Easy-Load Kiln Assembly Instructions

May 9, 2025
Easy-Load Kiln Assembly Instructions Easy-Load Kiln Assembly Instructions << Back to all categories Plug-n-Fire Doll Standard Kilns JH Series Jupiter DaVinci Easy Load eFL Series Bell-Lift Easy-Load Assembly Instructions Rev: 3/1/2025 BEFORE YOU GET YOUR KILN PLACEMENT & LOCATION GENERAL DIMENSION DRAWINGS: You can find the General Dimension Drawing of all kilns on the webpage of each kiln model. These have ventilation requirements and clearance requirements. L&L strongly recommends an 18" clearance to all walls. The Uniform Mechanical Code 2000 Edition states that "the sides and tops of kilns shall be located a minimum of eighteen (18) inches (457 mm) from any noncombustible wall surface and three (3) feet (914 mm) from any combustible wall surface." The National Fire Protection Agency states that temperatures at combustible ceilings and floors be kept below 160 Deg F (71 Deg C) near industrial furnaces (which are like kilns). Note that, when L&L tested kilns for UL, temperatures were measured 12" from the walls of the kiln and found to be safe from a flammability standpoint. However, locating a kiln just 12" from a wall may violate the Uniform Mechanical Code and possibly local fire codes, so do this at your own risk. Check with local building codes for recommended non-combustible wall materials for walls that are adjacent to the kiln. Cement board, cinder blocks, and masonry tile are possible choices. Make certain floor is not flammable. The Uniform Mechanical Code 2000 Edition states that "kilns shall be installed on noncombustible flooring consisting of at least two (2) inches (51 mm) of solid masonry or concrete extending at least twelve (12) inches (305 mm) beyond the base or supporting members of the kiln." Recommended floor surfaces are cement, ceramic tile, stone, slate, cinder blocks or brick. Do not install on a wood floor or on carpet. Vinyl flooring may be combustible. Protect linoleum flooring from discoloration with a noncombustible covering. BE VERY CAREFUL ABOUT IMPLEMENTING THESE SUGGESTIONS. Remember that the kiln is putting out heat over a long period of time and that this could very well start a fire under certain conditions. Also, if an overfiring occurs, materials like glass and glazes can be super-heated and electrically conductive, and they can melt right through the kiln floor. If there is a combustible floor, this could cause a fire. Also keep in mind the continued heat of the kiln can dry out combustible surfaces over time and reduce their flash point. The NFPA 86 (Section 2-1.5 concerning Floors and Clearances) that might be construed as applicable to kilns requires that temperatures at combustible ceilings and floors be kept below 160°F (71°C). In general, the NFPA recommends installing furnaces on noncombustible surfaces and has specific requirements if this is not possible. Make sure you have 24” in front of the panel and 18” in the back to be able to perform maintenance functions on the kiln. When the kiln arrives See https://www.youtube.com/video/gxUHHWPAiBs?si=zspjBVZM02rHIkO2 SHIPPING DAMAGE AND INSPECTING YOUR KILN FREIGHT COMPANIES ALLOW 2 DAYS TO REPORT SHIPPING DAMAGE. WE CANNOT HELP YOU WITH A DAMAGE CLAIM AFTER 2 DAYS. If box is dented, crushed, un-banded, or off the skid, note it on Delivery Receipt. Check number of cartons against Delivery Receipt. Inspect contents while driver is present. If this is not possible, take photos and mark Delivery Receipt “SUBJECT TO INSPECTION.” If obvious severe damage is visible, take photos and refuse shipment. IF YOU FIND DAMAGE: Take as many photographs of everything as soon as you can and email them to service@hotkilns.com. The time stamp on these photograph/emails is critical when filing a damage claim! If you can, write a description of the breakage or damage or shortage on all copies of the freight bill before you sign it. Make your notations as specific as possible to protect if concealed damage is subsequently discovered. (In some cases, the shipper may not allow you to do that). See hotkilns.com/shipping for full policy. Damages must be reported immediately. If there is any problem at all, call L&L (856-294-0077) if during our business hours (preferably before the driver leaves). TAKE PICTURES, AND NOTE ON THE BILL OF LADING ANY DAMAGE. If you don’t, there is no recourse against the carrier who is responsible for the condition of the kiln when it is delivered. Once you accept the kiln, it is not returnable. SHIPPING INSPECTION Inspect the external crate for any obvious damage like broken wood. We build a support cage inside the kiln interior to prevent kiln bricks from shifting and cracking – although, no matter what, some minor cracking of the firebrick is almost always going to be present. Examine the “Shockwatch” and “Tiltwatch” labels if included. If they indicate a problem, note it on the Bill of Lading. Remove the inside cage and inspect the firebrick carefully for signs of any cracking or damage. Note that there is almost always some minor patching that is done in the factory because of the nature of firebrick. This is normal. Compare with the photos in case you are uncertain. Do your best to do this when the kiln is delivered and before the driver leaves. If this is not possible do it immediately afterward even if you do not intend to move or use the kiln for a while. Inspect the door seal. If the kiln has damage it is likely to show up in broken brick around the door. THIS IS CRITICAL. DO NOT DISCARD ANY PACKAGING MATERIAL UNTIL YOU HAVE CAREFULLY CHECKED THE KILN FOR DAMAGE. After that, if there is damage, you will be responsible. Once you sign for the kiln it is yours. Make your notations as specific as possible to protect yourself if concealed damage is subsequently discovered. Inspect kiln as soon as possible AND DEFINITELY WITHIN 2 DAYS –EVEN IF YOU ARE GOING TO STORE THE KILN. Claims must be