If your pen starts sputtering or stops working mid-session, don’t toss it for a shiny new one. You can often repair it with a few simple tricks and get back to savoring your terpy hits.
This guide on how to fix a disposable vape pen will walk you through basic troubleshooting to get your device firing again. You can squeeze every drop out of your vape investment with the right know-how. Read on to learn how to “resurrect” your disposable when things go wrong.
How to fix a broken disposable vape: Frequent issues
The common issues plaguing vaping pens can cut your enjoyment short. By understanding what causes them to malfunction and learning how to revive these temperamental devices, you can restore operation and maximize each unit’s lifespan.
Poor airflow
The airflow hole on your vape may be jammed, preventing you from taking a proper hit. Locate the small hole on the sides or bottom of the vape – this is your airflow vent. Gently clear any debris using a toothpick. Be very careful not to damage the inside of the vape.
Oil clog
A clogged cartridge is a nightmare. If this is your case, you can still brush up on how to fix a disposable weed vape pen and salvage your cart. Try heating the oil with a hairdryer and then pulling hard on the mouthpiece. Don’t overheat it, though: high temperatures can be detrimental to your device.
The button is stuck
This may occur in some disposables that come with a button. Look for any debris stuck in and use a paperclip, toothpick, or similar tool to lift and move button parts. Don’t force anything: apply light pressure to slide the pieces back into their correct positions. Give a few presses to ensure it’s moving freely. If it’s still stuck, you may need to try again.
The button doesn’t respond after drop
The button mechanism inside could be damaged if you recently dropped your vape or it took a tumble off a table. Give it a firm tap on a hard surface to free up the button. Be gentle because you don’t want to break the thing in half. If some light percussive maintenance doesn’t work, you’ll need to ask for professional help.
The battery died too soon
So, how to fix your disposable vape if there’s nothing that powers it? First, try charging the battery. Yes, we know it’s disposable, but some pens can be recharged a few times. If it works for yours, you’re back in business. If it doesn’t, stick your vape in the freezer for 30-60 minutes. The cold may shock the battery back to life.
Burnt coil or wick
Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do to repair a burnt coil. The best thing you can do is extract the remaining oil and refill a new, empty cartridge. To prevent coil burn in the future, avoid dry hits by firing the vape when the chamber is empty, and don’t go overboard with high wattage settings.
Sometimes, vapes stop working for other reasons. If none of the above methods are good for your pen, it may be dead for good.
When quick fixes for a disposable vape are useless
Single-use pens are designed to be temporary, providing the convenience of an electronic joint without charging or refilling. However, certain signs indicate it’s time to dispose of your device even earlier:
- Unpleasant taste. As the heating element in a disposable weakens over time, the taste and flavor of the vapor are affected. If you notice a burnt, metallic, or otherwise unpleasant taste coming from your pen, it likely means its internal components have started to break down.
- Diminished vapor formation. If you can’t produce once-fluffy clouds anymore, even when your device still contains juice, it is a sign its internal components have failed. Without the ability to recharge or refill it, low vapor production means it’s time to purchase a replacement.
- Gurgling sounds. How to fix your disposable weed vape if it’s making gurgling or spitting noises? In fact, these sounds show the oil has flooded the heating element or other parts. This can lead to degraded performance, leakage, and potential hazards, so the affected components should be replaced immediately.
- Oil seepage. Disposables are engineered to minimize seepage, as there are no refillable pieces. However, concentrates can leak as some internal components conk out. Leaking – alas – is a hazard that will continue to worsen and deteriorate your device’s performance.
For safety, replace any disposable pen that exhibits these issues. Properly disposing of it according to the manufacturer’s instructions helps prevent health and environmental threats.
How to make your disposable last longer
Disposables typically serve you up to a week before they kick the proverbial bucket. To boost their longevity, only take a puff when you have the urge and steer clear of chain vaping.
To avoid staring at your pen in disbelief that your trusty companion has unceremoniously given up the ghost, adhere to the following recommendations. With them, you may not even need to know how to fix a disposable weed vape:
- Hygiene. A dirty vape is an unhappy vape. After every few uses, wipe down the mouthpiece with a clean cloth to remove any built-up residue.
- Responsible storage. How you store your disposable impacts its lifespan. Don’t leave it in a hot car – room temperature or a slightly cooler place is best.
- Upright position. When storing, keep your vape in a standing position to avoid leaking oil.
- Pauses. Most people make the mistake of continually hitting their vapes. It’s best to take a few puffs, then put your pen down before picking it back up again.
- Forgetfulness. On the other hand, don’t leave it sitting for too long between uses. Concentrates may start to darken and develop an off-taste if unused for months.
These practical tips should help you fix a disposable vape nine times out of ten. But if they fail, you’ll have to accept that your pen has gone onto the giant vapor cloud in the sky.
