A percolator is an additional filter chamber in the bong that passes the smoke through water a second time. The result is even finer filtration and an extremely smooth draw. Percolator bongs are popular with everyone who likes it particularly smooth and cool.
How does a percolator work?
After the first filtration, the smoke is forced through the percolator and broken down into many fine bubbles again. More bubbles, more water contact, more cooling. Each additional chamber makes the draw smoother – but slightly reduces the airflow because the smoke has to overcome more resistance. It's a matter of balance.
The most important types of percolators
- Tree percolator – several tubes like branches, many fine bubbles, elegant look.
- Honeycomb – a disc with many holes, very even diffusion.
- Turbine – creates a vortex, looks spectacular.
- Inline – horizontal tube with slits, robust and effective.
Advantages and disadvantages
The clear advantage: buttery smooth, cool smoke. The price: more cleaning effort and slightly more draw resistance. If you value maximum comfort, you can't get past a percolator. If you like it simple and easy to maintain, stick with a diffuser.
Frequently asked questions
How many percolators make sense?
One to two have the greatest effect. More chambers cool even more, but make the draw heavier and cleaning more complex.
How do I clean a percolator?
Flood with cleaning solution, shake well, rinse several times. Regularity is key here.
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