Lamps You Can Fill

Lamps you can fill are an excellent choice for displaying photos, memorabilia and even seasonal decor. They are also ideal for illuminating dark spots in a room or drawing attention to a statue, piece of art or collection. Fillable glass lamps come in many different styles and colors, and offer a blank canvas for personalization. The type of decor you choose will dictate how much light is needed to illuminate your space, as well as how long you intend to keep the lamp lit.

Before filling your lamp, remove the globe and set it aside. Then, carefully pour lamp oil in until it reaches about 2/3 of the way up the burner tube (the metal top that holds the wick). You should never overfill a lamp because excess oil can cause a fire. Once the oil is added, lower the wick to its lowest point and screw the cap back on (if there is one). If you have a spring-loaded lamp, raise the lever and lower the chimney to create an opening for the flame.

Using a funnel is a great idea when adding oil, as it reduces mess. Always use lamp oil, not kerosene or gasoline, as it is safer and less prone to freezing in colder temperatures. If you have a very tall lamp, it may require a longer wick than a shorter lamp to get enough height.

When a lamp is burning, it will create soot on the chimney over time. This is normal, but must be cleaned periodically to avoid a fire hazard. Soot build-up can choke out oxygen to the flame, reducing the amount of light it produces. To clean a lamp, simply hold your hand above the chimney and blow a short burst of air to dislodge any soot.

An oil lamp can provide an important source of light during a power outage or disaster. It can also be a fun activity to do with children during a rainstorm or snowfall. A battery operated LED lamp is a safe alternative to an oil lamp, as it does not burn.

Keep a supply of lamp oil and accessories handy, including an old waiter, a funnel, a box of wicks, scissors or a sharp knife, and a wire hairpin to keep the tiny vent open in the burner. You should also have cleaning items on hand, such as a soft cloth or towel and washing soda. You can also buy kits that include all the essentials. This makes it easy to get started with a new lamp and become an expert in no time! These kits are available online or at most home improvement stores. They will cost you a little more upfront, but will save you time in the long run. The kit will contain everything you need to get up and running, including instructions. You can even find kits specifically for kids that have step by step directions and pictures to guide them.