Candle Burn Time Estimator – Online Wax Type & Wick

Candle burn time is calculated based on the wax weight, the type of wax (each wax has a different burn rate measured in minutes per gram), the wick type (which affects flame size and fuel consumption rate), and the number of wicks (multiple wicks consume wax faster). The formula used is:
Burn Time = Wax Weight × Burn Rate × Wick Factor ÷ (Wick Count^0.85).

Beeswax typically burns the longest (~8–10 minutes per gram), followed by soy wax (~7–9 min/g). Paraffin wax burns faster (~5–7 min/g) but is often cheaper. Beeswax candles not only last longer but also emit a natural honey-like fragrance and produce negative ions that can help purify the air.

Yes. Each additional wick creates another flame, which means more wax is melted and consumed simultaneously. A candle with 2 wicks will burn roughly 45% faster than the same candle with 1 wick. With 3 wicks, the burn time drops to about 35–40% of the single-wick duration. However, multiple wicks provide a stronger scent throw and more even melt pool.

Cotton wicks generally yield a slightly longer burn time because they produce a smaller, more controlled flame. Wooden wicks create a wider flame that consumes wax faster (about 10–12% quicker), but they offer a pleasant crackling sound reminiscent of a fireplace, which many people find soothing and worth the trade-off.

• Trim the wick to ¼ inch (6mm) before each burn – this prevents excessive flame size and sooting.
• Avoid drafts – burning in a draft-free area ensures even melting.
• Allow full melt pool on the first burn – let the wax melt to the edges of the container to prevent tunneling.
• Burn in intervals of 2–4 hours at a time.
• Store candles properly in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Soy wax has a higher melting point (around 49–57°C / 120–135°F) compared to paraffin wax (around 37–43°C / 99–110°F). This higher melting point means soy wax requires more energy to liquefy, resulting in a slower, more controlled burn. Additionally, soy wax is denser than paraffin, packing more fuel into the same volume.

The dimensions-based estimation provides a reasonable approximation (typically within ±15–20%) by calculating the cylindrical volume and multiplying by the wax density with an 85% fill factor. However, for precise burn time estimates, we strongly recommend weighing your candle on a kitchen scale. Container shape irregularities, air pockets, and actual fill levels can all affect the real wax weight.

Tunneling occurs when only the wax directly around the wick melts, leaving a ring of hard wax around the edges. This wastes wax and significantly reduces total burn time because the unmelted wax becomes inaccessible. To prevent tunneling, always let your candle burn long enough on the first use for the melt pool to reach the container edges (usually 1 hour per inch of diameter).