Even with good habits, things can go sideways. If your vape starts leaking, it's often because it got too warm. Let it cool down in a shaded spot, and wipe the mouthpiece clean. If it keeps leaking, it's time to dispose of it properly—don't try to fix it by squeezing or shaking.

A burnt taste usually means the wick is dry or the coil is overheated. This can happen if you chain-puff in hot weather. Give it a few minutes between puffs, and store it upright. If the taste doesn't improve, the device is likely near the end of its life.

And when the battery dies, that's it for a disposable. Check if your model has a charge port—some like VERTEX-VISTA or AURA might be rechargeable—but if it doesn't, recycle it according to local electronics disposal rules.