Troubleshooting Your Vape Device

Important: This article provides general safety and regulatory information for adults only. It does not promote vaping or the purchase of vaping products. Vaping products cannot legally be sold or supplied to anyone under 18. People who do not smoke should not start vaping.

Since 17 June 2025, disposable vaping devices cannot be manufactured, sold, supplied or distributed in New Zealand, and all reusable devices must be rechargeable and refillable either directly or through a changeable pod, cartridge or similar container.

This article is a guide to general safety and troubleshooting information aimed at adults already using a reusable vaping device. 

Common Problems, at a Glance

Potential safety issues include a device not turning on, an unexpected change in vapour output or taste, leaking vaping substance, unusual sounds, or a battery that no longer holds charge.

If any of these issues occurs, stop using the device until the manufacturer’s troubleshooting instructions have been checked.

The Device Won’t Turn On

A device not turning on can be related to a loss of charge, a poor electrical connection, physical damage, or activation of the required child-safety mechanism. Never assume your device is safe just because it can be made to turn on. 

Before you start any type of check for problems, always turn the device off and follow the manufacturer’s troubleshooting instructions. 

Inspect accessible contacts for moisture or damage and make sure to clean them only as directed. Use only a compatible, approved and undamaged battery or charging cable, and do not install an unidentified or damaged spare battery, dismantle a sealed device, or bypass a child-safety mechanism.

Unexpected Change in Vapour Output

An unexpected change in vapour output may indicate a battery, component, airflow or device issue.

Stop using the device and consult the manufacturer’s troubleshooting instructions. Check only the user-serviceable components identified by the manufacturer. Do not dismantle a sealed device or alter settings unless the manufacturer expressly directs you to do so.

Burnt or Unusual Taste

A burnt or unusual taste may indicate insufficient vaping substance, a worn component, overheating or another device issue.

Stop using the device and follow the manufacturer’s troubleshooting and component-replacement instructions. Do not continue using a device that is overheating or appears damaged.

Leaking E-Liquid

Leakage may result from overfilling, a damaged seal, incorrect assembly or another device fault.

Stop using the device and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Check only user-serviceable seals and components, and store the device in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidance. Avoid contact with leaked vaping substance and keep it away from children and pets.

Gurgling Sounds

An unusual gurgling sound may indicate excess liquid or condensation in a user-serviceable part.

Turn the device off and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for clearing excess liquid. Don’t try to blow liquid towards the battery compartment or dismantle a sealed device. Clean only user-serviceable areas, and allow permitted components to dry fully before use.

Battery No Longer Holding Charge

Reduced battery capacity may indicate battery age, damage or another fault. Do not attempt to improve battery life by changing device settings unless the manufacturer expressly instructs you to do so.

A battery that can no longer hold a charge must be replaced only with a user-replaceable battery that’s specified by the manufacturer. If it’s a sealed battery, get in touch with the manufacturer or an authorised service provider. Never attempt to open up a sealed battery on your own.

Stop using any battery that’s swollen, damaged, leaking, unusually hot or emitting an unusual odour.

General Safety Precautions

Inspect and clean only the user-serviceable parts identified by the manufacturer. Use only components and vaping substances that the manufacturer identifies as compatible and compliant. Store the device in a cool, dry place away from children, pets, heat and direct sunlight.

Conclusion

If a problem remains after following the manufacturer’s instructions, stop using the device and contact the manufacturer, retailer or an authorised service provider. Do not continue using, charging or attempting to repair a damaged lithium-battery device.

Further Help

Check the manufacturer’s troubleshooting guidance for the specific device. Replace a user-serviceable coil, battery or seal only when and as the manufacturer directs. If the problem persists, stop using the device and contact the manufacturer, retailer or an authorised service provider.