The different parts to replace on a shisha

A shisha is a water pipe used with flavoured tobacco: fruity, full-bodied or scented, the blends vary. Like many products, however, some of its parts eventually reach the end of their life and call for a change of parts. Which ones? Here is an overview.

The parts to replace on your shisha

Between wear, breakage and fouling, certain parts of a shisha have to be replaced, both to keep the item usable over time and to keep sessions running properly. A porous hose, a missing or ill-fitting valve ball or a damaged hose adapter can quickly get in the way.

You are also never safe from a clumsy movement that breaks something. The ashtray and the vase can both be cracked, and so can the diffuser. Here is a review of the wear parts of a water pipe.

The vase

The main reason for changing the vase of a shisha is breakage. It also sometimes cracks, which damages the whole item. Other users like to change vase according to the fruit or flavours they use. Glass does not hold odours if it is properly cleaned, but for peace of mind some prefer to keep several colours or shapes in order to separate the flavours.

The hose connector (or adapter)

This part is essential for connecting the hose to the stem and holding it in place. It tends to deteriorate because it is exposed to heat, so after a number of sessions it needs to be changed. Without that, the session may not go smoothly.

The ashtray

Fitted on the stem of the water pipe, the shisha ashtray sits under the bowl. It is generally made of glass and is there to catch the ash. One false move during cleaning and it breaks. No need to worry: it is a part that is easily replaced.

The various seals

There are three types of seal on a shisha: on the hose, on the bowl and on the vase. The first two have the same function, keeping the pipe airtight so that it works properly. Like most rubber parts, however, they do not age well. They therefore have to be changed regularly, all the more so as they are exposed to heat. As for the vase seal, it keeps the joint between the stem and the vase airtight and ensures a proper draw. That is why it has to be changed, otherwise the draw becomes poorer over time.

The valve balls

The balls are made of polyamide. They ensure a proper draw and have to be placed in the valve to keep it airtight. They come in two different diameters, so take care not to pick the wrong one when buying.

The diffusers

Depending on the brand of shisha you own, you may need to change the diffuser. Made of glass, they break easily. Their role is to limit turbulence and noise in the vase. In some cases they are valued because they also make the draw easier, which explains their importance.