First: is your lighter refillable?
Only a lighter with a filling valve on the bottom can be refilled. Disposable lighters are not made for it: never refill them.
Refilling a gas lighter, step by step
- Do it in a well-ventilated room, away from fire, sparks or heat.
- Set the flame adjuster to the lowest setting.
- First let out the gas still in the lighter: hold the lighter upside down and press the valve with a ballpoint pen or a small screwdriver until the hissing stops.
- Hold the lighter upside down and the gas can straight down on the valve. Do not shake the can.
- Press firmly for a few seconds and let go.
- Wait a few minutes before you light the lighter, so the gas reaches room temperature and some excess gas can escape.
- Set the flame adjuster to the height you want.
The exact times differ by brand: follow the instructions for your lighter. Use clean butane; some brands have their own gas or their own adaptors.
If it does not work properly
- The flame sputters or goes on and off: there is air in the tank, or it is empty. Let all the gas out and refill.
- No spark: on a lighter with a flint, the flint has probably run out.
- You hear a constant hissing: the lighter is leaking. Stop using it.
- It does not light just after filling: wait a few minutes until it is at temperature.
Storing and carrying
Do not leave a lighter in a hot car or on a radiator, and keep it out of the reach of children. On a plane, according to the international IATA rules, you may carry one small lighter on your person, never in checked baggage. Gas refills are not allowed at all, and nor are lighters with a storm flame (a "jet" or "torch"). Always check with your airline.
Frequently asked questions
How do you refill a gas lighter?
Set the flame to the lowest setting, let the old gas escape, hold the lighter upside down and press the gas can straight onto the valve for a few seconds. Wait a few minutes before you light it.
How long should you wait after refilling?
A few minutes, so the gas reaches room temperature. The exact time is in the instructions for your lighter.
Why does my gas lighter sputter?
There is air in the tank, or it is empty. Let all the gas out and refill.
Can you refill a disposable lighter?
No. Disposable lighters are not made to be refilled.
Can you take a gas lighter on a plane?
According to IATA, one small lighter on your person, never in checked baggage. Gas refills and lighters with a storm flame are not allowed.
