Candle Flicker

Why Do Candles Flicker?

There are many reasons why candles flicker some of which are just the normal way in which a candle flame works. A candle flame is not a steady source of light, but rather a dynamic and constantly changing phenomenon. Candle flicker is normal for candles unless the flickering becomes excessive. So why do candles flicker?

• As the wax in the candle melts, the wax is drawn up the wick by capillary action. The heat from the flame then vaporises the wax, creating a mixture of wax vapour and air that is ignited by the heat of the flame. This creates a region of hot, glowing gas that rises above the wick.
• However, the flame is not perfectly stable, and is affected by a number of factors, such as the movement of air currents in the room, the shape of the wick, and the composition of the wax. These factors can cause the flame to fluctuate and dance around, resulting in the characteristic candle flickering that we see.
• In addition, as the hot gas rises, it cools and mixes with cooler air, causing it to contract and become denser. This creates a flow of air that can cause the flame to flicker even more.

Overall, the flickering of a candle flame is a complex phenomenon that arises from the interaction of many different factors, and it is one of the things that makes candles such a fascinating and captivating source of light.

FelinFach Handmade Candles, Accessories and Soapery

Why do Candles Flicker When There is no Wind?

Other Reasons Why Candles Flicker

• Uneven wax pool. If the wax pool around the wick is not even, it can also cause the flame to flicker. This can happen if the candle is not placed on a level surface, or if the wax has not been melted completely before lighting the candle.
• Wax impurities. If there are impurities in the wax, such as air bubbles or dirt, these can disrupt the flow of heat and oxygen to the flame, causing it to flicker.
• Moisture in the wax. If the wax is not completely dry, this can also cause the candle to flicker.
• Too large or too small of a wick. A wick that is too large will burn too quickly, causing the flame to flicker. A wick that is too small will not produce enough heat to melt the wax properly, also causing the flame to flicker.
• Dirty or damaged wick. A dirty or damaged wick can also cause the candle to flicker. This is because the wick is not able to draw up the wax properly, which can disrupt the flame.
• Improper burning technique. If a candle is not burned properly, it can also cause the flame to flicker. This includes things like burning the candle for too long at a time, or not trimming the wick regularly.
• Burning the candle too close to an object. If the candle is burning too close to an object, such as a wall or a piece of furniture, this can also cause it to flicker. To prevent this, leave at least 3 inches of space between the candle and any object.

To prevent candle flickering, you can try the following:

• Place the candle in a draft-free area.
• Make sure the wax pool is even.
• Use the correct size wick for the candle.
• Trim the wick to 1/4 inch before each use.
• Burn the candle for the recommended amount of time.
• Extinguish the candle if it starts to flicker excessively.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your candles burn as smoothly and evenly as possible with the minimum candle flickering.

About FelinFach

     

Located in Pembrokeshire Wales, our ethos is defined in the three words...

NATURAL TRADITIONAL HANDMADE.

• Hand woven iconic Welsh blankets and Welsh tapestry blankets
• Handmade candles, fragrance, and candle accessories
• Natural Dyeing Craft courses
• Yarn shop, hand dyed yarn, yarn bowls, project bags, tools and accessories for knitters and crafters
• Welsh Gifts, souvenirs, made in Wales, handmade in Wales

We are a proud supporter of the Campaign for Wool, All Things Wales, Global Welsh and Red Dragon America.