Frequently asked questions about candle-burning

Does it matter how long I burn my candle at each use?

Yes.  Most candles are designed to burn just over an hour per inch in diameter.  The ideal burn time for an Ergo glass-filled candle is approximately 3-4 hours.  If you burn the candle for lesser periods, it will start to "tunnel" - burn a hole down the center, leaving wax unused.  So don't feel you are being extravagant letting your candle burn for several hours.  This is a good thing - enjoy!

How do I keep my candle from tunneling?

To avoid tunneling, burn the candle for the appropriate time more often than not.  If your candle does start to tunnel and has not gone too deep, try letting it burn for an even longer period.  Ergo candles are designed to burn all the way to the edge, so there is no waste.  The glass container keeps them from spilling over.

When should I trim the candle wick?

Typically, wicks should be trimmed every 3 to 4 hours of burning.  For an Ergo candle that is burned the recommended time period, just trim the wick prior to each use.  This is easily done without scissors, thanks to the all-cotton wick.  

Prior to each re-lighting simply pinch off the charred tip, using a tissue to keep your fingers clean.  The tip will break off in the perfect place almost every time (Don't try this with metal-core wicks, as they usually break off below the wax line).  Trimming the wick is important to keep your Ergo candle burning cleanly and without smoking.

What do I do if my candle starts burning to one side?

If you notice your candle starting to burn off-center, check for a draft and, if need be, relocate the candle.  If the problem isn't a draft, adjust the wick.  All-cotton wicks, like those in Ergo candles, do not stay in place as well as the far-less-desirable metal core wicks.

What makes a candle smoke?

Most candles smoke because of the petroleum levels in the wax.  This is not a problem with Ergo candles because they are petroleum-free.  However, any candle flame can smoke if it is not burning efficiently (even essential oils can smoke).  

If your Ergo candle is smoking, the flame is too big or is in a draft, preventing the carbon from burning off.  Remove the candle from the draft and/or trim the wick, so it burns cleanly.

Why make a candle from soy wax?

Soy candles burn soot-free and twice as long as regular wax!  Ergo candles are made of high-quality food-grade soy (Don't eat, though, because of the added fragrances).