Troubleshooting Common Vape Issues: Quick Solutions to Fix Your Device

Experiencing issues with your vape? Don't worry - most problems have simple solutions! Whether you're dealing with a burnt taste, leaking tank, or battery problems, this comprehensive guide will help you troubleshoot and fix the most common vaping issues quickly and easily.

🔥 Burnt or Bad Taste - The Most Common Complaint

Nothing ruins your vaping experience faster than a harsh, burnt flavour. Here's how to identify and fix this frustrating issue.

Symptoms You Might Notice:

• Harsh, unpleasant burnt flavour that makes you cough
• Dry hits that feel scratchy in your throat
• Flavour tastes off, muted, or completely different

Common Causes & How to Fix Them:

1. Burnt Coil (Most Common)

The Problem: Your coil has reached the end of its life or wasn't primed properly when new.

The Solution: Replace the coil immediately. Before using a new coil, let it soak in e-liquid for 5-10 minutes and take a few gentle primer puffs without firing the device.

Prevention Tip: Replace coils every 1-2 weeks depending on how much you vape. Heavy vapers may need to change coils more frequently.

2. Low E-Liquid Level

The Problem: Not enough liquid to properly saturate the cotton in your coil.

The Solution: Refill your tank immediately - always keep liquid above the minimum fill line.

Prevention Tip: Check your liquid levels regularly throughout the day and top up before running too low.

3. Chain Vaping

The Problem: Taking too many puffs in quick succession doesn't give your coil time to re-saturate with e-liquid.

The Solution: Take a break between puffs - wait 15-30 seconds to allow the coil to absorb more liquid.

Prevention Tip: Pace your vaping, especially with higher-powered devices.

4. Wattage Set Too High

The Problem: Your power setting exceeds what your coil can handle.

The Solution: Lower your wattage to within the coil's recommended range (usually printed on the side of the coil).

Prevention Tip: Always check coil specifications and start at the lower end of the recommended wattage range.

💧 Leaking Tank or Pod - Stop the Mess

Leaking is frustrating and wastes your precious e-liquid. Here's how to stop it.

Signs Your Device is Leaking:

• E-liquid pooling around the base of your tank
• Liquid in the mouthpiece or drip tip
• Wet pockets or sticky residue on your device
• E-liquid on your hands after handling the device

Common Causes & Solutions:

1. Loose Connections

The Problem: Tank components aren't screwed together properly, creating gaps for liquid to escape.

The Solution: Disassemble your tank completely and reassemble it, ensuring all parts are hand-tight. Don't over-tighten as this can damage O-rings.

2. Damaged or Missing O-Rings

The Problem: The rubber seals that prevent leaking are worn, cracked, or missing.

The Solution: Replace the O-rings. Most replacement coil packs include spare O-rings, or you can purchase them separately.

Prevention Tip: Handle your device carefully and replace O-rings every few months as part of regular maintenance.

3. Overfilling Your Tank

The Problem: Filling past the maximum line or getting liquid in the central airflow tube.

The Solution: Empty the tank, clean it thoroughly with a paper towel, and refill to the correct level.

Prevention Tip: Fill slowly and carefully, never exceeding the max fill line indicated on your tank.

4. Temperature Changes

The Problem: Pressure changes from temperature fluctuations cause e-liquid to expand and leak out.

The Solution: Store your device upright and allow it to reach room temperature before use.

Prevention Tip: Avoid leaving your device in hot cars, direct sunlight, or very cold environments.

5. Wrong E-Liquid Thickness

The Problem: E-liquid that's too thin (high PG content) for your device type.

The Solution: Switch to a higher VG ratio e-liquid, such as 70/30 or 80/20 VG/PG.

🔋 Battery Issues - Power Problems Solved

Battery problems can stop you from vaping altogether. Here's how to diagnose and fix them.

Common Battery Symptoms:

• Device won't turn on at all
• Battery drains unusually quickly
• Device won't charge or charging is very slow
• Weak vapour production even with full battery

Solutions to Try:

1. Device Not Activated

The Solution: Most devices require you to click the fire button 5 times rapidly to turn on or off. This is a safety feature to prevent pocket firing.

2. Battery Needs Charging

The Solution: Charge your device using the correct charger (usually USB-C or micro-USB). Most devices take 1-3 hours to fully charge.

Prevention Tip: Don't let your battery completely drain regularly - charge when it reaches 20-30%.

3. Dirty Battery Connections

The Problem: E-liquid residue or debris on the battery contacts prevents proper connection.

The Solution: Clean both the battery and tank connections with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol. Let dry completely before use.

