So, you just picked up an antique oil lamp at a garage sale, and aren't sure what type of oil to use? Planning a weekend barbecue, but not sure what to put in the tiki torches? Not to fear - picking the right fuel is simple.
To start, most oil and fuel manufacturers make your job easy by selling fuels marked "tiki torch fuel" or "lamp oil". The best advice is to not experiment, and use the fuel specially developed for your product. For those oils and fuels not so identified, here are the basics:
For Lamps, Candles & Lanterns: Liquid paraffin is the oil of choice for oil lamps, oil candles, and lanterns (antique and new). This nearly odorless, smoke-free oil is safe to use indoors or outdoors. Paraffin oil CAN be used in tiki torches, but it won't give you the same flame performance (or insect-repelling smoke) as tiki torch fuel. NOTE: Overseas, the word "paraffin" is also used for kerosene, leading to some confusion. The paraffin oil sold in the U.S. is NOT kerosene. Liquid paraffin burns cleaner than kerosene, with less soot and odor.
For Tiki Torches: This one is easier - use ONLY fuels designated as "tiki torch fuel". What you're getting is a petroleum-based product created specifically for use in tiki torches, that should be used exclusively outdoors. This fuel will smoke when burned. Learn about the properties of Citronella Oil and Eucalyptus Oil that make them a must-have at your next outdoor event. Our non-petroleum-based fuels are available pure or sourced with Citronella or Eucalyptus Oil. See our earlier post for more details about what's really in tiki torch fuel.
Have a specific lamp or torch in mind, and not sure what fuel to use? Just ask! 888-472-6740.
