Trimming a Lamp's Wick

Lamp wicks need regular trimming.

Kerosene lamps are still used for camping and electricity-free light in the home. Lamp fuel creates a lot of carbon, which stains the inside of the glass globe. Over time, the wick of your lantern will begin to blacken and harden as well under the heat and carbon of the flame it helps create. Regular trimming of the wick after every or every other use will increase the efficiency of the lantern and prevent unnecessary fuel consumption.

Things You'll Need

• Wick trimmer

Instructions

1. Lift up on the glass globe and tilt it to the side to remove it from the rest of the lantern. You may need to rotate the globe to loosen it from the lantern before tilting it.

2. Turn the knob to extend the wick from the lantern 1/2 inch.

3. Cut 1/4 inch from the wick, cutting straight across. A straight cut will create a better flame.

4. Replace the glass globe.

References

• W.T. Kirkman Lanterns: Lantern Care & Terminology
• Alpha Rubicon; Oil Lamp Basics; Trip Williams; June 2002