With a backflow incense cone, the smoke doesn't just rise upwards: part of it flows down through the cone and settles over the incense holder like a small waterfall. Behind this calm display is no pump, but rather the interplay between a special cone, a matching channel and, ideally, still room air.
Why does the smoke flow downwards?
Backflow cones have a hollow channel from the underside up to near the tip. As soon as the ember reaches this channel, smoke collects inside it. The cooled, particle-laden smoke is denser than the surrounding warm air and sinks through the lower opening into the channel of the holder.
For the effect to become visible, the bore of the cone and the opening of the incense fountain must line up exactly. A normal incense cone without a cavity cannot create the same path.
Lighting a backflow cone correctly
- Place the fountain horizontally on a heat-resistant, easy-to-clean surface.
- Position the backflow cone so that both openings align exactly.
- Light the tip, wait for a stable ember and blow out the flame.
- Give the smoke a few minutes. The backflow often only starts once the ember reaches the inner channel.
Some of the smoke will continue to rise upwards – this is normal. Do not touch or move the cone and holder during operation; both can become very hot.
