There is rust dust on the floor under the front edge of the kiln. Is this serious? What should I do?

If you live in a humid area, kiln rust is normal. However, rust can usually be prevented by drying the ware more thoroughly before firing. Firing moist greenware not only rusts the kiln but also slows down the firing and wastes electricity. If you must load moist greenware, prop the lid and fire at a low switch setting. Fire the kiln no hotter than 200 degrees F. until the moisture has burned off completely. Hold a small mirror near the lid. If it fogs, moisture is still burning off.