A clogged vape cartridge can seem like the worst scenario when you want a hit—right next to a dead battery. Luckily, it’s usually easy to fix. Next time your carts not hitting, keep these tips and tricks in mind, plus ways you can prevent clogs altogether.
Why is my vape cartridge clogged?
Clogs in vape cartridges occur when airflow is restricted by the wax or oil in the mouthpiece. Basically, it’s hardening around the inside of the mouthpiece before it gets vaporized by the battery. This can happen with:
1. Oil Buildup
Thick oil can harden and block airflow. This can also happen if heated thick oil cools too close to the mouthpiece after you take a hit. Try to position your battery upright as soon as you’re done. Which leads us to our next clogged cart faux pas…
2. Improper Storage
Storing the device on its side or upside down can cause leaks and blockages. If you’re one to throw your vape in your bag, instead try to position it upright in a side pocket or between some other items.
3. Residue Accumulation
If you use your vape a lot without cleaning it, hardened residue can block the mouthpiece and restrict airflow.
How do you clear a clogged vape cartridge?
1. Use a Preheat Cycle
If you’re using an Ooze pen, you can always use the preheat cycle or "prep mode" to heat any hardened residue in the mouthpiece.
- Click the button twice to start a 10- to 20-second preheat cycle.
- The low voltage will gently warm up the oil, loosening blockages.
- After the cycle finishes, take a few puffs to clear the clog.
- If needed, repeat the process.
Prep mode on an Ooze battery is a 15-20 second gentle heat cycle that doesn't use the full voltage power, to avoid burning the coil. This warms up the atomizer slowly, loosening up any residue that's clogging the airway.
If you're trying to clear the clog by taking a normal hit, you're going to end up with a gross-tasting cartridge by the end. This is zapping the atomizer with too much heat at once, which is going to burn the hardware. You'll end up sucking way too hard without even clearing the clog. Prep mode is the way to go, patience is key!
2. Manual Heat Method
If you have a disposable vape or a battery without preheat cycle, try warming the cartridge manually:
- Rub it between your hands for a minute.
- Use a hairdryer on low heat for a few seconds. Don't overheat the hardware!
- Place it in a sealed plastic bag and run warm water over it.
3. Use a Paperclip or Needle
You can also try to pick the hardened residue out from the mouthpiece, or at least move it around so airflow returns to the mouthpiece. Full disclosure, this is our LEAST preferred method but sometimes, desperate times call for desperate measures. It's a risky endeavor.
- Gently insert a needle, paperclip, or toothpick into the mouthpiece.
- Avoid pushing too hard as this could damage the coil.
How do I prevent a clogged cart?
There are a few simple ways to prevent future clogs and avoid any vape cartridge repairs altogether.
- Store your vape upright to prevent oil from settling in the airway.
- Avoid overfilling the cartridge.
- Clean the mouthpiece regularly with a cotton swab and isopropyl alcohol, or our Resolution micro swabs.
- Always turn your battery off once you're done vaping. Accidental heating can cause the oil to seep out and harden in the mouthpiece.
By following these steps, you can restore airflow and enjoy a smooth vaping experience every time!
