DoubtCalc
DoubtCalc

Candle Burn Time Calculator

Estimate how many hours your candle will burn based on the wax type, total weight, and number of wicks.

How to use this calculator

Select your wax type from the dropdown menu. Each wax type has a different burn rate, and the calculator uses average hours per ounce for that wax as the baseline. Enter the total weight of your candle in ounces, using the net wax weight and not including the container. If you are unsure of the wax weight, subtract the empty container weight from the total weight on the packaging.

Set the number of wicks. Single wick is the default, but many larger candles use two or three wicks for even melting. The calculator adjusts the total burn time based on how multiple wicks increase the overall burn rate. The result shows estimated total hours, burn rate per ounce, and approximate burn sessions based on a recommended 3 to 4 hour burn per session.

How wax type affects burn time

Not all wax burns at the same rate. Beeswax is the densest and slowest burning, making it the longest lasting option per ounce. Soy wax burns slower than paraffin and is a popular choice for container candles because of its clean burn and good scent throw. Paraffin is the fastest burning common wax, but it also tends to have the strongest fragrance projection.

Coconut wax and coconut blends fall between soy and beeswax in burn rate. Many commercial candles use a blend of two or more waxes to balance burn time, scent throw, and cost. If your candle uses a blend, selecting the primary wax type in the calculator gives the closest estimate. For the most accurate results, weigh your candle before and after a timed test burn to calculate your specific burn rate.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a candle burn per ounce of wax?
Burn time per ounce varies by wax type and wick size. Soy wax averages about 7 to 9 hours per ounce. Paraffin burns faster at roughly 5 to 7 hours per ounce. Beeswax is the longest burning at approximately 8 to 10 hours per ounce. Coconut wax falls in the middle at about 7 to 8 hours per ounce. Multiple wicks increase the burn rate and reduce total burn time.
Does the number of wicks affect burn time?
Yes, more wicks mean a faster burn. Each additional wick increases the rate at which wax is consumed. A single wick candle will last significantly longer than a double or triple wick candle of the same size. However, multiple wicks create a fuller melt pool more quickly, which means better scent throw even though the candle burns for fewer total hours.
Why does my candle burn faster than expected?
Several factors cause faster burning. Drafty locations make the flame flicker and consume wax unevenly. An untrimmed wick creates a larger flame that melts wax more quickly. Higher fragrance loads can also slightly reduce burn time because fragrance oil burns at a different rate than pure wax. Burning in short sessions (under 1 hour) causes tunneling, which wastes wax along the container walls.
How can I make my candle last longer?
Trim the wick to 1/4 inch before every burn to keep the flame small and efficient. Burn the candle long enough each session for the melt pool to reach the edges, usually 1 hour per inch of diameter. Keep the candle away from drafts, vents, and fans. Let the candle cool completely between burns. These habits can extend burn time by 20% to 30% compared to poor burning practices.

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