Can I Have A Kiln In My House?

A kiln is a specialized oven used for processes like hardening, drying, or baking of various materials including ceramics, bricks, pottery, and glass (Wikipedia). Having a kiln at home allows ceramic artists, potters, glass workers, and other creatives to fire their work whenever needed. However, there are several important considerations to weigh before installing a kiln in a residential setting, including space requirements, ventilation, electrical load, fuel options, safety, building codes, and insurance implications.

Types of Kilns

There are various types of kilns used for pottery, ceramics, and glasswork. The main types include:

• Electric kilns – These kilns use electricity to generate heat and are the most common type used by hobbyists and small studios. They provide consistent temperatures and are relatively easy to operate. Popular types of electric kilns include top loading and front loading.
• Gas kilns – Gas fired kilns use propane or natural gas as the fuel source. They allow for more dramatic temperature changes and effects like reduction firing. Common types are crossdraft, downdraft, and updraft designs.
• Wood-fired kilns – Wood kilns use wood as the fuel. Traditional styles include crossdraft anagama kilns, which can produce unique natural ash effects. Wood kilns require more skill to operate and control temperatures.
• Raku kilns – Smallelectric or gas fired kilns used for raku pottery. They allow rapid heating and cooling needed for raku.

Other specialty kiln types include salt kilns, pit kilns, and microwave kilns. The type of kiln chosen depends on factors like the scale of production, type of ware, desired effects, fuel availability, and budget.

Space Requirements

The amount of space needed for a kiln depends on the type and size of kiln you select. Small tabletop kilns can fit on a workbench or countertop, while larger kilns may require a dedicated space in a workshop or garage.

According to The Pottery Wheel, a beginner should look for a kiln around 2.5-3 cubic feet, which can comfortably fire 12 six-inch bowls at once. A kiln this size may be around 18×18 inches wide and 2 feet deep (source).

Larger production kilns can be over 10 cubic feet and may need more substantial floor space. In addition to the kiln itself, be sure to account for space needed around it for loading/unloading, as well as ventilation requirements.

When planning your studio layout, position the kiln near an exterior wall or space where proper ventilation can be installed. Allow enough clearance to access the power box, peepholes, and control panel. Having ample space around the kiln ensures safe operation and working conditions.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is critical when firing a kiln in a home. Kilns release large amounts of heat, moisture, and potentially harmful fumes during the firing process. These need to be ventilated properly for safety reasons.

Experts recommend ventilation of at least 10-25 times the cubic feet of the kiln per hour. For example, a 10 cubic foot kiln would need ventilation of 100-250 cubic feet per minute. This is usually achieved using a powered ventilation hood or fan kit specifically designed for kilns. Some key considerations are:

• The fan must be powerful enough for the size of the kiln. Look at CFM ratings.
• Flexible aluminum ducting should be used to vent to the outdoors.
• Proper makeup air must be allowed into the room to replace ventilated air.

Insufficient ventilation can lead to dangerous buildup of fumes and overheating. It’s also important to consult local building codes, which often regulate kiln ventilation requirements. With proper ventilation, firing a kiln at home can be done safely.

Sources: Kiln Vent Guide: How and Why to Vent Your Kiln, The facts about kiln ventilation

Electrical Load

The electrical load required to run a kiln depends on factors like the kiln’s size, operating voltage, and number of heating elements. Larger kilns and those that run on 240V rather than 120V have higher power demands. According to Fuseworks (https://www.soulceramics.com/pages/cost-of-firing-ceramic-kiln), a large high-fire kiln may have a kilowatt rating around 7 kW and operate on 240V. Smaller 120V kilns may only require 15-20 amp circuits.

It’s important to calculate your kiln’s amperage or wattage rating to ensure your electrical system can handle the load. Big Ceramic Store (https://bigceramicstore.com/pages/info-ceramics-kiln_power) notes that 240V kilns often require 30-50+ amp circuits, while 120V kilns stay under 30 amps. Exceeding your home’s electrical capacity can trip breakers and be a fire hazard. Consulting an electrician is wise to assess your panel’s capacity before installing a kiln.

Fuel Options

Kilns can be powered by various fuel sources including electricity, natural gas, propane, oil, wood, and other solid fuels. Each fuel type has advantages and disadvantages that should be considered when selecting a kiln fuel.

