Ben Carter
Candles are a popular way to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in any room. However, a flickering candle can be a confusing and sometimes concerning sight. While a small, natural flicker is normal and even charming, excessive flickering may indicate that something is wrong. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as wind or drafts, the length of the wick, the quality of the wax, or improper storage. Additionally, the combustion process of a candle involves the interaction of the flame with the surrounding air, which can also contribute to flickering. Understanding the reasons behind candle flickering can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wick length | A wick that is too long can cause the flame to flicker and produce more soot. |
| Wick quality | Poorly made or off-centre wicks can result in an uneven burn and flickering. |
| Wick mushrooming | Carbon build-up on a burned candle can cause the flame to become irregular. |
| Wax quality | Candles made with low-quality wax or containing impurities may flicker more due to inconsistent burning. |
| Storage | Leaving candles uncovered can lead to the accumulation of dust, dirt, or moisture, which can cause flickering. |
| Wind or drafts | Even a slight breeze can make a candle flicker as air movement around the flame disrupts the combustion process. |
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What You'll Learn
Wick length
When a candle flickers constantly, it emits more soot, which can stain walls and curtains and diminish the smell of scented candles. The black smoke emitted from the candle is caused by an uneven balance between the wick and the wax. This can be prevented by trimming the wick to 0.5cm or 1cm after each burn.
It is important to note that a small, natural flicker in any candle is normal and can even be appealing. However, excessive flickering can indicate that the candle is burning unevenly or that there is a build-up of carbon or impurities in the wick and wax. Therefore, it is recommended to trim the wick regularly and ensure that the candle is stored and burned in a well-ventilated area to prevent flickering.
Additionally, the size of the wick can affect the overall burn and life of the candle. Candles with large wicks will burn through the wax too quickly, while candles with wicks that are too small will create an uneven wax pool and lead to tunnelling. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the wick is the appropriate size for the candle to prevent flickering and ensure a long-lasting burn.
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Wind or drafts
To prevent your candle from flickering due to wind or drafts, ensure it is positioned away from open windows, air vents, fans, and draughty areas. Even the slightest drafts can cause candles to flicker, so checking for any sources of air movement can help to prevent this issue.
In addition to wind and drafts, other factors that can cause a candle to flicker include wick length, wax quality, and improper storage. A wick that is too long can cause the flame to flicker and produce more soot, while a wick that is too short can result in an uneven wax pool and tunnelling. To maintain a steady flame, it is recommended to trim the wick to around 0.5 cm or 1/4 inch.
The quality of the wax can also impact flickering, as candles made with low-quality wax or containing impurities may flicker more due to inconsistent burning. Properly storing candles is crucial to avoid flickering issues, as leaving them uncovered can lead to the accumulation of dust, dirt, or moisture, which can contribute to flickering.
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Candle storage
Candles can be a great way to create a relaxing ambiance or set the mood for a romantic date night. However, candles that flicker excessively can be a fire hazard and may indicate that they are burning faster than normal. One of the reasons candles flicker is that they have been exposed to moisture, dirt, or dust, which can happen when they are left uncovered. Therefore, it is important to know how to store your candles correctly to prevent this from happening.
Firstly, candles should be stored in a cool, dry place with low humidity. Suitable storage spots include enclosed cabinets, drawers, or a purpose-built candle caddy. If you're looking for something sturdier, IKEA Kallax cube shelves can hold a large number of candles and can be placed in a garage or another dry area.
Secondly, candles should be kept in their original packaging or wrapped in tissue paper to prevent scratches or scuffs, particularly for tapers and decorative finishes. Tissue paper can also be used to wrap candle stubs to protect the wick and prevent sticking. If you're storing tapered candles, you can also wrap them in aluminum foil or ensure they are stored with a bit of space between them.
Lastly, avoid storing candles in areas with high heat or direct sunlight, as this can soften the wax and cause them to fuse. Bathrooms, kitchens, and other humid areas should be avoided, as candles left uncovered in these spaces will collect moisture and dust, causing the wax to become impure and affecting the burn.
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Wax quality
The quality of the wax used in a candle can have a significant impact on its flicker. Candles made with low-quality wax or containing impurities may flicker more due to inconsistent burning. This is because the candle wax feeds the flame, and any disruptions in the wax can impact the flame's flow. Air bubbles, dirt, or impurities in the wax can lead to flickering. Additionally, if a candle is left uncovered, it can accumulate moisture, dirt, and dust, which can also contribute to flickering.
To ensure a steadier burn and reduce flickering, opt for candles made from high-quality wax, such as those offered by the Highland Candle Company. These candles are designed to provide a clean, non-toxic burn for hours without the excessive flickering associated with lower-quality wax.
It is also important to store candles correctly to prevent flickering issues. Leaving candles uncovered or in humid areas can lead to the accumulation of dust, dirt, or moisture, which can impact the quality of the wax and cause flickering. It is recommended to store candles in a cool, dry place with a lid to keep them as clean as possible before use.
In addition to wax quality, the size and condition of the wick play a crucial role in candle flickering. A wick that is too long can cause the flame to flicker excessively and produce more soot. Conversely, a wick that is too small can create an uneven wax pool and lead to tunnelling. To maintain a steady flame, it is important to trim the wick regularly and ensure it is the appropriate size for the candle diameter.
By choosing high-quality wax candles and maintaining proper wick care, you can significantly reduce flickering and enjoy a safer and more enjoyable candle-burning experience.
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Wick mushrooming
To prevent wick mushrooming, it is important to ensure that the wick is the correct size for the candle. If the wick is too big, it will absorb more wax than it can burn, leading to the build-up of carbon particles. Candle makers can avoid this issue by using a smaller wick gauge or a wick that naturally curls.
If you are experiencing wick mushrooming with your candles, there are a few simple fixes you can try. Firstly, blow out the candle and allow it to cool. Then, use a wick trimmer to snip off the mushroom-shaped tip of the wick. Re-straighten the wick and bend the end slightly to increase the chances of it burning correctly. You can also try dipping the wick in wax before lighting it to prevent mushrooming.
It is worth noting that wick mushrooming is not a disastrous issue and is relatively common, even in commercially produced candles. However, it is important to address the issue to ensure a clean and fuss-free burn for your customers. By following the steps outlined above, you can effectively treat and prevent wick mushrooming in your candles.
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Frequently asked questions
Candles flicker due to a variety of factors, including air drafts, the length of the wick, and the quality of the wax. A candle's flame interacts with the surrounding air, and disruptions in the wax can impact the flame's flow.
To prevent your candles from flickering, ensure they are stored in a cool, dry place with a lid. Keep them away from open windows, air vents, or fans to minimise flickering caused by air currents. Additionally, regularly trim the wick to about 0.5 cm to 0.75 cm for a steadier, cleaner burn.
Yes, flickering candles can be dangerous. Excessive flickering may indicate that the candle is burning faster than normal and emitting more soot, which can stain walls and curtains. It can also be a fire hazard, especially if the candle is burning near fabric.
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