Hookah may just be a hobby, but enthusiasts know its delicate setting up process, which you might enjoy too! For beginners, it is important to be informed on the proper way to set up for a complete hookah experience. A hookah is a water pipe used to smoke specially prepared tobacco, known as shisha. The process of setting up a hookah involves several steps to ensure a smooth, flavorful smoking session. This article provides a comprehensive guide on all things you need to do in setting up a hookah, its necessary components, the step-by-step process, the time commitment, and best practices for maintenance.
What Do I Need to Set Up My Hookah?
To set up a hookah, you'll need a complete hookah set. These sets, which are readily available at any hookah shop or online hookah store, typically include all the essential components. When you buy hookah equipment, it's crucial to ensure all parts are present and in good condition. The primary components are:
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Hookah Base: This is the glass or acrylic vessel that holds the water. Its size and shape can vary, and it is a key element of the hookah pipe.
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Stem: This is the metal body of the hookah that connects the bowl to the base. It features a downstem that extends into the water.
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Tray: A small metal dish placed just below the bowl to catch stray ash and prevent it from dirtying the floor or table.
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Hookah Bowl: A ceramic or clay piece that holds the shisha tobacco. Different types of bowls are designed for specific shisha varieties.
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Hose: A flexible tube used to inhale the smoke. Modern hoses, often made of silicone, are washable and more durable than traditional ones.
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Grommets: Rubber or silicone seals that create airtight connections between the bowl and the stem, the stem and the base, and the hose and the stem. Without these, the hookah will not function properly.
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Tongs: Used to handle hot charcoal safely.
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Foil or Heat Management Device (HMD): Foil is used to create a barrier between the charcoal and the shisha. An HMD, such as a Kaloud Lotus, performs a similar function but offers better heat regulation.
For the session itself, you will also need:
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Shisha Tobacco: The flavored tobacco that is smoked. It comes in various flavors and brands.
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Hookah Coal: Specially made for hookahs, these are typically either quick-lighting or natural coconut charcoal.
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Water: The medium through which the smoke is filtered.
When looking for hookah for sale, it is wise to consider starter kits that include most of these items, as they provide a cost-effective way to get started. Many enthusiasts also collect different hookahs for various occasions, from a compact portable hookah for travel to a large, ornate best hookah for home use.
If you are on the hunt for a hookah to buy for yourself, check out this article about “What is a Good Price for a Hookah”.
How Do You Set Up a Hookah?
Setting up a hookah is a precise process that, when done correctly, ensures a high-quality smoke.
1. Cleaning and Assembly
Start by cleaning all components, especially if the hookah has not been used recently. Wash the base, stem, and hose with warm water. Ensure the stem's downstem and the hose are completely clear of any residue. Once clean, dry all parts.
Next, assemble the hookah. Place the stem into the base, ensuring the grommet provides a snug, airtight fit. The downstem should extend into the water. If the fit is loose, wrap the grommet with a wet paper towel to increase its size.
2. Adding Water to the Base
Fill the base with cold water. The general rule is to submerge the downstem about 1 to 1.5 inches. This is the optimal amount for proper filtration and a smooth draw. Adding too much water can make it difficult to pull smoke, while too little will not filter the smoke effectively. Some users add ice to the water for a cooler smoke.
3. Preparing the Bowl
Take your shisha tobacco and fluff it up. Shisha often comes packed tightly in its container, and fluffing it allows for better heat circulation. Sprinkle the shisha lightly into the bowl, ensuring it reaches just below the rim. Do not overpack or press it down, as this will restrict airflow.
For a traditional setup, cover the bowl with a sheet of heavy-duty foil, shiny side down. Pull it taut and secure it around the bowl's rim. Use a toothpick or a similar tool to poke small holes in the foil. The holes should be distributed evenly across the surface. If using an HMD, simply place it on top of the packed bowl.
4. Attaching the Bowl and Hose
Place the prepared bowl on top of the stem, ensuring the bowl grommet creates a tight seal. Then, insert the hose into the designated port on the stem, making sure the hose grommet is secure.
5. Preparing the Charcoal
Light your charcoal. If using quick-lighting charcoal, light it with a lighter or torch until it is fully glowing. If using natural charcoal, use a single coil burner or an electric charcoal heater. Heat the charcoal until it is glowing red on all sides. Once the coals are ready, use the tongs to place them on the foil or HMD. The standard practice is to place two to three coals around the edge of the bowl, not in the center, to prevent the shisha from burning too quickly.
6. The Purge
Before the first inhale, it is good practice to purge the hookah. This involves blowing gently into the hose to clear any stale smoke from the base. This also helps to adjust the heat level. After a few minutes, take a few short pulls to get the smoke flowing.
How Long Does a Hookah Take to Set Up?
The total time to set up a hookah from scratch is relatively short, typically 10 to 15 minutes. The process can be broken down:
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Cleaning and Assembly: 2-3 minutes
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Water and Shisha Prep: 3-5 minutes
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Charcoal Heating: 5-7 minutes (for natural coals) or 1-2 minutes (for quick-lighting coals)
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Final Assembly and Adjustments: 1-2 minutes
Experienced users can often complete the setup in under 10 minutes. The longest part of the process is usually waiting for the charcoal to heat up, which is a critical step for a good session. Many hookah stores offer electric charcoal burners that speed up this process considerably.
How Often Do You Change the Water in a Hookah?
For a clean and enjoyable experience, it is essential to change the water in the hookah base after every single session. The water acts as a filter, trapping tar, glycerin, and other byproducts of the smoke. Over time, this water becomes murky and can affect the flavor and smoothness of the smoke. Using the same water for multiple sessions is unsanitary and can lead to an unpleasant taste. A quick rinse and refill with fresh, cold water is all that is needed to ensure the next session is as good as the first. This simple act of maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your hookah pipe and the quality of your smoke. Some dedicated smokers who own multiple hookahs ensure each one is cleaned and prepped immediately after use, making the next setup process even faster. Whether it's a portable hookah or a large, ornate one, this rule applies universally.
While a hookah may seem like a simple device, its proper setup is key to a smooth and flavorful smoking session. For enthusiasts, the process is part of the experience, but for beginners, understanding each step is crucial. By following these instructions, you can ensure your next hookah session is as enjoyable as possible, whether you're using a simple hookah set or the best hookah on the market.