There's nothing quite as disappointing as lighting up your favorite bong candle, only to find that it's tunneling its way down the center, leaving behind a thick wall of wax and extinguishing your hopes for a long, fragrant burn. But fear not, candle lovers, for we're here to shed some light on the issue of tunneling and provide you with the tools to prevent it from happening again.
What is Candle Tunneling?
First things first, let's talk about what exactly candle tunneling is. Tunneling occurs when a candle burns down the center, leaving a thick ring of wax along the edges of the container. This not only wastes wax but also prevents the candle from achieving its full burn potential, resulting in a shorter lifespan and diminished fragrance throw.
Causes of Tunneling
Several factors can contribute to candle tunneling, including:
- Improper Wick Trimming: A wick that is too long can lead to excessive heat, causing the wax to melt unevenly and tunnel down the center. Alternatively, a wick that is too short won’t provide enough fuel to heat up the entire top of your candle. Our bong candles burn best when the wick is trimmed to about a half an inch in length.
- Short Burn Times: Candles need time to achieve a full melt pool, so burning them for short periods can encourage tunneling.
- Drafts or Uneven Surfaces: Exposing candles to drafts or placing them on uneven surfaces can disrupt the airflow and lead to uneven burning.
Preventing Tunneling
Now that we understand the causes, let's explore some preventive measures to keep your candles burning bright:
- Trim the Wick: Before lighting your candle, trim the wick on your bong candle to about a half of an inch. This helps control the size of the flame and ensures an even burn.
- Extended Burn Times: Allow your candle to burn for at least two to three hours during each use, or until the entire surface has melted into a pool of wax. This helps prevent tunneling and promotes an even burn.
- Avoid Drafts: Place your candle away from drafty areas or use a candle holder to shield it from breezes. This helps maintain a steady flame and prevents uneven burning.
- Rotate Your Candle: If you notice tunneling starting to occur, try rotating your candle periodically while it's burning. This helps redistribute the wax and encourages a more even melt pool.
- Use a Candle Warmer: If tunneling persists, consider using a candle warmer to melt the wax evenly without burning the wick. This can help salvage partially burned candles and prevent further tunneling. We recommend placing your bong candle on a candle warmer on low when the wick becomes hard to reach. Never leave your candle unattended burning or on a warmer!
By following these simple tips and techniques, you can say goodbye to tunneling woes and enjoy long-lasting, fragrant burns with your favorite candles. So go ahead, light up your space and create a warm and inviting ambiance that's sure to brighten any day! Check out our selection of candle accessories for even more ways to step up your candle care game.
