Table of Contents
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Your Butane Torch
What You’ll Need
Butane torch
High-quality butane fuel (e.g., refined for culinary use)
Safety gloves/goggles (optional but recommended)
Instructions
Refuel the Torch
Move the adjustment pin towards the + sign and press trigger to release residual pressure.
Hold the torch upside down and insert the butane canister nozzle into the torch’s fuel valve vertically for 5-10 seconds. Avoid overfilling.
Adjust the Flame
Move the adjustment pin to the center between - and +
Press the ignition button to light the torch.
Move the adjustment pin to adjust the flame size: smaller for precision tasks, larger for searing.
Aim and Use
Hold the torch 2-4 inches from your target (e.g., cocktail smoker, crème brûlée, etc.)
Move the flame in slow, even motions to avoid scorching.
Common Butane Torch Problems (and How to Fix Them)
1. Why Is My Butane Torch Leaking from the Bottom?
A leaking torch is often caused by:
Loose O-rings: Tighten or replace the rubber O-ring at the fuel valve.
Overfilled Tank: Drain excess butane by pressing the refill valve with a screwdriver.
Cracked Seal: Replace the torch if the seal is damaged (common in cheap models).
Fix: Turn off the torch, drain fuel, and inspect seals. Replace parts as needed.
2. How to Adjust a Butane Torch Flame That’s Too Big
Step 1: Move the adjustment pin towards - to reduce gas flow.
Step 2: Clean the nozzle with compressed air (debris can block even flame distribution).
Step 3: Replace the butane canister if fuel quality is low.
3. Why Is My Torch Shooting Flames?
This dangerous issue usually stems from:
Too Much Pressure in Canister: Drain excess butane by pressing the refill valve with a screwdriver.
Clogged Nozzle: Use a pin to clear blockages.
Air in the Fuel Line: Purge the torch by pressing the refill valve until hissing stops.
Safety Note: If flames persist, turn off the torch and let it cool before troubleshooting.
Butane Torch Safety Tips for Beginners
Always work in a well-ventilated area.
Never point the torch at flammable materials (including your hand!).
Store butane canisters away from heat sources.
Let the torch cool for 15 minutes before refueling.
Pro Tip: Download Our Free Butane Torch Safety Checklist (printable PDF for quick reference).
Need a Reliable Torch?
If yours keeps leaking or malfunctioning, check out our Butane Kitchen Torch below!
Premium Jet Kitchen Torch
$17.97
Discover Precision Flame Control with Our Premium Jet Kitchen Torch Elevate your mixology creations to professional standards with our Premium Jet Kitchen Torch, perfectly compatible with the Smokeshow Cocktail Smoker. This torch is specifically engineered to provide a powerful and… read more
All About the Smokeshow Butane Torch
First off, our torches are about 6 inches tall so it is a very comfortable fit in the hands. There are other torches on the market that are much smaller and not as powerful. Our torches are designed for our cocktail smoker, but useful for many other applications. They have enough force to push smoke down into your glass which is exactly what you want in a smoked cocktail! The flavor needs to be dispersed all throughout the cocktail or it won’t be able to be tasted throughout the entire drink.
Our torch works perfectly with the Smokeshow Cocktail Smoker. It is specifically designed to have the force and flame concentration to make the Smokeshow work at its best. Our torches are all black and feature the Smokeshow logo so that it matches the rest of the Smokeshow items perfectly. Here is a break-down of our torch features!
- Powerful torch force and optimal flame concentration
- Safety lock and adjustable flame size
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
- Refillable and long-lasting
Butane Torches and Butane
When you receive your Smokeshow Starter Bundle, you’ll have a torch in the box that includes instructions. However, if you throw the box away, we also have instructions here!
To start, our torches do not come pre-filled with butane. This is a common misconception that there is butane already in the torch, but nope! It needs to be filled before your first use!
In each order, we include butane that is 5 times refined for our butane torch. This means that the maximum number of impurities, or unwanted contaminants, have been removed from the finished product.
Refined butane, also known as pure or high-purity butane, is a type of butane gas that has undergone a purification process to remove impurities and contaminants. Butane is a hydrocarbon gas that exists in its natural state as a blend of various hydrocarbons and may contain small amounts of other gases and substances.
The refinement process involves removing any residual propane, heavier hydrocarbons, moisture, and other impurities to increase the purity of the butane.
IMPORTANT: If you use butane that is not the same times refined as the original put into the torch THIS WILL CLOG YOUR TORCH!!! If you plan on using a different one, you have to be sure that the torch is completely emptied out. Find out how to empty a torch here.
How to Use your Butane Torch for Cocktail Smoking
Now, let’s smoke a cocktail!
Once your Smokeshow smoker has been placed on your glass and you’ve added the smoke dust of choice, it is time to put your torch to work!
