Why is my dab pen not working? Quick Fix?

Portable and convenient, Dab pens are a popular way to consume cannabis, but sometimes they can be finicky.

Even though it can be annoying when a dab pen doesn't function, there are a few frequent causes, and the most of them are fixable.

In this article, we will look into some dab pen problems and their solutions. Plus, highlight a few helpful tips to ensure your device remains operational.

Whether you are new to vaping or very experienced, The next time your dab pen isn't working, you'll know what to do.

What is a Dab Pen?

A dab pen, also known as a wax pen, concentrate pen, and even wax vaporizer, is a portable vaporizer designed specifically for consuming cannabis concentrates.

It consists of a battery, an atomizer or coil, and a mouthpiece. The dab pen is heated with the concentrate inside, and the vapor is inhaled.

How Do Dab Pens Work?

Dab pens utilize a heating element, typically a ceramic or quartz coil, to vaporize the concentrate.

The battery powers the heating element, which rapidly heats up the coil, converting the concentrate into an inhalable vapor. This vapor is what you consume when you use the dab pen.

Most dab pens also have the ability to adjust the temperature at which your concentrate is heated. This is because different concentrates have different ideal temperatures for consumption.

Wet waxes like lower temps, for example. Utilizing lower temperatures can preserve the flavor of your concentrate, while higher temperatures can increase your concentrate's potency.

Why is My Dab Pen Not Working?

The malfunction of the dab pen is attributed to issues with battery power, heat chamber coil, and blockage in the dab pen.

Let's know the details and solutions with the following content.

1. Battery Issues

The most common reason why a dab pen may not hit is battery issues.

If the battery is lower, it may not be able to provide enough power to heat the concentrate. Additionally, if the battery is damaged or faulty, it may not work at all.

Solution: First, check to make sure that your device is fully charged by plugging it in for at least an hour.

If your device still does not turn on or heat up, try cleaning the contacts between the battery and the atomizer with a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol.

This will help to ensure that the battery is making proper contact with the atomizer and providing the necessary power.

If the battery is old and no longer holds a charge, it may need replacement. Consult your dab pen's manufacturer or the place of purchase for replacement batteries.

To know if the battery is dead, plug the dab pen into the charger. The charger will show a red light if the battery is dead, and a green light when the battery is charged.

2. Blocking

Another thing is that due to the nature of concentrates, compared to e-liquids, dab pens are more likely to get clogged.

Dabs are thick substances that are more likely to gunk up the inside of your device, interfering with airflow.

The blockage is generally divided into two types of problems: airflow blockage and component blockage.

Airflow blockage: If you have to inhale hard to get the steam in, or if there isn't any steam coming out of the dab pen, you may need to address a blocked airflow in the dab pen.

Component blockage: This can happen if you use your device for an extended period of time without cleaning it. Over time, residue from the cannabis concentrate can build up on the heating element, causing it to become clogged and preventing the vapor from flowing properly.

In addition, If the dab pen is turned upside down, residue from the chamber may slowly leak into the elements of the dab pen causing clogging of the device.

Solution: Do not add too many concentrates at once.

Don't inhale too hard when using the dab pen, which works by gently inhaling steam from the mouthpiece. Large airflow can cause leaks and overflows.

Use alcohol and a brush to clean the mouthpiece, atomizer, airway and chamber promptly after use. Taking care not to directly touch the coils.

If you see any debris or blockages, carefully remove them using a toothpick or a small needle.

If you don't want to clean the dab pen, carefully try adding heat. Heating up your dab will heat the liquid inside, helping to break up any crystallization or clogs that may have formed.

Here are a couple of methods to try:

Place the dab pen in a warm part of your home, like next to a radiator.

Use a blowdryer about a foot away from your dab pen for a short period of time to heat the dab pen.

If you don't have a blow dryer, try putting your dab pen in an airtight plastic bag and then submerging the bag in warm water. Be careful to not let water enter the bag and get on your dab pen.

Lastly, When you're not using the dab pen, try to keep it as upright as possible.

3. Damaged Heating Element

Another reason why your dab pen may not working is due to a damaged heating element.

The reasons of damage are varied, like debris, over-tightening, chipset problems, shorting issues, etc, resulting in poor vapor production or no vapor at all.

If you tighten the atomizer with too much force it can sever the connection with the device.

The chipset controls features like wattage, temperature, and other variables. If the chipset is broken, the coil won't work.

If your coil is coming in contact with the sides of the tank, it may be shorting your coil.

Solution: Avoid tighten the atomizer with too much force.

Make sure your atomizer is situated in the center, without touching the sides, and adjust it if it's not.

Carefully inspect the atomizer on your dab pen for any physical damage.

If you suspect or sure that your heating element is damaged, try replacing it with a new one.

Most dab pen manufacturers offer replacement parts that are easy to install, so you can get your device up and running again in no time.

4. Incorrect Temperature Setting

Some dab pens come with adjustable temperature settings, allowing you to customize the temperature to suit your preferences.

If your dab pen is not hitting properly, it may be due to an incorrect temperature setting.

Solution: Make sure that your device is set to the correct temperature for your chosen concentration.

Different concentrates require different temperatures to vaporize properly, Denser oils or wax may require higher settings.

If you're using a dab pen for vaping waxy concentrates, you need to soften the wax and let it soak into the coil first.

Use your dab pen's button to pulse the coil several times and soften the wax before you take your first deep puff.

5. The Device Has Overheated

If a device has overheated, either due to being left out in the heat or you taking so many hits in a short period that the device has gotten too hot, it won't work.

Solution: In this case, you just need to stop vaping and allow the device to cool back down.

Conclusion

There are several reasons why your new dab pen may not be hitting properly.

By troubleshooting the above issues and taking proper care of your device, you can ensure that you get the most out of your vaping experience.

Remember to clean your device immediately after use, use high-quality concentrates, and follow the dab pen manufacturer's instructions for optimal performance.

With the right care and maintenance, your dab pen can provide you with a satisfying and enjoyable vaping experience for years to come.

But if all the above solutions fail, then you can contemplate buying a new dab pen.

In some cases, it's a lost cause, as the manufacturer made a critical error that means that no matter what, you can't fix your dab pen.

The best way to avoid ending up with a dud is to choose your dab pen from a trusted brand like Lookah that has a reputation for quality and consistency.