Fix Your Vape: How to Stop Leaks, Burnt Coils, and Other Annoying Issues

Vaping is supposed to be smooth and enjoyable — not frustrating. But even the best setups can run into problems now and then. Leaking tanks, burnt coils, weak hits, or juice flooding into your mouth are all issues that can make vaping more hassle than it's worth. Whether you’re brand new or you’ve been vaping for years, these problems happen to almost everyone at some point. The good news? Most of them are easy to fix — and even easier to prevent.

Let’s start with one of the most common complaints: leaking tanks. If you notice e-liquid pooling at the bottom of your device or dripping out of airflow holes, don’t panic. This usually means there’s either too much juice, a loose seal, or improper coil installation. Make sure everything is tightened down — especially the coil and tank sections. Check your o-rings (those little rubber rings inside the tank) for damage, and always fill your juice to the correct line — not all the way to the top. Overfilling causes pressure imbalances that force juice out through the airflow.

Another major issue? Burnt coils — that awful taste that makes every hit feel like a mouthful of campfire. This happens when your coil gets too hot without enough e-liquid to cool and soak it. It can also happen if you chain vape at too high a wattage or forget to properly prime your coil before use. Always drip a few drops of e-liquid directly onto a new coil’s cotton before installing it, then let the tank sit for 5–10 minutes before vaping. Keep your wattage within the recommended range printed on the coil, and when you notice flavor fading or a burnt edge, it’s time to swap it out.

Spitback — when hot e-liquid pops or floods into your mouth — is another annoyance that’s often linked to flooding. This happens when too much juice soaks the coil and it can’t vaporize fast enough. The result? A hot, crackling mess. To avoid this, take slower draws and make sure your coil isn't oversaturated. If your device has adjustable airflow, opening it up slightly can help balance the vapor pressure. Some people also find using a slightly thicker (higher VG) e-liquid can prevent spitback since it absorbs more gradually.

Weak hits or low vapor production can be caused by old coils, low battery, or incorrect wattage. Try adjusting your power settings to match your coil’s rating, and make sure your coil isn’t past its prime. Also, don’t overlook airflow — too little airflow can cause a tight draw and muted vapor, while too much can make the flavor feel diluted. Play around with it until you find your sweet spot.

Last but not least, if your vape just won’t fire, check for loose battery connections or juice buildup inside the device. Always clean your contacts with a dry cloth and make sure everything’s seated correctly. If you’re using a mod with safety features, error messages like “check atomizer” might just mean the coil isn’t making proper contact — remove it, wipe it down, and reinstall.

Most vape issues are minor — and completely fixable. At K Town Vapors, we help customers troubleshoot these kinds of problems every day. Whether you need new coils, a tank with better seals, or just some advice, we’ve got your back. Don’t let a small issue ruin your vape — swing by, ask questions, and we’ll get you back to smooth, flavorful clouds in no time.