Electric Kilns: Installation & Electrical Issues

Electric pottery kilns and their technical electricals You've weighed the advantages of gas kilns versus electric kilns and you've decided to go electric. Now what? Well, if you want to avoid installation or power shortage problems, there are a few things you should consider before making your purchase. Consult an electrician Talking to an electrician either before or after you've purchased your electric kiln is a good idea. Unless you're more electrically skilled than most, you'll also want to have your kiln installed by a professional (if installation work is required, of course). An electrician can test the capacity of your electrical system, make recommendations about the best location for your kiln, and determine whether a dedicated line will be necessary. He or she would also know if there are any regulations you should be aware of before installation.

Amperage, phase, and voltage

Amperage

The amperage required by your kiln will depend on its size and voltage. If you look at a breaker box, you'll see that the available amperage is divided between the different breakers. If the amperage for the circuit your electric kiln will be on is just a little more than the approximate amperage your kiln requires, then you won't be able to use any appliances on that line while the kiln is in use. Small electric kilns use about 15 to 25 amps. Large electric kilns will use 25 to 65 amps or more. (Your kiln's amperage rating should be listed on its control box.) Thus if you're installing a large, 240-volt kiln, an additional line will need to be installed, possibly with a separate circuit box.

Phase

Most homes have single phase wiring, and most industrial buildings have three phase wiring. Single-phase residences can't accommodate three-phase kilns. But if you have a pottery studio in a school, warehouse, or other industrial type of building with a three-phase system, you should be able to install either a single- or three-phase electric kiln.

Voltage

Most electric kilns operate at either 220/240 volts or 208 volts. Your home most likely has a 240-volt power system. Using a kiln with the wrong voltage will cause power loss and prevent optimum heating performance. It will also necessitate much earlier replacement of the kiln elements.