Mercedes Mullins
Lighters are small portable devices that use a spark to ignite a flammable fuel, typically butane, to produce a flame. The development of ferrocerium in 1903 by Carl Auer von Welsbach made modern lighters possible. Since the 1950s, butane has been the fuel of choice for lighters due to its controllable flame and less odour compared to naphtha. Butane lighters use a valved orifice to release gas at a controlled rate, and some are designed with windproof capabilities. Refilling a lighter is a simple process, but caution must be taken to avoid overfilling, as this can lead to dangerous leaks and the risk of fire.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Typical components | Metal or plastic container, flammable liquid/gas/solid, ignition mechanism, extinguishing mechanism |
| Types of fuel | Butane, naphtha, lighter fluid, electricity |
| Fuel capacity | Not specified; varies by lighter type and model |
| Refilling process | Remove push pin to purge remaining air, use butane applicator with rubber grommets to prevent leaks, squirt in lighter fluid until rayon balls dampen, wipe spills with a wet rag |
| Safety precautions | Refill away from flames, do not overfill to prevent leaks and fires, wipe excess fuel and wait for evaporation before igniting |
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What You'll Learn
Lighter fuel types: butane, naphtha, or electric
Lighters typically consist of a metal or plastic container filled with a flammable liquid, a compressed flammable gas, or, in rarer cases, a flammable solid. The choice of fuel can significantly impact the user experience. Here are some of the most common lighter fuel types and their characteristics:
Butane
Butane is a highly flammable, colourless, and easily liquefied gas used in gas-type lighters and butane torches. It is a popular choice for smokers due to its clean-burning properties, high energy density, and lack of odour or taste. Butane lighters produce a stronger, more sturdy flame as the fuel being under pressure forces the flame upwards and outwards. Additionally, butane undergoes rigorous filtration and refinement processes to ensure a clean and consistent burn. Many modern lighters are designed to be refilled with butane, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.
Naphtha
Naphtha, also known as lighter fluid, is a volatile flammable liquid hydrocarbon mixture used in wick-type lighters and burners. It has been a staple fuel for lighters for decades due to its ease of ignition, reliability, and wide availability. Naphtha-based petroleum formulations (petrol) were the standard fuel for lighters until the 1950s when the switch to butane occurred. One disadvantage of naphtha is that it can emit a noticeable odour and taste, which may affect the smoking experience.
Electric
Electric lighters use electricity to create an electric arc, using the created plasma as the source of ignition. They do not require any fuel, which can be convenient. Electric lighters are often incorporated into automobile auxiliary power outlets to ignite target materials. However, they have their limitations, and some users may prefer the traditional experience of using a fuel-based lighter.
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Refilling a Zippo lighter
To begin refilling, take the lighter out of its casing. You can do this by pulling gently on the chimney or flint wheel. If it's difficult to remove, use a tool like a paper clip or screwdriver to help. Once the lighter is out of its case, open the lid.
The next step is to expose the cotton balls or packing material inside the lighter, which absorb the lighter fluid. To do this, lift up the felt pad at the bottom of the lighter with a screwdriver or paper clip. Be careful not to damage the cotton or packing material.
Now you're ready to add the lighter fluid. Zippo recommends using their premium lighter fluid, but other brands can also be used. Fill the lighter slowly, allowing the fluid to saturate the cotton or packing material. Continue filling until the fluid reaches the top of the packing or the cotton starts to change colour. Be careful not to overfill, as this may cause leaking.
Once you've finished filling, wipe away any excess fluid from the lighter and your hands. Then, insert the lighter back into its case. Finally, wait a minute or two before attempting to light the Zippo. This allows the fluid to absorb properly. If the lighter doesn't ignite after a few tries, you may need to add a little more fluid.
With proper care and maintenance, Zippo lighters can last a lifetime. Remember always to handle lighter fluid with caution and keep your lighter fuelled and ready for your next adventure!
