EN
A hookah is not just a way to relax, but a whole ritual where every detail affects the final taste and smoke quality. However, even experienced hookah smokers face problems: bitterness, weak draw, or lack of smoke. To avoid these issues, it is important to choose the right hookah base and other accessories, as well as follow the preparation technique.
Why does the hookah taste bitter?
Bitterness is the most common problem that ruins the pleasure of smoking. The reasons can vary, but most often they are related to mistakes in preparation or use of the hookah.
Overheating tobacco — the main cause of bitterness
If the tobacco burns, it starts to produce a bitter taste. This happens due to an excessive number of coals, improper arrangement, or long breaks between puffs. To fix the situation, remove one coal, blow through the hose, or take regular puffs to prevent the tobacco from overheating.
Low-quality materials
Bitterness can also appear due to cheap tobacco with low-quality flavorings, unsuitable foil, or a dirty base. Use trusted tobacco brands, wash the hookah after each use, and replace the foil with a kaloud — it regulates heat better.
Loss of seal
If air enters the shaft or bowl from the outside, the tobacco burns unevenly. Check the tightness of the bowl, the condition of the seals, and the integrity of the hose. Use silicone seals or electrical tape for sealing.
Why does the hookah have a weak draw?
A weak draw interferes with normal smoking and reduces the amount of smoke. Main reasons:
- Improper assembly: loose connections, clogged hose or valve, too much water in the base.
- Mistakes in packing the bowl: tightly packed tobacco, too few holes in the foil, incorrect number of coals.
- Problems with accessories: worn hose, narrow mouthpiece, old or low-quality hookah.
How to fix it?
Rinse the hose, blow through the hookah, make sure the coals are not extinguished and are evenly distributed. The tobacco should be loosely packed, and the water level in the base should be optimal (1.5–2 cm).
Why is there little smoke in the hookah?
Thick smoke is a sign of a properly prepared hookah. If there is little smoke, check the quality of the tobacco, temperature, and smoking technique.
The quality of the tobacco plays a key role. Dried mixture or tobacco with low glycerin content produces little smoke. Add a few drops of glycerin or choose tobacco with high moisture content. It is also important to let the bowl heat up for 3–5 minutes before the first puff and distribute the coals evenly along the edges.
Smoking technique also affects the amount of smoke. Too strong puffs or long pauses cause the smoke to dissipate or not form properly. Take smooth, deep puffs with intervals of 10–15 seconds.
