Why Is My Vape Lighting Up but Not Hitting? 8 Possible Issues and Fixes

Vapes have gained immense popularity due to their portable, discreet, convenience, and ease of use.

However, sometimes these devices may encounter issues like light up but not produce any vapor.

This situation is frustrating! The possible reasons could be range from a low battery, a clogged cartridge, to a damaged coil and more.

Don't worry! Most of the time your vape pen isn’t actually broken and can often be repaired by the user easily.

You come to the right place. Here are the 8 potential causes that your Vape lighting up but not hitting, and some easy fixes that can help you get back to vaping.

What are vapes? and How do they work?

The more you learn about your device, the easier it becomes to recognize and correct problems.

Vapes, Also known as vape pens or e-cigs, they're far less harmful than cigarettes, and can help you quit smoking for good.

Vapes may look different but work in similar ways. They usually contain a battery that powers the atomizer, which heats the e-liquid in tank to create an aerosol that the user inhales.

Vapes can be used to deliver nicotine, cannabis (THC, CBD), flavorings, and other chemical substances.

Vape lighting up but not hitting? 8 Possible Issues and Fixes

By comprehending these common problems and imposing the advised fixes, you as a user can navigate your vaping experiences easily.

1. Low Battery

Although the device lights up, the battery might not have enough power left to heat the coil adequately, which is necessary for vapor production.

Solution:

Try charging the battery for a few hours if it’s rechargeable, and then try again.

If your battery has been plugged in for the past two hours and still doesn’t have a charge, consider getting a new charger or cable.

As for non-rechargeable disposables, a dead battery means the end of the vape’s lifespan.

2. Poor Battery Connection

A loose, overtighten or dirty connection between the battery and the atomizer is one of the most common reasons for this issue.

The Poor Battery Connection Cause the battery won't provide the necessary power to the heating element.

Solution:

Twist until the cart is snug and doesn’t jiggle around, but avoid forcing it even tighter.

Check the connection between the battery and the atomizer, ensuring there is no dust or debri. Clean it with a cotton swab and a bit of rubbing alcohol if necessary.

3. Insufficient E-liquid

The e-liquid might be depleted or too low.

If you’ve experienced a burned flavor or a decline in the amount of vapor from your last couple of draws, running out of juice is likely to be the culprit.

Solution:

Most vapes have a glass wall that allows you to see the e-juice level.

Check and refill the e-liquid, ensuring the level is sufficient.

If you have a non-refillable disposable vape, just throw it right out.

4. Clogged Cartridge

The airflow holes of Vape Cartridge can get clogged with debris or sticky residue from the cooling vapor, especially if used frequently or stored for long periods without use.

Solution:

Check for any visible blockages and clear the airflow paths. Here are few popular methods:

A. Blow softly into the mouthpiece then pull sharply. This can help remove the clog.

B. Try putting your vape in an airtight plastic bag and then submerging the bag in warm water to soften any residue.

C. Use a hair dryer on a low setting to warm up the oil so it all drips to the bottom of your cartridge.

D. Clear the airway with a thin, pointed item like a toothpick, needle or paperclip.

Read More: How to Unclog a Vape Cartridge or Pen? 6 Different Fixes

5. Damaged Coil

The coil inside the atomizer is crucial for heating the e-liquid to produce vapor.

If the coil is damaged, improperly installed, or has reached the end of its lifespan, it won’t work effectively.

Similarly, if the wick is dry or clogged with e-liquid residue, it can prevent the device from hitting even if it lights up.

Solution:

Disassemble your vape pen and Replace the coil , ensuring that the wick is fully saturated with e-liquid before you start vaping again.

5. Airflow Sensor Issue

As you inhale, sensors trigger the instant heating of coil wires which vaporize liquid from the wick.

A malfunctioning airflow sensor can cause the vape to light up but not produce vapor.

Solution:

Gently blow or inhale to try and trigger the sensor. If the problem persists, you might need to replace the device.

