
Common Vaping Problems & How To Fix Them — Complete Guide
The ultimate VAPESALES troubleshooting guide for disposables, pod kits, coils and sub-ohm vapes.
TL;DR — Fast Solutions
- Burnt taste: Lower wattage, refill, replace coil, or prime coil properly.
- Leaking: Avoid overfilling, replace cracked pods, match VG/PG.
- No vapour: Charge, check coil seating, clear airflow, clean contacts.
- Weak flavour/clouds: Use fresh coil, high-VG for clouds, hydrate to avoid vaper’s tongue.
- Spitting/gurgling: Overfilled pod or flooded coil — clean + reassemble.
Why Vaping Problems Happen
Most common vaping issues are caused by one of four things: wicks not saturated, incorrect airflow, old coils, or wrong e-liquid ratio. Whether you use disposables, pod vape kits, or a sub-ohm setup, this guide walks you through every fix step-by-step.
1. Not Getting Enough Puffs (Disposables)
- Puff count depends on **short puffs**, not long inhalations.
- Avoid chain-vaping — it reduces coil lifespan.
- If cravings persist, switch to a **higher strength nic salt** (up to 20mg).
- For best value, move to refillable pod kits.
2. Burnt Taste / Dry Hits
- Refill or replace pod before the cotton dries out.
- Ensure new coils are properly primed — see coil priming guide.
- Reduce wattage to the coil’s recommended range.
- If flavour is permanently burnt, replace it — burnt cotton cannot be recovered.
3. Battery Draining Too Fast
- Choose a higher mAh device — see Vape Kits.
- Avoid overnight charging and damaged charging cables.
- USB-C devices charge faster and more efficiently.
4. Leaking Pods or Tanks
- Do not overfill — leave a small air gap.
- Replace cracked pods or tank glass.
- Store upright, especially in warm temperatures.
- Use correct **VG/PG** ratio (MTL = 50/50, DTL = 70/30).
5. Leaking Through Airflow Holes
- Heat thins e-liquid — keep the device out of direct sun.
- Ensure coil is fully seated and O-rings undamaged.
- Increase wattage slightly to prevent flooding.
6. Vape Kit Not Firing
- Press fire button 5 times quickly (or inhale for auto-draw models).
- Try another charging cable or wall adapter.
- Clean battery and pod contacts with a dry cotton bud.
7. No Draw / No Vapour
- Check liquid level covers all wick holes.
- Replace dud coil/pod.
- Charge battery fully — low power reduces vapour production.
- Ensure airflow is open.
8. E-Liquid Turning Dark
- Nicotine oxidises naturally — this is normal.
- Store in a cool, dark place.
- Replace coils regularly — old coils accelerate discolouration.
- Nic salts oxidise slower than freebase nicotine.
9. Clouds Too Small
- Use **70/30 VG** e-liquid for cloud production.
- Check battery charge and coil condition.
- Consider upgrading to a sub-ohm vape kit.
10. Weak Throat Hit
- Switch to freebase nicotine for stronger hit.
- Use flavours like menthol, citrus or tobacco.
11. Throat Hit Too Harsh
- Use nic salts at lower mg (5–10mg).
- Increase VG ratio for smoother vapour.
12. Not Enough Nicotine Hit
- Increase strength (max 20mg nic salts).
- Use **MTL pod kits** for better nicotine absorption.
13. Weak Flavour
- Hydrate to avoid vaper’s tongue.
- Rotate flavours regularly.
- Clean tank and replace coil.
14. Spitting / Gurgling
- Overfilling causes flooding — leave a small air gap.
- Remove mouthpiece and flick excess liquid into tissue.
- Replace old coil.
Need Coils, Pods or a New Vape?
Final Thoughts
Most vaping issues are easy to fix with a little troubleshooting. Whether it’s a burnt coil, leaking pod, weak battery or poor flavour, this guide covers every solution step-by-step. For smoother, more consistent vaping, pair your device with the right:
Keep your device clean, replace coils regularly and match the right liquid to your setup — and every puff will feel fresh again.
FAQs — Fixing Common Vaping Problems
Why does my vape taste burnt?
Your wick is dry or your wattage is too high. Replace coil and prime it properly.
How do I stop leaking?
Avoid overfilling, replace cracked pods, and use the correct VG/PG ratio.
Why is there no vapour?
Low battery, dud coil, or blocked airflow. Clean contacts and reseat the pod.
What’s the best e-liquid for clouds?
70/30 VG with sub-ohm coils. See E-Liquids.