Brooke Martin
The use of oil lamps and candles as sources of light dates back thousands of years. Oil lamps were used before candles, and both have been used alongside each other for centuries. The cost of lighting has always been a concern, with the price of candles in the 18th century being compared to the price of gin. Today, oil lamps are still considered a cheaper alternative to candles, with some varieties lasting for generations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | Oil lamps can be cheaper than candles depending on the oil used as fuel |
| Reusability | Candles are meant for one-time use, whereas oil lamps can last longer and can be passed on from one generation to another |
| Cleaning | Both candles and oil lamps need to be cleaned, but candles require wax removal from surfaces, while oil lamps need cleaning of the oil container, wicks, chimney, and other parts |
| Waste | Wax residue is a waste from candles, while oil lamps burn the last drop of oil effectively |
| Variety | Candles are available in votive, pillar, taper, scented, and décor varieties, while oil lamps are available in brass, peacock Diya, flower-shaped, Akhanad, Swastika, square-shaped, heart-shaped, lotus, thooku vilakku, gajalakshmi vilakku, and nilavilakku varieties |
| History | Oil lamps have been used for thousands of years, while candles made from wax and chandeliers were seen in churches in the twelfth century and gradually came into use among the nobility and wealthy in Europe |
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What You'll Learn
Oil lamp vs candle costs
Oil lamps and candles have both been used for centuries to illuminate homes. The use of oil lamps began thousands of years ago and continues today, although it is less common. Candles, on the other hand, were commonly used in the Middle Ages and continue to be used today.
The cost of lighting in the 18th century was a concern, with tallow being a key ingredient in candle-making. The cost of tallow was noted as an issue, with the poor unable to afford it and having to buy the cheapest kind. In contrast, the wealthy had access to better-quality candles made from beef or mutton fat. The cost of gin, at twopence for enough to 'get drunk', was also compared to the price of candles, which were sixpence per pound in weight.
Oil lamps can be more cost-effective than candles, depending on the type of oil used. Oil candles cost about 2 cents per hour to burn, while pillar candles cost about 5 cents per hour. This means that using oil can lead to significant savings over time, especially when multiple candles are needed. Oil lamps are also reusable and can last for a long time, whereas candles are typically meant for one-time use. The waste generated by wax candles can also add to their overall cost, as the mess created by wax drippings needs to be cleaned up, reducing the overall burn time of the candle.
The variety of designs and styles of oil lamps and candles also plays a role in their cost. Oil lamps made from brass or other materials can be quite decorative and are often used during festivities or power outages. Candles also come in various types, such as votive, pillar, and taper, with scented and decorative options available.
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Oil lamp reusability
Oil lamps have been used for thousands of years, dating back to the Mesolithic period (c. 10,300–8000 BC), and they continue to be used today, although less commonly. They were once a primary source of lighting and were used as an alternative to candles before the invention of electric lights.
Oil lamps are reusable and can be refuelled with a variety of substances, including plant-based oils such as walnut, almond, kukui, sesame, olive, castor, and flax, as well as animal fats like butter, ghee, fish oil, shark liver, whale blubber, and seal oil. In the 1830s, with the decline of the whale oil industry, camphene and burning fluid, a mixture of turpentine and alcohol, were also introduced as lamp fuels.
The reusability of oil lamps is a significant advantage, as they can be refuelled repeatedly, making them a more economical and sustainable option compared to candles. While candles are typically single-use and need to be replaced frequently, oil lamps only require a refill of their fuel source. This reusability not only reduces waste but also makes oil lamps a more cost-effective option in the long run.
The maintenance of oil lamps is relatively straightforward. The wicks need to be trimmed periodically to ensure a consistent flame shape, and the chimneys should be cleaned with soapy water or scrubbed with newspaper. It is also important to remove the deflector and clean any accumulated bugs and dust using a narrow paintbrush.
In terms of fuel choices for modern-day oil lamps, kerosene and lamp oil are the most common options. Lamp oil is generally preferred due to its stability and indefinite shelf life, although it tends to be more expensive. Kerosene is a cheaper alternative but has several drawbacks, including an unpleasant smell, skin irritation if spilled, and a tendency to lose potency over time. Other fuels, such as olive oil and cooking oil, can also be used in oil lamps, although adjustments to the wick length may be necessary.
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Candle one-time use
Candles have been used for over two millennia and were a significant source of indoor lighting until the invention of other light sources. The use of oil lamps, for example, began thousands of years ago and replaced candles before electric lighting was introduced.
In the 18th century, lighting was dim, and people often had to sit in the dark without candles. Wealthier households could afford to use candles made of beeswax, but these were expensive and mostly used by the elite and churches. Tallow was a cheaper alternative, but it produced an unpleasant smell, especially tallow from pigs, which produced black smoke.
The cost of candles was high in the 18th century. A pound of cheap candles cost sixpence, whereas one could get 'dead drunk' on gin for twopence. After 1750, candle-making technology improved, but at a higher price.
