Adults only (18+)

Can Vapes Explode

With the growing popularity of vaping across the UK, stories of vapes exploding have caught public attention and sparked understandable concern. Most vapers will never experience any issues, but the idea of a vape device suddenly catching fire or exploding is alarming. So, can vapes explode? The short answer is yes, but it is very rare and usually preventable. In this article, we look at why vape explosions can happen, which types of devices are more at risk, how to use vapes safely and what you can do to reduce the chances of a battery failure.

What Causes a Vape to Explode

When a vape device explodes, it is almost always due to a problem with the battery. Most vapes are powered by lithium-ion batteries, the same type found in mobile phones, laptops and electric vehicles. While generally safe, these batteries can be sensitive to overheating, physical damage or incorrect charging.

The most common cause of vape explosions is thermal runaway. This occurs when a battery cell becomes too hot and begins a chain reaction, releasing more heat until it catches fire or explodes. This can be triggered by several factors, including short circuits, overcharging, physical impact or using incompatible chargers.

Are Some Vape Devices More Likely to Explode

Yes, certain types of vape devices are more prone to risk if used improperly. Mechanical mods, also known as unregulated mods, are often used by advanced vapers. These devices have no built-in safety features or electronic regulation. They rely entirely on the user to understand battery safety, resistance levels and proper handling. If used incorrectly or with the wrong battery setup, they carry a significantly higher risk of malfunction.

In contrast, most modern regulated vape devices and pod systems come with built-in protections. These include short circuit detection, low voltage cut-off, overheat protection and automatic shut-off. Disposable vapes, which are sealed units with fixed batteries, are even less likely to fail when used normally. While no product is completely risk free, the chance of a disposable vape exploding is extremely low.

Can Charging Habits Increase the Risk

Improper charging is one of the most common contributors to battery failure. Using the wrong charger, overcharging the device or leaving it plugged in overnight can all increase the risk of overheating. Vape devices should only be charged using the cable or charger provided by the manufacturer. Using third-party phone chargers, particularly fast chargers with high output, can overload the battery and cause damage over time.

It is also important not to leave a vape charging unattended or overnight. Lithium-ion batteries can continue heating even after reaching full charge. If the battery or device has no smart charging cut-off, this can lead to swelling, leakage or thermal runaway.

Signs That Something Is Wrong With Your Vape

There are often warning signs before a battery fails. These may include the device becoming unusually hot during use or charging, a swollen battery or device casing, a burning smell, liquid leakage from the battery compartment or an unresponsive device. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop using the device immediately and safely dispose of it according to local guidance.

Vape batteries should never be punctured, exposed to water or stored loose in a pocket or bag with keys or coins. Carrying loose batteries without proper cases is one of the most overlooked risks and has led to serious incidents involving short circuits in pockets.

How Common Are Vape Explosions

Incidents of vape explosions are extremely rare in the UK, especially when compared to the number of devices sold and used daily. The vast majority of reported cases come from improper use, damaged batteries or unregulated devices. According to fire and safety data, vape-related fires are a fraction of those caused by cigarettes, faulty chargers or cooking appliances.

Still, even rare events are serious. Battery safety should be treated with care, especially as more powerful devices become available. Following simple safety practices significantly reduces the risk of any issue.

How to Vape Safely

To minimise the risk of a vape explosion, follow these guidelines:

Use the correct charger supplied with your device.
Avoid charging overnight or leaving your vape unattended while plugged in.
Store batteries in proper cases if using removable cells.
Avoid physical damage to the battery or device.
Never use a damaged, swollen or leaking battery.
Keep your device clean and dry.
Do not modify your vape or use it outside the manufacturer's recommended settings.

If you are new to vaping, regulated pod kits or starter devices are the safest choice. These come with built-in batteries and safety features designed to protect against faults. Mechanical mods and DIY builds should only be used by experienced vapers who fully understand Ohm’s law, battery ratings and safe coil building practices.

What to Do if Your Vape Overheats

If your device starts to feel hot, disconnect it from any power source and stop using it immediately. Move it to a fire-safe location, such as a metal tray or concrete surface, and monitor it for further signs of swelling or smoke. If a battery shows signs of failure, do not attempt to open or repair the device yourself. Contact the manufacturer or dispose of it through a battery recycling point.

Final Thoughts

So, can vapes explode? Yes, but it is extremely rare and usually preventable. Most vape explosions are linked to battery misuse, damaged devices or unregulated modifications. When used properly and charged correctly, modern vape devices are very safe. By following basic battery safety and using quality equipment, you can greatly reduce the risk and enjoy vaping with peace of mind.