If your vape pen isn’t working after a charge, you’re likely feeling confused and frustrated, especially if it was functioning fine before. This guide aims to clarify the issue. Generally, there’s no need to worry because it’s highly unlikely that charging caused the problem. Instead, the issue probably has a simple explanation and solution.
To determine why your vape pen stopped working after charging, consider why you charged it. Did you charge it because the battery was dead, or were you troubleshooting another issue? If you were troubleshooting, charging might not have resolved the problem. This guide will cover scenarios for both situations.
Why is your vape pen not working after a charge? Let’s explore some common possibilities.
Your Vape Pen Is Turned Off
The simplest reason is that the vape pen might be turned off. If your device has a manual fire button, press it five times. If the device blinks, you’ve turned it on. Try using it again to see if the issue is resolved.
For simple 510-thread batteries or pod vapes without a manual fire button, the device turns on automatically when you connect a pod or cartridge. If nothing happens when you puff, remove and reconnect the pod or cartridge. If it still doesn’t work, continue reading for more solutions.
Your Vape Pen Isn’t Detecting the Pod or Cartridge
For 510-thread vape pens or pod systems without a fire button, if the device isn’t working after you’ve removed and reinserted the cartridge, check for leaks under the cartridge. If it’s leaked, clean and dry both the cartridge and the device thoroughly. If it still doesn’t work, try replacing the cartridge. For vape tanks with replaceable coils, try replacing the coil.
Your Vape Pen Isn’t Actually Charged
If you charged your vape pen because the battery was dead and it still doesn’t work, ensure it’s actually charging. If your vape pen has a screen, it will display a “Low Battery” message if the battery is dead. If it doesn’t have a screen, an indicator light will blink when you try to vape. Check the manual to confirm this blink code indicates a dead battery.
If the battery is dead, troubleshoot why your vape pen isn’t charging:
- Wiggle the USB cable in the charging port. If the connector moves, the port might have a weak or broken solder point. Adjust the cable to see if it starts charging. If the port is broken, you’ll need to replace the device.
- Try a different USB cable. Damaged cables often cause charging issues.
- Connect your vape pen to a different power source, like a USB wall adapter (not one for a smartphone or tablet). Use an adapter with a power delivery of 5 volts and 1 amp.
- Ensure the charging port is clean. Use a toothpick to remove any debris.
Your Cartridge Is Clogged
If you’re using a 510-thread battery with thick vape oil, the oil might thicken if stored in a cool place. This can cause the cartridge to clog. To fix it:
- Use a needle or paperclip to clear clogs in the airflow openings or chimney.
- Puff more firmly to force air through and break the clog.
- Warm the cartridge between your hands or in front of a heater to melt the clog.
Your Vape Pen’s Battery Is Finished
Lithium-ion batteries typically last for 300-500 charge cycles. If your vape pen’s run time has decreased and it isn’t working after a charge, the battery might be finished. Signs include:
- The device never shows that charging is complete.
- The device shows it’s fully charged quickly but dies almost immediately.
If either applies, it’s time to recycle and replace your vape pen.
Your Vape Pen Overheated While Charging
If none of the above scenarios fit, the battery might have overheated during charging, especially if connected to an incompatible charger. Overheating signs include strange smells or the device feeling unusually hot. Disconnect it immediately if this happens and move it to a fire-safe location.
If your vape pen is unresponsive after overheating, it’s likely the battery is damaged. In this case, you’ll need to replace the device.