filed within 2 days of receipt of goods. We suggest taking digital pictures as soon as you receive the kiln. MOVING AND SETTING THE KILNS IN PLACE All L&L front-loading kilns come on a skid so you can move it from either the front or back with a pallet jack or forklift. If you use a forklift go slow and do not tilt the kiln more than a few degrees. Remove all the wood crating and boxing Lift the kiln off the skid with the forklift’s forks going completely through the base. Open the door and carefully remove the wood and foam structure that is in place to support the arch and interior of the kiln during shipment. Remove the ceramic pieces that are in the element holders to keep the elements in the holders during shipment. Before the first firing make sure that the elements are seated properly in the element holders. Once the kiln is heated the elements will settle further into the element holders. See the General Dimension drawing for weights and dimensions. The correct drawing can be found on each model’s webpage on our website (hotkilns.com). MOVING THE KILN THROUGH A DOOR Please print out the general dimension drawing for the kiln you are ordering and examine carefully. Models EL2424, EL2427, EL2436, EL2448 & EL2848 require a door that is at least 34.7” wide Model EL3048 requires a door that is at least 40.6” wide Suggestion – have a little more than this exact requirement! L&L EASY-LOAD BASIC INSTRUCTIONS CAUTIONS See the CAUTIONS section. READ THESE CAUTIONS. They will help protect you and your property. Not all of the cautions are obvious - even experienced operators will need to pay attention. INSTALLATION See the INSTALLATION page. There is important information on electrical hookup, ventilation requirements, clearances, codes, etc. You must pay attention to these issues or you could create a dangerous situation. TEMPERATURE RATINGS All Easy-Load kilns are rated for use to 2350°F (1287°C) (Cone 10) DO NOT FIRE ANY HIGHER THAN THIS. The elements, element holders and firebrick will melt above 2350°F. PREPARATION & ASSEMBLY No assembly is required for the Easy-Load kiln. REMOVING THE DOOR You may need to take the door off to get the kiln through an opening. If you need to do this remove the element connection wires from the element terminals on the door. Then support the door with 2x4’s or a table so that it doesn’t fall down. CAUTION: The door is very heavy and could cause injury to you or damage to the door if it falls. Remove the hinges and lower the door to the ground. This will take at least two people. When you replace the door be sure to readjust it so that the seal is even all around the face of the kiln. UNDERSTANDING THE DESIGN BASIC CONCEPT OF THE KILN An EL Series Easy-Load electric kiln is an insulated front loading kiln designed specifically for firing of ceramics. Coiled elements made of a special high temperature alloy (iron-aluminum-chrome) are mounted on the sides, back and door for even heating. Bottom elements are optional. SEPARATE CONTROL BOX The control panel is mounted on the right side with standoffs to keep it separate from the heat of the kiln for more reliable operation. The switches and other sensitive components last longer. The panel can be sent to factory for repairs if ever necessary. On some models the control panel may be floor mounted. ADJUSTABLE DOOR The door has thrust bearings to make it easy to open. It is adjustable so that you can maintain a proper seal with the front of the kiln over years of operation. 5” OF MULTI-LAYERED INSULATION The insulation is a special hand picked lightweight K23 firebrick, which is 3” thick. This firebrick resists temperatures up to about 2450°F. It is highly insulating. This is backed up with 2” of non-asbestos backup insulation which is also highly insulating. The arch is K25 4.5” thick arch brick. After the heating elements are turned off the insulation will slowly lose its heat and the kiln and ware will cool down. L&L uses a special coating on the firebrick to help prevent brick dusting. OPTIONAL POWERED BOTTOM Some Easy-Load models have optional powered bottoms available. These are useful if you need to fire faster, have a heavy load or are going to very high fire (they will improve overall element life because the elements won’t have to work as hard to get there). The powered bottoms also offer more control over the accuracy of the temperature at the bottom of the kiln. There should be a 1” to 1-1/2” air space between the bottom and the first hearth shelf (in other words, set the first hearth shelf on 1” or 1-1/2” ceramic spacers). Keep spacers at least ½” away from the edge of the element grooves on the bottom. Use Option C in the hidden menu of the control). FIRST FIRING OF THE KILN Follow the FIRST FIRING INSTRUCTIONS here. SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE REGULAR KILN MAINTENANCE See this page on kiln maintenance. NOTE: Failure to properly maintain your kiln could lead to a dangerous condition and could lead to premature aging of the kiln (like elements burning out). WARRANTY Easy-Load kilns carry a commercial limited warranty. See this page. SERVICE FOR YOUR KILN See this page. CRACKS IN THE BRICKS It is quite normal to get hairline cracks in firebricks. They are caused by the expansion and contraction of the firebrick as it heats and cools. It generally does not make sense to cement these hairline cracks. PARTS TO KEEP ON HAND If you are operating in a production environment it is imperative that you stock certain spare parts if you must prevent down time. While we do our best to ship parts quickly and to keep all parts in stock we cannot be responsible for your downtime. We recommend the following parts be kept on hand: Complete set of elements Complete set of fuses One power contactor Set of spare thermocouples Several element holders Brick Repair kit Adjusting the door of an Easy-Load Kiln See https://www.youtube.com/video/U0GtWAeTGvM

