If a refillable butane lighter does not ignite after filling, do not keep clicking it or immediately add more fuel. A lighter may need time to return to room temperature, the refill connection may not have sealed correctly, or the flame setting may need a small adjustment. A persistent gas smell or hissing sound can also indicate a leak that requires you to stop.
This guide covers safe checks for ZHONG LONG G17, G26 and M18 lighters. Controls and fittings can differ, so always follow the instructions supplied with your lighter and butane can.
Stop first if you notice a possible leak
Do not ignite or adjust the lighter if you notice persistent hissing, a continuing gas smell, visible damage or fuel spraying around the refill valve. Move away from flames, sparks, cigarettes and hot surfaces. Keep the lighter in a well-ventilated place away from people and contact ZHONG LONG support.
1. Let the lighter warm naturally
Butane and the lighter body can become cold during refilling. Leave the lighter upright in a ventilated location, away from the fuel can and all ignition sources. Wait at least the time specified in the supplied instructions. Our refill demonstration uses a two-minute rest for the demonstrated setup; wait longer if the lighter remains cold.
Do not heat the lighter with a flame, hair dryer, heater or hot water.
2. Butane lighter won't fill? Check the refill connection
Use butane intended for refillable lighters and an adapter that fits both the can and the lighter valve. Hold the connection straight and do not force a poorly fitting nozzle. Fuel spraying around the valve usually means the connection is not sealed correctly. Stop, ventilate the area and check compatibility before trying again.
The color of an adapter does not prove that it is compatible. Follow the lighter and fuel-can instructions.
3. Avoid overfilling
Adding more fuel is not always the solution. Repeated or extended filling can overfill the tank and make troubleshooting less safe. Use the filling time stated in the instructions for your lighter and fuel can. If you are unsure whether the tank is full, stop and allow the lighter to rest before making another check.
4. Check the flame setting only when it is safe
Only adjust the flame when the lighter is extinguished, cool and showing no signs of leakage. Make a small adjustment in the direction shown by the supplied control markings. Do not turn the adjustment fully open, force the control or repeatedly operate the ignition.
5. Inspect the ignition area and body
Stop using the lighter if the ignition area, refill valve, casing or controls appear damaged or loose. Do not disassemble or attempt to repair a pressurized lighter. Contact ZHONG LONG support if the lighter still does not operate after the safe checks above.
Watch the refill demonstration
See the ZHONG LONG butane refill video guide for the demonstrated G17 setup and guidance that also applies to G26 and M18.
You can also compare the G17, G26 and M18 buying guide, or review the individual product pages:
When to contact support
Contact ZHONG LONG support if the lighter has visible damage, a persistent leak, a loose refill valve or repeated ignition failure after the safe checks above. Include the model, order number and a clear photo or short video of the issue when it is safe to do so.
