What Happens if You Drop a Vape in Water?

Why Water Is a Vape's Worst Enemy

Vapes, especially the more modern models, are delicate electronic devices powered by lithium-ion batteries. These batteries, along with the e-liquid tanks and internal components, are sensitive to moisture. When water gets inside a vape, it can disrupt the entire functioning of the device, potentially causing irreversible damage.

Let’s break down exactly what can happen when your vape goes for a swim.

1. Battery Damage: The Biggest Risk

Most vapes are powered by lithium-ion batteries, which are highly sensitive to water. If the battery compartment gets submerged, water can easily make its way into the battery, causing a short circuit. This happens when the water connects the positive and negative terminals inside the battery, which could lead to the battery malfunctioning, overheating, or even catching fire in extreme cases.

Even if the battery doesn’t immediately short-circuit, the exposure to water can cause long-term damage. Corrosion might build up over time, affecting the battery’s performance and lifespan. If you notice your vape isn’t charging properly after being dropped in water, it’s likely the battery has been damaged.

2. E-Liquid Leaks and Contamination

Vapes are designed to hold e-liquid in tanks or cartridges, and water is the enemy of this setup. When a vape is submerged in water, the seals and tanks can become compromised, potentially causing e-liquid leaks. Water mixing with the e-liquid could also leave you with a less-than-pleasant taste. The water may dilute the e-liquid or make the vape produce a weak, unflavorful hit.

In some cases, the liquid could get into places it’s not supposed to, like the coil or mouthpiece, causing the device to malfunction or lose its effectiveness.

3. Short-Circuiting of Internal Components

Water inside the vape can cause short circuits in the internal components, such as the chips and wiring. If the water reaches the device’s electrical components, it can create connections where they shouldn’t be. This could result in erratic behavior, such as the device turning on unexpectedly, malfunctioning, or even not turning on at all. The longer the water sits in the vape, the more likely these internal parts are to corrode and lose their functionality.

4. Moisture and Condensation: A Long-Term Issue

Even if your vape doesn’t fail immediately after being dropped in water, there could still be moisture buildup inside the device. Over time, condensation may form inside the tank or other parts of the device, leading to corrosion of the metal components. This could degrade the performance of your vape, causing it to lose flavor quality or produce less vapor. The buildup of moisture could also cause the button or screen to malfunction, leading to an inconsistent vaping experience.

What to Do Immediately After Dropping Your Vape in Water

If you’ve accidentally dropped your vape in water, don’t panic. There are some steps you can take right away to minimize potential damage and increase your chances of saving the device:

1. Turn It Off (If It’s On)
2. As soon as possible, turn off your vape if it’s still on. Keeping it on could cause further damage to the battery or internal components if water has reached those areas.
3. Remove the Battery (If Possible)
4. If your vape has a removable battery, take it out immediately. This can help prevent a potential short circuit and give the battery time to dry out. Set it aside in a dry place.
5. Disassemble the Device
6. Carefully remove the e-liquid tank or cartridge, the mouthpiece, and any other detachable parts. This will help air circulate inside the vape, allowing it to dry out more effectively. The e-liquid tank should also be dried separately to avoid mixing water with your vape juice.
7. Dry the Exterior
8. Use a clean, dry cloth or towel to gently wipe down the outside of the vape, removing as much water as possible from the device. Be gentle to avoid pushing water into openings.
9. Dry the Vape Thoroughly
10. Place your vape in a warm, dry area to allow it to air dry for at least 24–48 hours. You can also try placing the vape in a container filled with uncooked rice, which may help absorb any lingering moisture. However, make sure not to rush this process — give it enough time to dry out completely.

Can You Fix a Water-Damaged Vape?

In some cases, your vape might be repairable after a water incident, but it depends on the extent of the damage. If the device turns on after it’s been properly dried and the battery is still functioning, you’re in luck. However, if you notice the device is overheating, malfunctioning, or showing signs of corrosion, the damage might be irreversible.

What If the Vape Won’t Turn On?

If your vape doesn’t work even after drying, there could be internal damage. Short circuits or corrosion could have affected the internal components, such as the battery or chipboard, making the device unrepairable. In this case, it might be best to visit a professional vape repair service or consider replacing the device.

Preventing Water Damage in the Future

While accidents happen, you can take some precautions to prevent your vape from getting wet in the future:

• Keep It in a Protective Case: Use a vape case or pouch to protect it when you're on the go, especially near water.
• Be Mindful in Wet Environments: Avoid using your vape near water sources like pools, beaches, or even in the bathroom while showering.
• Use a Vape with Waterproof Features: Some newer vapes come with water-resistant or waterproof designs. If you live an active lifestyle, investing in one of these models might be a good idea.