Accidents happen; sometimes, even with the best intentions, we drop our vapes into water. If you've ever asked yourself, "I dropped my vape in water, what do I do?" you're not alone.
A common concern is whether your vape will explode or stop working after such an incident. In this article, we'll explore the risks, what to do after dropping a vape in water, and how to fix it potentially. Let's dive into the world of vapes and water damage, ensuring you can make informed decisions about your vaping device.
Will my vape still work if I drop it in water?
Dropping your vape in water can be alarming, but the chances of it exploding are relatively low. Most vapes, especially disposable vapes, aren't designed to withstand water exposure. However, this doesn't mean they will automatically become dangerous. When a vape is submerged in water, the genuine concern lies in internal damage, such as short circuits or corrosion, which can impact the device's functionality.
What happens when a vape is dropped in water:
- Short-Circuiting: Water is a good conductor of electricity, and when it contacts the electrical components of your vape, it can cause short circuits. A short circuit occurs when the electrical flow is diverted from its intended path, which can cause a malfunction of the device, and in some cases, it could even render it completely useless.
- Battery Damage: The internal battery of a vape is sensitive to moisture. Water penetrating the battery can cause irreversible damage, reducing lifespan or causing the battery to fail altogether. In extreme cases, water can create a dangerous chemical reaction inside the battery, although the risk of explosion is rare.
- Corrosion: Even if a vape seems to be working right after being dropped in water, prolonged exposure to moisture can cause corrosion. This can occur on the metal contacts inside the device, leading to long-term performance issues such as poor charging, low vapor production, or failure to turn on.
I Dropped My Vape in Water, What Happens Next?
When your vape hits the water, several things may happen depending on the type of vape, how long it was submerged, and whether any immediate action was taken:
- Short Circuit: Water is an electrical conductor, which can cause an immediate short circuit in your vape. When the internal components, such as the circuit board or wiring, come into contact with water, they may stop working correctly or be permanently damaged. Short circuits are often the primary reason why a vape won't work after water exposure.
- Battery Damage: The battery in a vape device is particularly vulnerable to water damage. If the vape has a removable battery, you can inspect the battery to see any visible signs of damage, such as rust or moisture. Non-removable batteries are trickier since you cannot quickly inspect or dry them out. Even if the device seems to work initially, water exposure could lead to battery degradation over time, ultimately reducing its efficiency or causing complete failure.
- Corrosion: Corrosion is another long-term effect of water exposure. Even if the vape works immediately after being dropped in water, water can still seep into hard-to-reach areas, like the device's internal connections or charging port. Over time, moisture can cause metal parts to corrode, affecting the device's overall functionality. This can lead to difficulty charging, diminished vapor production, and even a complete breakdown of the vape.
What Should You Do If You Drop Your Vape in Water?
If you are in the unfortunate situation of dropping your vape in water, don't panic! Here's a step-by-step guide to handling the situation:
- Remove the Vape from the Water: The first step is immediately removing your vape from the water. The longer it stays submerged, the higher the chances of permanent damage. By quickly retrieving the device, you can limit water exposure and reduce the likelihood of significant issues.
- Turn It Off: If your vape is still on when you remove it from the water, turn it off as soon as possible. This will help reduce the chances of short-circuiting. Electrical components, like the circuit board and battery, are vulnerable to further damage if they continue to run while wet.
- Dry It Thoroughly: Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe off as much of the water as possible. Be gentle but thorough, ensuring all external surfaces are dry. To remove any water inside the vape, gently shake the device to help expel excess moisture. If the vape is a pod system or has removable parts, remove them and wipe them down individually. Let the vape dry for several hours or overnight.
- Dry the Battery (if applicable): For rechargeable vapes with removable batteries, ensure the battery compartment is completely dry before reinserting the battery. If your vape uses a non-removable battery, gently wipe around the charging port and any visible battery connections. Please avoid using the vape until it is scorched to prevent damaging the battery further.
- Use Rice or Silica Gel: If you're worried that water may have seeped inside the vape, place the device in a container of uncooked rice or silica gel packets. These substances can help absorb the moisture. Leave the vape in the container for at least 24 hours to ensure that it is thoroughly dry. Avoid using a heat source like a hairdryer, as direct heat may damage the device.
