It is incredibly frustrating when you wait for your vape to charge, the light turns green (or blue), but when you go to take a puff... nothing happens.
If your vape is not hitting after charging, don't panic. You are not alone. This is one of the most common issues vapers face, and fortunately, it usually has a simple fix. Before you assume your device is broken or rush to buy a new one, try these 6 troubleshooting tips to get your vape firing again.
1. Check the Connection (The "Handshake")
The most common culprit is a poor connection between the battery (the mod) and the cartridge (the pod/tank ). If these two parts aren't touching perfectly, the coil won't receive power.
- The Fix: Remove the pod and inspect the connection. Re-insert it firmly. If your device uses a magnetic connection, make sure it "clicks" into place. If it uses a 510 thread (screw-in), ensure it is not screwed on too tight or too loose.
2. Clean the Contact Points
Over time, small amounts of e-liquid, condensation, or pocket lint can build up on the metal contact points inside the device. This layer of grime acts as an insulator, preventing electricity from flowing to the coil.
- The Fix:
- Turn off the device.
- Take a cotton swab (Q-tip) lightly dipped in isopropyl alcohol.
- Gently clean the gold/brass pins inside the battery and the base of the pod.
- Let it dry for a minute before reassembling. This simple step fixes the problem 80% of the time!
3. Verify the Battery Health
Sometimes, a light indicator can be misleading. Just because the light is on doesn't mean the battery is delivering enough power to heat the coil.
- The Fix:
- Check your charger: Are you using the original cable? Third-party cables sometimes cause "false charging."
- Overheating protection: If you just pulled it off a fast charger, the battery might be too warm. Let it cool down for 10 minutes.
- Voltage issues: Ensure you aren't using a high-voltage wall adapter meant for a laptop, as this can damage the vape's internal battery protection circuit.
4. Inspect Your Pod or Coil
If the battery works fine, the issue might be with the "engine"—the pod or coil itself.
- The Fix:
- Check for Air Bubbles: Sometimes, an air bubble gets trapped around the wicking port, preventing juice from reaching the coil. Give the pod a firm flick (like a thermometer) or tap it gently to dislodge the bubbles.
- Check for Clogs: Blow gently through the mouthpiece (while it's detached from the battery) to clear any excess e-liquid blocking the airflow.
- Replace the Coil/Pod: If the coil is burnt out or simply a "dud" (manufacturing defect), no amount of charging will fix it. Try a fresh pod to rule this out.
5. Evaluate Your Storage Habits
Did you leave your vape in a hot car or a steamy bathroom? Electronics hate extreme temperatures and moisture. High humidity can damage the auto-draw sensor (the microphone-like part that detects when you inhale).
- The Fix: Always store your vape in a cool, dry place. If you suspect moisture damage, remove the pod and let the device sit in a dry, airy spot for 24 hours.
6. Contact Support
If you have cleaned the contacts, changed the pod, checked the battery, and it still won't hit, it is possible that the internal circuitry has failed.
- The Fix: Check your warranty. Most reputable vape brands offering a warranty period. Contact the customer service team of the brand or the retailer where you bought it. They can often help you troubleshoot further or issue a replacement.
Conclusion
A vape that won't hit after charging is usually due to dirty contacts or a bad connection, not a broken device. By maintaining your device and keeping it clean, you can extend its lifespan significantly.
Still having trouble? Check out our latest collection of reliable products.