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How to Fix a Clogged Vape Pen

04/21/2023
LOOKAH

How to Fix a Clogged Vape Pen

How to Fix a Clogged Vape Pen

If you find your vape cart clogged, don't despair. You can get your vape pen running again with some expertise and patience.

It is incredibly disappointing to take a hit from your vape only to discover it is clogged.

If you cannot inhale from the vape correctly, there is a problem -- most likely, your vape or the cartridge is clogged. 

This can also mean you get a nasty hit of vape juice or sticky oil over your hands instead of that smooth, flavorful vapor you expected. 


Cause of Blockage of Vape Cartridge

Cause of Blockage of Vape Cartridge

Two primary reasons vape carts get clogged are condensation and chamber overflow. 

But don't worry! The simple solutions outlined below can easily prevent and fix these problems.


Condensation Accumulation

Clogged cartridges are usually the result of condensation building up in the airway. As this condensation builds up, it eventually clogs the mouthpiece, making it difficult to inhale. This results in a clogged mouthpiece and a bitter taste of vape juice instead of the mouthful of delicious THC you were expecting. 

Condensation buildup usually gives you warning signs before it becomes a full-blown problem. If you've ever experienced tiny droplets of fluid on your lips when you hit, that's a sign of this buildup. 

Don't wait until it escalates into a frustrating problem -- as soon as you notice the liquid taste on your lips and tongue during inhalation, take immediate action to rectify the clogged cartridge.


Chamber Overflow

The second cause of cartridge clogging is chamber overflow. This happens when the cartridge has been sat unused for a long time. 

The distillate can thicken when stored at room temperature. Over time, this causes the distillate to sink to the bottom of the cartridge, where it saturates the coil. When this happens, the heating element (coil) has difficulty reaching the appropriate temperature to vaporize the liquid effectively.

If your vape isn't creating much vapor as you'd expect and the battery is correctly charged, then you are likely experiencing this problem. 

Another indicator of chamber overflow is if you get a burnt taste or smell when hitting the cart. If you notice a burning smell or taste, it's best to stop vaping immediately. Continuing to heat the soaked wick will cause irreparable damage, rendering the cartridge and its contents unusable.

 

How to Fix a Clogged Vape Cart?

How to Fix a Clogged Vape Cart?

If your vape cartridge gets clogged, don't panic. This is a common problem, and with our straightforward troubleshooting guide, you'll be back to using your vape in no time. 

 

Method #1: Resolve Minor Blockage (Condensation Buildup)

Step 1: Pull through the mouthpiece

The first step to clearing a cartridge clogged by excessive condensation is to forcefully suck or draw through the mouthpiece without activating the vape. This will help remove excess fluid that builds up in the suction nozzle. While this is a quick solution, the cartridge may clog again unless you continue with step 2.

 

Step 2: Remove excess liquid

To completely clean the cartridge, you must remove excess liquid from the mouthpiece. 

You can use a thin wire, pin, or paper clip. 

Carefully insert the tool into the mouthpiece and scrape away the built-up residue by moving it around the inside of the mouthpiece. 

Be careful not to damage the inside of the cartridge. Most deposits can be removed this way because delta-8 THC is thick, dense, and sticky. It is recommended to perform this task while the cartridge is cold, as the liquid will be more viscose. 

 

Step 3: Remove trapped debris

The third step in unclogging the vape cart is to apply heat to break down any residue in the mouthpiece. This can be done by using a hair dryer or by placing the cart in an airtight bag and submerging it in warm water. The heat will help loosen the blockage and allow the viscous fluid to flow back into the chamber. Let the cart stand upright after heating to allow the liquid to settle. 


Method 2: Solving a Severe Clog (Flooded Coil)

Step 1: Gently shake the cart from side to side. 

Shaking the cartridge can help redistribute the liquid and loosen any buildup. This simple step is sometimes all that's needed to get the cart working again. 

 

Step 2: Blow air into the cart. 

The next step in resolving a cart with a flooded chamber involves removing excess fluid. 

Blowing air through the cart mouthpiece or the bottom of a disposable pen can help remove liquid buildup around the wick and coil. 

If you have a refillable cartridge, you can take the top of the cart, remove the excess liquid from the wick and coil, and reassemble it. Remember that you can blow air to clear a flooded chamber, but you shouldn't inhale as this will only saturate the coil further, thus making the problem worse.

 

Step 3: Activate the Vape. 

A final solution to resolving a flooded chamber on your vape cart is activating the pen briefly. The heat will burn off the excess oil. 

Do not inhale while doing this, as it will only worsen the problem by drawing more oil into the coil. 

A quick two or three-second burst of heat should clear the remaining liquid and clean the chamber. If all else fails, it may be time to invest in a new cartridge or swap out the coil and wick if you have a refillable tank.


Conclusion

If you find your vape cart clogged, don't despair. With some expertise and patience, you can get your vape up and running again. 

Whether it's a slight condensation buildup or a flooded chamber, the two methods above can help you remove the blockage and get back to vaping again. 

Always be careful when cleaning the cart, as overheating or inserting objects too deeply may damage it beyond repair. If all else fails, check with your local vape shop or professional. Happy vaping!