Vaping has become an increasingly popular alternative to smoking cigarettes. As vaping has grown in popularity, so too has the culture and unique terminology surrounding it. One aspect of vaping that new users often wonder about is the sound that these devices make when being used. Here we will explore common sounds associated with vaping and what they indicate.
The Crackle
One of the most distinctive sounds of vaping is a light crackling or popping noise. This sound occurs when the e-liquid in the vape device reaches a high enough temperature to vaporize. Tiny bubbles form in the e-liquid and make a light crackling noise as they pop. The intensity of the crackle can depend on a few factors:
- PG/VG ratio – E-liquids with a higher PG (propylene glycol) ratio tend to produce more of a crackling sound.
- Power output – Devices with higher power outputs and coil temperatures will vaporize e-liquid faster, resulting in more crackling.
- Coil type – Certain coils are designed to produce a stronger crackling sound. Mesh coils and coils with larger surface areas typically create more bubbles.
For many vapers, the light crackling sound is satisfying and lets them know their device is working properly. However, an excessive crackling noise could signal a problem such as low e-liquid, gunked up coils, or a need to change power settings.
The Whistle
Some vape devices may produce a high-pitched whistling sound during use. This typically occurs when airflow is restricted through the vape device. Reasons for restricted airflow include:
- Tight draw – If the mouthpiece hole is narrow, it can increase air velocity and cause whistling.
- Blocked air intake – Built up e-liquid or debris around air intakes will restrict airflow.
- Thicker e-liquid – High VG e-liquids are thicker and may not wick fast enough to keep up with airflow.
- Coil issues – Gunked up or misaligned coils can negatively impact airflow.
Troubleshooting whistling issues usually involves cleaning the device, adjusting airflow control, using thinner e-liquid, or replacing coils. Whistling can be annoying for vapers when it occurs non-stop.
The Gurgle
An intermittent gurgling or bubbling noise can happen when excess e-liquid seeps into the bottom chamber of the atomizer. Common causes include:
- Overfilling – Adding too much e-liquid to tanks and reservoirs.
- Improper wicking – When cotton wicks don’t fully absorb the e-liquid.
- Thin e-liquid – Low VG e-liquids with high PG runny consistency.
- Broken seals – When o-rings wear out and leak e-liquid.
Gurgling results from e-liquid bubbling up when it contacts the hot coil. Vapers can remedy gurgling by cleaning excess e-liquid from the atomizer chamber, using thicker e-liquid, replacing wicks, or installing new o-rings.
The Hiss
A soft hissing noise heard when taking a draw from a vape is completely normal. The hissing sound comes from air moving through the vape device when inhaling. The speed of airflow over the coil and wicks produces a light hissing noise, similar to air moving through a narrow opening.
A consistent, low hissing noise when vaping usually isn’t anything to worry about. In some devices, the hiss volume can be reduced by adjusting the airflow control to narrow the opening.
The Rattle
Rattling noises coming from a vape device are typically a sign that something is broken or has come loose inside the device. Common culprits of rattling include:
- Loose batteries – The battery moving around inside the battery compartment.
- Detached tank glass – A loose-fitting tank glass shaking around.
- Damaged o-rings – Failing to keep parts tightly sealed.
- Loose wires – Internal wires connecting wrongly or coming detached.
- Metal on metal – Internal metal parts rubbing together when they should be separated.
Persistent rattling indicates poor construction or that a part has broken. The main solution is to open up the device to inspect it and replace any detached or broken pieces. Rattling can sometimes be fixed by adjusting parts to sit correctly.
The Buzz
Hearing a buzzing sound from your vape? This is typically caused by electrical issues with the contacts, wires, board, or chipset. Possible causes include:
- Short circuit – Wires are touching when they shouldn’t be.
- Damaged wiring – Exposed wires touching metal casing.
- Shoddy soldering – Weak points in solder connections.
- Frayed wires – Individual wire strands coming loose.
- Faulty board – Issues with solder points or circuits on the board.
- Bad contacts – The battery isn’t making clean contact.
Buzzing is not normal and indicates a problem with the electrical components. The solution is usually to replace the affected parts or to send the device in for repair. Buzzing can sometimes lead to more serious issues if left unchecked.
Popping Noises
Sudden popping sounds from vaping devices are not common but can occur for a few reasons:
- Water droplets – If moisture gets into the device it can boil rapidly and pop.
- Wire insulation – The insulation around wires can bubble and snap when overheated.
- Atomizer housing – Rapid heating and cooling can cause metal housings to pop.
- Battery – Damaged batteries might emit popping noises if they vent.
Popping noises are a sign of a serious issue like an unsafe battery or overheating. It’s best to promptly troubleshoot and repair or replace any components making these noises to prevent safety hazards.
The Screech
A screeching or squealing noise differs from whistling and is a serious issue. These piercing sounds result from extreme airflow restriction or pressure. Causes include:
- Missing o-rings – Allowing air to escape under pressure.
- Damaged seals – Similar to missing o-rings.
- Faulty adjustable airflow – The mechanism gets stuck closed.
- Internal air leaks – Parts fit together poorly or seals failed.
