Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Ensure that your gas lantern is filled with a suitable combustible fluid, such as kerosene, white gas or propane. Heat, which is emitted as these fluids burn, heats up the ceramic mesh, or mantle, that subsequently emits light.
Make sure that the ceramic mesh in the lantern is intact. This mesh typically consists of silk fabric that has been impregnated with oxides, including magnesium oxides, cerium oxides and thorium oxides. The silk burns away the first time you use the lantern, leaving a delicate ceramic structure behind. This structure emits light when it is heated.
Locate the knob on the side of the gas lantern, which controls the amount of gas that is released. Turn this knob to allow gas to flow and ignite the gas with a match or igniter. Do not use a cigarette lighter to light the lantern, as these contain gas.
Adjust the control knob until you have the flame size you prefer.
Check to see if your lantern brand and model has a thermocouple. This safety feature closes off the flow of gas once the flame goes out.
Decide where best to place your lantern. Gas lanterns do not emit a great amount of light. These lanterns will normally give off as much light as a candle, so depending on your activity, you may need the lantern in close range.
Turn off the control knob once you no longer require the lantern to operate. Turn the knob slowly but make sure that it has closed the gas off correctly. Gas that leaks from a lantern can be dangerous, particularly in the confines of a closed room where it can asphyxiate a person.
Store the gas lantern in a safe place when not in use. Do not leave a gas lantern in areas where children or pets can get to it.