Frequently Asked Questions

Gas lanterns are a fantastic way to light up your outdoor space, but we understand that you may have some questions about how to properly maintain them. Our team of experts is here to assist you with any questions you may have about your gas lights. We have years of experience in the industry and are committed to providing our clients with the best possible service. Don't hesitate to reach out to us if you're unsure about how to properly clean or store your gas lanterns. We're here to ensure that your lights continue to shine brightly for years to come.

Our sister company Anthology Lighting has a showroom in Magnolia, Texas. Call our showroom at 281-298-5200 or visit us at 32411 FM 2978, Magnolia, Texas 77354

The Trade Partner Program is a resource for professionals who specialize in architectural design or lighting for residential and commercial projects. Our goal is to assist you with all aspects of your project and deliver the best lantern lighting experience to your clients.

Our program consistently helps industry professionals with priority support and volume discounts to help their businesses deliver high service levels for their clients. Your beginning discount level is set for online ordering, however if you require custom quotes please contact us. Our support team will be happy to help design the perfect package for your business.

We can supply replacement parts for products that we carry. Some of our replacement parts may fit onto others products. We offer a growing selection of parts and accessories for sale on our website. Shop lantern parts and accessories. 

The main difference between a post mount and a column mount gas lantern is the way they are attached to a pole or column. A post mount lantern has a base that fits directly onto a post, while a column mount lantern has a bracket that attaches to the column.

Here are some additional things to consider when choosing between a post mount and a column mount gas lantern:

• Versatility: Post mount lanterns are more versatile because they can be mounted on a variety of posts, including wooden posts, metal posts, and concrete posts. Column mount lanterns are less versatile because they can only be mounted on columns.
• Cost: Post mount lanterns are typically less expensive than column mount lanterns. This is because post mount lanterns do not require a special bracket to attach to the column.
• Appearance: Post mount lanterns may not look as elegant as column mount lanterns. This is because the base of the post mount lantern is visible. Column mount lanterns, on the other hand, have a bracket that attaches to the column, which is not visible.

Ultimately, the best type of gas lantern for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a versatile and affordable lantern, then a post mount lantern is a good option. If you are looking for an elegant lantern that will make a statement, then a column mount lantern is a good option.

Customers can choose between a natural gas or propane burner for their lantern. If you didn't order the propane option with your lantern, we will send out a propane stem separately. However, please note that other suppliers typically require customers to order a complete burner unit if they want to switch from natural gas to propane. For current pricing information, please contact customer service.

If you're experiencing soot issues and have a propane burner, it's important to verify the type of burner installed on your lantern. Natural gas burners are made of solid brass on the sides of the burner stem. On the other hand, propane burners will have a drilled hole through the stem, located just above the valve.

Check the gas pressure: Please ensure that the gas pressure is set to 11 inch columns. If the pressure is higher, the gas will blow by the side vent (venturi) holes and not provide enough oxygen for the gas mix, resulting in sooting of the flame.

When it comes to gas lanterns, safety should always be a top priority. While these vintage lighting options can add a charming touch to your home or outdoor space, it's important to be aware of potential hazards. Gas lanterns can emit carbon monoxide, so it's crucial to ensure proper ventilation and never use them in enclosed spaces. It's also important to make sure that the lantern or lamp is installed correctly and serviced regularly to prevent leaks or other malfunctions. By taking the necessary precautions and staying informed about the safe use of gas lights, you can enjoy the warm glow of these classic lighting options without any worries. Gas lamps can get hot, so don't install them in places where they can be easily touched by children or animals. 

A gas lantern is not a standalone unit. It must be connected to a natural gas line from the building. No electricity is required.

Each open flame lantern has an adjustable valve on the burner assembly, which can be accessed through a door on the front of the lantern. To light the lantern, turn the valve so that the gas is flowing, then light the gas with a match. Do not use a lighter to ignite your lantern. The lantern is designed to run continuously, but if you want to turn off the flame, just turn the valve until the gas is shut off.

Electronic ignition is available for the majority of our gas lanterns to allow you to turn on your fixture using a switch. Find a list of our lighting products with this option. Once you have selected your lantern design, customize your illumination option to have "Electronic Ignition" with propane or natural gas.

French Market Lanterns' fixtures are all wet-rated, and therefore safe for outdoor use. Electric lantern can be used indoors. Should you wish to install a gas lantern indoors, first check your local safety codes to ensure it's permitted. If so, an electronic ignition system which works as a safety shut off must also be purchased. 

Below are the BTU ratings per hour on our lanterns, organized by manufacturer: 

• Copper Lighting Company - Natural gas 1460 | Propane 1400
• Primo Gas Light Lanterns - Natural gas 1600 | Propane 1900
• The Coppersmith - Natural gas 1035 | Propane 2750
• Copper Sculptures - Single burner 3451 | Double burner 4854
• Flambeaux Lanterns - Natural gas 1250 | Propane 1700

The cost for running a lantern can be calculated using the following equation: 

((BTU per hour use of lantern x 720)/(102000)) x CCF

Where CCF or CHF is the cubic hundred feet charge found on your monthly gas bill, and BTU is the quoted gas usage from the lantern.

Example: Copper Lighting Co. lantern uses 1460 BTU per hour and my gas bill has a .64 CCF rate: ((1460 x 720)/(102000)) x .64 = $6.60 per month per lantern when run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

We cannot convert electric lanterns to gas. Due to safety concerns and the inability to handle the heat produced by a flame, it is not recommended to convert most electric lanterns. Please keep this in mind when considering lantern options.

Our standard finish is antique copper. This is a living finish, which means that it naturally develops a beautiful patina over time when left to age (approximately 2 to 3 years). It first turns a reddish brown, then brown, darker brown, and eventually is almost black. Over 20 years or so, it will develop to green.

The environment has a lot to do with this aging process - dry, cool areas age slower than hot and humid areas. To slow this process, rub an oil-based product (we recommend WD-40, but motor oil or cooking oil can also do the trick) with a rag. 

With proper maintenance, your lantern will last a lifetime!

An electronic gas fixture has an electronic system that reignites the fixture with an electronic spark. It also comes with the safety shut off feature.

Selecting a gas lantern with an electronic ignition system has the following costs and benefits:

• Cost-saving potential (Watch the video): While electronic ignition options for gas lanterns typically range from $550 to $600 per lantern, the potential cost savings may not be significant. If you plan to use the lantern only at night, the electronic igniter could save you approximately 50% of the monthly gas cost compared to continuously running the lantern manually with a burner. For instance, if running the lantern continuously costs $8 per month, the igniter would save you $4 per lantern per month.
• Break-even point: Considering the cost of the igniter, it would take approximately 11.5 years to recoup the added expense solely through gas cost savings. This extended timeframe may make the cost-saving aspect less appealing.
• Additional installation costs: Installing an igniter involves additional expenses, which should be taken into account when considering the overall investment in a gas lantern.
• Igniter lifespan: Electronic igniters typically last between 5 and 9 years before requiring replacement, which introduces an additional cost and potential inconvenience.