Easy-Load Assembly Instructions

Rev: 3/1/2025

BEFORE YOU GET YOUR KILN

PLACEMENT & LOCATION

GENERAL DIMENSION DRAWINGS: You can find the General Dimension Drawing of all kilns on the webpage of each kiln model. These have ventilation requirements and clearance requirements.
L&L strongly recommends an 18" clearance to all walls. The Uniform Mechanical Code 2000 Edition states that "the sides and tops of kilns shall be located a minimum of eighteen (18) inches (457 mm) from any noncombustible wall surface and three (3) feet (914 mm) from any combustible wall surface."
The National Fire Protection Agency states that temperatures at combustible ceilings and floors be kept below 160 Deg F (71 Deg C) near industrial furnaces (which are like kilns).
Note that, when L&L tested kilns for UL, temperatures were measured 12" from the walls of the kiln and found to be safe from a flammability standpoint. However, locating a kiln just 12" from a wall may violate the Uniform Mechanical Code and possibly local fire codes, so do this at your own risk.
Check with local building codes for recommended non-combustible wall materials for walls that are adjacent to the kiln. Cement board, cinder blocks, and masonry tile are possible choices.
Make certain floor is not flammable. The Uniform Mechanical Code 2000 Edition states that "kilns shall be installed on noncombustible flooring consisting of at least two (2) inches (51 mm) of solid masonry or concrete extending at least twelve (12) inches (305 mm) beyond the base or supporting members of the kiln."
Recommended floor surfaces are cement, ceramic tile, stone, slate, cinder blocks or brick. Do not install on a wood floor or on carpet. Vinyl flooring may be combustible. Protect linoleum flooring from discoloration with a noncombustible covering.
BE VERY CAREFUL ABOUT IMPLEMENTING THESE SUGGESTIONS. Remember that the kiln is putting out heat over a long period of time and that this could very well start a fire under certain conditions. Also, if an overfiring occurs, materials like glass and glazes can be super-heated and electrically conductive, and they can melt right through the kiln floor. If there is a combustible floor, this could cause a fire. Also keep in mind the continued heat of the kiln can dry out combustible surfaces over time and reduce their flash point.
The NFPA 86 (Section 2-1.5 concerning Floors and Clearances) that might be construed as applicable to kilns requires that temperatures at combustible ceilings and floors be kept below 160°F (71°C). In general, the NFPA recommends installing furnaces on noncombustible surfaces and has specific requirements if this is not possible.
Make sure you have 24” in front of the panel and 18” in the back to be able to perform maintenance functions on the kiln.

