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There’s nothing worse than when your vape won’t turn on (well, when it comes to vaping anyway).
We’ve all been there at one point, you give the firing button a few clicks and nothing happens. Don’t worry, the solution is usually simpler than it seems.
We’ve put together this handy guide that takes you through a few troubleshooting steps — from power checks to resolving connection issues — which should help you quickly identify and fix any issues, so you can get things up and running again.
Key Takeaways
First, check your vape’s battery charge and inspect for any damage; proper maintenance, such as avoiding overcharging or complete drainage, can help extend battery life.
If your vape isn’t turning on, try cleaning the fire button to ensure it’s not stuck, and double-check that you’re pressing the correct sequence to activate the device.
Ensure that your pod or vape tank is securely connected to the battery, and clean the contact points, as a poor connection can prevent the device from functioning correctly.
Why Your Vaping Device Won’t Turn On
Before we get into the finer details of your vape kit, let’s start with the basics.
Have you checked the battery?
The battery is the heart of your device, much like fuel is for a car — you wouldn’t expect it to run without it. The same goes for your vape device; it needs a charged battery to function.
Grab your device and give it a quick inspection. If it won’t turn on and there are no signs of life, it’s time to investigate the power source.
Check If Your Battery Has Enough Power
First thing’s first, you’ll want to check if your battery has enough power (or any). Most vapes let you know when they’re running low and need a recharge.
Keep an eye out for the usual indicators — if your vape kit has a built-in battery, then there might be a green light or steady blink.
Or, if you’re using a device with a removeable battery, there might be a display on its external charger. If there’s a red light, or none whatsoever, then it’s time to charge your vape.
Is your battery damaged?
If your battery is charged and your vape still won’t turn on, or if it just won’t charge, then you should check for battery damage.
If you spot any visible damage, or it’s taking forever to charge (or it won’t hold its charge), then you’ll either need to replace it (in the case of removeable batteries), or get a new vape kit altogether (if it has a built-in battery).
It’s important to keep in mind that proper battery maintenance involves keeping it charged between 85% and 25%.
Plus, even the best batteries start degrading after around 18 months.
Is the firing button working?
If there’s nothing wrong with your battery and its charging properly, but your vape device still won’t turn on, then it might have something to do with the firing (power) button.
It might be a bit stuck, or just unresponsive in general. This is a common issue, but don’t worry — it’s usually an easy fix.
Give It A Good Clean
If your firing button isn’t working properly, you might need to give it a good clean.
Vape juice residue can build up over time and affect its performance, sometimes even causing a burnt taste.
A quick swab with rubbing alcohol could be just the fix your vape needs to spring back to life.
And as a maintenance tip, regularly cleaning the button can help prevent future stickiness and keep everything functioning smoothly.
Button Press Technique
If the firing button is nice and clean and your vape still won’t turn on, then it might be a case of how you’re pressing it.
Some vape devices need you to give it a certain number of clicks (usually two or three, but up to five or six in some cases) in quick succession (a few seconds will do).
Check the user manual for specific instructions, or wait a few seconds and employ a bit of trial and error to see what works.
Once you’ve got the knack of it, your device should turn on — provided it’s not something else that’s causing you issues.
Remember, this is a safety feature that stops your vape from going off in your pocket or bag.
Vape Tank/Pod & Battery Interface
Imagine your vape as a symphony, with the pod/tank and battery as the conductor and orchestra — if they’re out of harmony, the music just won’t sound very good.
Connection issues between these two can slowly create problems that aren’t immediately visible, but can lead to bigger issues over time.
Additionally, remember that your tank will only last for a finite amount of time.
After a while, you may notice cracks, leaks, or a burnt taste that persists after changing your coil.
At which point, it’s time to replace it with a new tank.
Tank glass should last for about it year if cleaned regularly with warm water and occasional swaps of alcohol.
Vape tanks made with other materials, such as plastic or acrylic, as well as ceramic and porous coated tanks are a bit less durable. In the case of these types of tanks, you’ll need to get a new tank after around 3-6 months.
Tighten The Connections
Firstly, you’ll want to ensure everything is tight but not too tight — it all comes down to finding the right balance.
Your vape tank should be screwed onto the battery just right — not too loose, but not so tight you’re trying to crush a walnut. A quick double-check here can save you from future problems.
And if you need a better grip, rubber gloves aren’t just for doing the washing up — they’re perfect for getting a decent twist on your tank.
Having a secure connection between your tank and battery keeps your vape running consistently, while helping to prevent problems down the line.
Clean The Contact Points
While you’re at it, take a moment to clean the contact points between your tank and battery as well.
A few drops of vape liquid or a bit of dust can be all it takes to interrupt your vaping experience. Use a cotton swab to gently clear away any residue.
Focus especially on the central pin on both the tank and battery connector — these two need to connect perfectly for your vape to function properly.
Safety Features & Settings
Now, let’s touch on the unsung heroes of your vape kit — the device’s safety features and user settings. These built-in safeguards don’t just guarantee an enjoyable experience, but a safe one too.
Occasionally, though, they can be a bit too cautious and might need adjusting to get your vape running smoothly again.
Turn Off Stealth Mode
Some vape kits feature Stealth Mode, which switches off the device’s display or LED indicators to keep things discreet.
