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How to Fix a Clogged Vape Cartridge and Tips for Proper Care and Maintenance
How to Fix a Clogged Vape Cartridge and Tips for Proper Care and Maintenance
Bob avatar
Written by Bob
Updated over a year ago

Hello, fellow cannabis enthusiasts! Today we'll discuss a common issue: clogged vape cartridges. I've got a multitude of methods and tips to share for unblocking your cartridges and even PREVENTING this type of problem. Also, we'll look at how to properly STORE and MAINTAIN your cartridges. Stick with me till the end of this article to become an expert in all things vaping.

Note: When I talk about tips for vape cartridges, these can also be applicable to all-in-one pens, also known as vape pens or wax pens.

Understanding a Clogged Vape Cartridge

First, you need to understand that if you're experiencing a clogging issue, it's generally because the concentrate inside has hardened in a specific spot, hindering air flow. If the blockage is located at the cartridge's mouthpiece (where you put your lips), a simple toothpick, pin, or even a paperclip can be used to clear the small hole and allow your cartridge to be used normally again.

If Your Cartridge Mouthpiece is Clear but Still Clogged

If the mouthpiece of your cartridge is clean and the blockage is elsewhere, don't stress!

I have a few methods for you.

Method 1: Use Body Heat

The first method is quite simple: we're going to use body heat. Simply place your cartridge in your hands and blow on it as if you're trying to warm your hands during winter. Typically, this should be enough to warm the concentrate that's blocking the airflow.

Method 2: Use a Hairdryer

Secondly, try using a hairdryer. Hold your vape cartridge about 6 inches away and heat it for 15 to 30 seconds. Then, try using your vape by activating the battery to see if the problem has been resolved.

Method 3: Soak in Warm Water

This method works particularly well if you've left a cartridge horizontal for too long. Put your cartridge in a Ziploc bag, then immerse it in a bowl of warm water. Remember: keep the cartridge vertical. Wait for about 5 to 7 minutes and you should see some improvement.

Tips to PREVENT Clogs and How to Use and Maintain Your Cartridges

The most important thing to understand is that these products are not like nicotine cartridges that produce enormous clouds of smoke. The products used in cannabis cartridges are designed to be vaporized at very low temperatures or voltages, with small inhales lasting just a few seconds. So PLEASE...

STOP the Long-Hit Competition

Or as it's known in English, "hitting a blinker". Taking a hit until your battery starts flashing all colours is the worst way to use these products. They are very concentrated, and a few seconds of inhaling is enough for a dose. Instead, take several small doses during your session instead of 1 or 2 mega hits.

In addition to being wasteful, you risk overheating your product and your cartridges, degrading your concentrate more quickly, and encountering more clogging issues.

Proper Inhaling Technique

Ideally, when you inhale, press your button while inhaling, release the button after a few seconds, but continue inhaling to completely clear the mouthpiece and draw in all the vaporized concentrate.

If you feel that your cartridge or battery is becoming hot during your session, it's time for a break. This is simply to avoid degrading your product or creating leaks.

The best way to store your cartridges is upright in a place protected from light and heat.

Storing Cartridges

Between your vaping sessions, ideally, remove the cartridges from their batteries and replace the small silicone caps that come with them at the time of purchase. This is simply the best way to prevent clogging the cartridge's mouthpiece and to protect the base, or the connector of the cartridge.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Let's talk about the base and the connector; they're often the parts that break easily on a cartridge. For example, if you tend to overheat your cartridges, the concentrate may seep between your battery and your vape, and the residue can solidify once cooled.

To avoid this type of problem, I strongly recommend cleaning your cartridges and batteries with 99% isopropyl alcohol and good old Q-Tips.

If you're using a battery with magnetic adapters, like the Ark Uni Pro battery from Tribal, don't forget to clean your connectors at both ends.

Understand Your Device

There are several types of cartridges and wax pens; some are better than others and are less likely to get clogged. But keep in mind that this is a relatively new and quite fragile technology. If you make an effort to use them properly and maintain them well, you will avoid most of the problems that can occur with this kind of technology!

I hope you've learned something from this article. Feel free to contact my team via the Live Chat feature on our website if you still have questions or need assistance.

We're here to support you!

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