Candles are a delightful way to add warmth and ambiance to any space, but nothing is more frustrating than seeing your beloved candle burn unevenly, creating a tunnel down the center. In this blog, we’ll explain what candle tunneling is, why it happens, and most importantly, how to fix and prevent it.
What does “candle tunneling” mean?
Candle tunneling occurs when a candle burns down the middle, leaving a ring of unused wax around the edges. Instead of burning evenly across the surface, the flame only melts a small area, creating a tunnel-like effect. This not only looks unsightly but also means you aren’t getting the full use of your candle, as much of the wax is left unburned.
Why Does Tunneling Happen?
There are several reasons why candle tunneling can occur:
- Short Burn Times: One of the most common causes of candle tunneling is not burning your candle long enough during the first few uses. The initial burn should allow the wax to melt all the way to the edge of the container, establishing a full melt pool. If this doesn’t happen, the candle will start tunneling.
- Incorrect Wick Size: If the wick is too small for the candle, it won’t generate enough heat to melt the wax evenly. Conversely, a wick that is too large can cause the candle to burn too quickly and unevenly.
- Environmental Factors: Drafts, air conditioning, or fans can cause the flame to flicker and burn unevenly, leading to tunneling.
- Poor Candle Quality: Sometimes, the issue can stem from the candle itself. Poorly made candles with low-quality wax or improperly centered wicks are more prone to tunneling.
How to Fix Candle Tunneling
If you have a candle that has already started tunneling, don’t worry! There are a few methods you can try to fix it:
1. Foil Method:
- Step 1: Light your candle and let it burn for a few minutes.
- Step 2: Take a piece of aluminum foil and wrap it around the top edge of the candle, leaving an opening at the top for the flame.
- Step 3: Allow the candle to burn for an hour or so. The heat will reflect off the foil, helping to melt the wax around the edges.
- Step 4: Once the wax has melted evenly, carefully remove the foil.
- Step 1: Use a heat gun or hair dryer on a low setting to gently melt the wax around the edges of the candle.
- Step 2: Hold the heat source a few inches away from the wax and move it in a circular motion until the wax is evenly melted.
When using your hair dryer, don't turn it on directly over the candle — hold it far away and slowly move it closer to an appropriate distance where it won't be blowing melted wax all over the place. Continue heating until the entire top surface of wax has completely melted and smoothed over. Relight your candle and allow it to burn for at least 30 minutes or until you can no longer see any tunneling.
How to Prevent Tunneling When Burning Your Candles
- First Burn: Ensure that your first burn lasts long enough for the wax to melt all the way to the edges of the container. This usually takes about 1 hour per inch of diameter.
- Trim the Wick: Always trim the wick to about ¼ inch before each use. This helps the candle burn evenly and prevents the flame from getting too large and uneven.
- Avoid Drafts: Place your candle in a location where it is not exposed to drafts, fans, or air conditioning vents. This will help maintain a steady, even flame.
- Choose Quality Candles: Invest in high-quality candles from reputable brands like I Scented Candle. Our candles are made with the finest ingredients and designed to burn evenly and cleanly.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can enjoy your candles to the fullest, without the frustration of tunneling. Remember, the key to a long-lasting, even burn is proper candle care from the very first use.
At I Scented Candle, we are dedicated to providing you with the best quality candles and ensuring you have the best candle experience. Explore our collection of handmade candles, perfect for gifting on special occasions like Mother’s Day and weddings