This can be a pretty useful feature, but if you’re puzzled as to why your vape seems to be playing invisible, Stealth Mode could be the culprit.
If that’s the case, checking your user manual will reveal the right button combination to bring your vape back into the spotlight.
Reset Safety Locks
Does it feel like your vape’s as secure as Fort Knox? That’s your safety lock working a bit too well.
If you’re locked out, a specific sequence of button presses will unlock it. As always, your user manual is your guide to accessing this feature.
Unlocking your vape might seem minor, but having full control over vapour production, flavour intensity, and your nicotine hit can make all the difference for those quitting smoking, turning frustration into a satisfying experience.
Troubleshooting Internal Connections
In some cases, the reason your vape won’t turn on is hidden within the internal connections of your device. Troubleshooting these can feel like navigating a dark tunnel without a torch, but with some handy tips, you’ll be handling it like a pro in no time.
If you need more help, don’t hesitate to contact our manufacturer’s customer support team.
Are the wires loose?
Another factor to consider, is loose wires in your device. To check if this is what’s causing your vape to not turn on, give your device a little shake.
If you can hear rattling, it might indicate that a wire has come loose and needs a bit of adjusting. Be careful, though, you don’t want to turn a loose wire into a broken one.
If you feel like you’re up to it, have a look inside the heating chamber.
Clean any debris with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol or a cleaning brush to gently remove any debris that might be obstructing your view. Sometimes, a slight repositioning is all it takes to get those internal connections back together.
Get Help From A Professional
It can get to a point where the reason that your vape won’t turn on can’t be fixed with home toolkit. If your device still isn’t working, you might have to seek some professional help.
Your local vape shop might offer repair services. Plus, they can also guide you in choosing the right type of vape kits for your vaping style.
It’s not just about fixing your vape, it’s also about safety — especially when dealing with powerful lithium ion batteries.
Coil & Atomiser Problems
Let’s talk about the heating element in your device — its coil and atomiser.
These components are where the magic happens, transforming your mouth-watering e-liquid into luscious plumes of vapour.
But when issues arise, they can seriously impact your vape, particularly if airflow is restricted.
Is your coil correctly installed?
A loose coil is like a slipping bike chain — it throws off the whole ride and makes it hard to keep momentum.
To keep your vape functioning smoothly, ensure that your coil has been installed properly and is securely tightened. Making sure that there’s a solid electrical connection is key.
Additionally, double-check that your coil’s resistance is right for your device and vaping style, as an incompatible coil can cause all sorts of problems.
It might also just be a case of needing a new coil.
Replace Your Atomiser
Sometimes, no amount of tinkering will help, and it’s time to replace the atomiser — much like swapping out a worn tire, it’s essential for keeping your device working properly.
When you do replace it, make sure it’s the right fit for your device, and remember to prime it with e-liquid to prevent those nasty dry hits.
External Factors Affecting Your Device
External factors can be somewhat of a wild card when it comes to vaping. Just as you dress appropriately for the weather, your vape needs a bit of environmental consideration, too.
Let’s go over how the great outdoors can impact your vape and look at ways of shielding it from the elements.
Direct Sunlight
Have you ever left your device out in the garden on a hot summer’s day, and come back to find it hotter than a pizza oven? That’s your sign to avoid direct sunlight, or any other source of heat for that matter.
High temperatures can overwork the battery in your device, and just as you wouldn’t use your phone with an overheated battery, the same goes for your vape.
Water Damage
It’s a pretty well-known fact that water and electonics do not mix.
Just like with any other electrical device, if you find yourself caught in torrential rain, or falling into a swimming pool (for whatever reason), then you need to act fast to save your vape.
Make sure you dry off whatever you can, disassamble the device if possible, and let it all air out.
For future reference, a useful piece of advice would be to invest in a waterproof case for your vape. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
FAQS
Why has my device stopped working all of a sudden?
It’s common for vapes to suddenly stop working due to dirty battery contacts, or a clogged pod or tank. Start by cleaning both the battery contacts and your tank/pod. If the problem persists, there may be a clog in the tank itself.
Why is my vape showing a red light?
Your vaping device is displaying a red light because it’s running low on battery and needs charging.
How often should I clean the power button?
For best results, try and clean the fire and/or power button on your vape each time you replace a coil. This prevents e-liquid residue from building up and keeps the button responsive. If you notice it sticking a lot, you need to clean it more frequently.
What should I do in case of water damage?
If your vape kit is wet, switch it off, dry it thoroughly, and let all its components dry out. Water poses a serious threat to all electrical devices, especially batteries.
When is it time to change my coil?
If you notice a lack of vapour production, an unpleasant burnt taste, or just general poor performance from your vape device, it most likely means that you need to change your coil. This is especially true if it’s been a while since you last replaced it.
Summary
In this brief troubleshooting guide, we’ve explored the valleys of power failures, scaled the mountains of button malfunctions, and navigated the rivers of connection issues.
Now, you’re equipped with a roadmap to navigate your way through of all your vaping concerns.
Remember, the key to smooth sailing lies in regular maintenance, keen observation, and, when needed, guidance from the pros. May your clouds be abundant and your issues rare.
And if you need any further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our friendly team of vaping experts are available through live chat or email to give you a hand with whatever problem you’re having.