Prevention Tip: Clean connections weekly as part of your maintenance routine.

4. Faulty Charger or Cable

The Solution: Try a different cable or charger. Always use manufacturer-recommended charging equipment.

5. Battery Degradation

The Problem: All rechargeable batteries lose capacity over time.

The Solution: If your device is old (typically after 300-500 charge cycles), it may be time to replace the battery or device.

Important: Always follow proper battery safety practices. Check out our battery safety guide for detailed information.

💨 Weak Vapour Production - Get Your Clouds Back

Why You're Getting Weak Vapour:

1. Low Battery Power

The Solution: Charge your device fully. Many devices reduce power output as battery depletes.

2. Airflow Blocked or Closed

The Solution: Open your airflow control ring fully or clear any blockages from the air vents.

3. Old or Gunked-Up Coil

The Solution: Replace with a fresh coil. Coil efficiency decreases significantly with age.

4. Wattage Set Too Low

The Solution: Increase your wattage setting within the coil's recommended range.

5. High PG E-Liquid

The Solution: Switch to a higher VG ratio (70/30 or higher) for more vapour production. VG creates thicker clouds than PG.

🗣️ Gurgling, Popping, or Spitting - Stop the Noise

Common Causes:

1. Flooded Coil

The Problem: Too much e-liquid in the coil chamber.

The Solution: Remove the tank, wrap tissue paper around the airflow holes, and blow firmly through the mouthpiece to clear excess liquid. Wipe everything clean and reassemble.

Prevention Tip: Don't over-prime new coils or leave your device lying on its side for extended periods.

2. Condensation Build-up

The Solution: Remove the mouthpiece and clean the chimney section with a tissue or cotton swab. This is normal and happens with regular use.

3. Wattage Too Low

The Solution: Increase your wattage slightly so the device can vaporize liquid more efficiently.

🚫 No Flavour (Vaper's Tongue) - Taste Your Vape Again

Suddenly can't taste your favourite e-liquid? This common phenomenon has easy fixes.

Solutions:

1. Olfactory Fatigue

The Problem: Vaping the same flavour for too long desensitizes your taste buds.

The Solution: Switch to a completely different flavour profile, drink plenty of water, or smell coffee beans to reset your palate.

Prevention Tip: Rotate between 2-3 different flavours regularly to avoid flavour fatigue.

2. Dehydration

The Problem: Vaping can cause dry mouth, which affects taste perception.

The Solution: Drink plenty of water throughout the day - aim for at least 8 glasses.

3. Dirty Coil

The Solution: Replace your coil. Residue buildup significantly dulls flavour over time.

⚡ Device Won't Fire - Get It Working Again

Quick Fixes:

1. Safety Lock Activated

The Solution: Click the fire button 5 times rapidly to unlock your device.

2. Poor Connection

The Solution: Remove and reattach your tank, ensuring it's screwed on properly. Clean the connection points.

3. Short Circuit Protection

The Solution: Check that your coil is properly installed and not damaged. Try installing a new coil.

4. Puff Timer Protection

The Problem: Most devices have a 10-second maximum puff time for safety.

The Solution: Release the button and wait a moment before taking your next puff.

🛠️ Essential Maintenance Tips to Prevent Issues

Regular maintenance prevents most vaping problems:

• Clean weekly: Disassemble and clean your tank with warm water, then dry thoroughly
• Replace coils regularly: Every 1-2 weeks or when flavour deteriorates
• Check O-rings monthly: Inspect for damage and replace if needed
• Store properly: Keep upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Use quality products: Cheap coils and e-liquids often cause more problems
• Follow manufacturer guidelines: Read your device manual and follow recommendations

When to Seek Professional Help

If you've tried these solutions and still experience problems, it may be time to seek help:

• The device may be faulty and need replacement under warranty
• Visit one of our store locations for hands-on troubleshooting
• Contact our expert support team - we're always happy to help!

Important Safety Reminders

• Never use damaged batteries or devices
• Always use the correct charger for your specific device
• Don't leave devices charging unattended overnight
• Keep devices away from water and extreme temperatures
• Store batteries safely when not in use
• Read our comprehensive battery safety guide

Need Replacement Parts?

Browse our extensive accessories collection for replacement coils, tanks, batteries, chargers, and more. We stock everything you need to keep your device running smoothly.

Explore More Helpful Resources

• Vape Buying Guide 2025 - Choose the right device
• E-Liquid Flavour Guide - Find your perfect flavour
• FAQ - Answers to common questions

Still stuck with a vaping problem? Don't struggle alone - our expert team is ready to help you get back to enjoying your vape. Contact us today for personalised support!