Have you ever found yourself in a panic when dropped vape in water? Whether it slipped from your hand into a puddle, fell into a sink, or you accidentally knocked it into a glass of water, it can be a stressful moment. Vapes, especially disposable ones, aren’t designed to be submerged, and the idea of ruining your favorite device can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, you’re not alone—many people have faced this problem.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly “what to do if you drop your vape in water”. From understanding what happens to your device to learning whether it will still work, we’ll cover all the critical details. Plus, we’ll provide tips on “how to fix vape dropped in water” and explain how to prevent water damage in the future. Whether you’re dealing with a traditional vape pen or a disposable vape, it’s important to know how to handle the situation to avoid permanent damage.
Let’s dive into the essential steps to take after your vape has fell in water!
Table of Content
- 1 What Happens If You Drop A Vape in Water?
- 2 What Happens if You Drop a Disposable Vape in Water?
- 3 I Dropped My Vape in Water – Will It Explode?
- 4 What to Do If You Drop Your Vape in Water？
- 5 Can I Use My Vape After Dropping It in Water?
- 6 How to Fix a Vape After Dropping It in Water
- 7 Dropped Your Vape in Water? Here’s What Not to Do
- 8 Conclusion
What Happens If You Drop A Vape in Water?
Dropping your vape in water can be a scary experience, but it’s important to understand “what happens if your vape falls in water“. Here’s what you can expect:
How Water Affects Vapes?
Vapes are delicate electronic devices, and water can cause significant damage to their internal components. When a vape dropped in water, the liquid can seep into the delicate circuits, affecting its functionality. The most vulnerable parts of the vape include the battery, coils, and wiring. Even a small amount of water can interfere with these components, causing the vape to stop working
Will Your Vape Still Work After Dropping It in Water?
In most cases, when vape dropped in water, it may not work right away. The water can disrupt the electrical connections, preventing the vape from firing up properly. You can read this article for more details. However, if you want to know “will my vape work if i drop it in water“, the answer is not necessarily bad. Sometimes, if you act quickly, you may be able to fix it, depending on how much water has entered the device and how long it was submerged.
It’s essential to turn off the device and remove the battery immediately (if possible) to avoid further damage. The longer the vape stays wet, the more likely it is that the water will cause lasting harm
Potential Risks of Water Exposure
If vapes dropped in water, will it explode? the truth is that explosions are rare. However, water can cause other issues, such as:
- Short Circuits: Water can create short circuits, especially in the battery or internal wiring. This can cause your vape to malfunction or stop working altogether.
- Battery Damage: If water enters the battery compartment, it can lead to corrosion, which can permanently affect the battery’s ability to hold a charge. A damaged battery could even cause it to overheat or fail.
- Rust and Corrosion: If your vape is exposed to water for an extended period, rust and corrosion can begin to form on metal parts. This can lead to long-term damage that makes the vape unsafe to use.
So, while the immediate risk of explosion is low, water exposure can still cause significant damage, making it important to take quick action if your vape dropped in water.
What Happens if You Drop a Disposable Vape in Water?
Disposable vapes are designed to be convenient and easy-to-use, but they’re not built to withstand water exposure. If you dropped disposable vape in water, here’s what you can expect
#1. The Vape Might Stop Working Immediately
Once disposable vape dropped in water, the chances of it working again are extremely low. Unlike rechargeable vapes, disposable vapes are sealed units, which means there’s no easy way to open them up and dry out the internal components. When water enters the vape, it can damage the internal battery, coil, or e-liquid tank. This often leads to immediate malfunction. The vape will likely stop working as soon as moisture touches the internal circuitry
#2. The Battery Could Be Damaged
Most disposable vapes use small internal batteries that are very vulnerable to water. Water exposure can cause short-circuiting in the battery, making it either fail completely or work intermittently. In many cases, when dropped disposable vape in water, the battery will be irreparably damaged and the vape will no longer produce vapor
#3. The E-Liquid Can Leak or Dilute
If your disposable vape is dropped in water, it’s likely that water will seep into the e-liquid compartment. This can cause several issues:
- Dilution of the e-liquid: If water mixes with the vape juice, it can dilute the flavors, making the vape taste off or weaker.
- Leaking e-liquid: Water entering the device may force the e-liquid out, causing leaks from the mouthpiece or sides of the vape.
