Why Is My Vape Leaking?

By Jemma Wolfe
Published On: 24-6-24
Read time: 5 mins

Reasons Why Your Vape Is Leaking

1. Improper Coil Installation

Coil issues are a common cause of vape leaks. As the coil plays a crucial role in heating the e-liquid and producing vapour, if it’s damaged or not correctly installed, it can lead to a pesky leaking vape.

When the coil isn't properly seated in place or aligned in the tank, it can create small gaps that allow vape juice to escape. This often happens when replacing coils or when assembling your vape device.

Solution:

To tackle coil-related leaks, first, make sure your coil is snugly installed and aligned properly. Avoid over-tightening and don't forget, if your vape starts tasting burnt or your e-liquid looks a little funky, it's probably time to swap out that coil for a fresh one.

2. You’re Overfilling Your Tank

Putting too much e-liquid in your vape tank may seem harmless, but it can lead to a whole host of issues including messy leaks and wasted juice. When you exceed the tank's capacity, the excess liquid has nowhere to go but out, causing frustrating leaks that can ruin your vaping experience.

Many vapers, especially beginners, fall into the trap of filling their vape tanks to the brim, thinking more e-liquid means longer vaping sessions. However, this misconception often leads to more harm than good.

Solution:

To avoid overfilling, always check the max fill line on your tank before refilling. When filling, tilt the tank slightly to the side and pour the e-liquid slowly until it reaches the indicated line. Take your time and be patient – rushing the process is a surefire way to end up with a leaking vape.

Leaving a small air pocket at the top of your tank is crucial to prevent leaks. This air pocket creates a vacuum that helps keep the e-liquid in place, reducing the risk of leakage.

3. Your E-Liquid Is Too Thin

Thin e-liquids with low viscosity can easily escape through airflow channels or coil gaps, leading to messy leaks and wasted e-liquid. If you're experiencing leaks despite proper tank maintenance, the viscosity of your e-liquid may be to blame.

Viscosity refers to the thickness or consistency of a liquid. Thin e-liquids, often with higher PG (Propylene Glycol) content, flow more easily, making them prone to leakage. These liquids may seep through small gaps or holes in your tank.

Solution:

When buying e-liquid, it’s important to find out if it’s compatible with your device. Different vape kits are designed to accommodate specific types of e-liquids based on their composition. For instance, high-powered sub-ohm devices are suitable for thicker e-liquids with higher VG content, while beginner kits work best with thinner e-liquids with higher PG content.

High VG e-liquids typically have a thicker consistency, making them less likely to leak. Opting for e-liquid with a 70VG/30PG ratio could help to minimise leakage.

4. You’re Chain Vaping

Do you find yourself taking puff after puff without giving your vape kit a moment to rest? If so, you might be chain vaping.

This involves taking multiple puffs in rapid succession, often without allowing the coil to cool down adequately between each puff.

While it's understandable to want to enjoy your favorite flavours continuously, this habit can put undue stress on your vape device. As a result, the temperature inside your vape tank can rise rapidly, causing the e-liquid to thin and become more prone to leakage.

Solution:
To avoid overheating and subsequent vape leaking, try to take regular breaks between puffs. Let your device cool down before you resume vaping. This simple practice not only prevents leaks caused by overheating but also prolongs the lifespan of your vape.

5. Your Device Is Damaged

Have you noticed any cracks, chips, or dents on your vape tank or vape pod? If so, your device might be suffering from physical damage, which could lead to annoying leaks.

Let's face it – accidents happen. Dropping your vape, knocking it against hard surfaces, or even overtightening components can cause visible damage to your tank or pod. And when your device gets damaged, it compromises its ability to contain e-liquid, resulting in leaks.

Solution:
Regularly inspecting your tank or pod is crucial in identifying potential damage early on. Check for any signs of cracks, chips, or loose fittings. By catching these issues early, you can prevent leaks from occurring and extend the lifespan of your device.

For extra protection, consider investing in protective accessories such as vape sleeves or cases to shield your device from accidental damage. These simple additions can provide an extra layer of defense against knocks, bumps, and drops, ensuring your vape stays in tip-top condition.

6. Your Coil Needs Changing

Worn-out or burnt coils can spell trouble for your vaping experience, leading to frustrating leaks and lacklustre flavour.

Over time, constant use can take its toll on your coils, causing them to wear out or burn out. When this happens, the coil's ability to vapourise e-liquid becomes compromised, resulting in vape leaking as excess liquid seeps through the coil.

Solution:
Keep an eye out for telltale signs that your coil is past its prime. If you notice a burnt taste, decreased vapor production, or a buildup of residue on your coil, it's likely time for a replacement.

To prevent leaks and maintain optimal performance, it's essential to replace your coils regularly. As a general rule of thumb, aim to replace your coil every 1-2 weeks, depending on your usage habits. By staying proactive and swapping out worn-out coils promptly, you can avoid leaks and prolong the lifespan of your vape kit.

Frequently Asked Questions - Leaking Vape FAQs

Transitioning from smoking to vaping involves more than just finding a device that looks like a cigarette; it's also about replicating the tactile sensation of smoking. Mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices excel in this regard, offering a tighter draw and throat hit reminiscent of smoking.