5 Fixes for Torch Lighters that won’t stay lit

Few things are more frustrating than a torch lighter that flickers or dies mid-cigar, leaving your Robusto or Churchill with an uneven burn. If you’re wondering why won’t my torch lighter stay lit, you’re not alone—cigar smokers often face this issue, especially with high-end lighters like Xikar or S.T. Dupont. Common culprits like air pockets, clogged jets, or low-quality butane can disrupt your smoking experience, but the good news is most problems are easy to fix. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 5 reasons your torch lighter fails and provide cigar-specific solutions to get it firing reliably again. Plus, we’ll share Amazon products to prevent future issues, ensuring every cigar lights perfectly. Ready to revive your lighter? Let’s dive into these fixes tailored for cigar enthusiasts in 2025.

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Common Reasons a Torch Lighter Won’t Stay Lit

Before diving into fixes, let’s pinpoint why your torch lighter isn’t staying lit, especially for cigar smoking:

• Air Pockets in the Fuel Tank: Trapped air from improper refilling weakens the flame.
• Clogged Burner Jets: Residue from low-quality butane or debris can block fuel flow.
• Low Fuel Levels: An empty or near-empty tank causes inconsistent flames.
• Low-Quality Butane: Impure butane (e.g., less than triple-refined) clogs jets and taints cigar flavor.
• Faulty Spark Mechanism: A worn igniter or misaligned spark can fail to sustain the flame.

These issues are common with torch lighters used for cigars (42-60 ring gauges), especially during outdoor sessions where wind or frequent use amplifies problems. The following fixes, tailored for cigar smokers, will restore your lighter’s reliability, from budget Vertigo models to premium S.T. Duponts. Let’s get your flame steady again.

Check out our guide on the
Best butane fuel for torch lighters

5 Fixes for a Torch Lighter That Won’t Stay Lit

Here are five proven solutions to get your torch lighter firing consistently for perfect cigar toasting. Each fix includes step-by-step instructions, cigar-specific tips, and Amazon products to make it easy.

1. Bleed the Air Pockets from Your Lighter

Air pockets trapped in the fuel tank during refilling can weaken or extinguish your flame, a common issue for cigar lighters. Bleeding purges this air, restoring a steady flame.

• How to Fix:
  1. Turn off the lighter and set the flame adjustment to the lowest setting.
  2. Locate the fill valve (usually on the bottom).
  3. Use a small screwdriver or bleed tool to press the valve, releasing a hissing sound (do this away from flames).
  4. Hold for 5-10 seconds until the hissing stops.
  5. Refill with high-purity butane (see Fix 3).
• Cigar Tip: Bleeding ensures a consistent flame for toasting 42-50 ring gauge cigars without interruptions.
• Product Needed: A bleed tool or small screwdriver (available in lighter kits).

Shop Torch Lighter Bleeder Tools on Amazon

2. Clean the Burner Jets

Clogged jets from butane residue or dust can cause a flickering or non-sustaining flame, especially in frequently used cigar lighters.

• How to Fix:
  1. Turn off the lighter and ensure it’s cool.
  2. Use a can of compressed air to blow out debris from the burner jets (aim short bursts at the flame outlet).
  3. Wipe the burner area with a soft cloth to remove surface dust.
  4. Test the flame; repeat if necessary.
• Cigar Tip: Clean jets monthly to ensure even burns for 48-60 ring gauge cigars, avoiding flavor taint.
• Product Needed: Compressed air can (e.g., Dust-Off, ~$5-$10).

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3. Use High-Purity Butane

Low-quality butane (less than triple-refined) leaves residue, clogging jets and weakening flames, which can ruin cigar flavor.

• How to Fix:
  1. Bleed the lighter (Fix 1) to remove old butane.
  2. Refill with 5x+ refined butane (e.g., Xikar Purofine, Vector KGM).
  3. Fill upside-down in short bursts (3-5 seconds) to avoid air pockets.
  4. Wait 1-2 minutes before igniting to let the butane settle.
• Cigar Tip: High-purity butane ensures a clean burn, preserving the flavor of premium cigars.
• Product Needed: Triple-refined or higher butane (e.g., Xikar Purofine, $10-$12).

Shop High-Purity Butane on Amazon

Explore the best butane fuel for
torch lighters with our simple guide

4. Adjust the Flame Setting

An improperly set flame (too high or low) can cause the lighter to flicker or extinguish, especially during outdoor cigar sessions.

• How to Fix:
  1. Locate the flame adjustment screw (usually on the bottom).
  2. Use a screwdriver to turn it to the middle setting (avoid extremes).
  3. Test the flame; adjust slightly up or down for a steady blue flame.
  4. Check after refilling, as butane pressure can affect settings.
• Cigar Tip: A medium flame is ideal for toasting 42-50 ring gauge cigars without scorching the wrapper.
• Product Needed: Small screwdriver (often included in lighter kits).

5. Check the Igniter Mechanism

A faulty or misaligned spark mechanism can prevent the flame from igniting or staying lit, a common issue in older lighters.

• How to Fix:
  1. Inspect the igniter button for responsiveness (should click firmly).
  2. Use compressed air to clear debris around the spark area.
  3. Test the spark; if weak, consider replacing the lighter or contacting the manufacturer (e.g., Xikar’s lifetime warranty).
  4. If the spark is absent, professional repair may be needed.
• Cigar Tip: A reliable spark is crucial for outdoor smoking, ensuring quick lights for 48-60 ring gauge cigars.
• Product Needed: A reliable replacement lighter (e.g., Xikar XK1, $30-$40).

Discover the most reliable torch lighters for cigars

Buying Guide: Choosing a Reliable Torch Lighter

If your lighter keeps failing despite these fixes, it may be time to upgrade. Here’s how to choose a reliable torch lighter for cigars:

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

Pair your lighter with high-purity butane to prevent future issues. Check our best single jet torch lighter guide for top picks and our best butane fuel guide for fuel recommendations. Ready to upgrade? Explore reliable lighters on Amazon.

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FAQs

Why does my torch lighter sputter and not stay lit?

Sputtering is often caused by air pockets, clogged jets, or low-quality butane. Try bleeding the lighter or using 5x+ refined butane (see Fix 1, 3).

How often should I clean my torch lighter to keep it reliable?

Clean monthly with compressed air to prevent clogs, especially for frequent cigar smokers. See our how to clean a torch lighter guide.

Can low fuel cause my torch lighter to stop working?

Yes, low fuel weakens flames. Check the fuel window and refill with high-purity butane (see our best butane fuel guide).

What’s the best butane to prevent my lighter from failing?

Use 5x+ refined butane (e.g., Xikar Purofine, Vector KGM) for clean burns. Explore our best butane fuel guide for top picks.

Should I replace my torch lighter if it won’t stay lit?

If fixes don’t work, consider a reliable model like Xikar XK1. See our most reliable torch lighters guide for recommendations.

Conclusion

When your torch lighter won’t stay lit, it’s often a simple fix—bleeding air, cleaning jets, using high-purity butane, adjusting the flame, or checking the spark. Our five solutions ensure your lighter performs flawlessly for every cigar, from 42-ring Coronas to 60-ring Churchills. Keep your lighter reliable with top-quality butane and regular maintenance, and explore Amazon for the best products to prevent future issues. Need a new lighter? Check our vetted picks for reliable torch lighters on Amazon, and share your troubleshooting tips in the comments below!