This dilution or leaking of e-liquid significantly impacts the performance of the vape, and in most cases, it’s not something you can fix
#4. Risk of Corrosion
If your disposable vape is dropped in water, water can lead to corrosion of the metal parts inside the disposable vape, such as the heating coil and electrical connections. Once corroded, these components may be completely non-functional and cannot be repaired. This permanent damage is common in disposable vapes and is another reason why they are not meant to survive water exposure
#5. No Option for Repair or Drying
Unlike rechargeable vapes, disposable vapes don’t have removable parts. This means you can’t open them up to dry them out or clean the water damage. When people ask “what happens if i drop my disposable vape in water“, the answer is once moisture has gotten inside, the vape is usually beyond repair. Even if you leave it to dry out for a while, it’s unlikely to work again
I Dropped My Vape in Water – Will It Explode?
Under most circumstances, no! It will not explode.
One of the most common concerns people have is “dropped vape in water will it explode“. It’s understandable—vapes contain lithium-ion batteries, which are known to be sensitive to moisture and temperature. However, the good news is that while vape dropped in water is possible to cause some serious damage, the chance of your vape exploding is very low. Here’s why:
Safety Mechanisms in Vapes
Modern vapes are designed with built-in safety mechanisms to prevent dangerous situations, including explosions. These safety features include:
- Short-Circuit Protection: Most vapes have an internal circuit that will shut down the device if a short circuit is detected. This prevents the battery from overheating and reducing the risk of a fire or explosion.
- Overcharge and Overheat Protection: Many devices are also equipped with systems to prevent the battery from overheating. If I dropped my raz vape in water and it has a short circuit, the vape may stop working entirely rather than becoming a danger.
- Sealed Components: Higher-quality vapes, especially waterproof or water-resistant models, have sealed compartments that make it harder for water to get inside and damage the internal parts when you have vape dropped in water.
Likelihood to Explode
Again, if you drop vape in water, the risk of immediate explosion is minimum. So you do not have to worry about it. Instead, here is what happens if you drop a vape in water:
- Battery Failure: Water can cause the battery to short-circuit, especially if it’s not removed and dried quickly. In the worst-case scenario, this could lead to battery swelling or leaking, but this is rare.
- Corrosion Over Time: If the vape is exposed to water for days without being properly dried, corrosion could set in, particularly on the battery or other metal components. If corrosion spreads, it could cause internal damage that might eventually lead to overheating, but it won’t necessarily cause an explosion.
The main risk is not immediate explosion, but rather battery failure and short circuits that can lead to long-term damage.
To learn more, you can read our article how to know if your vape is going to explode?
What to Do If You Drop Your Vape in Water？
“I drop vape in water, now it is hot. What should I do then?“
If you face the issue of your vape getting hot if dropped in water, it is important to act quickly to minimize damage and give your device the best chance of recovery. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do immediately after your vape gets wet:
Turn Off the Vape Immediately
For customers wondering “what to do if you drop your vape in water”, the most important thing is to turn it off. This will prevent any electrical current from flowing through the device, which can reduce the risk of a short circuit or further damage. If your vape has a removable battery, take it out right away. The battery is one of the most vulnerable components when vape dropped in water. Removing it immediately will help prevent corrosion and damage to the battery terminals. If you can’t remove the battery, don’t worry—just make sure the vape is turned off
Remove the Tank and E-liquid
If your vape has a tank, remove it carefully. Water can damage the coil and dilute the e-liquid, affecting both the flavor and vapor production. Empty the tank and wipe it down with a cloth. If you’re able, remove the coil as well to dry it out separately. If the tank or e-liquid has been compromised, replace the e-liquid with fresh juice before reassembling the vape dropped in water.
Dry the Vape Thoroughly
Once the device is off and the battery is removed, it’s time to dry it. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Shake Out Excess Water: Gently shake the vape to remove any excess water from the exterior and any open crevices.
- Use a Dry Cloth or Paper Towel: Pat down the vape with a soft, absorbent cloth or paper towel. Avoid pressing too hard on the device to prevent pushing water further into the internal components.
- Dry the Charging Port and Mouthpiece: Focus on the charging port and mouthpiece area, where water can easily get trapped. You may want to use a cotton swab or soft cloth to clean these areas carefully.
- Leave the Vape to Air-Dry: You can let the vape air-dry in a dry, well-ventilated area. Place it upright so that any remaining water can drain out.
