Knowledgebase and FAQs
Resources
If you're changing your kiln's voltage (e.g., from 208V to 240V), you must replace all elements to match the new specs—otherwise, circuits may draw too much current and exceed safe limits; also, update your breaker and wire size based on the new amperage using NEC guidelines (amps × 1.25, then match to appropriate copper wire gauge).
This kiln series: DaVinci kilns, eFL Series, Bell-Lift Kilns, Jupiter 2900-3 (28" diameter) models, Easy-Load Kilns
The Quad element system uses extra-large, low-watt-density elements (up to ½" diameter) that perform exceptionally well—even in demanding firings like crystalline glazes—with customers reporting over 130 firings using standard A1 alloy, though upgrading to APM alloy offers even greater durability.
No. We track kilns by serial number and there is no need to register your warranty,
The JD18, JD23, and JD2918 kilns come with three-zone control panels, allowing easy future upgrades to larger models (JD18X, JD230, or JD2927), and for bigger expansions, you can special order a panel with more zones or add a powered bottom—contact the factory for details.
L&L exports through both international distributors in some countries and directly where we do not have a distributor. See our list of international distributors.
We do not make an automatic control to plug a manual kiln into.
Click here to find out how L&L packs its kilns.
To safely move your kiln long distances, stack it on a wooden skid with 1" Styrofoam between each layer (rings first, then lid, then bottom), tightly wrap the entire stack with 70-gauge stretch wrap, and strap it securely to the skid—adding wood at the top to protect against strap pressure—suitable for a moving van, though shipping by common carrier would require more robust crating.
Talk to your local distributor. Call our factory for a shipping quote (if you are buying direct from the factory).
The serial number is on a data nameplate affixed to the control panel.
Usually the last two digits (before any suffixes) are the year in which it was made.
To safely pack a kiln for transport, remove the stand and bottom, place the kiln bottom-first on a foam-padded skid, add foam between sections and around hinges, place 1" foam on top, then stack the bottom and stand above, wrap everything tightly with stretch wrap, and protect the exterior with cardboard or framing.
We get asked this question a lot. We don't have any real way of knowing. A kiln, or any possession for that matter, is valued at whatever someone is willing to pay for it.
You can download almost all of our instructions (including those for older models) from
We don't offer any coatings for elements. There is an ITC coating that some people claim to use with success.
A powered bottom improves temperature evenness—especially for dense loads like tile firings—but it’s not usually needed to reach temperature, except in taller kilns like the JD23 or JD2918 at Cone 10; if choosing between a powered bottom and an extra ring, the powered ring offers both added space and more power, though it can be more prone to maintenance issues from debris.
Kilns used onAll L&L top-loading kilns are sectional.Front-Loading kilns are not sectional.Why do we use sectional construction?
Availability
Powered bottoms are available on Jupiter kilns with 22-1/2", 23-1/2", 28" and 29" diameters.
When changing kiln voltage (e.g., from 208V to 240V or vice versa), you must replace all elements to match the new specs, may need to swap voltage-specific relays, and must confirm your breaker and wire sizes meet the new amperage—using correct components prevents overheating, relay failure, and ensures the kiln reaches target temperatures safely.
Graded elements are one way kiln manufacturers adjust for the natural top to bottom temperature variations in a kiln.
Don't sign the Bill of Lading if you notice the shipping damage. If you do sign it, sign it with mention of the damage. What you do may determine how helpful the shipping co
The most accurate way to measure your kiln's energy use is with a kilowatt meter, but you can estimate it by using the kiln’s wattage rating, breaking the firing into time segments (each using increasing percentages of power), then totaling the kilowatt-hours and multiplying by your utility rate—for example, a 12-hour Cone 6 firing on an 11.5 kW kiln costs about $7.78 at $0.09 per kWh.
Click here for information on how L&L ships kilns.
One, your kiln will last much longer. We have seen L&L kilns that are 20 and even 30 years old that look and function like new kilns.
The only difference is the amperage and watts. The JD230-3 is designed with the same elements that we used for 50 years in the J230 kilns (43 amps at 240 volts).
DaVinci kilns are large, square or rectangular kilns ideal for maximizing usable space (especially for tiles), featuring heavy-duty construction with counterbalanced lids, floor-standing control panels with 50-amp circuits (except for smaller models using Jupiter panels), and they share many options with Jupiter kilns like kiln sitter backups and bottom elements.
Easy-Fire kilns are designed for simplicity and to meet the needs of most users, while Jupiter kilns are better suited for customization, offering taller models and easy disassembly—ideal for sculptors or specialized applications.
The Easy-Fire and School-Master kilns are very similar. The Easy-fire kilns are our flagship kiln series.
All kilns are shipped from our factory in Swedesboro, NJ (10 miles south of Philadelphia PA)
Class 85 for kilns.Class 55 for parts.
Where to find an L&L Distributor.
All the buying options are listed here.
On the Easy-Fire e28T-3 kiln (and School-Master SM28T-3) you will find the cone rating is limited by the KW of the kiln.
There is an electrical code rule in the US that allows you to have any appliance that draws 48 amps or less not have what are called "branch fusing".
Cautions
Firing a kiln unattended—especially at night—can be done safely with strict precautions like removing flammables, ensuring proper ventilation, using reliable automatic controls, and monitoring the firing end time, but it carries risks and requires full responsibility and common sense.
Burning out fabric in an L&L electric kiln can be done safely in small amounts with good ventilation and caution, but excessive combustibles can cause dangerous fires, so careful monitoring and containment (like using a sagger) are essential.
Once properly calibrated, digital L&L kilns are highly reliable, but serious overfiring—though rare—can still occur due to issues like a stuck relay, improperly installed or mismatched thermocouple, or incorrect program settings (e.g., wrong cone or hold time), so it's important to monitor firings, especially at shutoff, since overfiring isn't covered under warranty.
Replacement Controls may not match your kiln's configuration. Check before using!
Kiln "Cloth" might be ceramic fiber paper. Check the temperature rating before firing.
