Sylvie Willis
Zippo lighters are easily refillable and can last a lifetime with proper maintenance. The process of refilling involves removing the lighter insert from its case, opening the felt pad at the bottom, and pouring in lighter fluid. It is important to use high-quality lighter fluid to protect the lighter, as methylated spirits and F-gasoline can cause damage. While Zippo brand lighter fluid is recommended, alternatives such as Ronsonol lighter fluid, charcoal lighter fluid, and gasoline can also be used, although these may produce more soot and have stronger odours. It is also important to ensure that the lighter is not overfilled, as this can lead to leakage. Additionally, users should be cautious when handling lighter fluid, as it is a skin irritant, and any spills should be cleaned up immediately.
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What You'll Learn
Removing the inside unit from the case
To remove the inside unit from the case, you'll need to grip your Zippo by the chimney or the flint wheel and pull it out gently. The chimney is where the flame comes out, and the flint wheel is the grooved circle that you turn with your thumb to create a spark. Be careful not to crush the flint wheel or chimney when pulling the lighter from its case. If it's stuck, try using a piece of wire or an unbent paperclip to gently pull it out through one of the holes in the chimney.
Once you've removed the inside unit, you'll be able to access the fuel chamber and refill your Zippo lighter. Remember to always refuel your Zippo before each outing and to keep the lid closed when not in use, as lighter fluid will evaporate over time.
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Opening the felt pad
To open the felt pad on your Zippo lighter, you will first need to remove the inside unit from its outer case. To do this, grip the lighter by the chimney or flint wheel and pull gently.
Once the inside unit is removed, turn it over so that the bottom is facing upwards. You will see a small hole in the middle of the felt pad, with the words "Lift to Fuel" written across it. Insert a small, thin tool, such as a screwdriver or an unbent paperclip, into the hole and gently prise the felt pad open. Alternatively, if you are using Zippo lighter fluid, you can use the nozzle of the fluid can to open the felt pad.
Be careful not to damage the flint wheel or chimney when removing the inside unit, and ensure you do not crush or bend the felt pad when opening it.
Once the felt pad is open, you will have access to the cotton packing material inside the fuel chamber. This is where you will add the lighter fluid to refill your Zippo.
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Pouring in lighter fluid
To pour in lighter fluid, start by removing the inside unit from the Zippo case. You can do this by gripping both sides of the flint wheel and pulling upwards. If it's stuck, try using a piece of wire through a hole in the chimney to help pull it up.
Once the inside unit is removed, turn it over and lift the felt pad at the bottom. You can use a small screwdriver or an unbent paperclip to help you do this. Be sure to only lift the pad, not remove it, as there is a small screw on the side holding it in place.
With the felt pad lifted, you'll expose the cotton packing material inside the fuel chamber. Take your lighter fluid and slowly pour it onto the cotton. Continue pouring until the fluid reaches the top of the packing material or begins to change colour. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause leaking.
After filling, wipe away any excess fluid from the lighter and your hands before igniting. Ensure the fuel can is closed and there is no spilled fuel nearby. If you plan to keep the lighter in your pocket, it's best to place it bottom-down to avoid any fuel from leaking out.
Now, you can try lighting your Zippo. Using your thumb, strike the flint wheel downwards to create a spark. If a flame doesn't appear, repeat the action. Once you're done using the lighter, remember to close the lid to extinguish the flame, as Zippos don't self-extinguish.
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Closing the felt pad
Once you have finished filling your Zippo lighter with fuel, you will need to close the felt pad. This is a crucial step to ensure your lighter works properly and does not leak fuel.
To close the felt pad, start by removing any tools you used to lift it, such as a screwdriver or paperclip. Be sure to also remove the lighter fluid can nozzle if it is still in place. With the felt pad now empty, gently lower it back into its original position. You may need to apply slight pressure to ensure it is securely closed.
The next step is to reinsert the inside unit back into the Zippo case. Hold the bottom of the lighter with one hand and carefully slide the inside unit back into the case with the other. Ensure that the flint wheel is facing upwards and is not crushed or obstructed in any way. Once the inside unit is in place, gently push down on it to secure it in the case.
Finally, screw the flathead screw on the side of the felt pad back into place. This will help keep the felt pad closed and secure. And that's it! You have now successfully closed the felt pad and can move on to testing your Zippo lighter. Remember to always exercise caution when handling lighter fluid and ensure you are in a well-ventilated area.
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Returning the inside unit to the case
Once you have refuelled your Zippo lighter, you will need to return the inside unit to the case. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:
First, ensure that you have allowed the lighter fluid to soak into the cotton for 10 seconds. It is important to be patient during this step, as the cotton needs time to absorb the fluid. Next, close the felt bottom of the lighter by placing the pad back over the hole. You can use your finger or a small tool like a screwdriver to press it gently into place.
Now, it's time to put the lighter back together. Take the inside unit and place it into the top of the metal case. Push down on it firmly but gently, applying gentle pressure until it is secure and sits flush with the rest of the case. Be careful not to crush the flint wheel or chimney during this process.
Once the lighter is reassembled, wait for about one to two minutes before attempting to light it. This gives the lighter fluid time to settle and reduces the risk of any leakage. After waiting, strike the flint wheel to create a spark and ignite the lighter. If the lighter does not light on the first three attempts, open the case again and add a small amount of additional lighter fluid.
Finally, always remember to wash your hands and put away your lighter fluid before using your Zippo lighter. Enjoy your newly refuelled Zippo, but be cautious when lighting it, as the lighter may become hot during extended use.
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Frequently asked questions
Zippo recommends using their own brand of premium lighter fluid, which is designed to work optimally with their lighters. However, alternatives such as Ronson/Ronsonol, charcoal lighter fluid, and butane can also be used.
Lighter fluid evaporates even when the lighter is not in use, so it is important to keep the lid closed when not in use. It is recommended to refuel your Zippo before each outing to ensure it is ready for use.
If your Zippo is not producing a flame, it may be time to refuel. Try striking the flint wheel a few times. If a flame does not appear, open the lid and check the fuel level. If the cotton packing material appears dry, it is time to refill your Zippo.
While Zippo recommends using their own brand of lighter fluid, some alternative fuels that have been known to work include gasoline, lacquer thinner, acetone, denatured alcohol, and charcoal lighter fluid. However, it is important to note that these alternatives may not work as effectively as Zippo fluid and may produce more soot or have a stronger odour.
To refill your Zippo, first remove the inside unit from the case. Turn it over and lift the felt pad to access the fuel chamber. Slowly saturate the packing material with lighter fluid until it is fully wet and slightly darker in colour. Insert the inside unit back into the case, ensuring that any excess fluid is wiped off. Allow the lighter to sit for a minute before striking the flint wheel to create a spark.
