My Lighter Hisses When I Try to Light it.
Articles - Lifestyle
Lighters are a requirement for smokers; unless you choose to use matches, of course. However, lighters are far more convenient than matches and also more economical. That said, butane lighters and even jet lighters can have problems with operation. One of the most common problems associated with any type of lighter is a failure to ignite, accompanied by a hissing sound.
by DaveSabot


Lighters are a requirement for smokers; unless you choose to use matches, of course. However, lighters are far more convenient than matches and also more economical. That said, butane lighters and even jet lighters can have problems with operation. One of the most common problems associated with any type of lighter is a failure to ignite, accompanied by a hissing sound.

When the igniter of the lighter is pressed down, no flame appears. The lighter does, however, emit a hissing sound, as of fuel escaping. What could be going on? Whats wrong with your lighter? Actually, this situation can be remedied quite easily, though youll need to troubleshoot your lighter a bit first.

The first step is to ensure that there is no debris, dirt or lint clogging or blocking the lighters operation. Even a small amount of debris can stop a lighter from functioning correctly. Exercise care when checking for blockages and keep your fingers well away from the igniter. If you find an obstruction of any kind, remove it and then attempt to light your lighter. If the lighter still emits a hissing sound, but does not light, then continue to the next step in the process.

Usually, the problem with a lighter emitting a hissing sound, but not lighting, is a problem of flame adjustment. If the adjustment is set too high, then the force of the fuel escaping can be too great for the striker to ignite it. Essentially, the speeding fuel actually blows out the flame. Check the flame adjuster to ensure that it is not too high; on a standard butane lighter, youll find the slide adjustment on the back, under the metallic cap. On a jet lighter, the adjuster is usually located on the bottom of the lighter. In all cases, it is denoted with plus and minus symbols.

To adjust the flame height, youll need a very small flathead screwdriver. Turn the flame adjuster towards the minus symbol. Be careful not to turn it too far, though. Make a small adjustment toward the minimum end of the range and then attempt to light the lighter once more. If you still hear the hissing sound, but the lighter does not ignite, then you need to continue adjusting the flame height. You should do this in increments, in order to ensure that you are able to achieve the highest flame height for your needs, while still being able to light the lighter.

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice.