Rain oil lamps require only minor maintenance. This would involve cleaning the exterior and interior of the lamp.
Exterior:
Occasional dusting with a feather duster and a wipe down with a damp paper towel are all that is required. We strongly advise against using any cleaners other than water and mild soap if needed.
Interior:
Change oil as needed every other year or sooner if rain performance suffers. More so if conditions are dusty or pet fur is present. If the lamps sits for an extended period the oil might take longer to reach the top the first time after start up. If any of the lines don't have rain drops than the feed grommet may be blocked with debris. This can be remedied by cleaning with a bread bag tie of small piece of wire.
Instructions for draining the oil:
To drain the oil you should have the following before beginning.
- One of these to catch the oil: Large mixing bowl, drain pain, catch basin, or trash can
- Black trash bag, tarp or ground cover to protect floor (draining out doors over a trash can would be ideal).
- Number 2 Philips Screw Driver
- Gloves (if you don't like dirty hands)
- Optional - an assistant
- Cat litter - If you don't want to pour the oil down the drain
All lamp models use 3 Philips screws to retain the base. These will need to be removed to lower the base (hanging models) or raise the lamp (table models). This is where an assistant would be helpful. We advise NOT removing one screw at a time as it will create an off balance lamp and possibly spill the oil. Loosen each screw till all are a few turns from being removed. Screws used are either 1/2 or 3/4 inches in length. Use your less dominate hand to support the base (hanging models). Use you less dominate hand to hold up the lamp on table models. An assistant would be helpful here.
Once all the screws are out tip the base into you catch basin (mixing bowl, trash can, etc.). Be mindful of the screw holes and block with you fingers while pouring out old oil. Oil will drip for a while from the base so best to have a second catch basin handy while you clean the base.
Wipe the inside with a clean paper towel or soft absorbent clothe. If the base is real oily you can hand wash in a dish pan with Dawn dish soap. Do not use any harsh cleaners or cleaning pads.
Assembly in reverse of the disassembly process. You will notice the inside of the base has the word "front" written inside. This will match with similar markings on the underside of the lamp. Line these marks up to ensure easy reassembly. Getting all the screw holes to line up will be a problem if these detail is ignored. A second set of hands would be helpful here.
Make sure the fiber sealing washers are still on the screws. Thread in each screw by hand a few turns to keep the screw from falling out. Once all the screws are started go back and tighten. I advise several passes similar to tightening lug nuts on a car wheel. This ensure that the base sits straight we screws are tightened completely.
Refill with the correct oil capacity. See article on oil capacity.
If you have questions or get stuck send us an email or text.
951-435-9516