Free Candle Burning Problem
Troubleshooting Guide

Candle Makers - to troubleshoot candle burning problems, just answer the questions in order. Please note that some burning problems are caused a combination of things and may require more than one use of this troubleshooter. Fix one problem at a time then run through the troubleshooter again if a problem persists.

1. Does the candle drip or run excessively?
   If yes click here, if no continue to question 2.
2. Does the wick drown in it's own melt pool?
   If yes click here, if no continue to question 3.
3. Does the wick starve for wax (little or no melt pool)?
   If yes click here, if no continue to question 4.
4. Does the flame flicker a lot?
   If yes click here, if no continue to question 5.
5. Does the candle burn unevenly?
   If yes click here, if no continue to question 6.
6. Does the candle smoke or produce a lot of soot?
   If yes click here, if no continue to question 7.
7. Does a carbon mushroom form on the end of the wick?
   If yes click here, if no continue to question 8.
8. Does the candle burn exceptionally fast?
   If yes click here, if no continue to question 9.
9. Is the flame excessively large?
   If yes click here, if no continue to question 10.
10. Does your scented candle not smell when burning?
    If yes click here, if no see below.

If your problem does not fit into any of these categories, please search our knowledgebase. If the answer is not in the knowledgebase, click here to submit your question.

Background Information
Most candle makers experience burning problems related to incorrect wick size. Most of the time the problem can easily be corrected by changing to a larger or smaller wick depending on the problem. Candle makers may also encounter burning problems that are not wick related, but these are less common.

Disclaimer: The information presented here is accurate to the best of my knowledge and common candle making practices as of the time of this writing - January 2006. The author and the publisher accept no liability for the use or misuse of any of the information presented in this article. This article is presented for informational purposes and is used at your own risk.

Author: Bob Sherman

Publisher: Bobby's Craft Boutique Inc.

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