Master the Art of Lighting Shisha Charcoal for a Long-Lasting Smoke Session with The Premium Way

October 03 2024, by M Ahmad, 9 min reading time

At The Premium Way, we understand that properly lighting shisha charcoal is the key to unlocking the best hookah experience. Whether you're an experienced hookah enthusiast or just starting, getting your charcoal right ensures even heat distribution, rich flavours, and an extended smoke session. Common issues like uneven heat, weak smoke, or harsh flavours often stem from improperly lit coals. That’s why we’re here to guide you through lighting shisha charcoal correctly for a superior, long-lasting experience every time.

Understanding the Types of Shisha Charcoal

Natural Charcoal vs. Quick-Lighting Charcoal

At The Premium Way, we offer two main types of shisha charcoal: natural charcoal and quick-lighting charcoal. Both have their unique advantages depending on the kind of session you’re after.

Natural Charcoal: Our natural charcoal, made from materials like coconut shells, provides a cleaner, longer-lasting burn, ideal for extended sessions. While it takes a bit more time and effort to light, the payoff is worth it.
Quick-Lighting Charcoal: For those who prefer convenience, The Premium Way offers quick-lighting charcoal that’s ready to go in seconds. It’s perfect for casual or short smoke sessions, though the chemical additives that help it ignite can slightly impact flavour.

Pros and Cons of Each Type

Natural Charcoal

Pros:

Ideal for extended sessions with consistent heat.
Made from organic materials for a cleaner flavour.
Available at The Premium Way for those who prioritise a high-quality experience.

Cons:

Requires more time and a strong heat source to light.
Best suited for dedicated smokers.

Quick-Lighting Charcoal

Pros:

Fast and easy to ignite, perfect for spontaneous sessions.
Available for those who need a quick setup without fuss.

Cons:

Burns out quicker, reducing session length.
Slightly affects flavour due to added chemicals.

Essential Tools for Lighting Shisha Charcoal

At The Premium Way, we equip our customers with all the necessary tools for a smooth and safe charcoal lighting process:

Charcoal Burner or Stove: For natural coals, you’ll need a reliable electric charcoal burner or a gas stove. Our selection of burners at The Premium Way ensures even, efficient lighting.
Tongs: Handling hot coals without burning yourself is crucial. Our premium tongs give you the control and safety needed.
Heat-Resistant Tray: Keep your space organised with a heat-resistant tray from The Premium Way to hold lit coals before placing them on your hookah.
Wind Cover or Heat Management Device (HMD): We offer heat management devices and wind covers for those who want precise heat control throughout their session.

How to Light Natural Shisha Charcoal: A Step-by-Step Guide from The Premium Way

Step 1: Preheat the Burner

Preheat your charcoal burner or stove for a few minutes to ensure it's ready to ignite the coals quickly.

Step 2: Place the Charcoal on the Burner

Once hot, place your natural coals evenly across the burner. At The Premium Way, we recommend spreading them out for consistent heat.

Step 3: Wait Until the Coals Are Fully Lit

Wait until the coals are glowing red with a thin layer of ash. This is essential for achieving the best flavour and heat during your session.

Step 4: Transfer the Charcoal to the Hookah

Using tongs, carefully transfer the coals to your heat management device or foil-covered bowl. Ensure even placement for balanced heat distribution throughout your session.

Lighting Quick-Lighting Charcoal with The Premium Way

Step 1: Hold with Tongs

Use our tongs to hold the charcoal securely while lighting.

Step 2: Ignite the Charcoal

With a lighter, ignite the quick-lighting charcoal. At The Premium Way, we recommend ensuring the entire surface is lit for an even burn.

Step 3: Wait for the Coals to Be Fully Lit

Allow the quick-lighting charcoal to spark and glow red before use. Rushing this process can result in poor heat and flavour.

Step 4: Place the Coals on the Bowl

Carefully place the coals evenly on the bowl to ensure optimal heat distribution, prolonging your session.

Avoid Common Mistakes with The Premium Way’s Tips

Lighting Coals Too Early

Using charcoal before it’s fully heated leads to uneven burning and harsh flavours. At The Premium Way, we remind our customers to wait until the coals are fully lit before placing them on the hookah bowl.

Handling Coals Without Proper Tools

We cannot stress enough the importance of using the right tools. With The Premium Way’s range of tongs and heat-resistant accessories, you can safely manage coals without risk.

Overloading the Bowl

Using too much charcoal can lead to overheating, resulting in a burnt, bitter taste. Start with a moderate amount and adjust based on your session’s heat needs. At The Premium Way, we encourage balance for a smooth experience.

Extend the Life of Your Coals During the Session

Rotate the Coals

Rotating your coals ensures even burning and longer-lasting sessions. At The Premium Way, we recommend rotating the coals every 15-20 minutes for the best results.

Use a Wind Cover or Heat Management Device

A wind cover or heat management device helps regulate the heat for more efficient and long-lasting charcoal use. We offer high-quality wind covers and HMDs to ensure you get the most out of your session.

Add Fresh Charcoal as Needed

When your coals start to burn out, it’s time to add new ones. Always light fresh coals on your burner first to avoid disrupting the session. At The Premium Way, we suggest keeping spare coals ready for seamless transitions.

Troubleshooting Charcoal Issues

Coals Going Out Mid-Session

If your coals extinguish mid-session, simply replace them with freshly lit ones. Keeping a backup set ready is a great way to avoid downtime.

Dealing with Uneven Heat

Uneven heat can ruin the experience. To fix this, rotate your coals or reposition them to balance the heat. Using a heat management device from The Premium Way can also ensure consistent heat throughout your session.

Conclusion

At The Premium Way, we’re passionate about helping our customers achieve the perfect hookah experience. Properly lighting shisha charcoal is essential for enjoying a smooth, flavourful, and long-lasting session. By following these tips and using high-quality charcoal and accessories from The Premium Way, you can elevate your hookah experience to new heights. Visit us today to shop Australia’s best hookah products, tools, and accessories.

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