Candle Burn Time Calculator

Calculate how long a candle will burn based on weight, wax type, and wick. Get estimated burn time, cost per hour, and burn sessions.

Weight of the candle in ounces

Type of wax affects burn rate

Wick material affects burn rate

Optional: price paid for the candle

Burn Time = Weight (oz) × Hours Per Oz × Wick Modifier | Paraffin: 8.5 hrs/oz | Soy: 10 hrs/oz | Beeswax: 12 hrs/oz
For 8oz soy candle with cotton wick: 8 × 10 × 1.0 = 80 hours, ≈ 26 sessions of 3 hours each

How long does a candle burn per ounce?

On average, candles burn 7-10 hours per ounce for paraffin wax, 8-12 hours per ounce for soy wax, and 10-14 hours per ounce for beeswax. The exact burn time depends on wick size, room temperature, and whether the candle is properly maintained (trimming wick, avoiding drafts).

What type of wax burns the longest?

Beeswax burns the longest at approximately 10-14 hours per ounce, followed by soy wax at 8-12 hours per ounce, and paraffin wax at 7-10 hours per ounce. Beeswax has a higher melting point which contributes to a slower, longer burn. Soy wax is a popular natural alternative to paraffin.

How can I make my candles burn longer?

To maximize burn time: (1) Trim the wick to 1/4 inch before each use, (2) Burn for at least 1 hour per inch of diameter to prevent tunneling, (3) Keep away from drafts and vents, (4) Keep the wax pool clean of debris, (5) Extinguish properly with a snuffer, and (6) Store in a cool, dark place when not in use.

How much does it cost to burn a candle per hour?

The cost per hour depends on the candle price and burn time. A $20 candle that burns for 40 hours costs $0.50/hour. Premium soy candles may cost $0.60-$1.00/hour, while basic paraffin candles can be as low as $0.20-$0.40/hour. Beeswax candles often provide the best value per hour due to their longer burn time.