Buying a bubbler pipe is often considered the best decision in many consumers’ lives. A smooth transition between a regular pipe and a bong, bubbler pipes are now one of the most popular smoking accessories on the market.
They combine durability with portability and water filtration, so it’s also a great device for outdoor smokers who still want to keep their inhalations more discreet than with a bong.
As with any smoking device out there, learning how to properly use a bubbler can significantly improve the quality of your sessions. Aside from regular maintenance and bowl-packing techniques, it’s paramount that you know how much water you should put in your bubbler pipe.
If you’re reading this, you’ve probably never used a bubbler pipe before, so we’ll also cover the basics of bubbler pipes on top of defining the optimal water level in the chamber.
What is a Bubbler Pipe?
In simplest terms, a bubbler pipe is what you get when you combine a pipe with a bong. The end product is a straightforward smoking device that offers the most appreciated features from both accessories.
For pipe users, a bubbler pipe is the perfect way to draw the full flavor of their herb without the harsh heat and toxins.
Bong fans, on the other hand, can finally enjoy water filtration on the go.
Want a win-win for every type of glass smoker out there?
Get them a bubbler pipe.
Now, let’s shed some light at how bubblers are made.
The Anatomy of the Bubbler Pipe
Most bubbler pipes are structured in a similar fashion to a bong with the low profile of a pipe. Commonly made from borosilicate glass, a bubbler consists of the same elements as a regular pipe, but with one or two added features. The obligatory feature is, of course, the water chamber where filtration takes place.
The elements of a bubbler pipe include:
Bubblers also come in different styles, shapes, and sizes. Below we give you a quick rundown of each bubbler type.
How to Pick the Right Glass Bubbler Before You Fill It With Water
While at their core bubblers have the same principle — using water to cool and filter the smoke — you may come across different models of this device.
There are six basic models of bubbler pipes, each with its own pros and cons, so you’ll have to try them out to find a perfect match. Or, at least, read their descriptions below:
How to Fill a Bubbler With Water
Filling up the bubbler with water is easy only at first glance, especially if you’ve never smoked out of one before. The simplest way to fill a bubbler pipe with water is through the bowl. Alternatively, you can try filling it through the mouthpiece provided that it’s wide enough. Most mouthpieces, however, are too narrow for the job, so it’s easy to spill the water.
How Much Water Should You Use in a Bubbler Pipe?
Well, the simple answer is: not too much, not too little.
As mentioned, having just the right amount of water in your bubbler pipe is extremely important to your smoking experience.
Too much water can cause you to inhale it along with the smoke, ending up coughing really hard.
On the other hand, not having enough water doesn’t filter the smoke and makes it harsh on your lungs.
The optimal amount of water is similar to what you pour in the bong. It should fill it until the stem is about halfway submerged in water. This allows the water to pull the smoke and clean it from tar, without inhaling gross water coming back from backsplash.
Things to Consider When Filling a Bubbler PipeWith Water
How much water do you put in your bubbler pipe and which type of bubbler do you enjoy the most? Share your thoughts in the comments!