Device Not Hitting at All
If your Geek Bar Pulse X or Pulse produces no vapour when you draw, work through these checks in order:
Check the battery. If the display screen shows an empty battery icon (Pulse X) or the LED blinks rapidly when you draw, the device needs charging. Connect it to a USB-C cable and charge for 30-45 minutes. The Pulse X display will show the battery level filling; the Pulse LED will stop blinking once charged.
Check for airflow blockage. Cover the mouthpiece with your finger and blow gently through the bottom airflow slots. This can dislodge any condensation or debris blocking the airflow sensor. Then try drawing again.
Check for auto-draw sensor issues. The draw sensor can sometimes get stuck from condensation buildup. Remove the device from your mouth and tap it firmly (but not violently) against your palm a few times. This can reset a stuck sensor.
Try a slower, longer draw. Some users draw too quickly or too lightly for the sensor to activate. A steady, moderate draw for 2-3 seconds should activate the device consistently.
Blinking Light / Flashing Display
Different blink patterns mean different things:
Rapid blinking when drawing — Battery is dead. Charge the device via USB-C.
Blinking after charging — If the device blinks immediately after being unplugged from the charger, try a few short draws to prime the coil. If it continues, the device may be defective.
Display shows full battery but won't hit — The e-liquid may be depleted even though battery remains. When a device stops producing vapour despite a charged battery, it's reached the end of its lifespan. This is normal for disposable vapes.
Continuous blinking without drawing — This usually indicates a malfunction. If the device is new and unused, contact the retailer for a replacement.
Burnt or Unpleasant Taste
A burnt taste from your Geek Bar means the coil is heating e-liquid faster than the wick can absorb it. Here's how to fix it:
Stop chain-vaping. Taking too many puffs in rapid succession doesn't give the wick time to re-saturate. Wait at least 10-15 seconds between puffs.
Switch to regular mode. If you're using the Pulse X in pulse mode, the higher power output can burn through liquid faster. Switch to regular mode for a cooler, gentler draw that's easier on the wick.
Let a new device rest. If your device tastes burnt from the very first puff, the wick may not be fully saturated. Let the device sit upright for 5-10 minutes before using it. This allows the e-liquid to fully soak into the cotton.
Check the e-liquid level. On the Pulse X, the display shows remaining e-liquid. If it's nearly empty, burnt taste is expected — the device is running out. On the Pulse without a display, if the flavour has been gradually declining, the device is nearing the end of its life.
Charging Issues
Device not charging when plugged in. Try a different USB-C cable and adapter. The device needs a standard 5V charger — avoid fast chargers (like laptop chargers) that may output higher voltage. Also check that the USB-C port isn't blocked by lint or debris.
Takes too long to charge. A full charge from empty should take approximately 30-60 minutes. If it's taking significantly longer, try a different cable. Damaged cables can reduce charging speed dramatically.
Charges but dies quickly. If the battery drains unusually fast, the device may be defective. A fully charged Pulse X should last through several hundred puffs before needing another charge. If it dies after 20-30 puffs, contact your retailer.
Leaking
Liquid coming from the mouthpiece. Store the device upright when not in use. Lying flat can cause e-liquid to seep into the airflow channel. If it's already leaking, wipe the mouthpiece clean and store it upright going forward.
Liquid from the bottom. This usually indicates a seal failure. If the device is new, it's likely a manufacturing defect — contact your retailer for a replacement. Avoid using a leaking device as the liquid can damage the battery.
When to Replace
Disposable vapes are designed to be used until the e-liquid runs out. Signs that your device has reached the end of its life:
If you're experiencing issues with a brand new, unused device, it may be a factory defect or counterfeit. Always verify authenticity using the scratch-off code on the packaging before troubleshooting further.
North Nicotine stocks only authentic Geek Bar devices with manufacturer verification codes intact. Browse our current inventory for genuine replacements.