Compact Vape Kits

Why Is My Vape Leaking? Common Causes and Fixes

January 07, 2025

Dealing with a leaking vape can be frustrating and messy. Understanding the common causes and knowing how to fix them can save you a lot of hassle. In this blog, we’ll explore why your vape might be leaking and provide practical solutions to fix and prevent it. 

Leaking vapes are a common issue that many vapers face, and often lead to wasted e-liquid and a sticky, messy, and generally unpleasant experience. Addressing these leaks promptly is essential for getting the most out of your vaping. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common causes of vape leaks and provide practical solutions to fix and prevent them. Whether you're new to vaping or an experienced user, these tips will help keep your device in top condition. 

Kit + 1 x E-Liquid

Oxva Xlim Classic Pod Vape Kit
Oxva Xlim Classic Pod Vape Kit

Kit + 1 x E-Liquid

1136384
VooPoo Vmate i2 Pod Vape Kit

Kit + 2 x E-Liquids

VooPoo Doric 60 Pro Pod Vape Kit
VooPoo Doric 60 Pro Pod Vape Kit

What are the Common Causes of Vape Leaking? 

It can be very frustrating when your vape device begins to leak e-liquid, but it’s important to know that this doesn’t necessarily mean that your kit is faulty. There could be several identifiable, resolvable issues that could be preventing your device from functioning as intended.


Improper Filling: One of the most common causes of vape leaks is improper filling. Overfilling the tank or pod, or not allowing air to escape, can create pressure that forces e-liquid out of the tank. Always fill your tank or pod slowly and leave some space at the top to avoid this issue. When filling, make sure to pour the e-liquid down the side of the tank or pod, avoiding the central chimney or coil. 

Worn Out or Damaged O-Rings: O-rings are small rubber seals that prevent e-liquid from leaking out of your tank or pod. They are more commonly found on glass and metal sub-ohm tanks than plastic pods. Over time, these rings can wear out or get damaged. Regularly check and replace O-rings to maintain a good seal. Inspect the O-rings for any signs of wear, such as cracks, flat spots, or brittleness.


Coil Issues: A poorly installed or old coil can also cause leaks. Ensure your coil is screwed in tightly and replace it regularly to prevent leakage. For pod systems with replaceable coils, make sure the coil is properly seated. Coils should be changed every one to two weeks, depending on usage. If you're using a coil beyond its lifespan, it may not absorb the e-liquid properly, leading to leaks.


Temperature Changes: Temperature changes can cause the e-liquid to thin out and leak. Storing your vape in a cool, stable environment can help prevent leaks caused by fluctuating temperatures. Avoid leaving your device in hot places, such as inside a car on a sunny day, which can cause the e-liquid to expand and leak out.


Incorrect VG/PG Ratio: E-liquids that are too thin (high PG) can leak more easily than thicker liquids (high VG). Choose an e-liquid with the appropriate VG/PG ratio for your device to minimize leaks. If you're using a high-PG e-liquid in a device designed for high-VG e-liquids, you might experience more frequent leaks.

 

Airflow Settings: Incorrect airflow settings can also contribute to leaking. Adjust your airflow to a tighter setting to reduce the chances of e-liquid leaking out of the tank or pod. A tighter airflow setting can help create a better vacuum, reducing the risk of leaks. 

How to Fix a Leaking Vape 

Proper Filling Techniques: To fill your tank or pod correctly, tilt the tank slightly, insert the ‘needle-nose’ nozzle on the e-liquid bottle into the fill port (located either on the side of top of the pod or tank) and slowly pour the e-liquid, avoiding the central chimney or coil. Leave a small air pocket at the top of the tank or pod to prevent pressure buildup. This technique helps prevent airlocks and ensures a smooth vaping experience. 

Checking and Replacing O-Rings: Inspect your O-rings regularly for signs of wear or damage. Replace any damaged O-rings to ensure a tight seal. O-ring kits are readily available and easy to use. If you notice any cracks, flat spots, or other signs of wear, replace the O-rings promptly to maintain a good seal. 

Coil Maintenance: Ensure your coil is screwed in tightly and replace it regularly. If you experience frequent leaks, consider switching to a different type of coil that may better suit your device and vaping style. For pod systems, ensure the coil is properly seated and the pod is fully clicked into place. Regularly cleaning the coil and checking for signs of wear can also help prevent leaks. 

Refillable pods that employ integrated, or built-in, coils help to eliminate the problem somewhat, as do sealed, prefilled replacement pods, but these are usually limited in compatibility to specific vape kits.  

Managing Temperature Changes: Store your vape in a cool, stable environment. Avoid leaving it in hot places like a car on a sunny day, which can cause the e-liquid to thin and leak. Keeping your device at a consistent temperature helps maintain the viscosity of the e-liquid, reducing the risk of leaks. 

Choosing the Right E-Liquid: Select an e-liquid with the right VG/PG ratio for your device. Thicker e-liquids (higher VG) are less likely to leak but ensure your device can handle them. If you're unsure, check the manufacturer's recommendations for the best VG/PG ratio for your device.  

Adjusting Airflow Settings: Experiment with different airflow settings to find the optimal balance that prevents leaks. Generally, a tighter airflow setting can help reduce leakage. Adjusting the airflow can also enhance your vaping experience by providing a more controlled draw. 

Kit + 1 x E-Liquid

Oxva Xlim Classic Pod Vape Kit
Oxva Xlim Classic Pod Vape Kit

Kit + 1 x E-Liquid

1136384
VooPoo Vmate i2 Pod Vape Kit

Kit + 2 x E-Liquids

VooPoo Doric 60 Pro Pod Vape Kit
VooPoo Doric 60 Pro Pod Vape Kit

How to Prevent Your Vape Leaking 

Regularly clean your tank, pod, mouthpiece, and other components to prevent residue buildup that can cause leaks. Disassemble your device and clean it with warm water or a suitable cleaning solution. Regular maintenance helps ensure all parts are functioning properly and reduces the risk of leaks. 


Store your vape upright and in a cool, dark place. This helps prevent e-liquid from seeping into places it shouldn’t and maintains the quality of the e-liquid. Proper storage also protects your device from extreme temperatures and physical damage. 


Invest in high-quality vape parts and e-liquids. Cheap or counterfeit components are more likely to cause leaks and other issues. Using high-quality parts ensures better performance and longevity for your device. 

Kit + 1 x E-Liquid

Oxva Xlim Classic Pod Vape Kit
Oxva Xlim Classic Pod Vape Kit

Kit + 1 x E-Liquid

1136384
VooPoo Vmate i2 Pod Vape Kit

Kit + 2 x E-Liquids

VooPoo Doric 60 Pro Pod Vape Kit
VooPoo Doric 60 Pro Pod Vape Kit

Conclusion

Leaking vapes are a common but manageable issue. By understanding the causes and implementing the solutions provided above, you can enjoy a leak-free vaping experience. Regular maintenance, proper storage, and using high-quality components can go a long way in preventing leaks.  

You can find many more helpful vaping tips among our blogs and vape guides. If you have persistent issues, don’t hesitate to call our expert, friendly Customer Services Team who are more than happy to help diagnose and resolve any leaking issues you may be having with your vape device.