Why You Shouldn't Hack Disposable Vapes: Recharging Batteries

Why You Shouldn't Hack Disposable Vapes: Recharging Batteries

It’s not worth the potential problems for the last scraps of vape juice.

22 August 2023 | Hannah Rubery

Why You Shouldn't Hack Disposable Vapes: Recharging Batteries (Image)

Disposable vapes, particularly in the UK, have gained immense popularity due to their convenience and ease of use. They are light, portable, and ready to use straight out of the box, requiring no complicated setups or refills. But while these attractive features have made them a favourite among many vapers, they do come with a significant drawback.

As the name suggests, disposable vapes are designed for single use, which implies they can only be used until the E-Liquid runs out or the battery dies. Though there are some that have been designed to be recharged – they will include a charging port and instructions for charging, but generally, most are not rechargeable. This inherent characteristic of being non-rechargeable has led to certain challenges and concerns among users, especially those who are seeking ways to extend their vape's lifespan beyond its intended use.



'Hacking' disposables to extend battery life

There's been a disturbing trend among underage vapers, particularly in the UK, where they've been found 'hacking' disposable vapes to extend the life of these single-use devices. Disposable vape batteries are not designed to be recharged, and attempting to do so can lead to disastrous consequences.

The are many stories of house fires and even personal injuries caused by these makeshift modifications. Teens, in a bid to squeeze out every last bit of E-Liquid, have taken to drastic measures, such as connecting the battery of their disposable vape to a USB charger, unknowingly creating a volatile setup prone to overheating and potential explosion. Such irresponsible behaviour not only endangers their personal safety but also poses a significant risk to their surroundings.

It's important to remember as well that vaping is age-restricted - those under the age of 18 should not take up vaping. Though these stories mainly focus on teenage vapers, we're certain that there are still some adult vapers who have tried to 'hack' their disposable vapes.



Dangers of messing with disposable vape batteries

Manipulating lithium-ion batteries, like those found in disposable vapes, poses significant health and safety risks. These batteries are meticulously engineered with precise safety precautions, and any tampering can disrupt their internal balance, leading to unpredictable situations.

For instance, inappropriate handling can cause the batteries to overheat, leading to a phenomenon known as 'thermal runaway'. This is a chain reaction that culminates in the battery releasing stored energy in a sudden, often explosive manner.

Furthermore, trying to recharge disposable vapes using homemade chargers is a hazardous practice. These makeshift chargers lack the proper voltage control and safety mechanisms inherent in standard chargers. Consequently, they can overcharge the battery, increasing the risk of overheating, leakage of harmful chemicals, and even explosion.

This danger is further exacerbated in disposable vapes as their batteries are not designed with the robust protective systems often seen in rechargeable devices.



Extending the Lifespan of Your Disposable Vapes Safely

While the appeal of squeezing out every last drop of E-Liquid from your disposable vape is understandable, there are safer and more effective strategies to extend their lifespan.

Firstly, vaping more efficiently and less frequently can significantly prolong the battery life of your disposable vape. This means taking fewer, shorter puffs and avoiding chain vaping.

Secondly, choosing reputable brands that offer high-quality disposable vapes can ensure a longer lifespan. These brands often have stronger batteries and more E-Liquid, offering a better vaping experience.

Lastly, considering higher nicotine strength options can lead to fewer puffs needed, thus preserving battery life. Remember, your safety should always be the priority. It's far safer and economically viable in the long run to switch to a rechargeable kit rather than trying to hack a disposable device.



Conclusion: Swapping to Reusable Kits

In conclusion, while disposable vapes have their appeal, the risks and drawbacks associated with attempting to extend their life through dangerous 'hacks' far outweigh the benefits. The natural answer to extending your vaping experience lies in switching to reusable vape devices.

These devices, designed with rechargeable batteries, are not only safer but also more economical and environmentally friendly in the long run. They offer a more sustainable vaping solution, eliminating the need for frequent purchases of disposable vapes. Reusable kits also offer greater versatility, allowing users to explore a broader range of E-Liquids and flavours, and adjust settings to better suit their vaping preferences.

Remember, vaping should be a journey of enjoyment, not a risk to personal safety. If you find that you're no longer getting enjoyment from disposables, then it's time to put them away and embrace the longer-lasting experience offered by reusable vaping kits.