8 Things You Need to Know About Your Vape

Vapes are one of the most complicated cannabis categories, given their various components, compatibility requirements and particular storage needs. We’ve rounded up some of the common issues consumers experience with vapes — whether they’re 510-thread, closed loop systems or disposable pens — and offer some tips to help solve them.

1. The components must fit

When shopping for vape batteries and vape cartridges, it’s all about compatibility. When browsing the vape battery category, you’ll notice that most batteries are labelled 510-thread, which means they have a special insert that is compatible with a 510-thread cartridge. But that doesn’t mean every 510-thread cartridge will work with every 510-thread battery. Some vape cartridges, 510 or not, can only be used with batteries specific to the brand — called a closed-loop system — so read the fine print before purchasing. 

2. It needs mild temps

How you store your vape products can make a big difference for both their performance and their longevity. For best results, keep vape cartridges and disposable vape pens in a dry, cool place (room temperature will do). Turn them off and remove the cartridge from the battery when not in use. When the hot summers and cold winters roll in, be mindful not to leave your vape in a car for long periods of time, as extreme temperatures may affect the hardware’s longevity.

3. It may come with extra components

When unboxing a vape pen or cartridge for the first time, look for and remove any vent caps that may have been put in place by the Licensed Producer prior to shipping. Often clear and easy to miss, these caps are designed to prevent contamination and reduce excess odours during shipping. If they’re not removed before use, they’ll prevent the vape from working.

4. It can overheat

Pulling on a vape multiple times in succession, especially long pulls, can cause it to overheat, which may lead to a malfunction. Leaving ample time between sessions will not only keep your vape pen working properly but also give you time to assess how you’re feeling, reducing your risk of overconsumption.

5. It may malfunction post-flight

High altitude and cabin pressure may cause a vape to malfunction, regardless of whether it’s packed in carry-on or checked baggage. Keep this in mind when travelling by air within Canada. For more information about travelling with cannabis, check out our FAQ.

6. It could leak (and that means it’s unusable)

If you notice your vape pen is leaking distillate, do not ingest it; it may cause negative health effects. Have a leaky vape? Contact our customer service line at 1-888-910-0627 or use our LiveChat and let us make it right.

7. It might not last forever

Disposable vapes are, well, disposable. If a disposable vape pen has stopped working, it could mean that either the battery is dead or the distillate has run out. If it’s rechargeable, try plugging it in to finish using the distillate.

Disposable vape pens can be a good way to test out the product category, but if you’re looking for an option with less waste, choose a recyclable disposable pen or opt for a vape battery that can be reused with multiple vape cartridges.

8. It could be too strong

Consider this: Vapes currently on the market can have concentrations of more than 900 milligrams per gram (90%) THC. In comparison, the maximum amount of THC you’ll find in dried flower is around 300 milligrams per gram (30%), making the strongest vape three times as potent as the strongest dried flower available. With great strength comes great responsibility — when trying a vape product for the first time, take small pulls and longer breaks between each draw.