Troubleshooting Guide
At Lumen Candle Co., we blend coconut and soy wax for a smooth, clean burn and a wonderful fragrance throw. While this natural wax blend provides an excellent candle experience, it can sometimes present small challenges. Below are common issues and how to resolve them to get the best results from your coconut soy wax candles:
1. Candle Tunneling (Wax melts only around the wick)
Problem: The wax burns down the center of the candle, leaving unused wax along the sides.
Solution:
- On your first burn, allow the candle to burn for 3-4 hours until the wax melts completely across the surface. This helps the wax pool evenly and prevents tunneling in future burns.
- Always burn the candle for at least 2-4 hours at a time to ensure an even melt.
Problem: A small amount of wax remains along the side of the jar, creating an uneven burn.
Solution:
- A small amount of wax hang-up is normal during the first 2-4 hour burns as the glass jar heats up.
- As the candle continues to burn, the wax will "catch up" and melt during later burn cycles.
- To help ensure a more even burn, allow the candle to burn for longer periods (2-4 hours) at a time, and avoid extinguishing it too soon during the first few uses.
3. Frosting (White, cloudy spots on the wax)
Problem: White, frosty patches appear on the surface of the wax.
Solution:
- Frosting is a natural characteristic of soy wax and does not affect the candle’s performance or scent throw. It occurs as the wax cools and solidifies, especially in cooler temperatures.
- If you prefer a smoother look, you can gently heat the top of the wax with a hair dryer to even out the surface (just be cautious not to overheat it).
4. Low or No Scent Throw (Fragrance not strong enough)
Problem: The candle doesn't seem to release enough fragrance when burned.
Solution:
- Ensure the candle is burned for at least 2-4 hours to allow the fragrance to properly diffuse.
- Keep your candle in a well-ventilated area but not in a draft. Candles need a stable environment to properly release their scent.
- If you're using a smaller candle in a large room, try using multiple candles for a stronger scent throw.
5. Sooting or Excessive Smoke
Problem: The candle is producing black soot or smoke when burned.
Solution:
- Trim the wick to about 1/4 inch before lighting the candle to prevent excessive smoke.
- Avoid burning your candle in windy conditions or near a fan, which can cause the wick to flicker and produce soot.
- If the wick is too long, it will cause the candle to burn too hot, leading to smoke. Always keep the wick trimmed.
6. Candle Jar Cracking or Breaking
Problem: The glass jar cracks or breaks during use.
Solution:
- Avoid placing your candle on a cold or uneven surface when it’s burning. Always ensure it’s on a heat-resistant surface.
- Never let the candle burn all the way down to the bottom—this can cause the glass to overheat.
7. Candle Not Lighting or Flickering Flame
Problem: The candle flame flickers or won’t stay lit.
Solution:
- Ensure the wick is trimmed to the proper length (about 1/4 inch).
- If the wick has burned too low, the flame might not stay lit. In this case, try gently scraping off any excess wax around the wick to expose it.
- A flickering flame can also be caused by drafts, so try burning your candle in a calm, draft-free area.
General Tips for Soy Wax Candles:
- Always burn your candle on a flat, heat-resistant surface.
- Never leave a burning candle unattended.
- Keep candles out of reach of children and pets.
- Allow the candle to cool completely before moving it.
- Avoid burning candles for more than 4 hours at a time.
- For a clean, even burn, trim the wick before each use to avoid black soot and smoky residue.