Understanding Candle Tunneling

You've probably experienced it: you light your favorite candle, only to find that it's burning unevenly, creating a deep well in the center while the edges remain largely untouched. This frustrating phenomenon is known as tunneling.

Why Does Tunneling Happen?

• Inadequate Melt Pool: If the initial melt pool (the area of melted wax around the wick) isn't wide enough, the flame can't effectively melt the surrounding wax. This leads to a deep hole forming around the wick.
• Incorrect Wick Size: A wick that's too small won't melt the wax efficiently, while a wick that's too large can cause excessive melting and even create a mushrooming effect (where the flame engulfs the wick).
• Air Currents: Drafts can disrupt the flame and prevent even melting.
• Wax Composition: Some waxes, like certain types of soy wax, may be more prone to tunneling.

Preventing Tunneling:

• Create a Wide Initial Melt Pool: Let the candle burn for a sufficient amount of time (usually 2-3 hours) on the first lighting to create a wide, even melt pool.
• Trim the Wick: Regularly trim the wick to ¼ inch before each lighting. This ensures a clean burn and prevents excessive heat.
• Even Burning: Keep the candle away from drafts and air vents.
• Candle Rotation: Gently rotate the candle occasionally to ensure even melting.
• Consider a Candle Warmer: For those prone to tunneling, a candle warmer can provide even heat distribution and prevent the formation of a deep well.

Tunneling isn't just an aesthetic issue; it can shorten the candle's lifespan and even create safety hazards. By understanding the causes and implementing these preventive measures, you can enjoy your candles to the fullest and ensure they burn safely and efficiently.