Ceramics Kiln Firing Cost Calculator
Firing a kiln can be one of the biggest hidden costs in ceramics. Enter your kiln's wattage, expected firing time, and local electricity rate to estimate the true cost per firing and per piece.
About this calculator
Calculate the electricity cost of firing a ceramics kiln based on kiln wattage, firing duration, cone temperature, and your local electricity rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is duty cycle in kiln firing?
Duty cycle represents the percentage of time the kiln elements are actively drawing full power versus cycling off to maintain temperature. Bisque firings often have lower duty cycles than glaze firings at cone 6 or higher.
Does cone temperature affect cost significantly?
Yes, higher cone temperatures (like cone 6 or 10) require longer firing times and more sustained power draw compared to bisque firings at cone 04, increasing electricity use.
How can I reduce kiln firing costs?
Firing full loads, using efficient kiln insulation, firing during off-peak electricity hours, and using accurate cone/controller settings to avoid over-firing can all reduce costs.