There are many moving parts in a vape that all have to work for them to function correctly. The two main issues with a vape malfunctioning are a dead or faulty battery and the cartridge that contains the vape juice malfunctioning.

It can be hard to determine whether the issue is with the cart or battery because they are the two main components that work together, and issues with the vape from either can present themselves in the same way.

Instead of ditching your vape or trying to fix the wrong issue, it’s essential to diagnose the problem first to make fixing the issue even quicker. 

Understanding the Components of a Vape

Vapes, or e-cigarettes, feature a low-wattage battery that provides power to the device and activates the heating element or coil. When the coil heats up to the optimum temperature, it heats up the cartridge or cart, which contains the e-liquid or vape juice.

This liquid usually contains nicotine and flavorings and turns into the vapor that a user breathes in through the mouthpiece. 

Signs Your Battery Might Be the Problem

If your vape isn’t working, then one of the following issues indicates that the battery is the problem: 

• No Power or Vapor: This is the most obvious sign that the battery may be the issue. If you've been using it a lot, try turning it off and on again or leaving it for a while. 

• LED Indicator Issues: Some vapes have a system to warn you if the battery is running low or malfunctioning. For example, a solid red light often indicates a low battery, and a blinking red light while you're using it could also mean the battery is low or has an issue. 

• Inconsistent Heating: If you're using your vape but notice an inconsistency in the puffs you can get from the device, this could also be an issue with the battery. 

• Charging Problems: Plugging your device in usually solves battery issues, but if your device isn't charging, the battery may have malfunctioned. It may even charge a small amount, but not all the way. 

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Signs Your Cartridge Might Be the Problem

Look out for these issues if you think your cartridge might be the problem:  

• No Vapor Production: If you’re using a new cart or have just refilled it and no vapor comes out of the mouthpiece, there’s an issue with the cartridge or connection between the cartridge and the heating element. 

• Leakage or Oil Residue: Leakage or oil escaping through the mouthpiece indicates that your cartridge is faulty. 

• Burnt Taste or Harsh Hits: There are several reasonswhy your vape could taste burnt, and one of the main culprits is an issue with the cart, wick, or coil. 

• Clogged Cartridge: No airflow while inhaling or bubbling could indicate the cart is blocked. 

How to Troubleshoot the Battery

Troubleshooting is the best way to determine whether or not the issue is with the battery. First, ensure the battery is fully charged and appropriately connected while charging.

Next, try a different cart if you have one to see if the problem persists. The next step is to clean the battery connection to the rest of the vape. A common issue is that the contact points no longer connect due to residue buildup.

If the problem persists, try using a different charger to rule out a faulty charger. 

How to Troubleshoot the Cartridge

To troubleshoot the cartridge, ensure it is connected to the vape and battery. Sometimes, it’ll need one more screw to restore the connection. Just like determining if the battery is at fault, trying a different cartridge will let you know if that particular cartridge is faulty or if it’s something else.

Next, remove the cart and inspect it to see if there is any visible damage or if you notice any blockages. During inspection, you can tell if you need to refill the cartridge with vape juice. 

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When to Seek Professional Help

Troubleshooting can help identify the problem, but if you still can’t figure it out, it may be time to visit your local vape shop for guidance or contact the manufacturer directly. If changing the cart doesn’t work, or the battery keeps cutting out even after a successful charge, the issue could be more serious. 

Conclusion

Determining if your vape battery or cartridge is the problem can save you time on the wrong fix and money on parts. Replacing the cart with another one is a quick way to see if the cart or battery is the issue.

If you don’t have one to hand, you can try taking the vape apart, cleaning the connection points on the battery, and ensuring there is no clogging in the cart. To avoid a problem, try to keep up with your vape maintenance.

Sometimes, you won’t be able to find the route of the problem. At this point, take your vape to a professional or consider replacing it.