Using a vaping device while it is connected to a power source introduces a substantial safety hazard that manufacturers universally advise against. The core issue arises from attempting to simultaneously charge the device’s battery and draw high electrical current from it to heat the coil. This dual function stresses the internal components beyond their normal operating parameters. Understanding the consequences, which range from immediate physical danger to subtle chemical exposure, is important for safe device use.
The Risk of Battery Overheating and Physical Harm
The most immediate danger of vaping while charging is the potential for the device’s lithium-ion battery to fail catastrophically. The battery is subjected to intense thermal stress when it is forced to accept an incoming charge current and supply a high-output discharge current at the same time. This simultaneous demand generates excessive internal heat.
If the heat is not dissipated quickly enough, the battery can enter a process known as thermal runaway. This is a self-sustaining reaction where rising temperature causes the internal cell structure to degrade, releasing more heat and leading to an uncontrollable temperature increase. The process can cause the battery to rapidly vent superheated gases and internal chemicals, resulting in severe burns or facial trauma from a sudden fire or explosion. Utilizing a third-party or damaged charging cable exacerbates this risk because these accessories may lack the proper voltage regulation required by the device’s internal circuitry.
How Simultaneous Use Stresses Electrical Components
The device’s internal circuitry is forced to manage two contradictory high-power demands at once. The Battery Management System (BMS) is designed to control the flow of electrical current, either regulating incoming power for charging or releasing stored power to the coil for vaporization. When the device is fired while plugged in, the BMS struggles to reconcile the charging input with the high-current output needed to heat the coil.
This conflict can overwhelm the device’s microchip and circuit board, which manage the power flow and safety features. The sudden, high power draw required to vaporize e-liquid can cause strain, leading to short-circuiting or permanent damage to the device’s electronics. Even if a fire or explosion is avoided, the internal stress can degrade the battery’s health, shorten its overall lifespan, and reduce the effectiveness of the integrated safety protections.
Potential Health Risks from Altered Vaporization
The electrical stress caused by simultaneous use can lead to inconsistent power delivery to the coil, which directly impacts the safety of the inhaled vapor. When the coil is subjected to fluctuating or excessive power, it can superheat the e-liquid beyond its intended temperature. This process can cause the thermal decomposition of the liquid’s primary ingredients, propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin.
The decomposition creates higher levels of toxic carbonyl compounds, such as formaldehyde and acrolein, which are known respiratory irritants and carcinogens. Furthermore, if the device’s casing is compromised or the coil is damaged due to overheating, there is a risk of inhaling trace amounts of melted plastic or heavy metals that have degraded from the heating element.
Essential Safety Guidelines for Charging Vaping Devices
The safest way to charge a vaping device is to ensure it is powered off and placed on a stable, non-conductive surface. Always use the manufacturer-provided charging cable and power adapter, as these are specifically rated for the device’s battery and charging circuitry. Avoid using high-powered phone or tablet chargers, which can deliver current levels that overwhelm the device’s internal protections.
Never leave a device charging unattended, and avoid charging it overnight or near flammable materials like bedding or curtains. Once the device indicates a full charge, immediately unplug it from the power source to prevent unnecessary stress on the battery cells. Wait for the charging cycle to complete before using the device.