Fondue Fuel Burn-Time Calculator
Find out how long your fuel lasts and how many canisters a full evening needs.
Your fuel plan
Don't let the flame die mid-course
Nothing stalls a fondue night like a burner running dry halfway through the cheese course. Table-top fuel burns at a fairly predictable rate for a given flame setting, which means the burn time for a full evening is easy to plan for in advance rather than discovering it the hard way.
As a rule, buy one more canister than the bare math suggests — a slightly higher flame, a longer-than-planned evening, or simply wanting the flame lit before guests arrive all eat into the margin faster than expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a fondue fuel canister last?
A standard 170g (6oz) canister of gel or liquid table-top fuel typically burns for around 2.5 to 3.5 hours at a medium flame, less on a high flame and more on a low simmer. Always check your specific canister's label, since brands and fuel types vary.
Should I use a low, medium, or high flame for fondue?
A low-to-medium flame is right for most fondues — just enough heat to keep cheese or chocolate fluid without scorching the bottom of the pot. Broth-based hot pot fondue may need a higher flame to keep the liquid at a simmer. Match the flame to what's actually in the pot.
Can I swap the fuel type or canister size?
This calculator lets you set your own fuel weight and base burn rate so you can match it to whatever canister you're actually using — gel fuel, liquid ethanol, or a different-sized tin. Check the manufacturer's stated burn time as your starting point.
Estimates only — always follow your fuel and burner manufacturer's instructions, and never refuel a lit burner.