Kiln Buying - Selecting the Right Kiln

Choosing a kiln is an exciting step, but with so many models, sizes, and configurations available, it’s important to focus on a few key factors that will help you select the kiln that truly fits your needs—today and into the future.

Paragon kilns are proudly designed and built in Mesquite, Texas with US materials and components. We offer one of the widest kiln lineups in the industry, with many standard models and configurations designed to meet the needs of artists, studios, schools, and industrial users.

Some models may be available with optional features—such as high-temperature glass windows, specialty relays, alternative thermocouples, gas inlets—depending on the application. These options may require additional lead time and investment. Our team is happy to help you review what’s available and determine the best solution for your workflow and budget. Please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone, email or chat.

Temperature Requirements

Your kiln must be rated for the maximum temperature required by your work:

    • Up to 2350°F (Cone 10): porcelain and high-fire stoneware
    • Up to 2232°F (Cone 6): mid-range stoneware and most studio ceramics
    • Up to 2150°F: metal heat treating for knifemaking, tool steel processing, dice making, and sintering of metal clays (silver, bronze, copper) used in jewelry
    • Up to 2000°F: advanced glass work, casting, pate de verre, and specialty mixed-media applications
    • Up to 1945°F (Cone 04): low-fire ceramics
    • Up to 1700°F: glass fusing, slumping, enameling, china painting, and bead annealing

Whenever possible, we recommend choosing a kiln rated hotter than your current needs. Higher-rated kilns tend to have longer element life, better performance during periods of low voltage, and more flexibility if your firing needs expand over time.

Size and Capacity

Kiln size affects not only how much you can fire, but how efficiently you work. Larger kilns generally offer a lower cost per cubic foot, but firing habits matter just as much.

Ask yourself:

  • Do you prefer frequent small firings or fewer large loads?
  • How large is the biggest piece you plan to fire?
  • How often do you want to fire your kiln?

Most kiln owners will tell you the same thing: if you’re on the fence, buy slightly more capacity than you think you need. Many users outgrow their first kiln faster than expected.

For ceramics: before purchasing a deeper top-loading kiln, it’s also worth considering loading comfort. Taller kilns can be more challenging to load, depending on your height. Shorter, wider models may be a better fit for some studios. You may also consider a front-loader option.

Planning shelf layouts on paper—especially for tiles, bowls, or repeated forms—can help identify the most efficient kiln size for your work.

Electrical Requirements

Electrical compatibility is critical. Most homes in the U.S. and Canada receive 120/240V service, but many commercial spaces operate on 208V. These outlets look almost identical, so it’s important to confirm voltage and phase before ordering.

Firing a 240V kiln on a 208V circuit can result in slow firing and failure to reach temperature, often requiring costly element replacement. If you’re unsure, your electrician or power company can help verify your service.

Installing a new circuit should always be handled by a licensed electrician.

Kiln Design Considerations

  • Round vs. Square: Round kilns typically offer a lower cost per cubic foot and are popular with individual artists. Large square kilns are often chosen by schools and production studios for durability and slow cooling.
  • Kiln Loading Styles: Kiln Loading Styles: From traditional top-loading kilns to front-loading and clamshell designs, Paragon offers multiple kiln formats to match different studios and applications. Each style brings its own advantages in accessibility, ergonomics, and firing workflow—our team can help you determine which design best fits your needs.
  • Firebrick vs. Ceramic Fiber: Firebrick kilns are durable and easy to maintain, with replaceable elements set in grooves. Ceramic fiber kilns heat and cool faster, but typically require chamber replacement when elements wear.
  • Wall Thickness: Kilns with 3" firebrick walls retain heat better, reach higher temperatures, and cool more slowly—ideal for stoneware, porcelain, and heavy pieces.