A Guide of How to Fix a Low Burning Candle Flame
There’s nothing quite like the ambiance and warmth of a burning candle. However, if you’ve ever experienced a low burning candle flame, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only does it detract from the overall aesthetic of the candle, but it can also affect the scent throw and burn time. But why does a candle flame burn low in the first place?
Possible Causes of a Low Burning Candle Flame
There are several reasons why a candle flame may burn low:
- The wick is too short
- The wick has become clogged with debris
- The candle wax has formed a tunnel
- The candle is burning in a drafty area
Fortunately, fixing a low burning candle flame is relatively simple. By following a few easy steps, you can enjoy a bright, even burning candle once again.
Assessing the Cause of a Low Burning Candle Flame
When you light a candle, you expect it to burn brightly and evenly. However, sometimes you may notice that the flame is low and flickering. This can be frustrating, but it’s important to understand the causes of a low burning candle flame so you can fix the problem and enjoy your candle to the fullest.
Check the Wick
The wick is the most important part of a candle, as it is responsible for drawing up the melted wax and igniting it to create the flame. If the wick is too short, it may not be able to draw up enough wax to maintain a strong flame. On the other hand, if the wick is too long, it may create a large, flickering flame that burns through the wax too quickly.
To check the wick, first, extinguish the candle and let it cool completely. Then, trim the wick to about ¼ inch using scissors or a wick trimmer. If the wick is already at the correct length, you may need to relight the candle and observe the flame for a few minutes to see if it improves.
Check the Wax
The type and quality of wax used in a candle can also affect the burning flame. If the wax is too hard or has been stored in a cold environment, it may not melt evenly and can create a low flame. Additionally, if the wax has been contaminated with dirt or debris, it can also affect the quality of the flame.
To check the wax, first, examine the candle to see if there are any visible signs of dirt or debris. If so, gently wipe the surface with a clean cloth. If the wax is too hard, try warming the candle slightly to help it melt more evenly. You can do this by placing the candle in a warm, sunny spot or using a hairdryer on a low setting to gently warm the wax.
Check the Air Flow
The amount of oxygen available to a candle can also affect the quality of the flame. If the candle is placed in a drafty area, the flame may flicker and burn low. Additionally, if the candle is in a small, enclosed space, it may not have enough oxygen to maintain a strong flame.
To check the air flow, first, examine the area around the candle to see if there are any sources of drafts, such as open windows or fans. If so, try moving the candle to a more sheltered area. If the candle is in a small space, try opening a window or door to allow more air to circulate.
- Check the wick length and trim if necessary
- Examine the wax for dirt or debris
- Warm the candle slightly if the wax is too hard
- Check the area around the candle for drafts
- Ensure the candle has enough oxygen
By checking these three factors, you can quickly assess the cause of a low burning candle flame and take steps to fix the problem. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy a beautiful, bright flame and a long-lasting candle.
Fixing a Low Burning Candle Flame
A low burning candle flame can be frustrating, especially if you want to create a cozy atmosphere or use the candle for aromatherapy. Fortunately, there are several ways to fix a low burning candle flame.
Trim the Wick
One of the most common reasons for a low burning candle flame is an untrimmed wick. If the wick is too long, it will not be able to draw up enough wax to sustain a strong flame. To fix this problem, trim the wick to about ¼ inch before lighting the candle. You can use scissors or a wick trimmer to do this.
Change the Wax
If you have been using the same candle for a while and notice that the flame is burning low, it may be time to change the wax. Over time, the wax can become contaminated with debris, which can clog the wick and prevent it from drawing up enough wax to sustain a strong flame. To change the wax, melt the remaining wax in a double boiler and pour it into a new container with a new wick.
Improve the Air Flow
If the area around the candle is too drafty, it can cause the flame to burn low. To fix this problem, move the candle to a less drafty area or use a candle snuffer to extinguish the flame and relight it in a more suitable location. Additionally, make sure that the candle is not placed near a fan or air conditioning vent.
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Trim the Wick | Trim the wick to about ¼ inch before lighting the candle to ensure that it can draw up enough wax to sustain a strong flame. |
| Change the Wax | If the wax has become contaminated with debris, melt the remaining wax in a double boiler and pour it into a new container with a new wick. |
| Improve the Air Flow | Move the candle to a less drafty area or use a candle snuffer to extinguish the flame and relight it in a more suitable location. Also, make sure that the candle is not placed near a fan or air conditioning vent. |
By following these simple steps, you can fix a low burning candle flame and enjoy the warm glow and soothing scent of your candle once again.
Preventing a Low Burning Candle Flame
There’s nothing worse than lighting a candle, only to have it burn out quickly or have a low, weak flame. Luckily, there are several ways to prevent this from happening and enjoy a long-lasting, bright flame.
Proper Candle Care
One of the most important things to keep in mind when preventing a low burning candle flame is proper candle care. This includes:
- Trimming the wick: Before lighting your candle, make sure to trim the wick to 1/4 inch. A longer wick can cause the flame to burn too hot and too quickly, while a shorter wick can cause the flame to be too low.
- Burning the candle for the right amount of time: It’s important to burn candles for the recommended amount of time, usually 1-4 hours. Burning a candle for too long can cause the wax to melt too quickly and create a low flame.
- Keeping the candle away from drafts: A drafty area can cause the flame to flicker and burn out faster than usual. Keep your candle in a still area to avoid this issue.
Choosing the Right Candle
Another way to prevent a low burning candle flame is to choose the right candle in the first place. Consider the following factors when selecting a candle:
| Factor | Why it Matters |
|---|---|
| Wax Type | Some types of wax burn better than others. Soy wax, for example, burns slower and more evenly than paraffin wax. |
| Candle Size | A larger candle may have a larger wick, which can cause it to burn too hot and too quickly. Consider a smaller candle to avoid this issue. |
| Candle Shape | Oddly shaped candles may not burn as evenly as traditional shapes. Consider sticking to classic shapes like pillars or jars to ensure an even burn. |
By following proper candle care techniques and selecting the right candle, you can prevent a low burning candle flame and enjoy a long-lasting, beautiful flame.
Conclusion
Fixing a low burning candle flame is a simple process that requires a few easy steps. It is important to ensure that the candle wick is trimmed to the appropriate length, and that the candle is placed in a draft-free location. Additionally, using high-quality candles made from natural wax can help prevent issues with low flames.
When experiencing a low burning candle flame, it is important to resist the urge to blow out the candle and relight it. This can cause further issues with the wick and ultimately lead to a shorter lifespan for the candle. Instead, follow the steps outlined in this guide to keep your candles burning brightly and beautifully.
Remember that candles are not only a source of light, but also a way to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home. By taking care of your candles and following these simple tips, you can enjoy their beauty and fragrance for hours on end.
Key Takeaways
- Trimming the wick to the appropriate length is essential for preventing a low burning candle flame.
- Placing the candle in a draft-free location can help prevent issues with the flame.
- Using high-quality candles made from natural wax can help prevent issues with low flames.
- When experiencing a low burning candle flame, it is important to resist the urge to blow out the candle and relight it.
