Hookah connoisseurs often experience problems with their hookah, but having a thorough understanding of the mechanics of the device can easily help you fix the issues and even boost the smoking experience. Identifying the symptoms and then assessing the cause of the problem can resolve common hookah issues like reduced smoke outcome, harsh flavor, no smoke output, being too hard to pull, and more. This Amy Deluxe guide aims to offer you the ultimate solution for troubleshooting common hookah problems.

Problem 1. When Your Hookah Is Not Blowing Properly

When the hookah parts are not sealed firmly together, causing leaks, some fresh air tends to mix with the smoke, diluting it. Here are certain things that you can do to resolve the situation.

• Setting Up Your Hookah Properly. To check the hookah for any leaks, you need to assemble the hookah except for the bowl and cover the top with your hand. Now draw it in through the hookah hose. If there is no air inhaled or you feel suction, the seal is okay. Otherwise, you need to use grommets to seal the connection between the base and hookah stem, the hose and hose port, and the hookah bowl and the bowl port.
• Check the Purge Valve. Check the purga vale for any blockages and ball bearings, as they prevent air leaks and ensure a smooth smoking experience.
• Control the Heat Properly. Use at least two to three pieces of charcoal to heat the tobacco properly, and wait for around 5 minutes before it produces the optimal amount of smoke.
• Pack the Hookah Bowl Again. Pack the hookah bowl with the sprinkling method or any other way that suits your bowl type. Packing it properly allows for even heat distribution, enhancing the flavors.
• Examine If the Hose Is Leaking. If there is no smoke, check if there are leaks in the hose. A single puncture in the hose can disrupt the smoke transfer. Though you can patch it for the time being, we recommend changing the hose after 40 uses.

Problem 2. When Your Tobacco Tastes Burned or Produces Excessive Smoke

It can occur for several reasons, like the strength of the shisha or excessive heat. Here's what we can do to fix such a hookah problem.

• Never Overpack Your Bowl. Too much tobacco in the bowl makes it harder to pull, So pack it below the rim of the bowl and follow the proper packing method to facilitate proper airflow and prevent harsh smoke output.
• Reduce the Heat. Another reason can be too much heat, so if you are using 3 to 4 coals, consider removing one.
• Unevenly Lit Charcoals. Always use thoroughly heated hookah charcoal to avoid the many health risks that can occur otherwise.
• Use HMD Properly. If you are using an HMD, make sure you are doing it correctly and avoid overpacking your bowl when using one.

If the problem still persists, consider modifying different parts of the hookah, like the HMD, bowl, and shifting to natural charcoal to improve the experience. If the smoke is still strong, add fluid to the base.

Problem 3. When the Hookah Feels Blocked

Let us see what you can do if you feel the hookah is clogged.

• Blocked Hookah Bowl. With a hole poker or toothpick, clear the residue from the clogged holes and wipe it with water to ensure the holes are clean.
• Create More Holes. For better airflow, poke a few more holes in the foil using a poker or toothpick.
• Never Over-pack Bowl. To prevent the hookah from being clogged, you need good airflow, so pack it below the rim, particularly if you use a Heat Management Device.
• Blocked Hookah Stem. Clean the stem with a stem cleaning brush to remove any tobacco residue.
• Check the Purge Ball. Conduct a check to see if there is any blockage or rust in the ball bearing section. If yes, you need to clean it or change to plastic ball bearings.
• Remove Extra Water. In order to avoid such blockage issues, remove extra water from the shaft.
• Clean the Hose. Wash it with warm water mixed with lemon juice if you use a washable hose, but if you use non-washable ones, blow through it. We suggest you switch to a washable one for a better experience. 

If nothing is addressing your problem, then consider getting a modern, easy-to-clean hookah, like stainless steel models with removable parts for effortless maintenance. 

We hope you find this guide helpful in troubleshooting the common hookah problem. Remember, it is a trial-and-error method; you need to have patience. For any upgrades or replacement, visit Amy Deluxe for all your hookah requirements.