How Long Do Candles Burn? Burn Time by Size
As a rule of thumb, a candle burns roughly 7 to 9 hours per ounce of wax, so a standard 8 oz candle lasts about 50–60 hours. The exact number depends on the wax, the wick size, the fragrance, and — a lot — on how you burn it. Here's what to expect by size and how to stretch it.
Burn time by candle size
| Candle size | Approx. burn time |
|---|---|
| Tealight | 4 – 6 hours |
| Votive | 10 – 15 hours |
| 4 oz jar | 25 – 35 hours |
| 8 – 9 oz jar | 50 – 60 hours |
| 16 oz jar | 90 – 120 hours |
| Large 3-wick | 30 – 45 hours |
Three-wick candles burn faster per ounce than single-wick because they melt more wax at once — you trade longevity for a bigger melt pool and stronger throw.
What affects burn time
Wax type. Denser waxes like beeswax and paraffin generally burn longer and slower than soft soy; see soy vs beeswax vs paraffin. Wick size. A bigger wick burns hotter and faster. Fragrance and dye. Higher loads can slightly shorten burn time. How you burn it is the biggest variable you control.
How to make candles last longer
- Get a full melt pool the first burn. Let the top layer liquefy edge to edge (about 1 hour per inch of diameter) to prevent tunneling, which wastes wax down the sides.
- Trim the wick to about 1/4 inch before every burn — long wicks burn hot, fast, and sooty.
- Burn in sessions of 2–4 hours, not all day; overheating shortens overall life.
- Keep it out of drafts, which cause uneven, faster burning.
More detail is in how to make candles last longer and general candle care.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an 8 oz candle last?
About 50 to 60 hours, based on the rule of roughly 7–9 hours of burn per ounce of wax. Trimming the wick and getting a full melt pool help you reach the top of that range.
How many hours does a candle burn per ounce?
Roughly 7 to 9 hours per ounce, though it varies with wax type and wick size. Beeswax and paraffin tend to burn longer per ounce than soft soy.
Do 3-wick candles burn faster?
Yes — three wicks melt more wax at once, so a 3-wick candle burns faster per ounce than a single-wick. You get a bigger melt pool and stronger scent throw in exchange for shorter total burn time.
Looking for quality candles or supplies? Find candle shops and makers near you.