Prism Water Pipes Troubleshooting Guide:
Common Issues and Fixes
Most Prism issues have a simple fix — even if it doesn’t always feel that way at first. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the most common problems people run into with their pieces, along with troubleshooting tips we hope make things a little easier. Sometimes the solution is the obvious one, like adjusting your water level or checking a connection. Other times, it can take a little more trial and error. We know not every issue can be solved with a quick fix, but this guide is a good place to start.
Happy Seshing!
1. Why doesn't my bowl, downstem, or accessory fit?
Bowls: Your bowl size is determined by the joint size of your downstem or base, not by the overall size of the piece. Prism currently uses 14mm joints on most setups, while some older Prism pieces may have 18mm joints.
If you’re not sure what size you have, measure the outside diameter of the male joint on the bowl or downstem, or the inside diameter of the female joint it fits into. A 14mm joint will measure approximately 14mm across, while an 18mm joint will measure approximately 18mm across.
Measure the glass joint itself — not the widest part of the bowl or downstem.
What if I have an older 18mm Prism piece?
Prism has been transitioning away from 18mm joint bases in favor of 14mm, but older 18mm setups can still be used.
If your base or downstem has an 18mm female joint and you already have a 14mm bowl or accessory, use a Prism 18mm-to-14mm adapter. The adapter allows compatible 14mm accessories to fit your legacy 18mm setup.
If you’d rather purchase a bowl that fits directly, measure your joint first and order the matching 18mm bowl where available.
How do I know which downstem to order? / Why doesn't my downstem fit correctly?
Prism Downstem Guide:
If you have a Prism MINI setup, you will need a MINI downstem.
MINI downstems measure 5 inches long.
If you have any classic Prism setup, you will need a classic downstem.
Classic downstems measure 6 inches long.
All Prism ash catchers take an ash catcher downstem.
Ash catcher downstems measure 3.5 inches long.
For angled accessories (like ash catchers or bangers), make sure you’re also using the correct 45° or 90° angle. Here is a guide to all things ash catchers, including how they work and the different types.
Since Prism is switching to all 14mm products, you may have an 18mm ash catcher that won't work with a newer setup. We sell both 45 degree and 90 degree ash catchers in 14mm, or you can purchase a 14-18mm adapter!
As always, contact support@prismwaterpipes.com to see how we can help you make your setup compatible.
Are MINI and Classic Prism parts interchangeable?
No. MINI and Classic parts are not interchangeable. They use different connection sizes, Halos, and downstem dimensions, so make sure replacement parts match the size of your Prism setup.
2. Why is my Prism piece leaking?
Start with the Halo connection. Check that the silicone gasket is present, sitting flat, and not twisted or pinched. Make sure the glass is threaded evenly into the Halo and tighten it until it feels snug, similar to closing a bottle lid. You should not have to force it. The gasket helps create the airtight, watertight seal between sections.
Then inspect the glass and surrounding connections for visible gaps or damage. If water is leaking from a connection rather than the glass itself, the gasket or Halo alignment is usually the first thing to check.
Is my Halo gasket installed correctly?
The gasket should sit evenly inside the Halo, without folds, twists, or sections sticking out. If the gasket is not seated correctly, the connection may feel loose or allow air or water to escape.
Here are some step-by-step images of gasket installation:
Note: older Prism setups included two gaskets instead of one. For those halos, one gasket goes on each side of the protruding middle ring in the threads.
You can also purchase replacement single gaskets at any time.
Another note: when you look at your bong from a distance, the pieces should all be completely vertical and in perfect linearity. If it looks tilted in any way, there will likely be an issue with the airflow. Make sure the gaskets are installed correctly and that the halos are screwed on tightly and with the correct threading alignment.
Can I Use My Prism Without the Silicone Gasket/O-Ring?
The silicone gasket is what helps create the water-tight seal between Prism’s glass sections and Halo connector.
Without the gasket, your piece may still technically pull, but it will not work as effectively. You may experience leaking, loose connections, or reduced airflow control.
3. Why is my piece hard to pull from?
Restricted airflow is usually caused by too much water, a clogged perc or downstem, or a connection that isn’t seated correctly. Start by checking your water level, then make sure the bowl, downstem, percolator, and Halo connections are clean and aligned. With the bowl empty, air should move through the setup and create bubbling in the base or perc.
Read the following water-filling guide to see how much water to put into different types of Prism bases!
Note, this is a GUIDE, and sometimes ideal water level is based on personal preference.
Overall, the goal is to use enough water to cover the filtration openings without overfilling the chamber. Too little water can reduce function, while too much water can cause excess drag or splashback.
Why am I getting water in my mouthpiece?
This usually means the setup is overfilled or you’re pulling too hard. Remove a small amount of water and test it again. Using the correct water level should allow the perc to function without sending water up into the mouthpiece.
Why isn’t my percolator bubbling?
First, check the water level. The perc needs enough water to function, but too much water can increase drag. Also make sure the perc holes are clean, unobstructed from residue, and that there are no loose connections affecting airflow.
ideal bong airflow diagram
4. What should I do if my bowl or downstem is stuck?
Don’t force it. A bowl or downstem can become stuck from buildup, moisture between the glass joints, or a tight seal. Gently work the piece loose instead of twisting or pulling aggressively, which can damage the glass.
For more information and solutions you may not have considered, see our stuck parts blog here.
5. How should I clean my Prism parts?
We have a very in-depth cleaning blog for exactly this question! It breaks down how to clean individual pieces, different types of cleaners, and how only the non-decaled glass parts can be put in the dishwasher.
Note: to clean a halo, remove gaskets and use soap and water on the gasket and the halo itself. Do not put halos in the dishwasher.
Overview: Before assuming your piece is defective, check your water level, bowl pack, downstem placement, Halo alignment, gasket placement, and cleanliness. Most airflow, splashback, or leaking issues come from one of those areas and can be fixed quickly at home.
If your piece arrives broken or is defective in a way that cannot be troubleshot, please contact customer service at support@prismwaterpipes.com and we will be happy to help you. If you just have questions or would like troubleshooting help, feel free to also DM us on Instagram!
Note: we do NOT do customer service/returns/refunds/order updates via Instagram.
