Common Vaping Issues
Troubleshooting Common Vaping Problems
Vaping should be simple and satisfying, but even the best vape kits and disposable vapes sometimes play up. This quick guide from Bargain Vape Shop covers the most common vaping problems and how to fix them, so you can get back to a smooth vape fast.
Not Getting Enough Puffs from a Disposable
Take shorter, gentler draws, as long, heavy pulls burn through e-liquid faster and reduce the overall puff count.
If you vape constantly, consider switching to a refillable pod kit or reusable vape kit for better value and less waste.
If the device dies much earlier than expected, it could be a faulty disposable and may need replacing.
Vape Tastes Burnt
When a vape coil reaches the end of its lifespan, performance will noticeably decline. You may experience a burnt taste, reduced flavour, weaker vapour production, or leaking. If you are using a prefilled vape kit, this is the right time to replace the prefilled cartridge. For reusable vape devices, replacing the coil or pod will restore flavour, vapour quality, and overall performance.
Vape Battery Not Lasting Long
Heavier vapers may need a device with a higher mAh battery to comfortably last the full day.
Avoid leaving your vape on charge overnight and unplug it once fully charged to protect battery health.
Check your cable, charging port, and USB socket for damage or debris if it does not seem to be charging properly.
Vape Kit Leaking E-Liquid
Do not overfill the tank or pod; always leave a small air gap to create a vacuum and reduce leaks.
Ensure everything is screwed together firmly but not overtightened, and check for any cracks in the tank or pod.
Store your vape upright when possible, and empty the tank before flying to avoid leaks from pressure changes.
E-Liquid Around Pod Connections or Airflow
A worn-out coil can flood and leak; replace the coil and make sure it is properly primed before use.
Check that your wattage matches the coil resistance; power that is too low can cause flooding and gurgling.
Make sure the battery is charged enough to heat the coil efficiently and burn off excess liquid.
Vape Not Working or Not Firing
Confirm the device is switched on; most vape kits use 3, 5, or 6 quick clicks on thefire button.
Charge the battery fully and ensure you are using a suitable charger for your device.
Clean the contact points between the tank/pod and battery to remove dust or e-liquid build-up.
No Draw or No Vapour
Check there is enough vape juice in your tank or pod and that the wicking holes are covered.
Replace an old coil, as burnt-out or tightly packed cotton can stop airflow and vapour production.
Clean the connections and make sure everything is fitted correctly with no gaps or loose parts.
E-Liquid Turning Dark
Store vape juice in a cool, dark, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight.
If liquid has been in a tank for a long time, empty, clean the tank, and refill with fresh e-liquid.
Higher nicotine strengths and older coils can cause darkening; change the coil regularly and avoid keeping e-liquid for too long.
Dry Hits or Burnt Taste
Replace the coil if it is old, as worn coils commonly cause harsh, burnt hits.
Always prime your coil properly by saturating the cotton and letting it sit before vaping.
Check you have enough e-liquid in the tank and that your wattage is not set too high for the coil.
Not Getting Big Enough Clouds
Choose a high VG e-liquid with the right coil and kit designed for bigger clouds and DL vaping.
Make sure the coil is fresh, fully primed, and the battery has enough charge.
Clean the contacts and, if needed, consider upgrading to a more powerful sub-ohm vape kit.
Throat Hit Problems (Too Little or Too Much)
For a stronger throat hit, use higher-PG e-liquids, freebase nicotine, sharper flavours like menthol or tobacco, and higher-resistance coils such as 1.0 or 1.2, which are designed for lower-power, mouth-to-lung vaping.
For a smoother vape, switch to higher-VG e-liquids, lower nicotine strength, or nic salts, and use lower-resistance coils such as 0.15 – 0.2, which are intended for higher-power, direct-to-lung vaping.
You can also fine-tune your experience by adjusting airflow and wattage if your device supports it. If you still experience throat irritation despite these changes, you may be sensitive or allergic to PG, in which case a higher-VG e-liquid is recommended.
Not Getting Enough Nicotine Hit
Review your nicotine strength; you may have dropped too low too soon after quitting smoking.
Try nic salt e-liquids if you want a faster, more cigarette-like nicotine absorption.
Use an MTL (mouth-to-lung) style with appropriate coils and kits for better nicotine delivery.
Weak Flavour, Spitting, or Gurgling
Drink some water and rotate flavours to avoid vaper’s tongue and flavour fatigue.
Check coil age, change it regularly, and keep your tank or pod clean to maintain flavour quality.
Do not overfill, and gently flick or blow through the device (when powered off) to clear excess e-liquid if it is gurgling or spitting.
Need More Help?
If you are still having issues with your vape kit, disposable, or e-liquid, the Bargain Vape Shop team is here to help. Get in touch for personalised advice on the best vape kits, coils, and e-liquids for your vaping style, or to find an upgrade that solves your everyday vaping problems.
