Lamp won't stay lit

by Rob
(Western Pennsylvania )

There are three possible causes. The fuel, the wick and the vent. Usually, if it dies quickly it is one of the first two and for expediency, just replace both. The fuel can pick up moisture if not stored properly and this can contaminate the wick. Wicks too can age badly, especially with some "lamp" oils with paraffin content. A plugged vent usually takes longer to manifest unless the lamp is quite full. You can check that the small hole underneath the flame shield is open.