Why is my vape cartridge not hitting but has airflow? Issues & Fixes

This article aims to explore the various factors that could be causing this frustrating issue. From battery problems to clogged cartridges, we'll delve into troubleshooting steps to get your cart experience back on track.

We'll also offer some tips and tricks to help you optimize the maintenance of your vape carts. That way, you can stop disaster before it rears its head!

What Is a Vape Cartridge?

Vape cart is short for vape cartridge. It's a small canister that holds e-juice, such as various marijuana oil extracts or concentrate.

The container may be ceramic, plastic, or glass, but they all serve the same purpose.

The cartridge is attached to the battery portion of the vape device, and when the user inhales, the battery heats the coil inside the cart, vaporizing the e-liquid for inhalation.

While there are various types of vape cartridges, most of them have similar components:

Mouthpiece from where you inhale the vapor.

Cart tank or chamber that holds the marijuana oils or concentrates.

Atomizer for heating the oils for vaporization to occur.

Single-use or rechargeable battery for powering the atomizer.

510 thread is the standard size for most vape carts and batteries.

Why Isn't My Cart Hitting but has Airflow?

Common issues include connection problems between the cart and battery, battery problems, airflow obstructions or clogs, and the use of counterfeit or low-quality cartridges.

Proper checking and cleaning of contact points, ensuring the battery is charged, clearing any clogs, and verifying cartridge authenticity are steps for troubleshooting.

Step-by-step guide to troubleshooting carts that won't hit:

Step 1: Check the quality of vape cart

It's sad, but poor-quality carts are out there. Poorly constructed carts are more prone to airflow problems. This can't always be repaired by the individual.

Signs of a counterfeit or low-quality cart include:

Leaking or cracked;

A burnt taste;

Packaging that looks off or lacks a brand name;

Inspect the cart for any visible damage, such as cracks or leaks. If you notice any damage, do not attempt to use the cart, as it could be dangerous.

You should know that only an authentic e-commerce store or brand like Lookah will provide you with an authentic cart.

In this present context, there are hundreds and thousands of carts available. So, it is really necessary to be careful while purchasing if you don't have sound knowledge; it is better to do your research.

Step 2: Check for clogs

One of the main reasons why your cart has airflow but no smoke is a clogged vape cartridge.

Frequent usage tends to lead to the buildup of residue in the mouthpiece or airflow holes from the vape liquid, especially if there's no regular cleaning.

This accumulated hardened residues clog these vape parts, interfering with the regular device operation and blocking the vapor flow.

When this happens, you need to take your vape apart, clean it and dry out the various parts.

Clearing clogs using gentle heat or a needle: You can prevent this inconvenience by cleaning holes with a paperclip, needle and toothpick and removing excess oil by heating.

Prevent future clogs: To avoid future clogs, make sure you're not overfilling your cartridge or drawing too hard when you vape. Both can lead to e-liquid getting where it shouldn't and causing clogs.

Step 3: Check the battery and connection

When your battery doesn't have enough power or doesn't make a good connection with your cart, then it won't be able to heat up the oil inside.

If your battery has a flashing light when you try using it, it could mean that it has a low charge or that there's an issue.

When you screw your vape cart onto the battery too tightly, it prevents the connection pins from touching. Avoid do that.

Make sure the battery is charged and properly connected. A fully charged battery is essential for the proper functioning of your vape cart.

Remove the cartridge from the battery and check for any debris or residue on the contacts of both the cartridge and battery. Gently clean them with a cotton swab or alcohol wipe to ensure a good connection.

Step 4: Check the Cartridge

Ensure that the cartridge is properly attached and screwed in tightly. Sometimes, loose connections can lead to airflow issues.

If the cartridge is empty, it'll stop producing vapor. doublecheck to make sure that it still has oil in it.

If you've just filled a new cartridge for the first time, give the wick ample time to absorb the oil.

Ensure that your cartridges are high-quality and authentic. Counterfeit or low-quality cartridges can leak, clog, or worse, harm your device.

If you have access to another cartridge, try using it with your pen. This will help determine if the issue is with the pen or the cartridge itself.

Step 5: Check the Oil Viscosity

Every vape pen is built for different purposes. Some are for gentle smoking, while others are for aggressive smoking. The same goes for the cannabis oil used in these vape carts.

You must check which oil is suitable for the vape cart you own and only use that oil for smoking. Typically, vape carts have an instruction sheet to share which THC oil you must use.

If the oil is thick and your vape's heating element can't vaporize it, you won't get any smoke. Plus, this damages the heating coil as you'll keep the button pressed to heat the juice.

Another solution for this is to let the oil warm up properly before inhaling. Based on your vape cart, it might take up to three seconds for the oil to heat.

Step 6: Check the voltage settings

Vaping at the wrong voltage can result in subpar vapor. If your cart offers control over voltage, try reducing or raising it.

For optimal vapor, set your THC, CBD, or delta 8 cart to 2.5 volts or above. A sweet spot for most weed oil carts is 3.0 volts. Start at a lower setting and carefully increase the power until you have the hit you like.

How to Maintain Your Vape Carts To Prevent Damage?

Proper cleaning and maintenance of your vape cart are essential for optimal performance. Not only that, you'll be able to enjoy the products for a longer period.

Here are the top 5 recommended ways to maintain carts to prevent damage:

1. Dip a q-tip in rubbing alcohol and gently clean the mouthpiece, connection points, and inside of the cart. Be careful not to apply excessive pressure or get any liquid into the airflow channels or heating element.

2. Clean the battery contact points using a q-tip and rubbing alcohol to remove any dirt, debris, or residue. This ensures a clean and secure connection between the cart and the battery.

3. If you store the carts upside down or on its side, the liquid will flow towards the elements, thus clogging the device. So we'd suggest you place your carts in upright positions.

4. A lot of cannabis products are sensitive to light, so make sure to provide as little exposure to light as possible. Doing this, you'll always be able to gain maximum potency.

5. Most manufacturers suggest keeping your product in a temperature range of 80 degrees or below. Store your vape carts in a cool, shaded, and safe place.

Conclusion

Using a vape cart is fun until they start showing problems. An experienced person might have answers, but a newbie will panic if the vape cart is new.

Don't worry—with a little elbow grease and patience, you'll be taking another great hit in no time.

As we've seen, there are several reasons why a cart will give you airflow but no smoke.

Luckily, We have covered all the possible questions about vape carts not blowing smoke, along with solutions. Fixing the problem is usually not especially difficult.

If none of the above steps work, it's best to reach out to the manufacturer or the retailer where you purchased the pen. They may be able to provide specific guidance or offer a solution.