Having a Home Kiln: Things to Consider Beforehand

Installing a kiln at home requires some planning. Before choosing a kiln, consider where it will be positioned, how it will be delivered, the available electrical supply, ventilation, flooring and the space required to operate it safely.

Access 

Before choosing a location, consider how the kiln will be moved into position, including any steps, narrow doorways or restricted entrances.

The Flooring

Concrete or suitable ceramic tiles are ideal, while carpet and laminate flooring are not suitable. If required, a suitable non-combustible base can be installed beneath the kiln.

The Room

Home kilns are often installed in garages, workshops or suitable outbuildings because these spaces usually provide appropriate flooring, ventilation and working space.

Space

When in a room, kilns must be at least 12’’/ 30cm away from other kilns and walls. There should also be at least 36’’/ 1m clearance above the kiln to ceiling. Having enough space for your kiln is vital.

Temperature

If the room temperature falls outside the kiln’s recommended operating range, the room should be heated, cooled or ventilated before the kiln is used.

Moisture

Keep the kiln and controller protected from water, condensation and excessive moisture at all times.

Heat Safety

Keep children, pets and combustible materials well away from the kiln while it is firing or cooling. Do not place curtains, plastics or other combustible materials on or near the kiln.

Ventilation

Heat and gases can build up while a kiln is firing, so suitable ventilation is essential. Extracted air should be safely discharged outside and replaced with fresh air.

Wiring (Electric Kilns)

With wiring, there are two things to consider, voltage and phases. Domestic and hobby kilns are normally single phase, with either a 32, 40, or 63 Amps rating. A standard UK kiln is 230v and cannot be simply plugged into a wall if it has a rating higher than 3kW 13 Amps. But kilns can also be made to operate on other countries’ voltages 120, 208, 380, 480 volts. These others will need breakers/ converters/, so consult an electrician here. As kilns have a high kW rating, you should always have a qualified electrician install them if they are above 3kW 13 Amps and he will fit the appropriate RCD or MCB to protect your supply.

Power 

The available electrical supply will affect which kiln models you can install, so check the requirements of your chosen kiln before purchasing.

Budget 

Finally, your total budget will determine whether you can purchase your desired kiln.

Advice from Kilns & Furnaces

Installing a kiln at home requires careful planning, but once correctly installed it gives you the flexibility to fire your own work whenever required.

You can also explore our Hobby Kilns range or read our guide to choosing the right hobby kiln.