The Most Common Vaping Issues and How to Fix Them

Vaping is a popular alternative to smoking, offering a wide range of benefits and a more enjoyable experience for many people. However, just like with any electronic device, issues can arise that affect the performance and enjoyment of your vape.

We know problems like leakage, a burnt taste, or weak vapor production can be frustrating. So, you have to understand these issues and know how to fix them to improve your vaping experience.

From leakage and burnt coils to weak vapor production and quick e-liquid depletion, there are some root causes of these problems and actionable solutions to fix them. 

If you are one of them who want to fix these issues? Here, we will discuss how you can fix all of these issues.

Why Understanding Vaping Issues Matters

For many vapers, experiencing issues with their devices can cause unnecessary frustration, and sometimes, it can feel like your device is simply broken. However, most vaping problems can be resolved with a little knowledge and some simple fixes. The more you understand how your device works, the better equipped you’ll be to prevent issues from happening in the first place and troubleshoot when they do occur.

Vaping devices consist of many components: the battery, coils, pods, tanks, wicks, and e-liquids. If any one of these elements isn’t functioning properly, the entire vaping experience can be negatively affected. Identifying the underlying causes of common issues like leakage, burnt tastes, or weak vapor production not only saves you time and money but also helps you take better care of your device, ultimately extending its lifespan.

Knowing how to handle common vaping issues also empowers you to try different methods to improve your experience. If you find that one issue is consistently bothering you, understanding why it happens and how to fix it can help you achieve smoother, more enjoyable vaping sessions. With that in mind, let’s dive into the most common vaping issues and how you can solve them.

Leakage: Why It Happens and How to Prevent It

One of the most common issues that vapers encounter is leakage. Whether you’re dealing with a pod system or a tank, leakage can ruin the experience and create a mess. Leakage occurs when e-liquid escapes from the tank or pod, dripping down into the device or causing a puddle around the device. This not only wastes your precious e-liquid but can also cause your device to malfunction.

Overfilling is one of the leading causes of leakage. When you fill your tank or pod beyond its capacity, e-liquid can spill out through the airflow holes or the top of the tank. The excess liquid can then leak out when the device is stored upright or used.

Tanks and pods rely on seals and O-rings to prevent leakage. Over time, these seals can wear out, shrink, or get damaged, allowing e-liquid to escape.

If your tank or pod is not screwed together tightly, it can create gaps where liquid can seep out.

Some devices allow you to adjust the airflow. If the airflow is too open, it can cause excess pressure inside the tank, leading to leakage.

Storing a pod or tank upside down or horizontally can cause e-liquid to leak out, especially if the seals are not tight enough or the device is overfilled.

How to Prevent Leakage

Be mindful of the recommended fill level and avoid overfilling your tank or pod. Most tanks and pods have a clear fill line or a designated capacity, so make sure to stay within that range.

Inspect your device regularly to ensure that all O-rings and seals are intact. If they appear worn or damaged, replace them immediately to maintain a secure seal.

Always check that your tank or pod is screwed on tightly before use. Loose connections can lead to leakage, so ensure everything is securely assembled.

If your device has adjustable airflow, experiment with different settings to see if reducing the airflow helps prevent leakage.

Always store your device upright to avoid e-liquid leaking out. If you need to transport it, try using a vape case to keep it secure and prevent any leakage.

Burnt Coil Taste: What Causes It and How to Avoid It

A burnt coil taste is one of the most unpleasant experiences in vaping. It occurs when the coil, which heats the e-liquid, becomes too hot and burns the wick. This leads to an ashy, harsh flavor that ruins the vaping experience. Not only is this taste unpleasant, but it also signals that your coil isn’t functioning properly. Ignoring this issue can lead to further problems, such as damage to your device or wasted e-liquid.

There are several reasons why your vape may produce a burnt taste. One of the most common causes is dry hits, which occur when the wick doesn’t absorb enough e-liquid. This can happen if your tank is running low or if the wick isn’t properly primed before use. Another major reason is vaping at too high of a wattage or voltage. Excessive heat can burn the e-liquid and wick, causing that unwanted burnt taste.

Additionally, old or worn-out coils contribute to the problem. Over time, coils accumulate carbon buildup, which reduces their efficiency and leads to a burnt flavor. Finally, using e-liquids with too much vegetable glycerin (VG) can be problematic. High-VG liquids are thicker, and if your coil isn’t designed for them, it may struggle to wick properly, leading to dry hits.

How to Prevent Burnt Coil Taste

To avoid a burnt coil taste, start by ensuring that your wick is fully saturated before vaping. If you’re using a new coil, let the e-liquid soak for a few minutes before using your device. Also, avoid vaping when your tank is running low, as a dry wick increases the risk of burning.

