Cannabis vapes have gained immense popularity among cannabis enthusiasts due to their convenience, discreetness, and ease of use. However, there are a few common issues that users often encounter with cartridges, The two biggest issues in vapes is leakage or clogging. Clogged vape carts, or leaky cartridges, can be frustrating and can affect the overall vaping experience.
Today we’re going to talk about the reasons behind the leakage and clogging of cannabis concentrate vape cartridges and provide some tips on how to fix these common issues.
The Dank Dilemma
One of the main reasons why vape cartridges leak or get clogged up is improper storage and handling. It is crucial to store cartridges in an upright position, especially when not in use. When the cartridge is stored horizontally or upside down, the concentrate can seep into the airway, leading to leakage or clogging. Additionally, rough handling or dropping the cartridge can cause damage to the glass, or connection, ultimately resulting in leaks or a poor overall experience.
Another common cause of leakage is a faulty or damaged cartridge. Over time, concentrate and/or the cartridge hardware can degrade or thin out, leading to leaks. It is essential to inspect the cartridge before use and replace it if there are any signs of damage or wear. We find that purchasing high-quality cartridges from reputable brands known for a great product can reduce your overall chances of a leaky cart.
Temperature fluctuations can also contribute to leakage or clogged vape carts. Extreme heat can cause the concentrate to become thin and runny, leading to leaks.
On the other hand, cold temperatures can cause the concentrate to thicken, resulting in clogging. It might seem like your vape isn’t pulling right when you rip it and that is typically a proven sign that it is cold or the oil is thick enough to clog the cartridge.
It is advisable to store cartridges in a cool and dry place to maintain the integrity of the concentrate and prevent both leaks and clogging.
Let’s bring it back to the viscosity of the concentrate though. Viscosity refers to the thickness or thinness of the oil. Think water flowing versus slow lava.
The viscosity of the concentrate plays a crucial role in preventing leakage or clogging. If the concentrate is too thin, it is more likely to leak. Conversely, if it is too thick, it can clog the cartridge’s heating element.
Finding the right viscosity for your cartridge is essential. If the concentrate becomes warm or hot and then becomes too thin, you can try storing it in a cool place to thicken it.
To fix a leaking vape cartridge, or prevent it from leaking, you can try the following steps:
Clean the cartridge after each use: Remove the cartridge from the battery and use a cotton swab or a soft cloth to clean any excess concentrate from the connections and airway.
Tighten the connections: Ensure that the cartridge is properly attached to the battery and tighten it gently. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can cause damage to the connections.
Store it upright: When not in use, store the cartridge in an upright position to prevent leakage.
Replace the cartridge: If the leaking persists despite these measures, it may be time to replace the cartridge. Remember to purchase a high-quality cartridge from a reliable source.
Never leave it in your car: Proper preparation prevents poor performance. Keep it plain and simple. Do not ever leave your vapes in a hot car. Not the center console and not the trunk.
To fix clogged vape carts, you can try the following steps:
Preheat the battery: Some batteries have a preheat function that can help soften the concentrate and clear the clog. Activate the preheat function and let it run for a few seconds before attempting to vape.
Pro-tip: A lot of batteries have a pre-heat function built into the bottom of the battery. If you turn your vape upside down you may find a tiny hole on the bottom of the device. If it does indeed have this hole, you can gently blow air into the vape and heat the battery while pushing air through the cart which can help clear clogs.
Use a hairdryer: Apply gentle heat from a hairdryer to the cartridge for a few seconds. This can help warm up the concentrate and unclog the airway.
Clean the airway: Use a paperclip or a small needle to gently clean the airway. Be careful not to damage the heating element or push the clog further into the cartridge.
Replace the cartridge: If the clogging issue persists, it is best to replace the cartridge with a new one.
Leakage and clogging are common issues that can occur with cannabis concentrate vape cartridges. Proper storage, handling, and purchasing high-quality cartridges can help prevent these problems. If leakage or clogging does occur, following the troubleshooting steps outlined above can often fix the issue.
Remember to always exercise caution and consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance on your vape cartridge. By taking proper care of your cartridges, you can ensure a more enjoyable and hassle-free vaping experience.
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