How to Fix ‘No Atomizer’, ‘Check Atomizer’ and More on a Vape

Some vaping devices, such as box mods, may come equipped with LED screens which display information such as voltage/wattage and battery life. Depending on the specific device in question, the digital screen can often enable adult users to adjust the vape’s settings, subsequently personalising the vaping experience. 

These display screens can also show status updates for the vape atomizer. If the screen displays error messages such as ‘No Atomizer’, ‘Check Atomizer’, or even ‘Atomizer Short’ then your device could have a fault. But what does ‘No Atomizer’ mean? And does this differ from the ‘Check Atomizer’ and ‘Atomizer Short’ signals? While it may be concerning at first, these errors are more common than you might expect, and could be an easy fix. Read on to learn possible reasons why this could be, and how you might be able to resolve these issues.

What Is an Atomizer in a Vape?

The atomizer typically refers to the wick and coil component of the vape. Just like how there are a variety of vape devices available, there are also a range of different atomizers on the market, which may operate in different ways. This means there can be differences in how atomizers work. In many vapes, the atomizer may heat e-liquid inside the tank to produce vapour. Generally, the atomizer connects to the device’s tank - the part of a vape that holds the e-liquid. When a vape turns on, the fabric within its atomizer, known as the wick, soaks up the e-liquid. This is then heated by the atomizer’s coil, where it becomes vapour.

What Does ‘No Atomizer’ or ‘Check Atomizer’ Mean on a Vape?

The term ‘No Atomizer’ typically indicates a vape is not correctly recognising the atomizer. You’ll see this or a similar error if you attempt to power up your device without an atomizer attached. If the atomizer is attached, but you can still see the ‘No Atomizer’ error, your device likely has a fault.

What Does ‘Atomizer Short’ Mean on a Vape?

If your vape is displaying the message ‘Atomizer Short’, this could mean that there’s been contact between two metals inside your tank, or may also possibly signify a manufacturing defect.

Why Is My Vape Not Working When These Atomizer Messages Display?

You might also find that your device isn’t working when getting the ‘No Atomizer’, ‘Check Atomizer’ or ‘Atomizer Short’ messages. When you get a ‘No Atomizer’ or ‘Check Atomizer’ vape signal, the device may not be able to detect the atomizer, meaning it cannot then power this component of the vape. When you get an ‘Atomizer Short’ message, the device may have short circuited, which causes the vape to stop working.

How to Fix ‘No Atomizer’ or ‘Check Atomizer’ Errors

It can be common for the vape atomizer to encounter problems from time to time. When a ‘No Atomizer’ or ‘Check Atomizer’ warning flashes on your device, at first it may not be clear whether the fault lies with the whole device or just the atomizer. To check this, it might be worth replacing the current atomizer in your vape with a new one. If the error persists on your display screen, this may suggest that the problem isn’t with your vape atomizer, but rather with the device itself. Alternatively, if the device doesn’t flash these warnings with a new atomizer, it may be a sign that the original vape atomizer was faulty. 

If you don’t have a spare vape atomizer to test out your device, the following possible causes could be worth exploring. 

  • Poor connection - A vape might display a ‘No Atomizer’ warning if it can’t detect a connection between the tank and coil. Check the tank to make sure it’s attached. Follow manufacturer instructions on how to remove your tank. If the tank is secure, something else could be preventing the vape atomizer from connecting properly.

  • Dirt interference - Over time, the connection points may collect dust and e-liquid, which clogs up the area. In this instance, you might need to clean your vape. You might be able to do this by carefully removing the tank and using a paper towel to gently wipe the top of the connection plate – all before reattaching the tank firmly. However, exactly how you clean any part of a vape device will depend on the product in question

  • Physical Damage - When cleaning the connection points, it could also be worth inspecting your device and its atomizer for any physical damage. If you spot any physical damage, this could be causing the connection issues you’re facing. Typically, the resolution for a damaged vape component is replacement. However, as always, it’s important to follow manufacturer guidance on how to manage device damage. Take care when replacing coils or screwing new atomizers into place. You don’t want to cause more damage by applying too much force.

  • Faulty Coil - Generally, if the coil isn’t working correctly, then neither will the atomizer. If you find that the coil is the issue, it could be useful to try and clean this component for any unwanted residue - if this is possible and safe to do with your device. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, you might need to replace the coil. Coils typically deteriorate quicker than most vape parts and should usually be replaced more frequently. For more information on changing coils, read our guide, When to Change a Vape Coil.

There are many different vape types, so it is always important to refer to and follow manufacturer guidance. The above guidance won’t apply to every adult user, or every vape device.

Still Getting the ‘No Atomizer’ Message on a Vape

If the ‘No Atomizer’ message still appears on the vape mod, it may be worth considering checking the battery of the device. An old or undercharged battery could cause a ‘No Atomizer’ error message. This is usually an easy fix - just charge the battery properly or, if possible, change it out for a new one. 

If the same error message appears after troubleshooting your vape, it could be worth turning the device off and removing the battery. This should allow the vape time to cool down sufficiently before you try it again. 

Contact the device’s manufacturer if it continues to encounter faults. If you cannot find a resolution, you might need to consider purchasing a new device.

Smoke-free products are not risk-free and provide nicotine, which is addictive. The best decision any adult smoker can make is to quit tobacco and nicotine use altogether. Smoke-free products are not alternatives to quitting and are not designed as cessation aids.

This article is for general information and educational purposes. Some of the information in this article is based on external, third-party sources and we make no representations or warranties of any kind regarding the accuracy, validity or completeness of such information.  

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