Share
Troubleshooting Common Vape Kit Issues
There is a moment every vaper faces at some point. You pick up your kit expecting a smooth session, only to find that the flavour is off, the vapour is weak or something feels slightly wrong. It happens to beginners and long time vapers alike. The good news is that most problems can be solved with a bit of simple troubleshooting.
After years of trying different kits across the UK it becomes second nature to recognise the signs and fix them before they spoil your routine. At Tidal Vape we see these issues every day and we help customers find simple solutions that keep their kit running the way it should.
This guide walks through the most common vape kit issues and how to fix them. Each section has clear bullet points to make the steps easy to follow. With the right knowledge and a few well chosen accessories you can keep your kit smooth, flavourful and reliable.
Weak or reduced vapour
Weak vapour is one of the most common issues for both new and experienced vapers. It can happen suddenly or gradually and often has a simple cause.
- Check the pod or cartridge. Pods wear out over time. Our OXVA Xlim Top Fill Pods are regularly bought by customers who notice a drop in vapour and find that a fresh pod fixes the problem quickly.
- Inspect the coil if you use a device with replaceable coils. Coils lose performance with use and need changing to restore proper vapour production.
- Make sure the battery is charged. Low power often leads to weak vapour. Many regular users keep a spare Sinowatt 25SP battery so they always have enough power.
- Clean the contacts between the pod and device. Dust and residue can interfere with the connection.
- Reduce airflow slightly if your kit allows it. A small adjustment can strengthen vapour output.
- Replace the pod, cartridge or coil if the issue continues. This is the simplest long term fix.
Weak vapour is usually a sign of wear rather than damage. With basic upkeep and a few spare parts most users get their kit back to full strength in minutes.
Burnt or unpleasant flavour
A burnt taste is something almost every vaper experiences. It can be frustrating but it is also one of the easiest problems to solve.
- Replace the pod or cartridge. When flavour turns harsh or burnt it often means the pod has reached the end of its life. Our Voopoo Argus Top Fill Pods are known for keeping flavour steady for a long period but still need replacing eventually.
- Do not let the pod run dry. Low liquid can burn the cotton inside the pod.
- Leave the pod to soak for a few minutes after filling. This prevents dry hits.
- Lower the wattage if you use a device with adjustable settings. Too much power can cause a burnt taste.
- Check that the liquid level is not too low. Top ups help keep the cotton saturated.
- Clean the mouthpiece. Sometimes residue can affect flavour and be mistaken for a burnt taste.
Burnt flavour is almost always an issue with the pod or coil rather than the device itself. A fresh pod or a short rest after filling usually fixes it.
Leaking pods or tanks
Leaking can create mess and waste liquid. It can happen for several reasons but it is often easy to prevent with good habits and the right accessories.
- Replace worn pods. If the seal is no longer tight the pod may leak. Our Uwell Caliburn G3 Pro pods provide a reliable seal and are a strong option for customers who have dealt with leaks in the past.
- Keep the pod upright when not in use. This reduces the chance of liquid escaping through airflow openings.
- Do not overfill. Leaving a small gap prevents pressure buildup inside the pod.
- Check the tank glass for cracks. Many customers keep our Aspire Nautilus glass pieces as spares for this exact reason.
- Clean all contact points. Liquid trapped between parts can appear as a leak.
- Make sure the pod clicks fully into place. A loose pod can cause small leaks around the edges.
Leaking feels troublesome but the fix is usually simple. Good maintenance and the occasional replacement pod prevent most problems.
Device not firing
When a device refuses to fire it interrupts everything. The cause is usually electrical or related to contact points, and almost always fixable.
- Check the battery. Low or depleted batteries are the most common cause. Our Sony VTC6 batteries help many customers keep steady power throughout the day.
- Clean the contacts on both the pod and device. Dirt can block the connection.
- Try a new pod. A faulty pod can prevent the device from recognising it.
- Ensure the device is switched on. Some kits require a specific press pattern to activate.
- Lock and unlock the device if your kit supports this feature. It resets the connection.
- Charge the device fully before testing again.
Most non firing issues come down to pod contact or battery charge. Keeping spare batteries and fresh pods nearby helps avoid interruptions.
Gurgling or flooding
A gurgling sound when inhaling usually means excess liquid has collected in the airflow pathway. It is common and easy to clear.
- Remove the pod and gently tap it upside down to release trapped liquid.
- Clean the mouthpiece with a tissue.
- Check the fill level. Overfilling causes flooding.
- Replace the pod if the issue keeps returning. Our OXVA Xlim pods are known for reducing flooding thanks to their steady wicking design.
- Take slower draws. Fast draws can pull too much liquid into the coil.
- Keep the device upright when not in use to prevent pooling.
Gurgling is not harmful but it is a sign that something is slightly off. With small adjustments it usually disappears quickly.
