Issues with oil lamps…. for anyone new to the critters. lol
Spare Parts:
wicks [ found on-line or craft/hardware stores, sometimes.] Measure width; they vary.
glass globes – so fragile. Even the ones semi-protected on the outdoor lanterns. Pack away some spares.
Trimming the wicks:
Use scissors to get the gunky blobs off. The more even the flame, the less soot/smell. AND less cleaning the soot off the glass chimney. Look up shapes to trim….interesting. Triangle point vs straight across.
Fire Danger:
CAREFULLY hold your hand above the globe at the level of anything that might be too close. Ceiling…. Shelves above…. The wall or something hanging above…. You’ll know if that is NOT a good place to position your oil lamp. The narrow part of the globe focuses the heat….be careful when you test for this! HOT! [I do this with candles too but lamps produce more heat.]
Of course breaking/spilling the lamp could be an issue. Keep well away from kids/pets/other obstructions. DO YOU HAVE FIRE SUPPRESSION DEVICES AT THE READY?
Fuel:
They are sometimes called kerosene lamps. Kerosene stinks but certainly can be used. All should have at least a bit of ventilation, btw. Because they are burning oxygen.
Lamp oil….liquid parafin is used more often now. This product is a lot more refined of impurities than kerosene….and it costs more. But the stink and impurities in your lungs may off-set the price increase. [look up this topic too for your own information]
Scented or not. Consider the scent if you end up using the lamp for a week after huge storm brings down power lines. Would you or yours get sick of it? Anyone allergic to scents?
OldMtWoman …just some extra details
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This reply was modified 9 months ago by
OldMt Woman.