Refilling a Butane Torch
Refilling a butane torch is simple task. The butane fuel is available through this website or you can buy it locally at hardware stores, drug stores or specialty shops. The most important advice when refilling a torch is to hold the container of fuel upside down while refueling, otherwise air will enter the fuel cell in your torch and may cause issues with a consistent flame.
Prior to refilling a butane torch, you will need to drain any fuel and air remaining from the torch. Making use of the small screwdriver press the fuel-refilling nozzle, usually on the bottom of the torch to get rid of the surplus fuel. You should hear a hissing sound as the fuel and air escapes. Be sure to do this in a well ventilated area.
Be sure to turn the flame adjustment screw, knob or lever to off or the lowest setting before attempting to refuel your torch. You may also have a “on/off” switch of some sort.
Turn the butane torch upside down so the refill inlet nozzle is visible. Insert the nozzle into the butane torch fuel canister and press the canister towards the torch and hold, the nozzle on the fuel canister will press in. This will allow the fuel to flow into the torch. Do this for 5 seconds or so. If your torch has a fuel window you can check the level of fuel by looking at the window. There is no need to pump the fuel canister while fueling.
Once you have refilled your butane torch, let it sit a few minutes until the fuel reaches room temperature. Because the butane fuel is compressed in the fuel container is will be colder than room temperature. When it warms, the fuel will expand.
If your torch will not light, turn the flame adjustment screw or adjustment knob a 1/4 turn and attempt once more. Keep re-adjusting the screw or knob in 1/4 turn increments until the torch ignites.
Warnings and Tips
- Only triple refined or better butane fuel should be used. This is a very clean burning fuel and will help to keep your torch in top working order.
- Using a compressed can of air, blow air into the area where you usually see the flame. This will loosen or remove particles that might be causing your butane torch not to ignite.
- Placing the torch in the freezer for a couple of minutes prior to refueling will help accelerate the refueling process.
- Do not pump the fuel container when refueling your torch as this could cause the fuel cell in the torch to burst.
Also, check out this video on filling a butane torch.
For more troubleshooting tips read the article on How to Fix Your Butane Torch.
See my Top butane torches on Amazon