How to Select the Electric Kiln That's Right for You

Electric kilns are one of the most commonly used kiln types and they are well loved for their ease of use. Depending on their design and max temperature, electric kilns can be used for glasswork, heat treating, and low, mid and high-fire ceramics. Modern electric kilns often have digital controllers, making it straightforward to set your schedule and monitor the temperature throughout the firing.

Electric kilns are essentially closed boxes with coils running along channels in between the walls. Electric current passes through the heating elements, generating an even, controllable heat.

Key factors when selecting an electric kiln

To find the kiln that is right for you, there are a few questions you should ask yourself:

Budget

The first thing you will want to consider is your budget. Electric kilns come in a wide range of prices, so you can find one that fits your budget. What you’re firing, the size of the kiln and the temperature you fire all influence the cost.

What are you firing?

What you’re firing plays a major role in the kiln specifications. If you are firing glass, you will want to consider a glass kiln, and if you’re firing clay, you will want a ceramic kiln. You might also consider a dual media kiln if you plan on firing multiple mediums. 

There are key differences between glass and ceramic kilns. Glass kilns are designed to heat and cool at controlled rates to prevent cracking and shattering. Since glass pieces are often flat, they need even heat across their surface. So, glass kilns often include heating elements on the lid of the kiln. It is important that you select a kiln with a precise control system as well because glass firing schedules require carefully controlled heating, soaking, annealing and cooling.

Ceramic work requires even heat distribution just like glasswork. However, ceramic kilns use sidewall elements to distribute heat evenly throughout the kiln. Since ceramic work is often three dimensional in form, heating elements are located on the sides, hitting the work from multiple directions to ensure even firing. 

These differences make the material you plan to fire one of the first considerations when choosing an electric kiln.

What temperature do you need to fire at?

If you are planning on firing glass, the temperature you need will vary depending on if you are annealing, slumping, fusing, casting or working with a specific type of glass. Many glass kilns are rated between 1,700℉ and 1,800℉ but your actual firing temperature may be lower. 

If you are firing ceramic work, your clay body will influence the type of kiln you need. There are different types of clays ranging from low-fire to high-fire. For a low-fire clay body you will need a kiln that reaches 1,700°F-2,100°F. Mid-fire clay fires at about 2100°F-2280°F and high-fire clay may require temperatures up to 2350°F or, Cone 10.

If you expect to fire at a certain temperature often, you should consider a kiln that is rated a bit above that temperature. Running a kiln at its maximum for every firing can quickly wear out multiple kiln components.

How much space do you need in the kiln?

Kilns are measured by both dimension and the volume they can hold. First, you should review the space your studio has for the kiln. You will generally need around 18 inches of space around the kiln for safety and ventilation but check the manufacturer specifications to ensure you allow the required amount of clearance around the kiln. 

The size of your pieces is also important to consider when looking at measurements. If you often fire pieces that are 10 inches tall, you will want a kiln with a depth of at least 12 inches to ensure your kiln closes properly if it is top loading. The same goes for front loading kilns in terms of width.

How fast do you work?

You should also consider the speed at which you work. If you are working in a home studio and you are the only creator, a smaller kiln might be best for you. Whereas if you are operating a school or community studio a larger kiln will most likely fit your needs. It is more efficient to fire a smaller kiln at full capacity more often than a large kiln half empty. An appropriately loaded kiln lowers electricity cost per piece and improves the evenness of the firing.

What voltage can your studio handle?

You will need to determine what voltage your studio has available where you plan to install the kiln. Home studios may have access to 120V or 240V power while schools and commercial buildings may have 208V, 240V or 480V. Check with your building electrician, facilities team or the label in your main breaker box to find what voltage your studio is wired for. 

What electrical phase do you have?

Whether you have single phase or 3-phase power in your studio there is a kiln for you. Most homes are equipped with single phase power. If you are operating a community studio or school studio it’s recommended to check if you have 3-phase capabilities. Your kiln must be built to match the voltage, phase, amperage, and required breaker where it will be installed. So, verify the available electrical service with your electrician before placing your order.

If you are wired for 3-phase electricity, it’s recommended to purchase a kiln built for 3-phase operation. Three-phase wiring is often beneficial for larger kilns because it distributes the electrical load across three legs, reducing the amperage carried by each leg.

Note: Not all kilns are available in 3-phase power. Most smaller kilns are set up for single-phase, so they work well for home studios. 

How do you want to load your pieces?

Electric kilns are either top loading, meaning the door hinges upward and you lower pieces into the kiln, or front loading, where the door opens outwards and you slide your pieces in horizontally. Most electric kilns are top loading because the design is simpler, leading them to be more cost effective as well. You should also consider the space your studio has. Top loading kilns do not take up as much space since they open upwards. However, front loading kilns have their benefits. Front loading kilns are easier and more efficient to load, especially for larger, heavier pieces. If you struggle with bending over it could be the right choice for you.

Ventilation requirements

If your kiln room has good natural ventilation and you're firing materials that don’t produce smoke, gases or fumes, a downdraft vent may not be necessary. However, if your firings generate smoke, strong odors, or potentially hazardous fumes, ensure you set up direct ventilation to the outdoors.

The most common solution is a downdraft ventilation system, which mounts beneath the kiln and exhausts fumes, odors, and moisture outdoors. It also helps promote more even temperatures throughout the firing chamber. A widely used option is the Orton Vent Master downdraft vent system, which is compatible with many ceramic kiln models.

We're Here to Help You Choose 

Choosing a kiln takes a lot of time and thought, but you don’t have to search alone. If you have any questions about kiln size, temperature, voltage or any other specifications, reach out to us at (757) 335-9355 or email us at  support@potterypulse.com, and we’ll help you narrow down the options. Our search filters can also help you sort through your options for price, temperature, dimensions, and voltage.