Using an electronic vaping device while it is connected to a power source should be avoided. Lithium-ion battery technology is not designed to handle the simultaneous stress of charging and discharging power. This dual demand significantly increases the risk of the battery overheating and experiencing a catastrophic failure. The danger stems from the inherent volatility of lithium-ion cells when subjected to excessive thermal stress.
The Immediate Danger of Thermal Runaway
The primary hazard of using a vape while it charges is the immediate threat of thermal runaway. This is a self-sustaining chain reaction where the internal temperature of the battery increases uncontrollably. Charging naturally generates heat within the cell as the battery absorbs energy.
Simultaneously drawing power for vaporization adds a second, substantial heat load, rapidly pushing the internal temperature past safe limits. This excessive heat causes internal components, such as the separator layer, to degrade and break down. Once the separator fails, the positive and negative electrodes short-circuit, releasing stored energy in an instantaneous burst of heat.
This rapid escalation of heat cannot be stopped once it begins. The resulting fire or explosion can occur within seconds, posing a severe risk of burns and injuries to the user. This immediate combination of electrical input and power output is a direct trigger for the most extreme form of battery failure.
Lithium-Ion Battery Stress Factors
Even without the immediate stress of simultaneous use, several factors inherent to lithium-ion technology can increase the likelihood of failure. Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to temperature fluctuations and perform optimally only within a specific range. Exposure to extreme external heat, such as leaving a device in direct sunlight or near a radiator, can destabilize the internal chemistry.
The internal separators degrade over time and with repeated charge cycles, making older cells more thermally unstable. Physical damage, such as punctures, crushing, or a dented casing, can also compromise the internal structure and trigger a short circuit.
Defects from manufacturing, or the use of batteries not intended for the high-drain demands of vaping, can create vulnerabilities. Modifying components can lead to mismatched parts that strain the power supply and generate excessive internal heat. These underlying vulnerabilities mean the battery is already predisposed to thermal runaway.
Safe Charging Protocols
To mitigate risks associated with charging a vape, users should follow several protocols.
Always use the charging cable and power adapter supplied by the manufacturer or one explicitly certified for your specific device. Using a phone or laptop charger may deliver a current with an amperage too high for the vape’s battery to safely handle.
Never leave the device charging unattended, and avoid charging it overnight while you are sleeping. Being present allows for immediate action if a failure occurs, preventing property damage or injury. Once the charge indicator shows the battery is full, disconnect it from the power source immediately to prevent overcharging.
The device must be placed on a hard, non-flammable surface, such as a kitchen countertop or a ceramic tile floor, while charging. Avoid charging on or near flammable materials like carpets, sofas, beds, or piles of paper. Monitor the device for any physical signs of distress. These signs include excessive heat, swelling of the battery casing, or unusual odors. If any of these signs appear, immediately disconnect the device and take it to a proper battery recycling facility for disposal.