How Long Do Candles Last & Can They Expire?
Candles have been a source of illumination and ambience for centuries, casting a warm and flickering glow in various settings, from intimate dinners to religious ceremonies.
While their primary purpose has evolved, a common question arises among candle enthusiasts and casual users alike: How long do candles last? The lifespan of a candle is influenced by a myriad of factors, including its size, composition and burning conditions.
In this exploration, we will delve into the key determinants that impact the longevity of candles, offering insights into the science behind their burn and practical tips for maximizing their lifespan.
Whether you use candles for relaxation, celebration or simple decoration, understanding the factors that govern their endurance can enhance your candlelit experiences.
How long do candles last?
There are many different types of candles, ranging from votives and tea lights to pillars and tapers. However, the general lifespan of a candle can be broken down into two main categories: burn time and shelf life.
Burn time refers to the length of time a candle will stay lit before it burns out completely. On average, most candles last between 20-40 hours, depending on their size and composition.
Shelf life, on the other hand, refers to how long a candle will last in storage before it starts to degrade or lose its scent. Typically, candles can last for several years if stored properly in a cool and dry place.
Factors influencing candle burn time
- Size and shape: The size and shape of a candle play a significant role in how long it will last. Generally, larger candles will have a longer burn time compared to smaller ones due to their larger wax pool.
- Wax type: The type of wax used in a candle can also impact its burn time. Paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum, tends to burn faster than natural waxes like soy or beeswax.
- Wick type: The type of wick used in a candle can also affect its burn time. Cotton wicks tend to burn longer and cleaner compared to other types of wicks.
- Burning conditions: The environment in which a candle is burned can also impact its lifespan. Candles burned in drafty areas or near a fan will burn faster due to increased oxygen flow. Similarly, candles burned in a narrow container may burn quickly due to the limited air circulation.
Average lifespan of different candles
| Candle Type | Average Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Taper Candles | 6-8 hours |
| Pillar Candles | 12-16 hours |
| Tea Lights | 4-6 hours |
| Votive Candles | 8-10 hours |
| Jar Candles | 20-30 hours |
One of the key factors that determine the burn time of candles is their size and shape. As seen in the table above, taper candles typically have a shorter lifespan compared to pillar or jar candles. This is because they are narrower and therefore contain less wax, resulting in a smaller fuel source for combustion.
Tips for maximizing candle lifespan
- Trim the wick: To ensure a longer burn time, it’s important to regularly trim your candle’s wick to ¼ inch before each use. This will prevent the flame from burning too hot and cause the candle to melt faster.
- Avoid drafts: As mentioned earlier, drafty areas or areas with increased airflow can cause candles to burn faster. To maximize their lifespan, keep candles away from fans or open windows.
- Burn in 1-2 hour increments: It’s recommended to only burn candles for 1-2 hours at a time. This allows the wax to melt evenly and minimizes the risk of tunnelling, which can decrease a candle’s burn time.
- Allow the wax pool to fully melt: Before extinguishing the flame, ensure that the wax pool has melted evenly to the edges of the container. This will prevent tunnelling and ensure that no wax is wasted.
- Using candle accessories: Using accessories like candle holders or shades can also help maximize a candle’s lifespan by protecting it from drafts and ensuring an even burn.
- Store candles properly: To maintain their scent and quality, it’s important to store candles in a cool and dry place when not in use. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. You can also wrap candles into tissue paper & gift wraps for longer life.
Common issues and troubleshooting
- Tunnelling and uneven burning: This occurs when the wax pool doesn’t melt evenly, leaving a tunnel in the centre of the candle. To fix this issue, try burning the candle for longer periods or using a heat source to gently melt and even out the wax pool.
- Black soot: Soot can form on candles due to an untrimmed wick or burning in a drafty area. To avoid this, regularly trim the wick and ensure a still environment while burning.
- Flickering or uneven flame: This can happen if there is debris or dust on the wick. Gently blow out the candle, remove any debris from the wick and relight for a more even burn.
- Excessive dripping: Dripping can occur when a candle is placed at an angle or in a drafty area. Ensure the candle is on a flat surface and away from any airflow to prevent dripping.
FAQs – Candle Lifespan & Expiry
How long does a Yankee candle last?
Yankee Candles are renowned for their superior quality and long-lasting fragrance. They come in a wide variety of sizes with differing burn times.
The smaller votive candles or tea lights typically last around 15 hours, while medium-sized candles can offer up to 75 hours of burn time. The large jar candles, which are arguably the most popular, are designed to last anywhere between 110 to 150 hours.
These estimates assume optimal burning conditions, which include trimming the wick to 1/8 inch before every burn, burning in a draft-free environment and allowing the candle to burn long enough for the wax pool to reach the edge of the jar before extinguishing.
Can candles expire?
While candles do not have an expiration date, their scent and quality can diminish over time. Exposure to sunlight, extreme temperatures or moisture can also affect the appearance and performance of a candle.
Proper storage in a cool and dry place will help maintain its quality for longer periods. However, it’s recommended to use candles within 1-2 years of purchase for optimal scent and burn time. So, it’s best to buy candles in packaging boxes & small batches if you don’t plan on using them immediately.
How can I store candles to prolong their life?
To prolong the life of your candles, it’s important to store them properly.
- Keep them in a cool and dry place: Exposure to heat and humidity can melt or warp the wax, affecting its burn time.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Sunlight can cause discolouration or fading on the candle’s surface.
- Store away from strong scents: Candles can absorb strong scents, so it’s best to keep them away from perfumes or other fragranced products.
- Keep the wick upright: Storing candles on their side can cause the wax to shift and affect their burn time.
By following these storage tips, you can ensure that your candles maintain their quality and scent for a longer period. So, the next time you stock up on candles, make sure to store them properly for the best experience.
Final Words
In conclusion, the lifespan of candles is influenced by various factors such as the type of wax, wick quality and burning conditions. Generally, candles can last anywhere from 15-20 hours.
It is essential to follow proper burning practices to maximize their longevity and ensure safety. Whether used for ambience, religious ceremonies or aromatherapy, understanding the factors that affect candle burn time allows consumers to make informed choices and enjoy the desired atmospheric effects.
Regular maintenance, proper storage and consideration of environmental factors contribute to a longer and more efficient candle lifespan. Ultimately, the duration of a candle’s glow is a delicate interplay of craftsmanship, usage and environmental variables that add to the charm and functionality of this timeless source of light.
