Bubblers are a cornerstone for many smoking enthusiasts. They blend the portability of hand pipes with the water filtration of bongs. The key to their optimal performance lies in the correct water level, which can enhance the bubbler’s performance and your smoking experience.
This guide dives into different glass bubbler types and advises how much water to use. Whether you're new to bubblers or a seasoned user, understanding these details ensures smoother, cooler, and more enjoyable hits. Let's discover how to perfect your water levels for an unmatched smoking session.
What is a Bubbler Pipe?
A bubbler pipe offers a hybrid experience between a traditional glass hand pipe and a bong. Distinguished by its built-in water chamber, it cools and filters smoke through water. By doing so, users notice smoother and more flavorful hits.
These compact devices come in various shapes and sizes, catering to different preferences. Unlike other USA-made glass bongs, bubbler ash catching pipes are more portable and straightforward. Users who desire a bong's filtration but want a more straightforward pipe love these — the fusion of convenience and high-performance quality place bubblers in a class of their own.
Types of Bubblers
Just like bongs, there are various types of bubblers. We'll discuss the different types so you can decide what best suits your style.
Hammer
The hammer bubbler, resembling a hammer in shape, offers a classic pipe feel with a stable base, making it easy to use and less prone to tipping. Purr Glass originated this streamlined, scientific hammer style for better performance and diffusion. The water chamber is also more extensive, allowing for more water and greater filtration.
Sherlock
Purr Glass originated this scientific sherlock style featuring a curved mouthpiece and an upright body. We wanted to create something that wasn’t so bulbous and had a high-performance downstem. This design is popular with both traditional and modern smokers. Our scientific sherlock shape is comfortable to use and offers excellent visibility of the bowl.
Sidecar
A sidecar bubbler, similar to our scientific sherlock shape, has a mouthpiece extending from the bowl’s side. This offset mouthpiece design helps prevent water from splashing into the user's mouth. Nobody likes that!
Double Bubbler
Purr Glass originated this streamlined, scientific double bubbler style. It increases diffusion and filtration in two separate chambers for smoother, cleaner hits. The increased volume is like smoking bong-sized hits but from a handheld, more compact pipe design.
Pendant
Compact and wearable, pendant bubblers are hung around the neck for easy access. They are perfect for on-the-go use, combining portability with the benefits of water filtration.
Concentrate
These dab rig bubblers can be used with a nail or banger designed for concentrates instead of a traditional flower bowl. Bubblers’ smaller sized chambers are perfect for smooth, effective water filtration to maximize concentrates.
How to Fill a Bubbler with Water?
Filling a bubbler with water is straightforward. Start by pouring a small amount of water into the pipe chamber either through the bowl hole, mouthpiece, or carb hole. You don't want to overfill, so stop once your downstem percolator is just fully submerged.
For bubblers with a downstem, the water level should be right above the diffused points of the downstem. Stopping here allows for effective filtration without the risk of splashback. This could generally be around one-quarter to one-third full for our hammer and sherlock bubblers.
The key is to ensure enough water for filtration and percolator function without any splashback when inhaling. After filling, draw air through the mouthpiece to check for any water pulling into your mouth. If you taste water, you have overfilled the chamber. Adjust the water level to achieve the perfect balance between filtration and airflow.
How Much Water Should You Use in a Bubbler Pipe?
The ideal water level in a bubbler pipe varies depending on the type and size of the bubbler. A general rule of thumb is to fill the water chamber to ensure ideal percolator performance, generally that’s about one-quarter to one-third full. This amount ensures adequate filtration without impeding airflow or causing splashback.
Due to their compact size, smaller bubblers, like pendant bubblers, need less water. Larger bubblers, such as double bubblers, may need more water for both chambers. The correct water level also depends on personal preference. Some users prefer more water for cooler smoke, while others opt for less water for more potent hits. Experimenting with different water levels will help you find the perfect balance.
Things to Consider When Filling a Bubbler Pipe With Water
When filling your bubbler pipe with water, several factors must be considered. Here's what you need to know.
Drag
Drag refers to the resistance felt when inhaling smoke through the bubbler. Too much water can create excessive drag, which makes inhaling challenging. Yet, too little water might result in minimal filtration and poor diffusion. Find a balance that allows for easy inhalation with effective smoke cooling.
Smoke
The water level affects smoke density and flavor. More water can lead to cooler, smoother smoke but may slightly dilute the flavor. Adjust the water level according to your preference for smoke temperature and taste.
Bubbling
Proper bubbling is crucial for effective smoke filtration. The water should bubble as inhaled but not so much that it splashes into your mouth. Larger quantities of smaller bubbles will produce a finer, smoother feel. Ensure the bubbling is consistent and manageable.
Downstem
The downstem's length in the water chamber impacts how much water you should add. Ensure you submerge the downstem’s percolator in water. We prefer closest to the bottom of the pipe to avoid excess water, while maximizing downstem function, and preventing any splashback.
Percolation
Some bubblers come with downstems with specialty percolators for extra filtration. In these cases, ensure the water covers the percolator holes or slits completely for full function. Avoid overfilling to maintain ease of use.
Conclusion
Getting the optimal water level in your bubbler is critical for getting the most out your weed. Knowing how much water to put in can make a big difference, whether using a simple hammer bubbler or a special double bubbler.
Pay attention to factors like drag, flavor, how the bubbles look, where the downstem goes, and if there's a special percolator design. By considering all these factors, you can ensure you’re getting the most out of your bubbler each time you smoke. You'll appreciate how awesome your bubbler performs and how great the smoke sesh is.