Hold your torch about 6 inches from the basket as a test- don’t turn it on yet, just get used to the feel of it. Make sure the dial is set between the plus and minus sign, right in the middle. The dial is on the left side of the torch. Make sure the safety lock is off- the button on top of the butane torch. To unlock, slide the button on the butane torch to the left.
Click the button on the on the back and point straight forward- not towards the cocktail yet. You want to give the butane a second to burn off so you are not shooting butane down directly into your drink. Then, slowly point the torch downward, still holding the button, until the flame is 6 inches from the smoke dust. Let the fire torch the smoke dust for about 6-10 seconds or as long as desired.
If the torch cuts off and the flame goes out, that means you torch is too close to the smoker and as a safety feature, it’ll turn off. If there is not enough smoke being produced, your torch is too far away. Once you find your sweet spot, it’ll become easier to determine where to hold the butane torch.
Other Uses for a Butane Torch
Before starting Smokeshow, we never had butane torch! Now, we use it for everything! Here are some ways you can use yours!
Some common uses of butane kitchen torches include:
- Caramelizing sugar: You can use the torch to caramelize the sugar on top of desserts like crème brûlée, providing a crispy and slightly burnt caramelized layer.
- Browning and glazing meats: Butane torches can be used to sear and brown the surface of meats like steaks, pork chops, or even fish!
- Melting cheese: Use the torch to melt and brown cheese on dishes like French onion soup, gratins, or cheesy pasta dishes.
- Roasting vegetables: Quickly roast the surface of vegetables like peppers, tomatoes, or eggplants to add a smoky flavor and charred appearance.
- Toasting marshmallows: Enjoy a classic campfire treat by toasting marshmallows using the kitchen torch.
- Finishing touches on desserts: Use the torch to add decorative touches to desserts like meringues, tarts, or fruit-based dishes.
- Lighting candles- quick and easy!
FAQs
Why is my butane torch leaking gas?
Leaks are often due to loose O-rings, overfilling, or cracked seals. Tighten or replace parts as needed.
How do I reduce the flame size on my torch lighter?
Turn the adjustment knob clockwise and clean the nozzle. Low-quality fuel can also cause erratic flames.
Can I use a kitchen torch for crème brûlée?
Yes! Use a small, adjustable flame and keep the torch moving to avoid burning the sugar.
Can I use a kitchen torch for smoked cocktails?
Yes! Your torch must have enough power to push the smoke down - we recommend a 6" butane kitchen torch with an adjustable flame.
How often should I refill my butane torch?
Refill when the flame weakens or sputters. Avoid letting the tank run completely empty to prevent air bubbles in the fuel line.
Can I use a culinary butane torch for soldering or DIY projects?
Yes, but ensure your torch is rated for higher temperatures. Culinary torches (e.g., crème brûlée) may lack durability for heavy-duty tasks.
Is it safe to store a butane torch for long periods?
Yes, if you:
Purge leftover fuel.
Store upright in a cool, dry place.
Keep away from children/pets.
How do I know if my butane canister is empty?
Shake it—if you hear liquid, there’s fuel left. No sound = empty. Never puncture to check!
Why won’t my torch ignite even after refilling?
Common fixes:
Clean the ignition nozzle with a toothpick.
Purge air from the fuel line (press refill valve until hissing stops).
Replace the spark wheel.
How long does a butane torch typically last?
With proper care, 1–2 years. Replace if seals degrade, flames become erratic, or leaks persist after repairs.
Can I travel with a butane torch?
Most airlines prohibit butane torches in checked or carry-on luggage due to pressurized fuel. Check local regulations before traveling.
Why does my torch flame turn orange/yellow?
This signals incomplete combustion, often due to:
Low-quality butane.
Dirty nozzle (clean with compressed air).
Cold temperatures (butane doesn’t vaporize well below 50°F/10°C).
How do I childproof my butane torch?
Use a torch with a safety lock (prevents accidental ignition).
Store fuel and torch in a locked toolbox or high cabinet.
Teach kids it’s a “tool, not a toy.”
Can I use propane instead of butane in my torch?
No—propane burns hotter and requires different valves/seals. Using propane in a butane torch can cause leaks or explosions.
Why does my torch make a hissing noise after turning it off?
This indicates residual gas escaping. Tighten the adjustment knob fully. If hissing continues, inspect for leaks
Can I repair a rusty butane torch?
Rust compromises safety. Replace the torch—corrosion weakens metal parts and increases rupture risks.
Is it normal for the torch to feel cold during use?
Yes! Butane absorbs heat as it vaporizes. Avoid touching the fuel chamber until it cools.
How do I dispose of an old butane torch?
Empty fuel completely.
Recycle metal parts if possible.
Check local hazardous waste guidelines for fuel canisters.