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Refilling a butane lighter
First, turn the flame height adjuster to the lowest height using a screwdriver. This keeps the refilling opening tight and helps reduce the amount of air that could get into the tank. Then, use a screwdriver to push the refilling valve to purge the lighter of any leftover air or butane.
Next, shake the butane refill can to prime it. The heavier butane will settle at the bottom of the can, so shake the bottle 5 or 6 times to mix up its contents. Hold the lighter upside down and press the stem of the butane can to the refill valve for 2-3 seconds, a few times.
After refilling, wait 5-15 minutes for the butane to reach room temperature, then test your lighter to see if there is a flame. You may need to adjust the valve using a small flathead screwdriver.
If your lighter is a Zippo, there should be cotton or other absorbent material inside. Liquid lighter fluid should be okay, once the cotton or other material is replaced. Go slow and don't overfill.
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How to prevent overfilling
To prevent overfilling a lighter, it is important to take your time and follow a few key steps. Firstly, ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area, as the lighter fluid is combustible and can irritate your eyes and skin. Choose a clean, flat, and stable surface to work on, and lay down a cover, such as newspaper or a drop cloth, to catch any spills. Before refilling, allow the lighter to cool off completely.
When refilling, work slowly and carefully. If using a Zippo lighter, slowly saturate the packing material with lighter fluid, stopping when the fluid reaches the top of the packing or begins to change colour. For butane lighters, turn the flame adjuster to the lowest height and purge the lighter of any air and leftover butane. Hold the lighter upside down and press the stem of the butane can to the refill valve for a few seconds. Stop adding butane as soon as the lighter feels full.
It is important to avoid getting lighter fluid on your skin, as it is a skin irritant. Wash your hands with soap and water if you come into contact with the fluid. Additionally, wipe up any spills with a damp rag and rinse the rag regularly to prevent the fuel from spreading.
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How to check fuel levels
Checking the fuel level in your lighter is important to ensure it is working correctly and to prevent it from running out of fuel unexpectedly. Here are some detailed steps on how to check the fuel levels in your lighter:
Checking for External Indicators:
Firstly, observe the flame of your lighter. If the flame is weaker than usual, flickers, becomes inconsistent, or doesn't stay lit, it is an indication that your butane fuel level is low. A full fuel tank should produce a steady and powerful flame. If there is no flame at all, even after multiple attempts, it might be a sign that your lighter is out of fuel.
Checking for Audible Indicators:
When you press the ignition button, listen carefully. If you don't hear the small hissing sound of butane being released, your lighter might be out of fuel. If you hear hissing but no flame appears, it could indicate a clogged nozzle or low butane levels.
Checking the Weight:
A full butane lighter will feel heavier due to the pressurized gas inside. If your lighter suddenly feels significantly lighter, it might be a sign that your fuel levels are low and it's time to refill.
Checking the Butane Level Viewer:
Some lighters have a butane level viewer that allows you to visually gauge the fullness of the lighter. Check if your lighter has this feature, as it provides a direct way to monitor fuel levels.
Refill When Necessary:
If you notice any of the above indicators, it's best to refill your lighter with butane to avoid it running out unexpectedly. Always ensure you follow the correct refilling procedure for your specific lighter type.
Remember to also check for other issues, such as a clogged nozzle or a faulty flint, as these can also impact the performance of your lighter.
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Frequently asked questions
Fill your Zippo lighter with enough lighter fluid to saturate the packing material. Do not overfill the lighter, as this will cause it to leak fuel.
Some lighters have a butane level viewer to gauge the lighter's fullness. If your lighter does not have a butane level viewer, you can tell it is full when the fluid reaches the top of the packing material or begins to change colour.
Most lighters use butane as fuel. Older lighters burned "lighter fluid", also known as naphtha, which would saturate a cloth wick and fibre packing to absorb the fluid and prevent it from leaking.
Refilling a lighter is easy and only takes a few minutes. First, purge the remaining air in the lighter by pointing it away from your face and removing the push pin. Then, use a butane applicator to refill the lighter through the refill valve.
