Why Does My Vape Crackle or Pop? Is It Normal?
Many adult vapers notice crackling, popping, or sizzling sounds when using their device — especially during the first few puffs. While these noises can be surprising, they are very common and usually not a sign of a problem.
In most cases, crackling or popping is simply a result of how e-liquid heats and vaporizes inside the coil. This guide explains why it happens, when it’s normal, and when it may signal something that needs attention.
Is It Normal for a Vape to Crackle or Pop?
Yes — in most cases, it’s completely normal.
Vape coils heat e-liquid quickly. When small amounts of liquid come into contact with a hot coil, they can:
-
boil instantly
-
release trapped air
-
create tiny “micro-explosions”
These reactions produce the familiar crackling or popping sound.
Common Reasons Your Vape Crackles or Pops
1. Condensation Inside the Pod or Mouthpiece
After vaping, warm vapor cools and turns back into liquid droplets.
When you take the next puff:
-
the coil heats leftover condensation
-
the liquid snaps and pops
This is especially common:
-
in cold Canadian weather
-
when moving from outdoors to indoors
-
after the device has been sitting unused
✅ Normal and harmless
2. Excess E-Liquid Around the Coil
If the coil is slightly over-saturated, extra liquid can pool around it.
When heated:
-
the liquid boils rapidly
-
small pops occur as vapor escapes
This can happen if:
-
you refilled recently
-
the device sat on its side
-
the pod was stored in a warm pocket
3. Chain Vaping
Taking multiple puffs back-to-back can flood the coil.
Instead of vaporizing evenly, the coil:
-
heats uneven liquid
-
causes popping or gurgling sounds
Slowing down between puffs often reduces this immediately.
4. Cold Weather Effects (Very Common in Canada)
Cold temperatures thicken e-liquid.
When the device warms up:
-
thick liquid suddenly thins
-
uneven vaporization occurs
-
popping sounds are produced
This usually settles after a few slower puffs.
5. Coil Design & Device Type
Some coils are designed to:
-
heat quickly
-
maximize flavour
-
produce dense vapor
These coils naturally make more sound — especially in:
-
pod systems
-
mesh coils
-
low-power devices
Noise does not mean lower quality.
When Crackling Might Need Attention
While popping is usually normal, you may want to check the device if you notice:
-
loud gurgling instead of light crackling
-
liquid spitting into the mouthpiece
-
weak vapor along with popping
-
leaking from airflow holes
These signs may indicate too much liquid or a flooded pod.
How to Reduce Crackling or Popping
If the sound bothers you, here are simple adjustments:
✔ Take slower, longer puffs
✔ Pause a few seconds between puffs
✔ Keep the device upright when not in use
✔ Gently wipe the mouthpiece and pod base
✔ Avoid overfilling refillable pods
✔ Let the device warm up in winter
Most of the time, the sound reduces on its own.
Crackling vs Burnt Taste: What’s the Difference?
-
Crackling / popping → usually excess or uneven liquid
-
Burnt taste → dry or damaged cotton
If there’s no burnt flavour, crackling alone is rarely a concern.
Final Thoughts
A crackling or popping vape is usually just the sound of e-liquid doing what it’s meant to do — vaporizing. For adult vapers (19+), it’s a normal part of using modern pod systems and devices, especially in colder climates like Canada.
Understanding why it happens can help reduce unnecessary worry and improve your overall vaping experience.
🚫 Adult Safety Disclaimer
For adult smokers (19+) only. Nicotine products contain risks. Not for youth or non-smokers.