Electric kilns are convenient and clean, but can be more expensive to operate and may require electrical upgrades to handle the power load. Gas-fired kilns like those using natural gas or propane offer excellent temperature control and fast heat-up times, but require ventilation and a gas line hookup (Ceramic Arts Network).

Some kilns burn solid fuels like wood, coal, or biofuels. While this can be a low-cost option, temperature control is harder and the firing process produces more emissions. Wood-fired kilns like anagama kilns remain popular for the unique effects from wood ash, but the firing process is labor-intensive (FEECO).

The choice between electric, gas, solid fuel, or combination kilns depends on factors like upfront cost, operating costs, firing goals, emissions, and convenience. Consulting local building codes and insurance requirements is advised when installing a kiln, especially those requiring venting or burning solid fuels.

Safety Considerations

Operating a kiln comes with some important safety considerations. High temperatures, toxic fumes, and fire hazards need to be properly addressed and mitigated.

Make sure to read and follow all safety instructions provided by the kiln manufacturer. Never leave a kiln unattended during firing. Wear protective eyewear when looking inside the kiln through peepholes (https://www.soulceramics.com/pages/kiln-safety-tips). Allow adequate ventilation in the kiln room to avoid buildup of dangerous fumes. Position the kiln at least 3 feet away from walls and other objects. Have a fire extinguisher on hand that is suitable for electrical fires.

Certain clays and glazes can release harmful gases like carbon monoxide when fired. Proper ventilation is critical. Avoid breathing kiln fumes directly. The kiln room should have a vent to the outside or a hood to remove fumes (https://skutt.com/skutt-resources/resources-just-for-you/architectural-specifications/kiln-safety/).

Make sure electrical connections are properly rated for the kiln’s power draw. Use the appropriate gauge wiring and circuit breaker. Inspect power cords for damage. Kilns reach extremely high temperatures, so risk of fires and burns exists. Have a plan to deal with emergencies.

Follow all kiln safety rules and exercise caution when operating your kiln to have an enjoyable and accident-free experience with your artistic creations.

Building Codes

There are specific building code requirements for installing kilns in residential spaces. According to the International Mechanical Code (IMC), electric kilns must comply with UL 499 standards while gas-fired kilns must meet approved testing agency criteria or get special approval (IMC 2015, Section 923).

The IMC also specifies minimum clearances around kilns. There must be at least 36 inches clearance on all sides for electric kilns up to 10 kilowatts. Higher capacity electric kilns and all gas-fired kilns require 48 inches clearance. The flooring under and around kilns must be noncombustible solid masonry or concrete at least 2 inches thick, extending 12 inches beyond the kiln base (IMC 2015, Section 923).

Local residential building codes may have additional requirements. For example, some jurisdictions limit kiln sizes or require them to be in detached structures. Permits are usually needed to install kilns in homes. Early consultation with local building officials is recommended when planning a residential kiln installation to ensure compliance.

Insurance Implications

Installing a kiln in your home can impact your homeowner’s insurance in several ways. Most insurance companies will require you to inform them if you are installing a kiln, as it may be considered an increased liability or fire risk [1]. Having a kiln may result in increased insurance premiums, as the insurer views it as raising the chances of potential claims. Some insurers may even outright refuse to insure a home with a kiln present.

To avoid issues, check with your insurance provider before installing a kiln. Be prepared to provide details on the kiln type, fuel source, ventilation, and safety protocols. Some insurers may require an additional rider policy or insurance just for the kiln itself. This provides them added protection in case of a claim involving the kiln. Look into specialty insurers like Kin Insurance that may offer more kiln-friendly policies.

With proper precautions like fire-resistant walls, monitored ventilation, and safety training, you can minimize insurance concerns over a residential kiln. But clear any plans with your insurer first, since unreported kilns often void policies if a fire or accident does occur [2].

Conclusion

In summary, having a kiln at home has both advantages and disadvantages that must be carefully considered. The main benefits are the ability to fire pieces whenever needed and experiment with glazes and firing techniques. The convenience and creative freedom are compelling reasons for potters to install a home kiln. However, there are also downsides such as high electricity usage, ventilation requirements, safety concerns, insurance costs, and potential building code violations. While managing these factors is possible, it does require research, planning, and diligence. Every potter’s situation is unique, so thoughtfully weighing the pros and cons of a home kiln allows an informed decision to be made.