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I was told when I got my kiln to leave the top hole open when I fired to cone 04.  I did a test to see if the kiln would fire to cone 5, and according to my records, an empty kiln turned on high took about 3 1/2 hours until the kiln sitter fell.

 

Now I'm going to fire a cone 5 load, and I am wondering if I should close the top hole also.  The kiln is well vented, and the work is dry.  I did 1 hour on low, 1 hour on medium with the lid open about 5 inches.  Now the lid is closed and two of the three side holes are closed.  Would closing the top hole heat the pieces more quickly?  Would that be a good thing or not?  I'm using Amoco Potter's Choice cone 5 glazes on Little Loafers.  I'm not sure how long this cone 5 load will take, but the 04 loads take about 2 1/2 hours after I have turned the kiln to high.  I'm not sure how long to set the sitter for.  Any help is appreciated.  Thank you.

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usually the top peep hole is left open for the exhaust of steam and fumes to protect the elements.If you have a vent hooked up to the kiln you can shut the peep hole. The peeps are usually cut with the smaller opening on the inside which decreases the draw. They don't really lose much heat. I'd leave it open but don't hang around inhaling fumes.

Check it on occasion. My little test kiln is very old and can fire to ^7 in 4 hours after it is turned on high.It all depends on how much stuff you have in the kiln and how hearty the elements.

 

Marcia

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