When the kiln arrives

See https://www.youtube.com/video/gxUHHWPAiBs?si=zspjBVZM02rHIkO2

SHIPPING DAMAGE AND INSPECTING YOUR KILN

FREIGHT COMPANIES ALLOW 2 DAYS TO REPORT SHIPPING DAMAGE. WE CANNOT HELP YOU WITH A DAMAGE CLAIM AFTER 2 DAYS.
If box is dented, crushed, un-banded, or off the skid, note it on Delivery Receipt. Check number of cartons against Delivery Receipt. Inspect contents while driver is present. If this is not possible, take photos and mark Delivery Receipt “SUBJECT TO INSPECTION.” If obvious severe damage is visible, take photos and refuse shipment.
IF YOU FIND DAMAGE: Take as many photographs of everything as soon as you can and email them to service@hotkilns.com. The time stamp on these photograph/emails is critical when filing a damage claim! If you can, write a description of the breakage or damage or shortage on all copies of the freight bill before you sign it. Make your notations as specific as possible to protect if concealed damage is subsequently discovered. (In some cases, the shipper may not allow you to do that). See hotkilns.com/shipping for full policy.
Damages must be reported immediately. If there is any problem at all, call L&L (856-294-0077) if during our business hours (preferably before the driver leaves). TAKE PICTURES, AND NOTE ON THE BILL OF LADING ANY DAMAGE. If you don’t, there is no recourse against the carrier who is responsible for the condition of the kiln when it is delivered.
Once you accept the kiln, it is not returnable.

SHIPPING INSPECTION

Inspect the external crate for any obvious damage like broken wood.
We build a support cage inside the kiln interior to prevent kiln bricks from shifting and cracking – although, no matter what, some minor cracking of the firebrick is almost always going to be present.
Examine the “Shockwatch” and “Tiltwatch” labels if included. If they indicate a problem, note it on the Bill of Lading.
Remove the inside cage and inspect the firebrick carefully for signs of any cracking or damage. Note that there is almost always some minor patching that is done in the factory because of the nature of firebrick. This is normal. Compare with the photos in case you are uncertain. Do your best to do this when the kiln is delivered and before the driver leaves. If this is not possible do it immediately afterward even if you do not intend to move or use the kiln for a while.
Inspect the door seal. If the kiln has damage it is likely to show up in broken brick around the door.
THIS IS CRITICAL. DO NOT DISCARD ANY PACKAGING MATERIAL UNTIL YOU HAVE CAREFULLY CHECKED THE KILN FOR DAMAGE. After that, if there is damage, you will be responsible. Once you sign for the kiln it is yours. Make your notations as specific as possible to protect yourself if concealed damage is subsequently discovered.
Inspect kiln as soon as possible AND DEFINITELY WITHIN 2 DAYS –EVEN IF YOU ARE GOING TO STORE THE KILN. Claims must be filed within 2 days of receipt of goods.
We suggest taking digital pictures as soon as you receive the kiln.

MOVING AND SETTING THE KILNS IN PLACE

All L&L front-loading kilns come on a skid so you can move it from either the front or back with a pallet jack or forklift. If you use a forklift go slow and do not tilt the kiln more than a few degrees.

Remove all the wood crating and boxing
Lift the kiln off the skid with the forklift’s forks going completely through the base.
Open the door and carefully remove the wood and foam structure that is in place to support the arch and interior of the kiln during shipment.
Remove the ceramic pieces that are in the element holders to keep the elements in the holders during shipment.
Before the first firing make sure that the elements are seated properly in the element holders. Once the kiln is heated the elements will settle further into the element holders.
See the General Dimension drawing for weights and dimensions. The correct drawing can be found on each model’s webpage on our website (hotkilns.com).

MOVING THE KILN THROUGH A DOOR

Please print out the general dimension drawing for the kiln you are ordering and examine carefully.
Models EL2424, EL2427, EL2436, EL2448 & EL2848 require a door that is at least 34.7” wide
Model EL3048 requires a door that is at least 40.6” wide
Suggestion – have a little more than this exact requirement!