6. Incorrect Settings

Some vape pens come with adjustable settings for temperature or voltage.

The device’s settings might be adjusted improperly, such as being set at too low a wattage, which might not be sufficient to vaporize the e-liquid.

If the airflow intake hole of your vape is closed or blocked, Then the air can’t flow through the device, you’ll have trouble vaping.

Solution:

Try starting around 2.5 volts and adjusting upward. If you’re in the correct range and still aren’t getting the vapor you desire, there’s likely another issue.

If you have a vape with adjustable airflow, make sure that the airflow intake hole (usually at the bottom) isn’t closed or blocked.

7. oil or e-liquid leaking

The prefilled vape carts may have issues like Leaking or Cannabis oil seepage that causes chamber flooding.

If the e-liquid gets into the atomizer, mouthpiece, or even battery, your vape could stop working.

Leakage in vapes regularly happens because of strain changes, production defects, broken parts, Improper storage, or overuse.

Solution:

Gently wipe away excess e-liquid from the coil area, mouthpiece or connection with a paper towel or cotton bud.

Let the coil dry completely for 5-10 minutes before vaping again.

Check all seals and connections before it's working again, ensuring everything is tightened properly.

Replace the worn-out coil or O-rings If the issue persists.

Ensure that the e-liquid is not overfilled. Also, make sure that your vape is stored upright when not in use.

8. Manufacturing Defects

If the vape pen is still malfunctioning after you've tried basic troubleshooting, it could be a manufacturing defect.

A defective device is often a result of incorrect assembly or component failure.

Common signs of a manufacturing error are loose wiring, a faulty battery, a damged coil, or a continuous blinking LED light.

Solution:

If you suspect this is the case, check the warranty and contact the manufacturer or saler for a possible replacement or repair.

5 Useful Tips To Keep Your Vape Working Properly

There are some tips that are useful to vape users regardless if there are issues or not.

1. Proper Storage

Always keep disposable pens, cartridges, and batteries at room temperature. Avoid leaving items in your hot car, cold fridge or anywhere that can have fluctuations in cold and heat.

Always store items upright as laying them on their side could cause air bubbles to form, leaking and affect performance.

2. Proper Handling and Use

Read the instructions that come with the device carefully and follow them closely.

Avoid over-puffing, which can cause the device to overheat and potentially damage the coil.

Don't overfill your vape cart. Leaving a small amount of air within the pod/tank creates a vacuum which helps to stop vape juice leakage.

Avoid over-tightening when you screw the cart to battery, as this can break the threading, Causes poor contact, and snap the wires that are connected to it.

For disposable vape pens, Don't try it out and then save it for later because it may not have a battery left if you wait too long.

3. Routine Maintenance

Routine maintenance is essential to keep your vape functioning properly and extend its service life.

Regularly check the battery level to ensure it has enough charge for use. Don't let your e-liquid level run too Low, change coils or battery when needed, and more.

4. Clean Regularly

It is also important to keep the device clean. Regularly wipe down the exterior and connection with a soft cloth, clean the mouthpiece, tank and coils with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol.

Avoid using water or other liquids to clean the device, as this can damage the battery and affect the quality of the vapor.

5. Buy from a Reputable Brand

if you’re buying a low-quality disposable device, you may run into many more issues than the quality vape.

Look for responsible brands with a good reputation for quality and reliability. This can help ensure that you are getting a high-quality product that will last for a long time.

Conclusion

We’ve explored the perplexing issue of why a vape might light up but fail to produce any vapor.

From battery problems and coil issues to airflow complications and e-liquid levels, each aspect plays a crucial role and maybe one of the causes.

Fortunately, By taking a few preventative measures and imposing the advised fixes in this guide, users can avoid the problems and enjoy a seamless vaping experience again.

Remember, Whether using a disposable vape or a sophisticated box mod, the key to consistent performance lies in regular maintenance and correct usage.

A little care and attention go a long way in playing the full ability of vapes.