Ready for that downdraft gas kiln?

Locating a DownDraft Kiln

• Ensure Adequate Space: Leave at least 12 inches of space between the kiln and any walls. Remove all flammable materials, such as curtains and plastics, from the kiln’s surrounding area to ensure safety.

• Provide Proper Ventilation: If the kiln is installed in an enclosed space, you must place an exhaust hood above the kiln, venting it outdoors. This helps remove heat and exhaust gases, including carbon monoxide. If the kiln is outdoors, ensure that the hot exhaust gases don't cause damage to nearby surfaces.

• Power Requirements: A 120-volt outlet is required if your kiln is equipped with either a kiln sitter system or an electronic wall unit.

• Outdoor Placement Considerations: If placing the kiln outdoors, protect it from moisture. Use a roof or water-resistant tarp to cover the kiln when it’s not in use.

• Floor Requirements: Since kilns generate a lot of heat, place the burner system and stand on a cement floor. Avoid placing the kiln on vinyl tiles or linoleum as these could be damaged by the heat. Always fire the kiln on the metal stand provided, which has an 11-inch height for optimal burner positioning and airflow underneath the kiln. Use non-flammable materials like sheet metal to shim the legs and level the kiln.

Gas Usage for DownDraft Kilns

• Low Pressure Regulator: A low-pressure regulator should be purchased from your gas supplier.

  • Propane: Requires 11" Water Column (a measure of gas pressure).

  • Natural Gas: Requires 7" Water Column.

• Gas Line Size: For the DownDraft 9 model, a ¾" pipeline is needed. All other models require a 1" pipeline (purchased from your gas supplier).

Propane Usage

Olympic gas kiln burners are factory-set to work with propane or natural gas. If you're using propane, make sure your tank is equipped with a low-pressure regulator, similar to those found on campers or trailers. If you're using an adjustable regulator, it should deliver ¾ to 1 ½ pounds of pressure. The table below shows the minimum propane tank size needed for a cone 10 firing for each DownDraft model. It's advisable to purchase a tank larger than the required amount to avoid refilling after each firing.

Natural Gas Usage

If your kiln is set up for natural gas, it will have a larger burner orifice to accommodate the household gas pressure, which is typically between 6 to 8 inches of water column. Kilns ordered for natural gas will come equipped with the appropriate orifice size.

Kiln Assembly?

Olympic DownDraft kilns arrive ready to fire with no assembly required, unless you ordered a custom kiln. If your custom kiln has dimensions that won't fit through a standard 34 ½" door, or if other adjustments are needed, contact Olympic Kilns before dismantling any part of the kiln to ensure your warranty remains valid and to avoid damage.

Venting DownDraft Kilns

Proper ventilation is crucial when firing a gas kiln. Outdoor gas kilns may not need additional venting, but indoor installations do. For venting solutions, you can contact a local HVAC or sheet metal manufacturer, or have one made directly by Olympic Kilns. Pottery Pulse can help you make those arrangements at the time of your purchase. The vent’s dimensions must exceed the kiln’s outer diameter, and the top of the vent should be 10 inches wide, discharging into an exhaust pipe as required by building codes or local regulations.

Find Your New DownDraft Kiln

And now that you have all this information, let's help you find your new downdraft gas kiln. Check out our collection of Olympic Kilns models here.