Always protect your furniture from the oils used to fragrance candles by using candle coasters, etc.  Candles should be kept out of drafts and should begin with a ¼” wick length.  The very first burn should last between 3 and 4 hours.  Allow the pool of melted wax to reach the outer edge of the pillar candle, ensuring maximum use of the candle. (Caution:  too long may result in the collapse of soft, hot wax.) Burn in this manner as consistently as possible and you will maximize your burn time.