How to set up and maintain your kiln
Need help setting up, operating, or repairing your pottery kiln? We've collected all our tutorial videos on one page for easy access. And we've broken it down by type of kiln care (from setting it up in the beginning to repairing issues) to make it even easier.
Still stumped? Sign up for an online kiln diagnostic with one of our kiln techs.
Setting Up Your Kiln
First things first: let’s get you set up. Below are resources to successfully set up and operate your new kiln.
Quick Kiln Setup Guide
A short, get to the point guide for getting up and running quickly.
Seattle Pottery Supply Kiln Manual
The full manual for your kiln, including everything you need to know about operation and maintenance.
Assembling Your Kiln
In this video, our General Manager, Denny Porter, shares how to put your kiln together out of the box.
Connecting Kiln Electrical Box
There’s a bit of (really simple, we promise) wiring you’ll need to do. Here, Denny gives you a step-by-step how-to.
Plugging In Your Kiln
Denny shares the best way to plug in your new kiln.
Lid Assist Kiln Disassembly and Assembly
Our kilns that come with the lid assist need some basic assembly (and disassembly if you want to move the kiln later). Here, Denny shows you how to take it apart and put it back together.
Your First Firing
This is the fun part! Let's get that kiln going on your first firing. Here's everything you need to know.
Using Your Kiln for the First Time
Yay! This is the part we’re all excited about. Here is a quick guide to that all-important first firing.
Bartlett V6CF Digital Controller Manual
Full manual from the maker of the Bartlett V6CF digital controller. Your controller (the only thing with buttons) is the digital controller that needs to be programmed. It’s a bit like the keypad on your microwave, rather than a real “computer.” Just like a microwave, you have to press various buttons to set a defrost timer, etc.
Genesis 2.0 Digital Controller Manual
Full manual from the maker of the Genesis 2.0 digital controller. Your controller (the only thing with buttons) is the digital controller that needs to be programmed. It’s a bit like the keypad on your microwave, rather than a real “computer.” Just like a microwave, you have to press various buttons to set a defrost timer, etc.
Kiln Operation
Here, Denny shows you the basics on how to operate your kiln.
How to Apply Kiln Wash
Kiln wash is a must - here’s how to mix it and apply it.
Bartlett Digital Controller Error Codes
Kiln Controller Troubleshooting
Maintaining Your Electric Pottery Kiln
Like any other major appliance, good maintenance keeps your kiln working well long into the future. You'll find important maintenance information in your Operation Manual.
Of course, if you need a major repair at any time, we're here for repairs as well. Just visit our kiln repair page to schedule an online diagnostic call and get started on the repair process.
Changing The Kiln Thermocouple
It's a universal truth: thermocouples must be changed. Here's a quick video on how to do it.
How to replace the elements in a Seattle Pottery Supply kiln
Need to change the elements in your SPS kiln? Here is a video that goes through the whole process
How to set up and use a modular kiln controller
Got an old manual kiln that you're tired of babysitting? You can retrofit your old kiln with a modular kiln controller to make it work like a digital kiln.
How to Use a Kiln Sitter in an Old-School Kiln
Want to use a kiln sitter with a manual kiln? In this video, Seattle Pottery Supply's Denny Potter takes you through the steps to firing with a kiln sitter.
Still Have Questions?
Feel free to fill out and submit the form below, or you can sign up for an online diagnostic call from one of our kiln technicians. We'll either guide you through repairs or help you find a local tech.