One popular method for dropped vape in water is placing it in a container with uncooked rice or silica gel packets. Both of these substances can help absorb moisture from the device
Inspect for Water Damage
After the drying period, it’s time to carefully inspect the vape for any signs of water damage. Look for:
- Corrosion: Check the battery contacts and the coil for signs of rust or corrosion.
- Battery Issues: If your vape uses a rechargeable battery, check for any swelling, leaks, or unusual smells. Damaged batteries should not be used and need to be replaced immediately.
- Loose Parts: Ensure that no parts are loose or out of place, particularly in the tank or battery compartment.
Test the Vape Before Using It
Before you start vaping again, test the device to ensure it works properly. Turn it on and check for any issues such as:
- Vapor production: Does it produce vapor as usual?
- Battery function: Does it charge without any unusual heat or odors
- Overheating: Does it overheat quickly when in use?
If everything seems normal, you can start using it again. However, if you notice any unusual behavior or persistent issues, the vape might still have internal water damage.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you find your vape dropped in water and it still not work after following all the steps, it may be time to take it to a professional. Many vape shops offer repair services, especially for high-end models. In some cases, you may need to replace the entire device, particularly if the damage is severe or the internal circuitry is compromised
Can I Use My Vape After Dropping It in Water?
Can I use my vape after dropping it in water? The answer isn’t always simple—it depends on how quickly you act, how long the device was submerged, and whether the vape has suffered internal damage. Here’s what you need to know before attempting to use your vape again.
#1. How Long Was the Vape in the Water?
The time of dropping vape in water plays a significant role in determining whether it will still work. If the device was submerged for just a few seconds, there’s a good chance it hasn’t sustained major damage, especially if you acted quickly. The longer the vape dropped in water, the higher the chances that moisture has seeped into the internal components, which can cause permanent damage
#2. Did You Dry the Vape Immediately?
Drying is the key when it comes to answer “can you use a vape after dropping it in water“. The sooner you turn off your vape and start drying it, the better its chances are of working again. If you waited too long before drying, water could have reached sensitive parts like the battery, wiring, or coils, causing corrosion or short circuits
#3. How to Check If It’s Safe to Use
Before trying to use your vape again, there are a few signs to check that indicate whether it’s safe to power up:
- Unusual Heat: If you have the issue of “dropped vape in water now it’s hot“, this could be a sign that there’s still water inside causing a short circuit. Do not use the vape in this situation.
- Condensation or Leaking: If you see water inside the tank or mouthpiece or notice condensation when you open it, this means there’s still moisture inside. You should leave the vape to dry for a bit longer before using it.
- Battery Issues: If the battery looks swollen, or there’s a foul odor, this could indicate that the battery has been damaged by water. (You can read this article for more detail.) If you notice these signs, do not attempt to use the vape
#4. Test the Vape After Drying
Once you’ve dried your vape thoroughly, reinsert the battery (if you removed it) and power on the device. If the vape powers up and functions normally, that’s a positive sign that it’s still usable. If it doesn’t turn on, overheats, or shows signs of malfunction (like poor vapor production), it’s likely that the water has caused internal damage. It may be time to replace it
How to Fix a Vape After Dropping It in Water
When your vape falls into water, it can be worrying, but there are some actions you can take to try and restore it to working order. These steps will guide you how to fix vape dropped in water.
Assess the Damage to the Tank and Coils
After drying the device as much as you can from the outside, the next step is to carefully examine the tank and coils. If the coil or tank has absorbed water, it can compromise the vaping experience, even if the battery is still functional.
- Remove the tank and inspect the coil: Sometimes, water can interfere with the coil’s ability to heat up properly. In case of vape dropped in water, you can attempt to replace the coil with a new one. If it’s a disposable coil, it may be beyond repair, and you should replace the entire cartridge or atomizer.
- Clean the tank thoroughly: Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe away any remaining moisture from inside the tank. If you see any water pooling in the tank, it’s crucial to dry it out properly to avoid mixing it with your e-liquid, which could dilute or spoil the flavor.
Dry and Inspect the Charging Port
Water inside the charging port can lead to battery issues. Before attempting to charge your vape again, ensure the port is completely dry. Use a soft cloth or cotton swab to gently clean out any moisture.
