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Why Is My Vape Gurgling? Causes and Fixes for Gurgling Sounds

JT

Jessica Tyson

21/01/2025 • 5 min read
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A gurgling vape tank can be a frustrating interruption to your vaping experience. Whether it’s a subtle bubbling noise or a loud gurgle every time you inhale, these sounds often indicate underlying issues. Let’s explore the common causes, fixes, and preventative tips to keep your vape running smoothly.

Understanding Vape Tank Gurgling Sounds

Gurgling sounds in vape tanks can be quite perplexing, but understanding their root causes can help you address them effectively. One of the primary culprits is excess e-liquid, which can flood the coil and create those annoying gurgling sounds.

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Improper coil installation is another common issue; if the coil isn’t seated correctly, it can lead to uneven vapourisation and gurgling noises. Additionally, incorrect wattage settings can cause the coil to underperform, leaving excess liquid unvapourised and contributing to the gurgling sound.

To identify the cause of the gurgling, start by checking the e-liquid levels and ensuring they are within the recommended range. Next, inspect the coil to make sure it is properly installed and not damaged.

Finally, review your wattage settings to ensure they match the coil’s specifications. By systematically addressing these factors, you can pinpoint the issue and take the necessary steps to fix it, ensuring a smoother and quieter vaping experience.

Main Causes of Vape Bubbling Due to Excess E-Liquid

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Bubbling sounds in your vape typically result from excess e-liquid or airflow issues. Overfilling your tank is a common culprit, causing liquid to seep into the atomiser coil or airflow chamber. This obstructs normal vapourisation and creates gurgling noises. Improper inhalation techniques, such as drawing too forcefully, can also pull excess liquid into the coil, leading to bubbling and reduced vapour production.

A flooded coil, caused by too much liquid saturating the coil, is another frequent issue. This can happen if your device is left unused for extended periods or if you over-prime a new coil. Additionally, blocked airflow caused by condensation or debris in the vents can also lead to uneven vapourisation. In some cases, coil issues — such as using an old, damaged coil or an incompatible setup — may also cause bubbling or gurgling noises.

Keeping the central airflow tube clear is essential for proper air flow, which helps prevent issues such as leaking and gurgling.

Why Is My Vape Bubbling When I Inhale?

Bubbling sounds during inhalation are often linked to excess liquid pooling in the chimney or coil. As you inhale, the air interacts with the liquid, producing the bubbling noise. Excess e-liquid can lead to increased air and vacuum pressure, causing gurgling noises while vaping, which can be resolved by removing the excess liquid. This issue is more likely to occur if your device is set to low wattage, as inadequate power may leave some vape juice unvapourised. Additionally, using a high PG (propylene glycol) e-liquid, which is thinner than VG (vegetable glycerine), can increase the likelihood of leaking or flooding, further contributing to bubbling sounds.

Common Vape Bubbling Sounds and What They Mean

Not all bubbling noises are created equal. A soft bubbling sound usually indicates slight flooding caused by overfilling or condensation, while a loud gurgling noise signals significant flooding or blocked airflow, requiring immediate attention. Identifying these sounds can help pinpoint the underlying issue and guide your next steps. Using a modern vaping device with the correct e-liquid can prevent gurgling and ensure optimal performance.

Choosing the right vaping device is crucial for avoiding common issues like gurgling and spitting. Specific types of vaping devices can lead to performance problems due to design flaws or incompatibility with certain e-liquids. Proper maintenance and selecting suitable vaping devices can significantly enhance the user experience.

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Checking and Adjusting E-Liquid Levels

Maintaining the right e-liquid levels in your vape tank is crucial for preventing gurgling sounds. As we've mentioned, excess e-liquid can flood the coil, leading to gurgling noises and diminished vapour production. and no one wants that.

To check your e-liquid levels, simply look through the tank’s window or remove the drip tip to get a clear view. If you notice that the e-liquid level is too high, you can remove excess e-liquid using a paper towel or by gently tilting the tank to let some liquid out.

On the other hand, if the e-liquid level is too low, it can cause the coil to dry out and produce burnt hits. To avoid this, make sure to add more e-liquid until it reaches the recommended level. By regularly monitoring and adjusting your e-liquid levels, you can prevent gurgling noises and ensure a more enjoyable vaping experience.

Coil and Wattage Issues

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They may seem complex, but coil and wattage issues are often the hidden culprits behind those frustrating gurgling sounds in your vape tank. A faulty or improperly installed coil can lead to uneven heating and excess liquid buildup, resulting in gurgling noises. Similarly, using an incorrect wattage setting can cause the coil to overheat or underperform, leaving excess liquid unvapourised and contributing to the gurgling sound.

To resolve these issues, start by replacing the coil with a new one and ensuring it is properly installed and seated in the tank. Next, adjust the wattage setting to the recommended level for your specific coil. This ensures that the coil heats evenly and vapourises the e-liquid efficiently, reducing the likelihood of gurgling noises. By addressing coil and wattage issues, you can enjoy a smoother and more consistent vaping experience.

How to Stop Vape Bubbling

Fixing a bubbling vape is straightforward with the right approach. Here's a 3-step plan to keep things running smoothly.

  1. Start by checking the tank fill level.
  2. Clean your vape device regularly, paying close attention to the mouthpiece, chimney, and airflow vents to remove condensation and debris.
  3. Use proper inhalation techniques. Take steady, moderate draws rather than forceful puffs to prevent excess liquid intake.
  4. Maintain the airflow system. Keep vents open and unobstructed, and clean any blockages that could restrict proper airflow. These simple adjustments can go a long way in resolving bubbling issues.

How to Fix a Gurgling Noise in Your Vape

If your vape continues to gurgle, more hands-on fixes may be needed. Start by disassembling the tank and drying its components. Use a paper towel to clear out excess liquid and let the parts air dry before reassembling. Blow out excess liquid by gently blowing through the mouthpiece while covering the airflow vents — this can help expel pooled e-liquid.

It's also important to regularly clean your vape pod to prevent gurgling and ensure optimal performance. Routine cleaning between refills can help maintain the device and enhance the user experience.

Switching to the right e-liquid can also make a difference. Opt for a balanced VG/PG ratio suited to your device. Thicker liquids with higher VG content are less likely to flood the coil, making them a better choice for many setups. When reassembling your device, prime the coil correctly by applying a few drops of e-liquid and assembling carefully. Avoid over-tightening components, as this can create pressure imbalances that exacerbate bubbling.

Keep Your Vape Smooth and Bubbling-Free

Vape bubbling can disrupt your experience, but understanding the causes and solutions makes it easy to fix. From addressing excess e-liquid to maintaining airflow and using the right e-liquid, these tips can eliminate bubbling and ensure a smoother vape. Regular maintenance and thoughtful habits will also go a long way in preventing these issues in the future.

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