L&L EASY-LOAD BASIC INSTRUCTIONS

CAUTIONS

See the CAUTIONS section. READ THESE CAUTIONS. They will help protect you and your property. Not all of the cautions are obvious - even experienced operators will need to pay attention.

INSTALLATION

See the INSTALLATION page. There is important information on electrical hookup, ventilation requirements, clearances, codes, etc. You must pay attention to these issues or you could create a dangerous situation.

TEMPERATURE RATINGS

All Easy-Load kilns are rated for use to 2350°F (1287°C) (Cone 10) DO NOT FIRE ANY HIGHER THAN THIS. The elements, element holders and firebrick will melt above 2350°F.

PREPARATION & ASSEMBLY

No assembly is required for the Easy-Load kiln.

REMOVING THE DOOR

You may need to take the door off to get the kiln through an opening. If you need to do this remove the element connection wires from the element terminals on the door. Then support the door with 2x4’s or a table so that it doesn’t fall down. CAUTION: The door is very heavy and could cause injury to you or damage to the door if it falls. Remove the hinges and lower the door to the ground. This will take at least two people.

When you replace the door be sure to readjust it so that the seal is even all around the face of the kiln.

UNDERSTANDING THE DESIGN

BASIC CONCEPT OF THE KILN

An EL Series Easy-Load electric kiln is an insulated front loading kiln designed specifically for firing of ceramics. Coiled elements made of a special high temperature alloy (iron-aluminum-chrome) are mounted on the sides, back and door for even heating. Bottom elements are optional.

SEPARATE CONTROL BOX

The control panel is mounted on the right side with standoffs to keep it separate from the heat of the kiln for more reliable operation. The switches and other sensitive components last longer. The panel can be sent to factory for repairs if ever necessary. On some models the control panel may be floor mounted.

ADJUSTABLE DOOR

The door has thrust bearings to make it easy to open. It is adjustable so that you can maintain a proper seal with the front of the kiln over years of operation.

5” OF MULTI-LAYERED INSULATION

The insulation is a special hand picked lightweight K23 firebrick, which is 3” thick. This firebrick resists temperatures up to about 2450°F. It is highly insulating. This is backed up with 2” of non-asbestos backup insulation which is also highly insulating. The arch is K25 4.5” thick arch brick.

After the heating elements are turned off the insulation will slowly lose its heat and the kiln and ware will cool down. L&L uses a special coating on the firebrick to help prevent brick dusting.

OPTIONAL POWERED BOTTOM

Some Easy-Load models have optional powered bottoms available. These are useful if you need to fire faster, have a heavy load or are going to very high fire (they will improve overall element life because the elements won’t have to work as hard to get there). The powered bottoms also offer more control over the accuracy of the temperature at the bottom of the kiln. There should be a 1” to 1-1/2” air space between the bottom and the first hearth shelf (in other words, set the first hearth shelf on 1” or 1-1/2” ceramic spacers). Keep spacers at least ½” away from the edge of the element grooves on the bottom. Use Option C in the hidden menu of the control).

FIRST FIRING OF THE KILN

Follow the FIRST FIRING INSTRUCTIONS here.

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

REGULAR KILN MAINTENANCE

See this page on kiln maintenance. NOTE: Failure to properly maintain your kiln could lead to a dangerous condition and could lead to premature aging of the kiln (like elements burning out).

WARRANTY

Easy-Load kilns carry a commercial limited warranty. See this page.

SERVICE FOR YOUR KILN

See this page.

CRACKS IN THE BRICKS

It is quite normal to get hairline cracks in firebricks. They are caused by the expansion and contraction of the firebrick as it heats and cools. It generally does not make sense to cement these hairline cracks.

PARTS TO KEEP ON HAND

If you are operating in a production environment it is imperative that you stock certain spare parts if you must prevent down time. While we do our best to ship parts quickly and to keep all parts in stock we cannot be responsible for your downtime. We recommend the following parts be kept on hand:

Complete set of elements
Complete set of fuses
One power contactor
Set of spare thermocouples
Several element holders
Brick Repair kit

Adjusting the door of an Easy-Load Kiln

See https://www.youtube.com/video/U0GtWAeTGvM