To ensure proper burning, a candle should be burned for one hour for every inch in diameter of its size. For example, a candle that is two inches across should burn for two hours. Burning a candle for too long will cause carbon to collect on the wick, leading to an unstable flame that could be dangerous. It is recommended that candles are not burned for longer than four hours and are allowed to cool for at least two hours before being relit.
To extend the life of a candle, it is important to trim the wick to a quarter of an inch before lighting it and to remove any debris from the wax pool. Trimming the wick will help the candle burn up to 25% longer and prevent the flame from unexpectedly flaring up.
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Cleaning costs
The cleaning costs of candles and lamps depend on several factors, including the frequency of cleaning, the specific services requested, and whether professional help is sought.
Cleaning Candles
Candles can quickly get dusty and dirty and require regular cleaning to maintain their appearance and burn effectively. The recommended cleaning method for candles is to use lukewarm water to avoid the risk of fire. Additionally, storing candles in a cool, dry place with their lids securely fastened helps prevent dust and debris accumulation. Regular cleaning, such as dusting, is typically recommended every few weeks.
Cleaning Lamps
Lamps, including those fuelled by oil or electricity, also require regular cleaning as part of general housekeeping. Lamps may be dusted or wiped down as part of standard cleaning services. More intensive cleaning, such as scrubbing or cleaning hard-to-reach areas, may be included in deep cleaning services.
Professional Cleaning Costs
The cost of hiring a professional cleaner depends on various factors, including the size and location of the house, the frequency of cleaning, and the specific services requested. On average, regular house cleaning services in the US range from $150 to $350, with a national average of $168 according to homeadvisor.com and $221 according to fixr.com. Deep cleaning services typically cost more, ranging from $200 to $400, and can go up to $1000 for bigger or messier jobs. These prices can be charged per hour, per room, or per square foot, depending on the cleaning company's pricing structure.
In summary, the cleaning costs of candles and lamps are primarily determined by the level of care and maintenance required and whether professional cleaning services are utilised. Regular cleaning of candles and lamps can help maintain their appearance and functionality, while professional cleaning services can provide more intensive cleaning for the entire living space.
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Oil lamp waste
Oil lamps have been used for thousands of years, with the earliest stone-oil lamp discovered in a cave in Lascaux, France, dating back 10,000 to 15,000 years. Over time, the design and materials used for oil lamps evolved, with different types of oils and wicks being utilised.
While oil lamps provided a source of light, they also produced waste, which could be harmful if not disposed of properly. Here are some considerations and guidelines regarding oil lamp waste:
Types of Waste
The primary waste generated by oil lamps is the used oil. Different types of oils have been used throughout history, including vegetable oils, animal fats, fish oil, whale oil, camphene, and kerosene. Today, lamp oil is typically a refined and purified hydrocarbon oil that burns in an odourless and soot-free manner. However, waste oil from any of these sources can be harmful to plumbing and the environment if not handled correctly.
Another type of waste associated with oil lamps is the wick material. Wicks can be made from various materials, including cotton, paper towels, absorbent string, or bits of rag. While these materials may seem innocuous, they can become contaminated with oil residue, making them potentially hazardous waste.
Disposal Methods
When it comes to disposing of used oil from an oil lamp, it is essential to avoid pouring it down the drain or into water bodies. Oil can contaminate water and harm aquatic life. Instead, used oil should be collected and stored in a sealed container, such as a jar or bottle. You can then dispose of it at a designated hazardous waste facility or recycling centre. Some communities have specific programmes for used oil collection and recycling.
For wick waste, it is generally safe to dispose of wick remnants in the regular trash if they are no longer contaminated with oil. However, if the wicks are heavily soaked in oil, it is advisable to burn off the excess oil in a safe, controlled manner before disposal to reduce the risk of accidental fires.
Reusing and Recycling
Used oil from oil lamps can sometimes be reused or recycled. Some communities have programmes that collect used oil for conversion into biodiesel or other industrial purposes. Additionally, certain types of oils, such as vegetable-based oils, can be recycled for use in other applications, such as soap making or as a lubricant. Recycling used oil helps reduce the environmental impact and promotes sustainability.
In summary, proper disposal of oil lamp waste is essential to minimise environmental harm and potential health risks. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can ensure that the waste from your oil lamp is handled responsibly and, in some cases, even put to good reuse or recycled for another purpose.
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Frequently asked questions
Oil lamps are generally cheaper than candles, depending on the type of oil used. Candles are meant for one-time use, while oil lamps can be reused and are more efficient as they burn through the last drop of oil.
Oils used in oil lamps in the Victorian era include olive oil, rape oil, colza oil, tobacco seeds oil, coconut oil, and vegetable wax.
Ancient candles were made from fallow, natural fat, and wax. In the Middle Ages, wax candles and torches were used for religious and private purposes. Tallow candles were also used, made from animal fats such as beef or mutton fat.
Oil lamps were used before candles. Oil lamps have been used for thousands of years, dating back to the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods. Candles, on the other hand, became more common in the Middle Ages.
