PERCOLATOR BONGS

Bong percolator types

Percolator bongs deliver enhanced filtration for cleaner, cooler and smoother hits. They are becoming more and more popular, if not the standard. There are many different types of percolators for bongs. They all work to filter and cool smoke but their unique shape produces a slightly different effect. 

Perc-ed Out?

This list of bong percolators is just the tip of the iceberg. There are also swiss percs, dome percs, barrel percs, UFO percs, donut percs, fritted disc percolators, among many other styles. We’re looking forward to seeing the next iteration that comes along to impress us in functionality and design alike. 

FAQ

How do percolator bongs work?

Percolator bongs diffuse smoke through water by creating more surface area. As smoke travels through bong percolators it creates bubbles that cool the smoke down and remove debris. Whether it’s a honeycomb, jellyfish or faberge egg perc, the experience between a bong with percolator vs without is monumental. 

Most bongs have a slitted downstem by default so cannabis enthusiasts are familiar with the additional diffusion that it produces. A diffused downstem has small slits along the bottom third. These openings allow water and smoke to pass through, cooling the vapor.

Similarly, glass bong percolators diffuse and cool smoke, however, their shape, placement and number will affect their efficiency, visual effect and aesthetics.

Bongs with percolators produce a hit that is much smoother overall for two main reasons. These water pipes force cannabis smoke to travel through more bubbles within the water. Because of the increased surface area, the smoke has more time to cool and more harmful contaminants are removed.  

How many percolators is ideal?

Novices assume that the more percs the better. Yet too many percolators can increase drag making it harder to rip, so it’s really about striking a balance. A triple or quadruple perc bong may be good for people with lungs of steel but for most of us it’s excessive. That is to say, it will increase drag significantly and take away from the experience. 

Also, pieces with lots of percs stacked one over the other tend to be more difficult to light, handle and clean. So if you’re just starting out with your first percolator bong or are looking for ultimate comfort, it’s best to start with a piece with fewer percolators. You can always work your way up to more complex pieces over time as your lung capacity increases. 

These larger pieces are also less travel-friendly. So if you’re looking for a portable percolator bong, go for one made from thick borosilicate glass with just one to two percs.  

Do percolator bongs get you higher?

Actually, since percolator bongs have an extra layer of filtration, a small amount of THC is lost compared to bongs without percs. Most people do not mind this though because they choose perc bongs for the experience. They prefer cooler, filtered hits because it’s easier on the throat and removes more impurities from the smoke.

What’s more, because the smoke is condensed as it travels through the percs and chambers, you’re able to take fatter rips. So the loss in THC is essentially counterbalanced with the bigger silky smooth hits you can take in one go. 

How to fill percolator bong

You can fill your percolated bong through the joint or the mouthpiece. We recommend the joint because you have a bit more control over how much water you put. Naturally have to pour it more slowly so you’re less prone to overfilling. We also recommend using a cold water bottle from the fridge since it’s easy to pour and will cool the smoke further.

How to fill up a honeycomb percolator bong

In general, you want to submerge the percolator fully. For instance, if you have a single honeycomb percolator bong, the water should be filled slightly above the disc. Some people prefer it slightly below. You’ll just have to try it out for yourself to see what works best for you. 

Ideal percolator bong water level for multiple percs

Bongs with multiple percs tend to be a bit more complicated. To put an example, a triple percolator bong spread out evenly followed by an ice catcher and the neck leading to the mouthpiece will require a different level. In this case, you’ll want the water level to be just above the second perc. 

Still, test it out. the water should reach the third percolator without splashing into your mouth when you take a test hit.  If you get anything in your mouth, pour it out. Then, test it out again, so you know if the level is correct before taking a real hit.

What are percolator attachments?

Bong percolator attachments, more commonly known as ash catchers, are becoming more and more popular. They are one of the best ways to remove debris while keeping your water pipe clean. Essentially, since smoke travels through the ash catcher first, it “catches” the ash and other contaminants before it even reaches your bong.