There’s one thing more frustrating than an empty vape cartridge — one that’s not empty but too clogged to use. Even if you’ve got strong lungs, a blocked airway from thick cannabis oil or residue can impede your ability to take a hit.
At the heart of the issue is viscosity — the thickness or resistance of a fluid to flow. As Princeton University puts it, viscosity is “a measure of a fluid’s resistance to flow.” In cannabis terms, it means your oil might be too thick to vaporize efficiently.
What Causes Vape Cartridges to Clog?
- Cold temperatures can thicken cannabis oil, making it harder to draw through the cartridge.
- Physical obstructions in the mouthpiece from debris or hardened oil can completely block airflow.
- Condensation buildup inside the airway can solidify and prevent smooth draws.
How to Prevent a Clogged Cartridge
- Preheat the oil
Use the preheat function (if available) to gently warm the oil and improve flow. - Clean the mouthpiece
If clogged, gently remove debris with a toothpick or pin. Be careful not to damage the coil. - Store properly
Keep your cartridge upright in a cool, dry place to maintain optimal oil consistency. - Use consistently
Regular use prevents the oil from hardening and reduces the risk of clogging. - Clean regularly
Use a small pin to clear blockages or a Q-tip dipped in isopropyl alcohol to wipe the mouthpiece. - Draw gently
Pulling too hard can flood the airway with oil, causing more buildup.
Still Clogged? It Might Be a Defect
If your brand-new cartridge is clogged right out of the box, it might be defective. In that case, return it to the dispensary for an exchange or refund.
One last point….vape cartridges don’t age well. The cart you bought six months ago and that has been sitting upside down in its unopened packaging, may be problematic from the outset. For best results plan to use your cartridges soon after you purchase them.