Disposable vapes are a quick, convenient and popular way to vape. They’re designed to be used once and then discarded. Saying that, most disposable vapes contain a lithium ion battery that can be recharged. But that doesn’t make them a rechargeable disposable vape.
Rechargeable disposable vapes are a different product to a non rechargeable disposable vape:
- A rechargeable disposable vape has around 3,000 – 5,000 puffs in it, and it can be safely refilled and recharged approximately 10 times before it needs to be disposed of.
- A traditional disposable vape has around 600 puffs in it and can’t be refilled, nor can it be safely recharged.
In this article, we’re looking at how to recharge a disposable vape, as well as the safety risks associated with recharging disposable vapes.
Please note: We do not recommend recharging disposable vapes that are not designed as rechargeable. It’s a dangerous practice that could lead to overheating, leaking of harmful chemicals, fire or explosion. However, we understand that some users may choose to do so anyway, so we have provided information on how to do so safely, as well as the risks involved.
Why would you want to recharge a disposable vape?
While it’s not the intended purpose of a disposable vape, there are a few reasons why someone might consider recharging a disposable vape pen.
- Firstly, it can be a cost-effective choice if you vape frequently. By recharging, you can extend the lifespan of your device, potentially saving money in the long run.
- Secondly, from an environmental standpoint, recharging disposable vapes is a more sustainable option than simply binning them. These vapes often contain non-biodegradable lithium-ion batteries which when disposed of end up in landfills, taking centuries to break down. By recharging, you reduce the number of batteries being discarded.
- Lastly, recharging a disposable vape means you get the most out of your e-liquid. Some disposables run out of battery power before you’ve puffed all the delicious elixir inside. Recharging allows you to enjoy your vape juice until none remains, getting maximum value for money.
How to recharge a disposable vape
Step 1: Check if your disposable vape is rechargeable
Not all disposable vapes can be recharged, so begin by checking if your disposable vape has this capability. Look for a USB port on your vape device. If you find one, it means your disposable vape can be recharged. It’s typically situated on the bottom or side of the device. This port is usually a small, rectangular opening.
If your device doesn’t have a charging port, just dispose the vape and buy another one.
Step 2: Connect the charging cable
Insert one end of the charging cable into the USB port on your disposable vape. Take the other end of the cable and plug it into a USB power source, like a wall charger or a computer USB port.
Step 3: Allow the device to charge completely
Now, let the device charge completely. The charging duration varies depending on the specific device and battery capacity. The amount of time it takes to charge a disposable vape will vary depending on the device and the battery capacity.
How long does it take to charge disposable vape?
Most disposable vapes will take between 30 minutes and 2 hours to fully charge. The charging time of a disposable vape depends on a number of factors, including:
- Battery capacity: Disposable vapes with larger battery capacities will take longer to charge.
- Charging current: The charging current is the amount of current supplied to the battery during charging. A higher charging current will result in a faster charging time.
- Battery temperature: The battery temperature can also affect the charging time. A warmer battery will charge faster than a colder battery.
Most disposable vapes have a battery capacity of between 280mAh and 650mAh. A disposable vape with a 280mAh battery will typically take around 30 minutes to charge, while a disposable vape with a 650mAh battery will take around 2 hours to charge.
Safety risks associated with recharging disposable vape pens
It’s vital to reiterate that even if you can recharge your non rechargeable disposable vape, there are no safe ways to recharge disposable vapes that are not designed to be recharged.
This is because while the batteries in some disposable vapes can be recharged, that doesn’t mean the device itself is supposed to be recharged. At the end of the day, a disposable vape device is just that – a disposable device that’s designed to be used once and then discarded.
If you try to recharge a disposable vape that’s not intended to be recharged you could damage the device, cause a fire, or worse, seriously hurt yourself.
We’ve seen users try to recharge disposable vapes by removing the battery and using a battery charger to recharge it. However, this is a very dangerous practice, as it can easily lead to a fire or explosion. The batteries in disposable vapes are not installed to be removed, and attempting to do so could damage them and cause them to overheat.
Even if you are able to successfully recharge the battery in a disposable vape, doing so might render the vape unsafe to use. In non rechargeable vape devices the battery housing isn’t designed with the robust protective systems you find in rechargeable devices. The battery may not be able to hold a charge properly, and it could overheat or explode while you are using it.
Saying that, if you do decide to, and are able to, recharge a disposable vape, please do so carefully:
- Do not charge your disposable vape overnight
- Do not leave the charging vape pen unattended
- Do not charge your disposable vape if it is damaged or leaking
- Do not use your disposable vape while it is charging
- Check the device for any damage before using it
Don’t recharge disposable vapes, instead invest in a rechargeable device
We suggest it’s best to avoid recharging disposable vapes unless they’re specifically designed to be recharged. If you’re looking for a more sustainable vaping option, consider using a reusable vape device, something like a sub ohm kit, pod system, or starter kit.
- More choice: There’s a wider range of reusable vape devices available than disposable vapes. This means you can find a device that perfectly suits your needs and preferences.
- Better performance: Reusable vape devices typically offer better performance than disposable vapes. This is because they have more powerful batteries and larger tanks.
- Lower cost: Reusable vape devices are more cost-effective in the long run than disposable vapes. You only need to purchase the device once and then you can refill it with your favourite e-liquid as needed.
- Environmentally friendly: Reusable vape devices are also better for the environment, since you aren’t throwing away as much waste or using valuable natural resources on a disposable product.
At Vape Juice, we have lots of different types of rechargeable vape devices available to suit all needs and budgets. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced vaper, we have the perfect device for you.