- Test the Vape: After drying it for an extended period, test it by turning it on and checking if it produces vapor. If it doesn't work, it might have sustained irreparable damage. If the vape appears to be working, monitor its performance for any unusual behavior, such as inconsistent vapor production, battery issues, or overheating.
Will a Disposable Vape Still Work If It’s Dropped in Water?
If you’ve dropped a disposable vape in water, the chances of it still working are slim. Unlike rechargeable vapes, disposable vapes are not designed to be repaired or dried out. Once exposed to water, there's a high chance that the internal components will be damaged beyond repair.
- Short-Term Use: In some cases, you may notice that your disposable vape continues to work for a short while after being dropped in water. However, water damage can be gradual, and the performance will likely degrade over time.
- Permanent Damage: The water will likely interfere with the device's internal mechanisms, such as the battery or coil. Even if the vape seems to work initially, the water may eventually cause internal rusting or corrosion, stopping the vape from functioning entirely.
- Replacement: Since disposable vapes are meant for one-time use, it is advisable to replace the device as soon as possible if it gets exposed to water. It's not worth the risk of continuing to use a damaged vape, as it could lead to safety hazards or poor vaping experience.
How to Fix a Vape Dropped in Water: Can It Be Saved?
If you've dropped a vape in water, it could be saved, depending on the damage. Here's a detailed guide to attempting repairs:
- Dry It Completely: Drying out the vape is the first and most crucial step. If you have a rechargeable vape, remove the battery (if removable) and make sure it is scorched. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the external components of the vape. Shake the device gently to help expel any water trapped inside. Let it air dry for at least 12-24 hours to ensure all moisture is gone before testing it again.
- Check for Visible Damage: After drying your vape, open the device (if possible) and inspect the interior for any visible signs of damage, such as rust, corrosion, or moisture marks. This can help you determine whether the device is still repairable. If the internal components, such as the circuit board or battery, are visibly damaged, it is time to replace the vape.
- Clean the Contacts: Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the device's metal contacts. This will help remove any moisture and residue that may be causing issues with the device's performance. Be gentle and avoid applying too much alcohol, as it could cause further damage.
- Replace the Coil: If the vape's replaceable coil appears damaged from water exposure, replace it with a new coil. This is especially important for vapes that rely on coils for vapor production. Ensure the new coil is correctly installed, and test the vape to see if it works.
- Check the Battery: For vapes with removable batteries, inspect the battery for any signs of water damage. If the battery appears wet or corroded, it should be replaced. If the battery seems fine, clean the contacts gently and ensure no water is trapped inside the compartment.
The Importance of Using Quality Vapes
One key takeaway is that using a quality vape device can significantly reduce the likelihood of severe damage if you happen to drop your vape in water. High-quality vapes are often better sealed, use higher-quality batteries, and are designed to be more durable. Our store offers a wide range of reputable brands like UVP, Sili Vape, Insta Bar, Orion Vape, Rama, and Raz, which are known for their reliability and performance.
Investing in a good-quality vape will not only provide a better vaping experience but can also help protect your device in case of accidents, like dropping it in water. These brands are known for their durability and careful design, making them a safer option for anyone who wants to avoid the risk of damage.
What Happens If My Vape Won't Work After Dropping It in Water?
If you’ve dropped your vape in water and it won’t turn on, there could be several possible reasons why it’s not working:
- Water Damage: The most likely cause is that the internal components, such as the battery or the wiring, have been damaged by the water.
- Battery Failure: The battery may have short-circuited or corroded, causing it to stop functioning.
- Internal Corrosion: Even if the vape seems to be working after the incident, corrosion can build up over time and cause the vape to malfunction.
If your vape won't work after being submerged and you've tried all of the drying methods, consider replacing it. "I dropped my vape in water, and it won't work" is frustrating, but investing in a new, quality vape will help avoid these problems.
In summary, dropping a vape in water is unfortunate, but it doesn't necessarily mean your vape will explode. Most often, the issue lies in the water damaging the internal components, such as the battery or the circuit board. You can save your device by following the steps outlined in this article. However, if the damage is severe, replacing the vape is best.
To ensure the longevity and durability of your device, always choose high-quality vapes from trusted brands like UVP, Sili Vape, Insta Bar, and others available at Vapesale24. Prevention is key, and investing in a solid, well-constructed vape will give you peace of mind.