Another important tip is to adjust your wattage or voltage according to your coil’s recommended settings. Too much power can overheat the coil, while too little may not vaporize the e-liquid effectively. Regular coil replacement is also essential. Coils wear out over time, and changing them frequently will ensure better performance.

Finally, always use the right e-liquid for your device. If you’re using a sub-ohm tank, opt for a 70/30 or 80/20 VG/PG ratio for better wicking and vapor production. 

Battery Not Lasting Long Enough: Solutions for Better Performance

A short-lasting battery is one of the most frustrating issues for vapers. Whether you’re using a pod system or a mod, a fast-draining battery can limit your vaping time and require frequent recharges. Luckily, understanding the causes of battery drain can help you improve its performance and longevity.

Several factors contribute to rapid battery depletion. Frequent use is the most obvious reason—if you vape often, your battery will drain faster. Another key factor is high wattage or voltage settings. The more power your device uses, the quicker your battery will run out.

Battery age also plays a role. Over time, lithium-ion batteries degrade, leading to shorter charge cycles. Additionally, extreme temperatures can impact battery life. If you vape in very hot or cold conditions, your battery may drain faster than normal.

How to Extend Your Battery Life

To make your vape battery last longer, consider lowering your wattage. Vaping at high power settings consumes more energy, so adjusting to a lower setting will extend battery life. Carrying a portable charger or power bank is another great way to avoid unexpected shutdowns.

Protecting your device from extreme temperatures is also important. Store your vape in a cool, dry place to prevent battery damage. If your battery no longer holds a charge as it once did, consider replacing it with a new one. 

Weak or No Vapor Production: Quick Fixes

Weak vapor production can make vaping less satisfying. If your device isn’t producing enough vapor, there could be a number of reasons behind the issue. Fortunately, most of these problems are easy to fix with a few simple adjustments.

One of the biggest culprits behind weak vapor is a clogged coil or wick. Over time, e-liquid residue and debris can accumulate, restricting airflow and reducing vapor production. Low battery power can also be a factor—if your battery isn’t providing enough energy, the coil won’t heat properly.

Another issue is incorrect airflow settings. If airflow is too restricted, vapor production will be minimal. Finally, low-quality or thin e-liquid may not produce as much vapor as a high-VG blend designed for thick clouds.

How to Fix Weak Vapor Production

Start by cleaning or replacing your coil. If your coil is clogged, cleaning it can help restore proper vapor production. Also, make sure your battery is fully charged, as a low battery can weaken vapor output.

If your device has adjustable airflow, experiment with different settings to find the right balance between vapor and flavor. Switching to a high-VG e-liquid can also improve vapor production, as these blends are designed for thicker clouds. 

E-Liquid Running Out Too Fast: Tips to Make It Last

Going through e-liquid too quickly can be frustrating and expensive. If you find yourself refilling your tank more often than you’d like, there are several strategies you can use to make your e-liquid last longer.

The most common reason for fast e-liquid consumption is high wattage settings. The more power your device uses, the more e-liquid it vaporizes with each puff. Frequent vaping is another factor—if you take long, frequent puffs, your e-liquid will deplete faster.

Additionally, high-VG e-liquids tend to be thicker and may require more liquid to wick properly. This can lead to increased consumption compared to thinner, higher-PG blends.

How to Extend E-Liquid Life

To make your e-liquid last longer, lower your wattage to reduce how much e-liquid is used per puff. If you vape frequently, try to reduce the number of puffs you take throughout the day.

Switching to a higher-PG e-liquid can also help, as these blends wick more efficiently and don’t require as much liquid per hit. Finally, only refill your tank when necessary rather than topping it off constantly. 

FAQs

Why does my vape leak, and how can I stop it?

Vape leakage usually occurs due to overfilling, damaged O-rings, improper assembly, or excessive airflow. 

What causes the burnt taste when vaping?

A burnt taste happens when the coil becomes too hot, often due to dry hits, high wattage settings, or old coils. To prevent it, always prime your coils, avoid low e-liquid levels, and replace coils regularly.

How can I make my vape battery last longer?

To improve battery life, lower your wattage settings, charge your device fully, and avoid extreme temperatures. Carry a spare battery if necessary.

Why is my vape not producing any vapor?

Weak or no vapor production can be caused by clogged coils, low battery power, or incorrect airflow. Clean your coil, ensure a full battery, and adjust airflow to fix the issue.

How do I prevent e-liquid from running out too quickly?

Reduce your wattage, vape less frequently, use a higher-PG e-liquid, and avoid overfilling to make your e-liquid last longer.

What’s the best way to clean and maintain my vape device?

To clean your device, regularly rinse the tank or pod, dry the components, and replace the coil every 1-2 weeks. Keep the mouthpiece and airflow holes clean for optimal performance.