An electric wax warmer is a device that melts scented wax melts using a low-watt light bulb or a built-in heating element, releasing fragrance without a flame. Warmers plug into a normal socket and come in full-size, mini plug-in and tabletop designs.

Very little. A full-size warmer uses a 25-watt bulb or element at most, a fraction of the power of a kettle or toaster. Running a 25-watt warmer for 8 hours uses around 0.2 kWh, so the running cost is a matter of pence per day.

Yes, a wax warmer can be left on for as long as you like, since there is no flame and no fire risk, much like leaving a lamp switched on. As with any electrical appliance, it is still sensible to switch it off if you are leaving the house for an extended period.

Scentsy warmers take 15-watt, 20-watt, or 25-watt bulbs depending on the model. Mini warmers typically use 15-watt bulbs, most mid-size warmers use 20-watt bulbs, and most full-size warmers use 25-watt bulbs. Our Scentsy bulbs and accessories shop lists the correct bulb for every model.

No, element warmers melt wax using a hidden heating plate instead of a light bulb, so they do not glow and give off no light. This suits bedrooms or anywhere you want fragrance without illumination. Bulb warmers and element warmers give the same fragrance performance.

The most common cause is a blown bulb or element, which is a simple, inexpensive fix. Check the bulb is seated correctly and try a replacement of the correct wattage for your model before assuming there is a fault with the warmer itself.

Wax warmers are designed with low-watt bulbs or elements specifically because the wax has a low melting point, so there is no flame and fire risk is extremely low compared to a burning candle. For more on pet and child safety, see our wax melts safety FAQs. As with any electrical item, use on a stable surface, keep the cord tidy, and do not cover the warmer while it is switched on.

Unplug the warmer and allow it to cool fully before cleaning. Wipe the outside with a soft, slightly damp cloth, avoiding the electrical fitting, then dry thoroughly before plugging back in. Avoid submerging any part of the warmer in water.

Full-size warmers use a 20- or 25-watt bulb or element and suit larger rooms, while mini and plug-in warmers use a 15-watt bulb and suit smaller spaces like bathrooms and hallways. Both use the same wax melts, so the main difference is the size of the room they are best suited to.

Scentsy warmers are designed and tested specifically for Scentsy wax melts, which are formulated for a particular melting point and scent load. We always recommend using genuine Scentsy wax melts in a genuine Scentsy warmer to experience the fragrance it is designed to deliver.