrum of theno-vapor problem is the issue of too much vape juice. Overfilling a vape pen ormod is a big no-no, especially because it can damage the battery, leave youwith a mouthful of liquid, and prevent your device from producing vaporaltogether. Pay attention to the max fill line, and never go above it.
If you have made the mistake of putting toomuch e-juice in the tank, it’s possible to remedy the issue. Dump out the liquid, then take youratomizer apart. Clean out the center tube or chamber using a clean paper towel.Then, wipe any residue from the center pin. Reassemble your device, fill itappropriately, and give it another shot.
Why does myvape taste burnt?
One of the most dreaded vaper experiencesis sucking in a mouthful of vapor and being punished with a terribly burntflavor. This unfortunate occurrence typically comes down to burnt coils, afairly common problem for vapers. Here are the most common reasons for burntvapor flavor, and how to fix each one:
You need toreplace your coils
Do a quick check: when did you last replaceyour coils? If you can’t remember, then that’s a big red flag. As soon as you notice a shift in the flavor ofyour vapor, that’s a sign that you might need to swap out your coils. On average,coils should be replaced every two weeks at a minimum.
Your coils werenot properly primed
Priming your coils might sound like ahassle, but it’s important to understand that the process is not optional – especiallyif you want to avoid degrading your flavor quality. Every time you install newcoils in your vape, you should be priming them. It takes just a few minutes andlittle to no effort, and makes a marked difference in your overall experience.
You’ve been chain vaping
We’ve all been temptedto keep vaping without taking time to pause between puffs, but that’s a good wayto end up with a burnt-out flavor. Because chain vaping doesn’t give yourwicks enough time to absorb e-liquid, they can easily dry out and end upburning. Instead, give yourself at least 30 seconds or so between each puff.Or, if you’re searching for that quick throat hit, make the switch to aPG-based e-liquid instead.
You need to cleanthe coils
In between regular coil replacements,cleaning your vape coils is also key. One of the number one causes of burnttaste and dry hits are dirty coils. Try to get in the habit of regularlychecking your coils for e-juice buildup, rinsing with warm distilled water asneeded.
You’ve been pushing your device limits withhigh-powered vaping
All vapes come with a recommended range forwattage, and going beyond that can easily burn out your coils. Additionally,vaping at a high temperature makes it much more likely that you’ll dry outyour wicks faster than they can absorb e-juice.
Check your vape to see if you’ve beengoing above the recommended limit, and adjust as needed. If you’re committedto vaping at high temperatures, you might want to think about upgrading yourset-up to an RDA.
You’ve run too low on vape juice
If you’re trying to use upevery last drop of e-liquid before you refill the tank, you’re runningthe risk of burning your coil wicks. A good rule of thumb is to avoid lettingyour e-juice levels drop below the quarter-tank mark.
Why is my vapemaking Loud Popping or Gurgling Sounds?
Mystery noises from your vape can bealarming but are often caused by something that’s relatively easy tofix. Here are a few reasons you might hear loud pops or gurgles coming fromyour device:
Your tank isoverfilled
If your vape is making a popping noise, itcould be that you’ve put too much e-liquid in your tank. Make sure your liquid levelisn’t over the maximum line, and carefully dump out any excess ifnecessary.
Your atomizer isn’t properly attached
Worn-out o-rings and grommets can allow airdroplets into the device while you’re vaping, which canresult in odd noises (including pops and gurgles). Check your atomizer,including its o-rings and grommets, and replace any that appear comprised. Whenyou reassemble your device, make sure that everything is positioned correctlyand securely attached.
Your e-liquid istoo thin
Depending on your vape set-up e-juices witha thinner consistency may flood your vape coil and cause popping sounds. Tryswapping it out for a thicker liquid to see if that remedies the issue.
You havecondensation building up on your drip tip or chimney
Occasionally, excess vapor can build up onthe vape’s drip tip or chimney, establishing a barrier to the flow of vapor.When this happens, you’ll immediately notice spit-back and popping noises. If this seems tobe a regular problem for you, switching to a wide bore drip tip (or even an RTAwith a wider chimney) could be the key to solving it once and for all.