Español

Kiln repair now available in So. California area

We now offer full service kiln repair & service in the Southern California area:

• Prompt, reliable and affordable service

• All brands

• Electric kilns

• Gas kilns

• Industrial Furnaces

• Normal & scheduled Kiln maintenance service

To schedule kiln service, call us at 818/782-1500

Simple & Important safeguards for operating a kiln.

Please read and observe the following safety warnings before operating your kiln:

 Install kiln 18" or more from any wall or combustibles.

 Fire only on stand or legs furnished.

 Never fire hotter than cone 10 or 2350 degrees.

 Do not fire hotter than the manufacturer's recommendation for your clay, glazes, or decals, or permanent damage may result to your kiln or ware.

 Do not open lid until kiln has cooled.

 Before opening lid, turn off all switches, then carefully open lid and test that lid brace is securely engaged before allowing lid to stand freely.

 Do not leave kiln unattended while firing.

 Never use an extension cord.

 Operate kiln only in a well-ventilated room.

 Unplug kiln before servicing or cleaning.

 Dangerous Voltage - Do not touch heating elements with anything.

 Do not touch hot sides of kiln or hot lid. Burns may result.

 Never store anything under kiln; never lean objects against kiln.

 Do not store or use flammable liquids or sprays in the same room with your kiln.

 Do not store or use your kiln outside; keep rain and moisture away from kiln.

 Do not use kiln if cord is damaged.

 Wall receptacle must not be corroded.

 Use kiln only with adequate electrical supply and with the correct voltage, amperage and correct fuse size (not too large or small). Be sure the wire size is large enough (avoid aluminum wiring). Do not use a 208 VAC kiln on 220 VAC.

 Kiln must be grounded properly.

 Wear goggles when looking thorough peephole.

 Wear protective gloves when handling hot peephole plugs.

 When firing objects to be used with food and drink, use only supplies tested and labeled "safe" for such purposes.

 Avoid breathing fumes from materials being fired.

It is imperative that you read all instructions and follow ALL of the manufacturers instructions and recommendations before operating the kiln.

These are very simple guidelines, there is so much more to know before you are ready to use your kiln.

Electric Requirements of Kiln (Volts & Amps)
Most small test kilns (1 cu./ft.) can be fired on a standard 110-volt outlet, and only draw 15 amps. However, larger kilns require more volts and amps. Ask your electrician what the available voltage is to your kiln room. The voltage supplied might be 208 or 240 volts. Note the voltage when ordering the kiln. If your voltage supply is 240 and your kiln requires 208 volts this situation will shorten the life of the kiln elements and switches. If you voltage is 208 and the kiln draws 240 volts the kiln might not reach its maximum temperature during the firing. The goal is to match the kiln to the power supply. When you have selected a kiln, ask the ceramic's supplier the voltage and amperage (amps) requirement of the kiln you are considering purchasing then relay this information to your electrician so he can determine the correct electrical connections when the kiln is in place.

A Reputable Ceramic Supplier (An Important Choice)
Before purchasing any ceramic supplies or equipment consider the company that stands behind their product or service. This will be the most important decision you will make when purchasing an electric kiln. Look for a local ceramics supplier who has a good business reputation and offers full service to its customers. It is best to buy from a "full service" dealer with a good reputation.

Click here for some places to kiln fire your ceramics in the US and Canada