Why Do Torch Lighters Stop Working: How to Fix Them Fast

A torch lighter that fails mid-cigar session can ruin your smoking experience, leaving your Robusto or Churchill with an uneven burn. If you’re asking, why do torch lighters stop working, you’re likely facing issues like sputtering, no flame, or weak ignition—common problems for cigar smokers using lighters like Xikar or Vertigo. These failures often stem from simple, fixable causes, from trapped air to low-quality butane.

In this 2025 guide, we’ll explore the seven main reasons your torch lighter stops working and provide cigar-specific fixes to restore its reliable, windproof flame. Plus, we’ll recommend Amazon products to keep your lighter firing perfectly, ensuring every cigar lights flawlessly. Ready to get your lighter back in action? Let’s dive into these solutions tailored for cigar enthusiasts.

Why Torch Lighters Stop Working

Torch lighters are essential for cigar smokers, delivering a powerful, windproof flame for 42-60 ring gauge cigars. However, they can fail due to several common issues:

1. Flame Adjustment Too Low / Too High: Incorrect settings cause weak or unstable flames.
2. Low Fuel Level / Empty Tank: Insufficient butane leads to no ignition.
3. No Spark: A faulty piezo igniter prevents flame ignition.
4. Dirty or Broken Burners: Clogged or damaged jets disrupt fuel flow.
5. Trapped Air: Air pockets in the fuel tank cause sputtering or no flame.
6. Using Low-Quality Butane: Impure butane clogs jets, affecting performance.
7. Internal Parts That Break or Fail: Worn components (e.g., valves) cause chronic issues.

These problems can ruin cigar toasting, especially outdoors where wind resistance is key. Our seven fixes below, tailored for cigar smokers, will restore your lighter’s reliability. For the best fuel to prevent issues, check our guide on the best butane fuel for torch lighters.

Best butane fuel for torch lighters

7 Fixes for a Torch Lighter That Stops Working

These cigar-specific solutions address the seven reasons your torch lighter fails, ensuring a steady flame for perfect cigar lighting. Each includes step-by-step instructions and Amazon products.

1. Adjust the Flame Setting

A flame set too low or too high can cause weak ignition or sputtering, disrupting cigar toasting.

• How to Fix:
  1. Locate the flame adjustment screw or wheel (usually on the lighter’s bottom).
  2. Use a small screwdriver to set it to a medium position (halfway between “+” and “-”).
  3. Test the flame; adjust slightly for a steady blue flame (~1-2 inches).
  4. Re-test after refilling, as butane pressure can affect settings.
• Cigar Tip: A medium flame is ideal for 42-50 ring gauge cigars, ensuring even toasting without scorching.
• Product Needed: Precision screwdriver (~$5-$10).

2. Check and Refill Fuel Level

A low or empty fuel tank prevents ignition, a common issue for frequent cigar smokers.

• How to Fix:
  1. Check the fuel window (if available) or shake the lighter to assess butane level.
  2. If low, bleed the tank (see Fix 5) to remove air.
  3. Refill upside-down with 5x+ refined butane (e.g., Xikar Purofine) in short bursts (3-5 seconds).
  4. Wait 1-2 minutes before igniting to let butane settle.
• Cigar Tip: Regular refills prevent flame failure during 48-60 ring gauge cigar sessions.
• Product Needed: High-purity butane (e.g., Xikar Purofine, $10-$12).

Shop High-Purity Butane on Amazon

See Our Guides on
Best butane fuel for torch lighters
and
How to Bleed a Butane Lighter: Step-by-Step Guide

3. Fix a No-Spark Issue

A faulty or misaligned piezo igniter can prevent the lighter from sparking, halting ignition.

• How to Fix:
  1. Press the igniter button to check for a firm click and visible spark.
  2. Use compressed air to clear debris around the spark area.
  3. If no spark persists, contact the manufacturer (e.g., Xikar’s lifetime warranty) or replace the lighter.
  4. Test with high-purity butane after cleaning.
• Cigar Tip: A reliable spark ensures quick lighting for 48-60 ring gauge cigars, especially outdoors.
• Product Needed: Compressed air (e.g., Dust-Off, $5-$10) or a replacement lighter (e.g., Xikar XK1, $30-$40).

Shop Reliable Torch Lighters on Amazon

See our list of the most reliable
torch lighters for cigars

4. Clean or Repair Dirty/Broken Burners

Clogged or damaged burner jets disrupt fuel flow, causing sputtering or no flame.

• How to Fix:
  1. Ensure the lighter is cool and turned off.
  2. Use compressed air to blow short bursts into the burner jets (flame outlet).
  3. Inspect jets for cracks or damage; if broken, contact the manufacturer or replace the lighter.
  4. Test the flame; repeat cleaning if needed.
• Cigar Tip: Clean jets monthly to prevent issues during 48-60 ring gauge cigar toasting.
• Product Needed: Compressed air (e.g., Dust-Off, $5-$10).

