The Safety Risks of Leaving Disposable Vapes in Hot Cars

Imagine it’s a hot summer day, and you've just returned to your car after running errands. As you open the door, a wave of hot air hits you. Then, you realise you’ve left your disposable vape inside. It might seem harmless, but leaving your vape in a hot car can be dangerous. Let’s take a look at why it’s important to keep your disposable vape safe from extreme heat.

Why Hot Cars Are Dangerous for Disposable Vapes

Disposable vapes are small, portable, and easy to use, but they are also sensitive to temperature changes. Most disposable vapes have built-in lithium polymer (Li-Po) batteries and other components that can easily be damaged by heat.

When a disposable vape is left in a hot car, the temperature inside can rise quickly. During summer, the temperature inside a car can reach over 60°C (140°F), even if it’s only 30°C (86°F) outside. This extreme heat can cause several problems, from leaking vape juice to a potential explosion.

Risks of Leaving a Disposable Vape in a Hot Car

Here are the main risks of storing your vape in a hot car:

• Battery Damage: The lithium-ion batteries in disposable vapes are very sensitive to heat. High temperatures can cause the battery to swell, leak, or even explode.

• E-Liquid Expansion: The e-liquid inside your vape can expand in hot conditions, leading to leaks or even cracks in the device. This can make your vape messy, unusable, or unsafe.

• Malfunctioning Components: Other parts of the vape, like the screen, coil, or tank, can also be affected by extreme heat. For example, your vape's LED screen might stop working or the coil might melt, ruining the device.

The Explosive Potential of Overheated Disposable Vapes

One of the biggest concerns with leaving a disposable vape in a hot car is the risk of an explosion. This happens when the temperature causes the battery to overheat and swell. Eventually, the battery can burst, damaging the entire vape and creating a safety hazard.

It’s not just a minor issue; vape explosions have been reported worldwide. A study found that over 25% of vape accidents were linked to battery issues, including overheating and explosions. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that your vape doesn’t overheat in the first place.

• Also Read: The Safety Risks of Leaving Vapes in Cold Cars

How to Safely Store Disposable Vapes

We understand that you might need to leave your disposable vape in your car from time to time. If you do, it’s essential to follow some basic storage guidelines to keep your vape safe.

Best Practices for Storing Your Disposable Vape

Temperature and the Parts of a Disposable Vape

Several components in a disposable vape are more sensitive to heat than others. Here's a breakdown:

1. Battery

• Heat Impact: Exposure to high temperatures can cause the battery to swell or leak. In some cases, it may even lead to an explosion.

2. E-Liquid Tank

• Heat Impact: Heat can cause the e-liquid inside the tank to expand, resulting in leaks or the tank breaking.

3. Screen and Coils

• Heat Impact: Excessive heat can damage the LED screen or cause the mesh coils to melt or deform, affecting performance.

How to Spot Heat Damage on Your Disposable Vape

If you’ve accidentally left your vape in a hot car, look for these signs of heat damage:

• Deformed or warped device: If the shape of your vape has changed, it may have been affected by heat.

• Broken or malfunctioning screen: If the LED screen is blank or malfunctioning, it’s a sign of heat damage.

• Sticky or leaking e-liquid: If you notice e-liquid leaking out or a sticky residue, the heat might have caused the vape to malfunction.

• Burnt or melted parts: Check the battery area for melted or charred parts.

If you spot any of these signs, it’s best to stop using the device and replace it with a new one.

Safe Storage Tips for Disposable Vapes

To prevent heat damage and keep your disposable vape in top condition, follow these simple storage tips:

• Store in a drawer or cupboard: Keep your vape in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

• Avoid the fridge: While it’s important to keep your vape cool, never store it in the fridge. Extremely cold temperatures can also damage the vape.

• Move it if temperatures rise: If you know your car will be parked in the sun, it’s best to take your vape with you or store it somewhere cooler, like a bag or a portable case.

What to Do If Your Vape Overheats

If your vape gets too hot or starts to malfunction, here’s what you should do:

• Don’t touch it: If the vape is too hot to handle, wait for it to cool down naturally. Using an overheated device can cause burns or injuries.

• Check for damage: Once it’s cooled down, inspect your vape for any visible damage (e.g., melted parts or leaking e-liquid).

• Do not use it: If the vape has been damaged by heat, don’t use it. It's safer to replace it with a new one.

The Bottom Line: Keep Your Disposable Vape Safe

In conclusion, leaving disposable vapes in hot cars is risky. From damaging the battery to causing explosions, heat can severely affect the performance and safety of your vape. Always store your vape in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing it to high temperatures.

By following the safety tips we’ve shared, you can ensure that your disposable vape remains safe to use and lasts longer. And if you notice any signs of damage, it’s better to replace the vape than risk your safety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can e-liquids be exposed to direct sunlight?
No, direct sunlight can break down the nicotine and flavourings in e-liquids, affecting the taste and quality. Always store your e-liquid in a dark, cool place.

How long can a disposable vape stay in a hot car?
Ideally, disposable vapes shouldn’t be left in a hot car for more than a couple of hours. Prolonged exposure to heat increases the risk of damage.

Is it safe to use a vape if it overheats?
If a vape has overheated and the e-liquid has leaked, it’s best not to use it. The device may be damaged, and using it could be dangerous.