Poor flavour or muted taste
When flavour begins to fade it can make vaping feel unsatisfying. This issue is common and usually linked to pod life or routine maintenance.
- Replace the pod or cartridge. Flavour naturally declines as the pod ages. Our ELFX pods are often chosen by customers who want consistent flavour without frequent changes.
- Switch to a fresh pod of the same flavour to see if the problem improves.
- Clean the mouthpiece. Old residue can mix with vapour and dull the taste.
- Make sure your liquid has not expired or been exposed to heat or sunlight.
- Let the pod sit for a few minutes after filling. Proper saturation helps balance flavour.
- Try a new batch of liquid to rule out liquid degradation.
Muted flavour is a sign that your pod is on its way out. Replacing it at the right time keeps your sessions enjoyable.
Spitback
Spitback happens when droplets of warm liquid reach the mouth during a draw. It is not dangerous but can be unpleasant.
- Do not overfill the pod.
- Fire the device for a second without inhaling to clear built up liquid.
- Check the pod for flooding. A gurgling sound usually accompanies spitback.
- Replace the pod if the issue persists. Our OXVA Nexlim pods tend to hold liquid in place well and reduce this problem.
- Keep the airflow steady rather than wide open.
- Clean the mouthpiece to remove any trapped liquid.
Spitback is usually temporary. Most users fix it by adjusting fill level or swapping to a fresh pod.
Battery draining too fast
A fast draining battery disrupts the day. It can happen for several reasons, many of which are easy to correct.
- Replace old batteries. Batteries lose capacity with age. Our Molicel P42A batteries offer strong longevity and are used by customers who vape frequently.
- Charge the battery fully before use.
- Avoid using damaged charging cables or plugs. Many customers carry our charger plug for this exact reason.
- Reduce wattage if your device allows it. Higher power drains the battery more quickly.
- Clean battery contact points. Dirt reduces efficiency.
- Store batteries properly in a safe case. Poor storage can affect performance.
Most battery issues improve with a fresh battery or better charging habits. Many users keep two batteries and rotate them for consistent power.
Button or airflow not responding
Some kits rely on buttons or adjustable airflow. When these do not respond it can affect the entire session.
- Check for liquid or residue around the button. Clean it gently.
- Lock and unlock the device to reset it.
- Adjust airflow slowly. Small dust particles can cause stiffness.
- Replace the pod. Airflow problems sometimes come from the pod rather than the device.
- Make sure the device is charged. Low power can make buttons unresponsive.
- Service or replace worn parts if the issue repeats.
A small clean or a fresh pod usually restores responsiveness.
Cracked glass or loose components
Accidents happen. Glass can crack and small parts may loosen over time. Keeping spares solves these problems before they stop you from vaping.
- Replace the glass immediately if you notice a crack. Many customers keep our Uwell Valyrian glass pieces ready for this situation.
- Tighten the tank parts gently but do not force them.
- Check O rings for damage and replace if needed.
- Carry a spare glass if you travel often. Our Aspire and Uwell glass ranges suit many common kits.
- Inspect the tank each week to spot early signs of wear.
- Keep the tank upright to prevent pressure on weakened areas.
Glass issues are easy to fix with a spare piece. Many users learn to keep one on hand after the first drop.
When to replace accessories instead of repairing
Some issues are better solved by replacing the accessory rather than trying to repair it. Knowing when to switch saves time and prevents repeated problems.
- Replace pods when flavour fades, vapour weakens or leaks begin.
- Replace batteries when they drain quickly or show signs of age. Our Sinowatt and Molicel batteries are reliable replacements.
- Replace glass if you see cracks or deep scratches.
- Replace drip tips if they feel loose or uncomfortable.
- Replace chargers if they show cable damage or inconsistent charging.
- Replace cotton or coils if you use rebuildable setups.
Replacing worn accessories keeps your kit safe, clean and consistent.
Simple habits that prevent most issues
A few everyday habits help avoid most common problems. They take little effort but make a noticeable difference.
- Keep the device upright whenever possible.
- Do not let pods run dry.
- Clean contact points each week.
- Carry one spare pod and one spare glass for emergencies.
- Charge batteries before they reach very low levels.
- Store liquids in a cool dry place.
- Use accessories that match your device exactly.
These habits keep your vape kit in its best condition for longer.
Some closing thoughts...
Every vaper experiences occasional issues but most of them are easy to fix once you know what to look for. A fresh pod, a clean contact point, a new battery or a replacement glass can turn a frustrating moment into a smooth session again. At Tidal Vape we help customers solve these problems every day and we see how much difference a few simple accessories can make.
Troubleshooting becomes far easier when you understand the signs and have the right parts ready. With a few spares and a bit of routine care your kit can stay reliable and enjoyable for a very long time. If you ever find yourself unsure, our team is always ready to help you choose the right accessory or replacement to keep your routine simple and satisfying.