Buy Compressed Air on Amazon

See our Why does my torch lighter sputter guide

5. Bleed Trapped Air

Air pockets in the fuel tank from improper refilling cause sputtering or no ignition.

• How to Fix:
  1. Turn off the lighter and set the flame adjustment to the lowest setting.
  2. Hold upside-down and press the fill valve with a screwdriver or bleed tool until hissing stops (5-10 seconds).
  3. Wipe the valve and refill with high-purity butane (see Fix 2).
  4. Test the flame for consistency.
• Cigar Tip: Bleeding ensures a steady flame for 42-50 ring gauge cigars, avoiding uneven burns.
• Product Needed: Bleed tool or screwdriver (~$5-$10).

Shop Bleed Tools on Amazon

Learn more in our how to bleed a
butane lighter guide

6. Use High-Quality Butane

Low-quality butane (less than triple-refined) leaves residue, clogging jets and causing failure.

• How to Fix:
  1. Bleed the lighter completely (see Fix 5).
  2. Refill upside-down with 5x+ refined butane (e.g., Vector KGM) in short bursts (3-5 seconds).
  3. Wait 1-2 minutes before igniting.
  4. Test the flame; use only high-purity butane moving forward.
• Cigar Tip: High-purity butane prevents flavor taint in premium cigars, especially 42-50 ring gauges.
• Product Needed: 5x+ refined butane (e.g., Vector KGM, $15-$20).

Shop High-Purity Butane on Amazon

Explore the best butane fuel for torch lighters

7. Address Internal Parts Failure

Worn or broken internal parts (e.g., valves, seals) can cause chronic lighter failure, especially in older models.

• How to Fix:
  1. Check for leaks (hissing sounds) or unresponsive valves during refilling.
  2. Test the igniter and flame adjustment for functionality.
  3. Contact the manufacturer for repairs (e.g., Xikar’s warranty) or replace the lighter if parts are irreparable.
  4. Consider a reliable model for consistent performance.
• Cigar Tip: Internal failures are rare but critical for heavy cigar smokers; upgrade to a durable lighter for 48-60 ring gauge cigars.
• Product Needed: Replacement lighter (e.g., Vertigo Cyclone, $14-$20).

Shop Reliable Torch Lighters on Amazon

Check our most reliable torch lighters for cigars

Buying Guide: Choosing a Reliable Torch Lighter

If your lighter keeps failing, consider upgrading. Here’s how to choose a reliable torch lighter for cigars:

• Ignition Consistency: Piezo spark systems (e.g., Xikar XK1) ensure instant lighting.
• Wind Resistance: Essential for outdoor smoking (e.g., Vertigo Cyclone).
• Durability: Metal bodies (e.g., S.T. Dupont Minijet) last longer.
• Fuel Capacity: Fuel windows (e.g., Xikar Tactical 1) help monitor levels.
• Price vs. Value: Budget options (Vertigo, $14-$20) suit casual smokers; premium models (S.T. Dupont, $130-$160) offer longevity.

Use high-purity butane to prevent issues. Explore our best single jet torch lighter and best butane fuel guides for top picks, or check most reliable torch lighters for alternatives. Ready to upgrade? Shop reliable lighters on Amazon.

Shop Reliable Torch Lighters on Amazon

FAQs for Why Do Torch Lighters Stop Working

Why does my torch lighter stop working after refilling?

Air pockets or low-quality butane cause sputtering or no flame. Bleed the lighter and use 5x+ refined butane (see Fix 5, 6).

How often should I clean my torch lighter to prevent failure?

Clean monthly with compressed air to avoid clogged burners (see Fix 4). Check our why does my torch lighter sputter guide.

Can low fuel cause my torch lighter to stop working?

Yes, an empty tank prevents ignition. Refill with high-purity butane (see Fix 2, best butane fuel guide).

What’s the best butane to prevent torch lighter issues?

Use 5x+ refined butane (e.g., Vector KGM). Explore our best butane fuel guide for recommendations.

Should I replace my torch lighter if it keeps failing?

If internal parts fail (Fix 7), consider a reliable model. See our most reliable torch lighters guide.

Conclusion To Why Do
Torch Lighters Stop Working

When your torch lighter stops working, fixes like adjusting the flame, refilling fuel, checking the spark, cleaning burners, bleeding air, using high-quality butane, or addressing internal failures can restore its performance for cigar smoking. Our seven solutions ensure a steady flame for 42-60 ring gauge cigars, whether in a lounge or outdoors. Shop our recommended butane, tools, and lighters on Amazon to keep your lighter reliable, and share your troubleshooting tips in the comments below!