Discovering that your vape cart isn’t hitting can be incredibly frustrating. There could be various reasons behind this issue, ranging from clogs in the airway to depleted batteries or physical damage. In this comprehensive troubleshooting guide, we’ll walk you through seven steps to help you identify and resolve the problem. By following these steps, you’ll be able to make the most of your vape and enjoy a satisfying experience once again.
What is a Vape Cart?
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A vape cart, short for vape cartridge, refers to a disposable or refillable cartridge designed to be attached to the end of a rechargeable battery or vape pen. Vape carts are commonly used for vaporizing various types of extracts, such as cannabis or hemp concentrates.
The cartridge typically consists of a tank that holds the extract and a mouthpiece for inhalation. The tank is often made of glass or transparent plastic, allowing users to see the remaining amount of extract inside. It is usually sealed to preserve the contents and prevent leaks.
Within the vape cart, there is a heating element, known as the atomizer or coil, which is responsible for vaporizing the extract. When the battery is activated, it supplies power to the atomizer, which then heats up and converts the concentrate into vapor. This vapor is then inhaled through the mouthpiece.
Vape carts offer a convenient and discreet method of consuming cannabis or hemp extracts. They are popular among both new and experienced users due to their ease of use and portability. The cartridges often come in standardized sizes and thread types, such as the 510-thread, which allows them to be compatible with a wide range of vape devices.
It’s important to note that the contents of vape carts can vary. Some cartridges contain THC-rich extracts, providing psychoactive effects, while others may contain CBD or other non-intoxicating cannabinoids. Additionally, there are flavored cartridges available on the market to enhance the vaping experience.
Why do Vape Carts Clog?
Here are some common reasons why vape carts may clog, how to identify the issue, and how to unclog your vape cart:
Thick or viscous extract: Vape carts can clog if the extract being used is thick or viscous. To identify this issue, you may notice a decrease in vapor production or difficulty in drawing air through the cart. The extract may appear sluggish or slow to flow.
Residue buildup: Over time, residue can accumulate in the vape cart, causing clogs. This residue may be a result of unvaporized material or impurities in the extract. Signs of residue buildup include decreased airflow, reduced vapor production, or a burnt taste.
Low temperature settings: Vaping at low temperatures can contribute to clogs. When the temperature is too low, the extract may not fully vaporize, leading to residue buildup and clogging. If you’re experiencing weak vapor production or a lack of flavor, the temperature setting could be a potential issue.
Airflow blockages: Sometimes, debris or particles can block the airflow in the vape cart. This can occur due to improper handling or storage. If you notice restricted airflow or a whistle-like sound when inhaling, it’s likely that there’s an airflow blockage.
Faulty or worn-out coil: A worn-out or faulty heating coil can lead to clogs. If the coil isn’t heating evenly or doesn’t reach the necessary temperature, it can cause residue buildup and clogging. In this case, you may experience weak vapor production or inconsistent performance.
How to Avoid Common Cart Issues
Check the viscosity: If the extract is too thick, consider thinning it with a compatible diluent or adjusting your device to a higher temperature setting suitable for thicker extracts.
Clean the cart: Disassemble the vape cart and clean it thoroughly. Use a cotton swab or a small brush to remove any residue or blockages. Ensure the cart is completely dry before reassembling.
Inspect the coil: If you suspect a faulty coil, examine it for any signs of damage or wear. Replace the coil if necessary, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Store properly: Store your vape cart in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing it upside down, as this can lead to leakage or clogging.
Buy quality carts: With so many dubious brands and products on the market, its always best to do your research, ask advice from your local smoke shop and buy the best quality cannabis carts available.
Remember, it’s essential to refer to the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of your vape cart or device for proper cleaning and troubleshooting.
What to do if your cart is not hitting anymore
- Clearing Clogs One common reason for a vape cart not hitting is a clogged airway. Residue from cannabis extracts or foreign substances can accumulate and restrict the airflow. We’ll show you how to diagnose and clear clogs using gentle heat or manual methods.
- Checking the Tank If the air flows freely through your cart but it still won’t hit, the next step is to examine the tank. Ensure that the cart contains an adequate amount of extract and that the small holes at the base of the cart’s silver cylinder are not exposed. If the holes are uncovered, the vape will stop hitting once the residual extract on the coil is vaporized.
- Evaluating the Hardware If the previous steps didn’t resolve the issue, it’s time to examine your vape for any signs of physical damage. Cracked tanks, broken charging ports, or residue on the connection point between the cart and battery can prevent proper functionality.
- Trying a Different Battery Even if everything appears to be functioning correctly, connecting your cartridge to a different battery can help identify if the issue lies with the original battery. We’ll guide you through the process of ensuring a clean connection between the cart and battery.
- Exploring the No-Battery Approach In some cases, a cartridge may not work with any battery, but there may still be extract inside. We’ll explain an alternative method using an Android charger to manually activate the cart’s coil and produce vapor. However, keep in mind that this method may provide a more intense hit than usual.
- Salvaging the Extract If your cart still won’t hit even with the previous troubleshooting steps, it’s likely that the coil is no longer functional. However, you can still salvage the oil inside. We’ll provide instructions on how to remove the extract from the cart for use in dabs or edibles.
- Charging the Battery A fully depleted battery can cause your vape cart to stop hitting. We’ll explain the importance of keeping your battery charged and offer tips on monitoring the power level. If necessary, we’ll guide you on how to recharge the battery or consider using a spare battery.
How to Check you Vape Cart Battery:
- Inspect the battery connection: Start by examining the battery connection on your vape cart. Look for any visible damage, dirt, or debris that may be affecting the connection.
- Clean the battery terminals: If you notice any dirt or debris on the battery terminals, gently clean them using a cotton swab slightly dampened with rubbing alcohol. Ensure the battery is disconnected from the charger or any power source before cleaning.
- Charge the battery: If your vape cart battery is not working, it might be out of charge. Connect the battery to a compatible charger and plug it into a power source. Allow the battery to charge fully according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Typically, a light on the charger or the battery itself will indicate the charging status.
- Check for LED indicators: Some vape cart batteries have LED indicators that display the battery’s charge level. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to understand how the LED indicators work and interpret their colors or patterns.
- Test the battery output: If your battery has adjustable voltage settings, you can check if it’s outputting power correctly. To do this, first, ensure the vape cart is securely connected to the battery. Then, follow these steps:
- Press the power button the required number of times (as specified by the manufacturer) to activate the battery.
- Depending on the battery, press the power button a specific number of times or hold it down to cycle through the voltage settings. Observe the LED indicators or any display on the battery to determine the current voltage setting.
- Attach a vape cart or atomizer to the battery, ensuring a proper connection.
- Press and hold the power button while inhaling gently. If the battery is functioning correctly, you should experience vapor production.
- Evaluate battery performance: During usage, observe the battery’s performance. Note the length of time it takes for the battery to deplete, the consistency of power output, and any unusual behavior such as rapid discharge or overheating. If you notice any significant issues, consider contacting the manufacturer or seeking assistance from a professional.
Remember to always follow the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for your vape cart battery, as different models may have unique features and operating procedures.
Wrapping Up
Encountering a vape cart that isn’t hitting can be frustrating, but with the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be equipped to troubleshoot and resolve the problem. Remember, there’s often a way to salvage the value from even the most broken vapes. Don’t give up and refer back to this guide whenever you face issues with your vape cart.
Looking for more tip on troubleshooting cart problems? Check out our guide on Why Is My Cart Not Hitting But Has Airflow, or Why is my Cart Cloudy: Understanding the Reasons.
Fixing a Vape Cart That Won’t Hit – FAQs:
What are some common reasons vape carts clog?
Vape carts can clog due to factors like thick oil consistency, improper storage, exposure to extreme temperatures, or using low-quality or incompatible vape liquids.
How can I identify a clogged vape cart?
Signs of a clogged vape cart include difficulty inhaling, reduced vapor production, a burnt taste, or a gurgling sound during use.
What should I do if my vape cart battery is not working?
Start by checking the battery connection and cleaning the terminals. If that doesn't work, try charging the battery fully, and if necessary, consult the manufacturer's instructions or seek professional assistance.
How can I check the charge level of my vape cart battery?
Look for LED indicators on the battery that display the charge level. The manufacturer's instructions will provide specific details on interpreting the LED colors or patterns.
What should I do if my vape cart battery performs poorly?
If you notice issues like rapid discharge, inconsistent power output, or overheating, it's recommended to contact the manufacturer or seek assistance from a professional to address the problem effectively.
Need more information? Check out this video from Youngdabber420