Why Is My Vape Leaking? 7 Common Causes and How to Fix Them

A leaking vape is annoying. Sticky fingers, e-liquid in your pocket, and sometimes that gurgling sound when you take a puff. The good news is that it's nearly always one of a few simple things, and most of them take seconds to fix.

1. The pod or tank is overfilled

It's tempting to fill right to the top, but you need to leave a little air gap. Without it, liquid gets pushed into the airflow. Fill to just below the max line.

2. The coil isn't seated properly

If the coil isn't screwed or clicked in fully, liquid can slip past it. Take it out, check the rubber O-ring isn't twisted, and put it back in firmly. With a new coil, let it soak for five minutes after filling before you vape.

3. Your e-liquid is too thin for the coil

This is a big one. 50/50 liquids and nic salts are thinner than 70/30 shortfills. In a sub-ohm tank with big wicking holes, thin liquid floods straight through. Match the liquid to the kit: thinner liquids for MTL pod kits, thicker high-VG liquids for sub-ohm tanks.

4. You're puffing too hard, or too softly

Long, hard pulls on an MTL pod can drag liquid up the chimney. Very gentle puffs on a sub-ohm tank don't vaporise enough, so liquid collects. Try a steady, medium draw.

5. It's condensation, not a leak

Sometimes what looks like a leak is just vapour cooling back into liquid inside the mouthpiece or around the pod. Give it a wipe with a tissue now and then. If it only happens after a long session, it's probably this.

6. Heat and pressure changes

Leaving your vape in a hot car or taking it on a plane changes the air pressure inside the pod, which can push liquid out. Store it upright where you can, and don't leave it on a sunny dashboard.

7. The pod or seals are worn out

Pods and O-rings don't last forever. If you've tried everything above and it still leaks, it's probably time for a new pod or coil. Have a look at our replacement pods and coils.

Quick fix checklist

  • Fill to just below the max line
  • Check the coil is fully seated
  • Match your liquid to your kit
  • Wipe out condensation regularly
  • Store it upright and out of the heat
  • Replace old pods and coils

Still stuck? Get in touch and tell us which kit you're using. We'll help you work it out.

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