How to Light Hookah Coals: Everything You Need to Know
BY ANTHONY B · PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 11 2024
- Hookah Coal Types
- Necessary Equipment
- How to Light Your Hookah Coals
- Using a Coal Burner
- Using a Stove
- Other Methods
- How Long Does It Take to Light?
- Checking Coal Readiness
- Transporting Your Lit Coals
- Which Hookah Coals Are Best?
- FAQs
Lighting hookah coals is one of the most important steps to ensure you have an enjoyable smoking session. Whether you are using quick light coals or natural coals, knowing how to light them properly will elevate your hookah experience. In this guide, we’ll take you through all the steps, from the types of coals to the necessary equipment and the methods you can use to light them.
Hookah Coal Types
When it comes to lighting hookah coals, it’s important to understand the differences between the three main types: quicklight coals, coconut coals, and natural coals.
Quicklight Coals: These coals are easy to light and typically contain a chemical accelerant that allows them to ignite quickly. They are ideal for beginners or those looking for a quick setup. However, some hookah smokers avoid them due to the chemical taste they can sometimes leave behind.
Coconut Coals: These are made from compressed coconut shells, offering a natural option with longer-lasting heat and cleaner taste. Lighting them takes more time, but the payoff is worth it for those looking for a more premium smoking experience.
Necessary Equipment
Before you light your hookah coals, make sure you have the right tools on hand:
1. Hookah Tongs: Essential for handling hot coals safely.
2. Heat Source: This can be a stove, charcoal burner, or lighter, depending on the type of coals you’re using.
3. Charcoal Basket: For placing your coals while they heat up.
4. Wind Cover (Optional): Helps your coals retain heat and burn evenly.
How to Light Your Hookah Coals
There are several methods for lighting natural hookah coals, and the best one depends on the type of coals you’re using. Let’s break it down:
Using a Coal Burner
If you have an electric coal burner, it’s one of the most efficient ways to light your natural coals. Make sure the burner has a coil, as coil-top burners provide even heating, which is crucial for lighting coconut coals.
Step 1: Place your coals directly on the coil burner.
Step 2: Turn on the burner and wait for the coals to turn red hot.
Step 3: Once you see that the charcoal is halfway lit, flip them over with your tongs.
Step 4: Once the coals are fully lit and slightly covered in ash, carefully remove them using tongs.
Avoid using flat-top electric burners, as they may not heat your coals evenly.
Using a Stove
For those without a coal burner, a stove is a viable alternative. Gas stoves and coil-topped electric stoves are the best options for lighting hookah coals. If you’re using a gas stove, placing a stainless steel mesh on the burner helps avoid direct contact between the coals and the flame.
Step 1: Place the coals on top of the burner or mesh.
Step 2: Turn on the heat and let the coals warm up.
Step 3: Remove the coals once they are red hot.
Important: Avoid using glass-top or electric stovetops as they can get damaged during the process.
Other Methods
Sometimes you might not have access to a coal burner or stove. In such cases, you can use alternative heat sources like:
• Outdoor Grill: Works well for larger batches of coals.
• Camping Burner: A good portable option when smoking outdoors.
• Blow Torch: Effective for lighting hookah coals, but be cautious as it can overheat the coals if used too long.
How Long Does It Take to Light?
The time it takes to light hookah charcoal depends on the type of coals you’re using:
• Quicklight Coals: These typically take about 1 minute to light, because of the chemical accelerant they contain.
• Coconut Coals: These natural coals take about 8-12 minutes to light properly. Be patient, as ensuring the coals are fully lit is key to avoiding carbon monoxide or inhaling unlit accelerants.
Checking Coal Readiness
To make sure your coals are fully ready, use the following methods:
• Visual Indicators: The coals should be red hot and covered in a layer of gray ash.
• Full Ignition: Ensure all sides of the coals are lit. Incomplete ignition can lead to uneven heating and a poor smoking experience.
Transporting Your Lit Coals
Once your coals are lit, it’s important to handle them safely. Use tongs to move the coals from the burner to your hookah bowl. For larger batches, a coal carrier (charcoal basket) is helpful for safe transportation.
Always be cautious of the surface you place the coals on—hot coals can easily damage countertops or burn through carpets.
Which Hookah Coals Are Best?
Choosing the best hookah coals depends on your preferences. Coconut coals are the preferred choice for a natural, clean smoking experience, but they require more time and care when lighting. Quicklight coals are ideal for beginners or when time is short. Ultimately, the right coal for you depends on what you value most: convenience or a premium smoke.
We recommend Cocoburn Natural Hookah Coals.
FAQs
Can you light hookah coals with a lighter?
While it’s possible to light quick light coals with a lighter, it’s not ideal for natural coals. Natural coals require a stronger heat source, such as a stove or charcoal burner.
How do you know when hookah coals are ready?
Hookah coals are ready when they are red hot and covered in a layer of gray ash. This ensures they are fully lit.
Can you light hookah coals on a flat top stove?
It’s not recommended to use a flat top stove as it can damage the surface. Gas stoves or coil-topped electric stoves are better options for safely lighting hookah charcoal.
Can you light hookah coals in the oven?
No, it’s not advisable to light hookah coals in the oven. Ovens are not designed to handle this type of heat, and using them could cause damage.
How do you make hookah coals last longer?
To make your coals last longer, ensure they are fully lit before placing them on the bowl. Using a wind cover can also help retain heat, making them burn more efficiently.