If the port is wet, charging the vape can cause short-circuiting or even damage the charging cable. Wait at least 12 hours to make sure it’s fully dry before trying to charge it again. If you have access to compressed air, use it carefully to dry out the port
Inspect the Battery for Damage
Regarding how to fix vapes dropped in water, inspecting the battery status is a good idea. If your vape has a removable battery, inspect it carefully for signs of swelling, leaks, or unusual odors. If any of these issues are present, discard the battery immediately, as it may be hazardous.
If the battery is still intact and shows no signs of damage, clean the battery terminals with a soft cloth to ensure a proper connection. Reinsert the battery into the vape and test it to see if it powers on. If it doesn’t turn on, the issue could be internal, and the battery may need replacing
Reassemble and Test the Vape
Once you’ve checked and cleaned all necessary components (tank, coils, battery, charging port), reassemble the vape. At this stage, test the vape in small increments to ensure that it’s working correctly.
- Turn on the vape and take a few slow puffs. Check for any odd smells (like burning plastic), vapor production, or strange noises (like hissing). These could signal that water damage is still affecting the device.
- Pay close attention to the heating element while you’re testing the vape. If the device heats up quickly and produces vapor normally, there’s a good chance it’s working well again. However, if it becomes excessively hot or shows signs of weak vapor, this could indicate internal damage that can’t be fixed without professional help
Dropped Your Vape in Water? Here’s What Not to Do
When vape dropped in water, it’s easy to panic. However, staying calm and knowing what not to do can save your device from further damage. Here’s a list of actions you should avoid to prevent making the situation worse and “what to do if you drop a vape in water“
#1. Don’t Turn It On Immediately
One of the biggest mistakes you can make after dropping vape in water is trying to turn it on immediately. This is a critical step to avoid because turning the device on while it’s still wet can cause short-circuiting. The electrical components inside the vape can short out, leading to more extensive damage, and in some cases, battery failure or fire hazards.
What to do instead: Power off the device immediately (if it’s still on) and remove the battery if possible. Give the vape time to dry out before even considering turning it on
#2. Don’t Use Heat to Dry It Out
A common impulse when dealing with a water-damaged device is to try to dry it quickly using heat. Some might think blow-drying or using a heat gun will work, but this can cause more harm than good. Excessive heat can damage the internal components, melt wires, or cause plastic parts to warp. In addition, applying heat to a wet vape could speed up the corrosion process, especially to sensitive electrical parts.
What to do instead: Let the device air-dry naturally, or place it in a bag of silica gel or rice for 24-48 hours to absorb moisture. Avoid using high heat.
#3. Don’t Shake It Aggressively
You might be tempted to shake the vape dropped in water to get rid of excess water, but shaking it aggressively can actually cause more harm. This action may drive water deeper into the device, potentially damaging areas like the battery or coil. It could also cause loose components to get dislodged or internal parts to break.
What to do instead: Gently tap or shake the vape just enough to let some of the excess water drain out. Then, proceed to dry it off carefully without being rough
#3. Don’t Plug It in to Charge Right Away
If you dropped raz vape in water*, even if the device seems dry on the outside, there could still be moisture trapped inside, especially in the charging port or battery compartment. Charging a wet device can result in short-circuiting, potentially damaging the battery, charging circuit, or other internal electronics.
What to do instead: Allow the device to dry out completely for at least 12 hours before attempting to charge it. Ensure there is no water in the charging port before plugging it in
#4. Don’t Assume It’s Fixed Without Testing Thoroughly
After following all the drying and cleaning steps, don’t assume your vape is in perfect working condition without testing it first. Many internal issues, like corrosion, damaged wiring, or waterlogged batteries, may not show up right away. The device might appear to work, but could still be prone to problems down the line.
What to do instead: After testing the vape, check for normal vapor production, odd smells, or overheating. If the device behaves unusually, it may still have internal damage
Conclusion
Dropping vape in water can feel like a nightmare, but it doesn’t always spell the end of your device. By acting quickly and carefully, you can increase your chances of saving your vape and getting it back to full functionality. Remember, the key is to dry it thoroughly, avoid turning it on immediately, and take the right steps to check for water damage.
While some vapes, especially disposable models, may be beyond repair after water exposure, many devices can be revived with the right care. If you’re unsure or the vape still isn’t working after drying, don’t hesitate to visit a professional vape technician for further help
