Tiki Torch Maintenance

Getting the most enjoyment from tiki torches requires regular maintenance and cleaning. Keeping tiki torches in their best condition will make them operate safely and last longer.

Cleaning carbon build-up
Propane and natural gas are fuels that burn cleanly. However, these fuels will still leave carbon build-up behind, affecting the efficiency and safety of natural gas tiki torches or propane gas torches. If you have gas tiki torches that use propane or natural gas, you will need to periodically clean the torch head to remove the carbon build-up. The original blackness of a torch head can be deceiving, so regularly monitor for build-up. Clean the head with mild soap and warm water (do not use abrasive cleansers).

Oil torches
Two oils used for oil torches are citronella and paraffin. Citronella oil is great for outdoor use because it helps repel insects. Liquid paraffin oil burns without producing smoke, making it possible for careful indoor use. Oil torches should be inspected before each burn to ensure that the wick is in good shape and that the torch has enough oil. Once you saturate a wick with one type of oil, you shouldn't use different oil with that wick.

Routine maintenance for tiki torches
With any torch, you should check the immediate area around the torch for any combustible items that might be too close to the torch before igniting (such as low-hanging branches, outdoor furniture and umbrellas, etc.). Whether the torch is a portable torch or permanently installed, check its stability. Each time you prepare to light natural gas tiki torches or propane gas torches, look them over to make sure the fuel connection is secure and in good condition.

Keeping tiki torches in their best shape will allow you to enjoy safe, festive lighting for hours on end.