The high-pitched squeal comes from air escaping the pressurized system. Vapers should stop using devices making this sound immediately and inspect seals, o-rings, and tank glass to identify air leaks. Replacing damaged parts usually resolves the issue.
Conclusion
When used properly, vaping devices make soft sounds comparable to ambient noise like hissing or crackling. Harsher noises like whistling, buzzing, or popping require troubleshooting to prevent damage or safety issues. Becoming familiar with the noises your vape makes helps notice any problematic sounds. Overall, normal vaping sounds range from soft hisses to light crackles when the device is functioning optimally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes crackling sounds in vapes?
The light crackling or popping sound when vaping comes from the e-liquid bubbles rapidly boiling and popping on the atomizer coils. It’s caused by the liquid reaching the ideal vaporization temperature.
Why is my vape making whistling or squealing noises?
High-pitched whistling or screeching noises occur when airflow is severely restricted through the vape device. This can be caused by blocked air passages, missing o-rings, or faulty airflow control.
What should I do if my vape starts buzzing?
Buzzing noises indicate an electrical issue somewhere in the device. It likely requires opening up the vape and inspecting the wiring, connections, PCB, and contacts to find and replace the faulty component causing the buzzing.
Do all vapes make a hissing sound?
A soft hissing sound when inhaling is perfectly normal for most vapes. The noise comes from air passing through the device into the mouthpiece. Well-functioning vapes will have a very low hiss.
Why does my vape make gurgling and popping noises?
Gurgling and popping noises are caused by e-liquid seeping into the bottom of the atomizer chamber. The liquid boils and bubbles when it contacts hot coils. Fixing wicking, emptying excess liquid, or replacing o-rings usually solves gurgling issues.
Common Vaping Noises and What They Mean
| Noise | Description | Potential Causes |
|---|---|---|
| Crackling | Light popping sound | E-liquid rapidly boiling on coils |
| Hissing | Soft, consistent hiss | Airflow through device |
| Gurgling | Intermittent bubbling noise | E-liquid in atomizer chamber |
| Whistling | High-pitched whistle | Restricted airflow |
| Rattling | Shaking noise | Loose internal parts |
| Buzzing | Electrical buzzing | Faulty wiring or connections |
| Popping | Sudden popping sound | Moisture, wire issues |
| Screeching | High-pitched squeal | Extreme air restriction |
This table summarizes common sounds produced by vape devices and their likely causes. Becoming familiar with these vaping noises can help troubleshoot issues.
Troubleshooting Unusual Vape Sounds
While some sound from vaping is normal, certain noises can indicate issues needing attention. Follow these general troubleshooting tips for unusual vape sounds:
- Stop using the device immediately if you hear buzzing, screeching, or popping noises.
- Open up the vape device carefully to inspect internal components.
- Check condition of wires, solder points, contacts, o-rings, seals, and tank glass.
- Replace any damaged parts like frayed wires or cracked seals.
- Make sure all internal connections are secure.
- Clean e-liquid residue and other gunk buildup.
- Reassemble device carefully to ensure proper airflow.
- Consider contacting manufacturer if issue persists after thorough cleaning and inspection.
Diagnosing issues causing unusual vape sounds may take some trial and error. Persistent problems likely require professional repair or replacement. Contact the vape device maker for troubleshooting advice if needed.
Preventing Issues with Vape Sounds
While occasional sounds are normal, taking proactive steps can minimize problematic noises:
- Use the proper e-liquid type and consistency for your device.
- Clean coils and tanks regularly to prevent gunk buildup.
- Ensure coils are properly saturated before first use.
- Check o-rings and seals regularly for wear and replace as needed.
- Swap out coils at least every 1-2 weeks.
- Keep batteries well-maintained and inspect contacts.
- Avoid overfilling e-liquid tanks.
- Carefully follow manufacturer’s maintenance instructions.
Staying on top of cleaning, maintenance, and replacing worn parts minimizes issues. Also monitor vape sounds closely each use to catch problems early before they worsen. Contacting the device manufacturer at the first sign of trouble can prevent needing expensive repairs down the road.
When to Take Your Vape In for Service
While simple cleaning and troubleshooting can fix many minor vape issues, some problems require professional service. Take your vape device in for inspection and repairs if you experience:
- Buzzing, popping, or screeching noises that don’t stop after cleaning and replacing o-rings.
- Rattling even after inspecting all internal parts and connections.
- Persistent gurgling or whistling even after changing coils and cleaning.
- Leaking e-liquid from unknown sources.
- Burnt taste even with new coils and proper prime/break-in.
- Overheating beyond normal warmth.
- Visible damage like cracked battery housing.
Electrical problems, leaks, and overheating can be safety issues if left unaddressed. Rather than risk injury, take the device to an experienced vape repair shop. Professional technicians have proper tools and parts to diagnose issues and make necessary repairs.
Conclusion
The array of noises produced by vapes may seem confusing at first. With experience, vapers learn to distinguish normal operation sounds from problematic noises. Listening closely while vaping helps identify issues like restricted airflow or e-liquid leaks right away. Addressing problems early prevents small issues from becoming dangerous electrical faults or injuries. Overall, unusual vape sounds should never be ignored. Awareness of common noises helps troubleshoot problems and know when professional service is needed.