
1. Newhouse
Best Overall Tiki Torch
5/5 Product Rating
During the day when the sun is out, the torches recharge their internal Ni-Cd batteries then automatically light up when the sun goes down.
There is no wiring needed and no fuel oil or open flames to worry about. These are the perfect outdoor tiki torches for homes with pets and children.
The polycarbonate construction looks just like real bamboo but doesn’t have any of the problems that natural bamboo torches can have such as splintering, drying out, and cracking. These torches can withstand the elements all year round. Each torch includes 3 pole assemblies so you can adjust the height of the torch to your preference. These outdoor tiki torches from Newhouse make transforming your yard or garden into a tropical paradise easy while also maintaining safety.
– Jonathan Maxwell
2. H Potter
Best Overall Tiki Torch – Runner Up
4.7/5 Product Rating
Each glass reservoir holds 22 ounces of fuel. A clean burning fuel is recommended and is not included with the torches. The glass oil reservoir easily slides out of the holder for cleaning and replacement. The glass beautifully reflects the light from the flame.
These torches are an elegant and stylish choice for anyone who wants to transform their backyard into a relaxing and mystical oasis. Just use the two that come with your order or purchase several more for a truly stunning effect that your party guests will rave about.
– Jonathan Maxwell
3. Tiki
Best Budget Tiki Torch
4.5/5 Product Rating
The pole comes in 4 pieces that can be configured to create the look and height you want.
You will get a canister that can hold 12 ounces of fuel, a long-lasting wick made of fiberglass, a snuffer cap that is metal and a bracket to mount it to your deck if you choose. Each full canister provides you with four hours of tropical ambience. This torch is perfect for cookouts, backyard pool parties, and for just sitting outside and enjoying the atmosphere.
– Jonathan Maxwell
Tiki Torch Buying Guide
This purpose of this guide is to help you understand the differences between tiki torch styles so you can eliminate those that don’t meet your needs. You’ll be able to make a great choice based on this information and you will feel confident that the choice you make will work for your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Outdoor tiki torches are available in several different materials from bamboo to glass to metal. The type you choose will depend on your outdoor decorating goals and personal preferences. Continue reading below to learn more about choosing the right outdoor tiki torches for your outdoor living space.
Types of Tiki Torch Fuel Choices
Most torches use two main forms of fuel: either oil or gas. There are also available in solar- powered LEDs as well. We have provided an overview of each fuel type below.
- Oil Torches – Most tiki torches that require oil as their fuel use kerosene, paraffin, or citronella. Of these three oils, paraffin burns the cleanest and citronella is used to keep insects away which is a non-toxic option to keep insects at bay. One of the benefits of using citronella is that it burns slowly and doesn’t produce smoke. For the best protection against insects it is best to place torches about 15 feet away from each other. The tiki torches that use kerosene or regular oil are inexpensive to keep burning.
- Gas Torches – Torches that use this type of fuel are more expensive than those that take regular oil or kerosene. The benefit to using a gas-fueled tiki torch is that they require very little maintenance and they produce terrific light. The gas-fueled models have a control that allows you to determine how much flame you’d like to use. When you have multiple gas tiki torches, they can all be set to the same size flame by using the controls and adjusting the flame. Gas torches do require an initial set up, but once that is finished, things become very simple. One thing to keep in mind is that once the gas lines are set they are essentially permanent and cannot be easily moved. Doing so will require additional investment.
- Solar Torches – This is the safest type of outdoor tiki torch and they are good for the environment as well. There are no open flames involved in solar torches and they don’t produce fumes. There is very little maintenance, if any, and they are great for using around children and pets. Many models come with batteries that are rechargeable. A solar tiki torch will need 4 to 5 hours of continuous sun to run long enough at night. You will not have to turn the tiki torches on; they come on automatically as soon as it is dusk. Even though there are no flames, they can still produce a beautiful light in your outdoor space and many people prefer these to using oil or gas.
Outdoor Tiki Torch Styles
There is a wide range of unique styles and designs available when it comes to outdoor tiki torches. While some people like the traditional bamboo or rattan torches; others like something more individual and unique. With so many designs and styles to choose from, it can be a challenge to decide which to choose.
Materials – Tiki torches are available in a large variety of materials including copper, glass, steel, and aluminum. Some have metal bases and others do not. Some of the table top designs look like pieces of artwork that can be placed in the center of your outdoor tables.
How Many Torches Do You Need?
It is more practical to have outdoor tiki torches that can be moved around as needed. Where you decide to place them and how far apart you place them will determine how many you will need for your area. In general, plan on placing the tiki torches about 15 feet apart or so. You will also need to make sure that they are not placed any closer than 3 or 4 feet from a seating area.
If you want to illuminate a path, alternate the torches on either side of the path to provide a beautiful look that won’t look too uniform. The lighting from tiki torches can either be accent lighting or functional lighting.
You can also group them around pools, fountains, ponds, and seating areas. To make sure that you get the proper amount of tiki torches for your area, measure the total length of your area and divide by 15.
Conclusion
Even though the NEED for flame torches has been eliminated with the invention of electricity, people have continued to love the look of them in their yard. They are functional and yet provide a beautiful ambience in your yard for yourself and for guests.
All it takes is a little creativity and you can transform your yard or garden into a beautiful oasis with a soothing and relaxing place to sit and enjoy the evening. Be sure to invite over a few guests to share the warmth!
Make sure that you take into consideration your lifestyle and preferences before you purchase your outdoor tiki torches. Considerations such as the type of fuel you prefer, whether the torches will be around children and pets, how often you will be using them, and how large of a space you want to light are all important factors to think about.
The information in this guide is designed to help you determine your own needs and preferences so that you can sort through the multitude of choices out there and eliminate the styles you don’t want. This will enable you to make the best decision on which outdoor tiki torches are right for you.
Resources
- Newhouse – http://www.newhouselighting.com/
- Tiki – http://www.tikibrand.com/
- H Potter – http://www.hpotter.com/