Frequently asked questions regarding candle burning properties
Are there any differences in quality between drawn, cast and pressed candles?
- No — the production type has no influence
- What matters is that good-quality raw materials are used
Does the colour of the candle influence the burning properties?
- Yes — the colour can have a significant influence in some circumstances
- Depends on
- Processing (dipped/solid colour)
- Nature of colouring (liquid/pigments)
How are candles cared for?
- Shorten the wick
- Keep burn pool around wick clean:
- Reduced suction effect of the wick
- Risk of “second wick”
- Cut back edges (max. 10–15 mm)
- Make sure pillar candles are given sufficient time to burn
How fast do candles burn?
- Hourly burning rate: 7-10 g
Why do some candles crackle?
- Wick has absorbed water (humidity)
- Major impairment of burning properties
Why do some candles drip/spill?
- Draught in the room
- Temperature too high
- Candle is not vertical
- High pigment content
- Absorbency of wick reduced
Why if a candle flickers/produces soot?
- Wick too long
- Flickering: – Edge of candle too high (supply of oxygen)
- Flaw in weaving of wick
- Improper wax/wick dimensions
Why do candles briefly emit soot when lit?
- Suction effect of the wick not yet fully established
- Brief discharge of soot
Why do candles often burn less effectively in lanterns?
- Many lanterns look good but work poorly
Why do some candles go out by themselves?
- Wick rolls up and sinks into the fuel
- Wick clogs with dyes/impurities
- Candle is designed to be self-extinguishing
What is the best way to extinguish a candle/burning wax?
- Candle: Candle snuffer
- Burning wax: Fire blanket/fire extinguisher