How and Why to Bleed a Lighter

Even very high-end lighters will need to be bled out now and again. The substance being bled is air which becomes trapped in the lighter and which prevents it from functioning correctly. To correct this, one usually simply depresses the fuel release valve far enough to allow gas to be discharged but not so far that the ignition mechanism is tripped. One can verify the flow of gas by holding the lighter close enough to their ear to hear gas escape.

Bleeding a lighter simply means allowing a bit of fuel to flow through the system without actually igniting it. This may be done on any type of butane lighter, cigarette or cigar lighter. To accomplish this, one simply engages the first step of the lighting process without engaging the second. On most lighters, fuel begins to flow as soon as one presses the button halfway. The spark isn't introduced to the fuel until one fully-depresses the igniter.

Bleeding the lighter is the best solution to this. One takes advantage of the fact that the lighter begins to release fuel before it ignites to perform this task. Simply hold down the ignition button far enough to allow butane to flow but do not depress it fully. The lighter should begin emitting the characteristic hiss of escaping butane in very short order and a consistent flow of fuel will be restored. This can be done even when the lighter is working correctly to ensure that the problem doesn't manifest.

One can avoid this situation altogether by properly filling their lighter. Most often, air is introduced into the reservoir when the lighter is attached to a butane can with an uneven seal. This results in air being forced into the reservoir. Because the butane is a liquid and the air is a gas, the air floats to the top of the reservoir and fills the fuel line. The most common, and most ineffective, response to this seen is when individuals shake their lighter after becoming frustrated with turning the wheel or pressing the button over and over again.

Remember that butane lighters require proper care. If bleeding doesn't fix the problem, check the jet for obstructions. One can remove any obstruction by gently tapping the upside down lighter on a surface or by using a straightened out paperclip to remove the obstruction. Never stick anything down the actual jet, however. This may cause problems and may void the lighter's warranty.

Dave Sabot is the owner of specialty cigar lighters store. With expert knowledge of cigar accessories, including windproof lighters, Dave also authors a highly rated blog featuring tips on how to lighter repair.