Why doesn’t my candle burn evenly/properly?
There are a few main reasons why a candle may not burn evenly or properly, they’re normally caused by improper usage, and here are some solutions may help you:
1. Reason: Tunneling.
This is when a candle burns straight down and creates a tunnel in the middle, leaving wax untouched around the edges.
-Causes:
(1) Not allowing the wax pool to melt across the entire surface during the initial burn time.
(2) Burning the candle for too short of periods.
-Solutions:
(1) When you burn the candle first time, allow the wax to melt across the entire diameter of the container/candle.
(2) For subsequent burns, keep the candle lit for 3-4 hours to allow a full wax pool to form.
(3) If the wax surface is already uneven, use a hair dryer to remelt the wax and make the burning surface even.
2. Reason: Mushroom Wick
This is when carbon builds up on the end of the wick, causing it to mushroom out.
-Cause:
Burning the candle for too long without trimming the wick.
-Solution:
(1) Trim the wick to 1/4 inch before each burn.
(2) Extinguish, let cool, and re-trim wick every 3-4 hours after continuous burning.
3. Reason: Wet Spots/Wax Pulling Away
This is when the wax contracts and pulls away from the jar sides, leaving wet spots.
-Causes:
(1)Pouring melted warm wax into a cold container.
(2)Temperature fluctuations as the candle cools.
Solutions:
(1)Warm the jar before pouring wax.
(2) Allow candles to cool slowly in a warm environment.
In summary, the main fixes are allowing sufficient time for the full wax pool to form on initial and subsequent burns, trimming the wick regularly, using proper temperature control when pouring, and remelting wax to make an even burning surface.
If you encounter any problems in the candle burning process, professional staffs from Spring Joy Housewares are always ready to help.