Most vape problems have a simple cause and an easy fix. Before you replace anything, work through the checks below for the problem you are seeing. Your device’s manual is always the best guide to its own buttons, lights and settings.
Quick checks first
- Is the battery charged?
- Is the pod or coil the correct one for your kit, and fitted properly?
- Are the metal contacts on the pod and device clean and dry?
- Is there enough e-liquid in the pod or tank?
Leaking
Common causes:
- Filling above the max line, or leaving no air gap at the top.
- A coil or pod that isn’t fully seated, or a worn or missing seal (O-ring).
- A thin, high-PG e-liquid in a sub-ohm tank designed for high VG.
- Changes in air pressure or temperature, for example on a flight.
- A cracked pod or tank.
How to fix it: empty and dry the pod or tank, check the seals, refit the coil firmly and refill to just below the max line. If the pod is cracked or the leak continues, replace the pod.
Burnt or dry taste
Common causes:
- A new coil that wasn’t primed.
- The e-liquid level dropping below the coil’s wick holes.
- Chain vaping, so the wick can’t re-soak between puffs.
- Power set above the coil’s recommended range.
- Thick, high-VG e-liquid in a small, high-resistance coil.
- A coil that has reached the end of its life.
How to fix it: top up, pause between puffs and lower the wattage. If the taste stays, fit a new coil and prime it properly; our guide to changing and priming a coil shows how.
Gurgling or spitting
Gurgling usually means e-liquid has flooded the coil or collected in the airflow. Remove the pod, blot the contacts and the bottom of the pod with a tissue, and gently blow through the mouthpiece with a tissue over the other end. Inhaling more gently and using a slightly higher wattage within the coil’s range can help.
No vapour, or the device won’t fire
- Flat battery: charge it fully with a suitable cable.
- Pod not detected: take the pod out, wipe the contacts dry and refit it.
- Device locked: many kits lock and unlock with five quick presses of the button; check your manual.
- “Check atomizer” or “no atomizer” message: the coil or pod may be faulty or not connected; try a new one.
Weak flavour
Flavour fades as a coil ages, so a new coil is often the fix. Make sure the e-liquid suits the coil, and remember that your sense of taste can get used to a flavour you vape all the time; switching flavours now and then can help.
Battery and charging care
- Charge with the cable supplied or a good-quality replacement.
- Keep the device away from extreme heat and out of direct sun.
- Stop using a device whose battery is swollen, damaged or gets unusually hot, and recycle it.
When to replace your kit
If your kit still won’t work after a new pod or coil and a full charge, the device itself may be at fault. Check the warranty details that came with it, and contact us if you bought it from Vapeera. Replacement pods and coils are also available for most kits we sell.
