How to fix a vape that is not working: a guide

Vaping is an excellent alternative to smoking, but it can be frustrating when your device isn't working correctly. Luckily, even the biggest problems usually have a simple fix.

In this comprehensive guide we will be looking at troubleshooting common vape problems, whether you have a disposable vape not working as expected like a Lost Mary vape flashing light but without producing vapour, or an advanced vape kit with a leaky tank. If you’re left scratching your head wondering ‘why is my vape not working?’, use this vape troubleshooting guide and you can hopefully identify the issue and find out how to fix a broken vape.

We will also provide some tips for keeping your device in good condition. Let's go!

Not getting any vapour when you draw

If you're not getting any vapour when you draw, the first thing to check is the battery because it isn't charged correctly in most cases. However, the connection might be faulty too.

If the problem persists, try cleaning the coil with a bit of tissue, as a build-up of residue can sometimes prevent the coil from heating properly. You should also check the connection between the tank and battery and wipe it clean.

If you're still having trouble do not hesitate to contact your local Evapo vape shop or manufacturer for assistance.

Vapour is tasteless or tastes burnt

If you've ever taken a draw of your vape device, only to be met with a burnt taste, you'll know it's an awful experience. Unfortunately, this is one of the most common problems we see, and it's easy to fix.

In most cases, the e-liquid tastes burnt because the coil or pod needs replacing. Over time coils will naturally degrade and produce less flavourful vapour, but simply swapping the old one for a new one should do the trick.

With every new coil, make sure to ensure you prime your coil by putting a small drop of e-liquid on each cotton window of your coil and allow it to sit in a tank or pod full of e-liquid for 10 minutes before use.

The tank is leaking e-liquid

Leaking is another common issue that can be frustrating for vapers, and if there are no visible cracks in the tank or pod, finding the source of the problem can be challenging.

In most cases, it occurs when the tank isn't screwed on correctly, so make sure you tighten it before use.

The incorrect e-liquid VG/PG ratio can also be another common reason for tanks leaking. Tanks that use coils with an ohm resistance of 0.9 ohm or lower are designed to be used with high VG e-liquids which contain a ratio of 70VG or higher. Whereas 1.0 ohm and higher resistance coils are designed to be used with 50VG/50PG or high PG e-liquids.

Another common issue that causes tanks to leak is that the O-rings (the small rubber rings that create a seal) are damaged or missing. The rings are easy to replace and your local Evapo vape shop can help if you're unsure how to do it.

If you're still having trouble, try changing the way you fill your tank, as some devices require that you prime the coil before, while others need to be filled from the bottom up.

Vape pen won't turn on

Vape pens not turning on are a common issue mainly due to a dead battery. If you've tried charging the battery and it still won't turn on, it likely needs to be replaced.

Check the connection between the tank and atomiser if the problem isn't with the battery. Sometimes, the 510-threaded connection isn't screwed on correctly, which can prevent power from reaching the coil.

Once you've checked all of these things, contact your local vape shop or purchase a new kit if your vape pen still won't turn on. Vape devices aren't invincible, and you will need to replace them at some point.

Disposable vape flashing and not working

Disposable vapes usually have a small blue light on them, which will glow when the device is in use. If you have been using your disposable vape for a while and the light has now started to flash, you may be wondering 'why is my vape flashing and not working?'

This is because disposable vapes like those from Elf Bar and Crystal Bar come prefilled with 2ml of e-liquid, and with a pre-charged battery, once the device has run out of e-liquid and the battery is dead, you will notice the vape flashing blue light to let you know that it is time to dispose of it and replace it with a new one.

You may find that the device will start working again for a couple of puffs if left for a few hours, however, this will not last long and may actually taste a little burnt or weak as the device is running low on e-liquid and power.

Once your disposable vape is dead, it will need to be disposed of and replaced, as standard disposables cannot be refilled or recharged.

Brand new disposable vape not working

Although it is very rare for a disposable vape to be dead on arrival, it is not completely unheard of. If, for example, you have a brand new Lost Mary vape not working straight out of the box, a great place to start is ensuring that you have removed all of the packaging.

Once removed from the sealed bag disposable vapes, like the Vuse GO, will have a sticker or silicone stopper covering the mouthpiece at the top of the device, and the airflow at the base of the device. If either of these is still in place the air will not be able to circulate in the device, and as disposable vapes are draw activated this means that the device will not work.

If you have removed all of the packaging and find that your disposable vape is still not working please reach out to our Customer Service Hub and we will be happy to advise on how to proceed.

Bubbling or gurgling noises

The best way to ensure your issue isn't with your coil is to remove and disassemble the tank. Then, dry all the parts thoroughly before putting them back together and trying again.

If you're hearing strange bubbling or gurgling noises from your vape device, this could mean your coil is ready to be replaced. If the coil is relatively new however, this is known as a flooded coil. Solving a flooded coil is as easy as emptying your tank, removing the coil, covering the coil in tissue and blowing gently into the coil to remove any excess e-liquid.

Vaping causing a sore throat

If you find that vaping is causing a sore throat, the first thing to do is check the nicotine strength of your e-liquid. A high nicotine strength can irritate your throat if it's too high, so try reducing the nicotine level or switching to a lower VG ratio e-liquid.

There is also a small chance that you might also be allergic to propylene glycol (PG), a common ingredient in vape juice. In this case, you'll need to switch to an e-liquid that is entirely vegetable glycerine (VG) instead, these e-liquids are known as 'Max VG' or '100VG'.

Most vapers eventually find their perfect balance of nicotine and PG/VG ratio, but it might take some trial and error. Start with a lower nicotine level and gradually increase it until you find what works or ask an Evapo colleague in-store for some assistance.

For more information on choosing your nicotine strength you can also take a look at our blog post ‘Which strength e-liquid should I use?’, and you can find more information on VG/PG rations in our post ‘How to mix your own vape juice’.

Not having time to fill up the tank constantly

Transitioning from smoking to vaping can be hard at first because when you buy a pack of cigarettes, you grab one, light up, and you're good to go. With vaping, you need to take the time to fill up your tank and ensure that you have enough e-liquid to last you throughout the day.

One way to solve this problem is by carrying a spare bottle of e-liquid with you so that you can top up your tank when it starts running low. However, disposable vapes are fast becoming a favourite among consumers and do not require to be refilled and are disposed of once finished.

They're easy to use and highly accessible - but that's not all. Disposable vape devices also come in many flavours and are ideal for getting your nicotine fix.

Charger not working

If your vape pen's charger isn't working, you should first check the connection and make sure that it's firmly plugged in with no damage to the cord or the charging pins on the device.

Trying a different charging port can solve the problem, as it could be an issue with your laptop or outlet. If that doesn't work, the problem is with the battery, and you'll need to buy a replacement.

Not getting a strong enough nicotine hit

If you're a former smoker, it's important to remember that nicotine levels in vape juice can be much lower than in cigarettes. So, if you're not getting a strong enough hit, you might need to increase the nicotine level in your e-liquid.

However, remember that too much nicotine can be just as bad as too little. If you start feeling nauseous or lightheaded, it's time to reduce the nicotine level.

As with most vaping-related things, finding the perfect balance of nicotine takes trial and error. Start low and gradually increase the amount until you find what works.

Final thoughts

There you have it - a comprehensive guide to how to fix a vape that is not working. Remember to start with the basics before moving on to more complex solutions, and if all else fails, please don't hesitate to contact the Evapo team for assistance.

Vaping can be a great way to enjoy nicotine without many of the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes. Once you get to the basics, you can enjoy the flexibility of vaping and the many flavoured e-liquids around.