If you're new to using a bong, you may be wondering how much water to put in and why it's important. The water in a bong serves as a filtration system, cooling and smoothing out the smoke as you inhale. It's essential to get the right amount of water in your bong to ensure a smooth, enjoyable smoking experience.

In this blog, we'll go over the basics of filling a bong with water and provide tips for getting it just right. Whether you're using a traditional bong with a downstem or a more advanced percolator bong, we've got you covered. So grab your bong and let's get started! 

How to Fill a Bong with Water - The Simple Answer

To determine the appropriate amount of water to put in your bong, you should consider the type of bong you are using and make sure that all percolators and downstem slits are fully submerged in water. You should also avoid overfilling the bong to prevent splash back or spilled water.

A good rule of thumb is to fill your bong from the top, making sure that every chamber has water, and then take a test drag to ensure that all spots are covered and there is no splash back.

You may need to adjust the water level slightly to find the right balance. Ultimately, the right amount of water for your bong will depend on your personal preference and the specific characteristics of your bong.

Here are the Main Things to keep in Mind when Filling your Bong with Water

• Make sure the downstem slits and percolators are fully submerged in water.

• Fill your bong from the top.

• Avoid overfilling your bong to prevent splash back

• Every chamber should have water.

• Take a test drag to make sure all spots are covered and there is no splash back.

• Adjust the water amount slighty to get the perfect amount.

What Does Bong Water Do?

The water in the bong acts as a filtration system to cool the smoke and deliver a smoother hit. Using a bong is the easiest and best way to elevate your smoking experience. A bong without water is essentially just a pipe.

Don't Overfill your Bong

Putting too much water in your bong can lead to annoying and gross scenarios. That is why it is import to know how much water to put in your bong.

Splash Back (Gross!!!) - Having too much water in your bong can lead to accidently drinking bong water during a hit. If you want to prevent a gulp of nasty bong water, test drag your bong with clean water before using!

Spilled Water - Too much water can lead to spilled bong water all over your nice table. Make sure not to overfill your bong!

If you find that your bong has too much water, simply tilt the bong to slowly reduce the water level until you have the perfect amount of water.

How Much Water In Each Type of Bong

How to Fill Beaker Bongs or Bongs with a Downstem

Most traditional bongs such as a beaker bong will have some form of a downstem. A downstem is the piece of your water pipe that connects the bowl to the main chamber.

The downstem will have a singular hole or various small holes that the smoke will travel through during the inhalation. Make sure the openings on the downstem are fully submerged in water. You may add more water as long as you dont get any back in your mouth when you inhale.

How to Fill a Percolator Bong

A percolator is a premium feature on a bong that offers superior smoke filtration compared to a traditional bong. Percolators comes in various different shapes and sizes, but the rules for filling them with water are pretty straight forward.

Pour in enough water to cover all the holes on your percolator. The holes on a percolator can be tricky to see, so make sure you do a careful analysis of your bong to find out how many holes it has for smoke to travel through.

How to Fill Multiple Shower Head Chambers

A bong with multiple shower head chambers will deliver a smoothness like no other. Start by pouring water from the top of the bong. Once the bong has water, blow into the bong to make the water reach all the chambers.

If you are using a high-quality water pipe the water will flow down automatically. You can also tilt the bong sideways to allow the water to flow into the bottom chambers.

Bonus: How to Fill an Ash Catcher with Water

An ash catcher is a useful accessory that can be added to a bong to help keep it clean and reduce the amount of ash and resin that accumulates in the main chamber. Filling an ash catcher with water is an easy process, and only requires a few simple steps:

1. Begin by filling a clean container with cold water. It is important to use cold water to help prevent any cracks or damage to the ash catcher.

2. Next, carefully remove the ash catcher from the bong and hold it over the sink.

3. Slowly pour the water into the ash catcher, being careful not to overfill it. You should aim to fill the ash catcher with enough water to cover the bottom of the downstem, but not so much that it reaches the top of the percolator.

4. Once the ash catcher is filled with water, gently shake it to help distribute the water evenly.

5. Finally, reattach the ash catcher to the bong and test it out to ensure that it is working properly.

It is important to periodically clean and refill your ash catcher to maintain its effectiveness and ensure that it is functioning properly. When filling the ash catcher with water, be sure to use cold water and avoid overfilling it to prevent any potential damage. With proper care and maintenance, an ash catcher can be a valuable addition to your smoking setup. 

How Often Should I replace my Bong Water?

The frequency of changing bong water depends on the frequency of use, cleanliness of the bong, and personal preference. As a general rule, bong water should be changed at least once a week or even every day if you want to maximize your smoking experience.

If the water looks or smells dirty, it should be changed immediately. Using a dirty water pipe will ruin your experience and can even be dangerous to your lungs! To change the water, pour out the old water, rinse the bong thoroughly with clean water, and refill it with fresh water. By changing the water regularly, the bong can be kept clean and the smoking experience can be optimized.

Aside from replacing the water in your bong, it is important to clean your glass anytime there is a buildup of burnt weed or material.

Daniel Branca

Daniel Branca is a blogger and journalist specializing in cannabis, vaping and health. He has 7 years of experience in the industry and is commited to providing accurate and up-to-date information. On his off days, he likes to read, workout, and light bowls.