How to use this calculator
The kiln firing cost calculator runs the math two ways. My Kiln mode is the basic energy cost: kilowatts (or therms per hour) multiplied by firing duration, multiplied by your utility rate. Studio / Facility mode adds two more lines for shared spaces: staff labor for loading and unloading, and overhead for kiln wear and maintenance.
- Pick electric or gas. Fill in your kiln's wattage (or gas rate) and your utility rate.
- Choose a firing schedule preset, or set custom hours. Bisque firings run around 8 hours, glaze around 10, high fire around 12.
- Set how many firings you run per month for the monthly projection.
- If you run a community studio, switch to Studio / Facility mode and add staff time and overhead.
- Optionally enter kiln dimensions for a cost-per-cubic-foot number, which helps when comparing loading strategies.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find my kiln's wattage?
Check the metal data plate on the back or side of the kiln. It will list voltage and amperage; multiply them to get watts, then divide by 1000 for kilowatts. A common 7-cubic-foot studio kiln runs around 8 kW. For gas, check your kiln manual for therm or BTU consumption per hour.
What kWh rate should I use?
Look at your most recent electric bill. The average US residential rate is around $0.16 per kWh, but commercial rates and time-of-use plans vary widely. Use your actual rate for accurate numbers. Wyoming, where we are, runs around $0.12 per kWh.
Why is the staff labor default $42 in facility mode?
The default reflects two hours of staff time (one hour each for loading and unloading) at a typical hourly rate for studio tech work. Rates vary widely by region and operation type, so adjust this field to whatever matches your studio's actual costs.
What does facility overhead cover?
Kiln maintenance, brick and coil replacement, thermostat upkeep, kiln shelves, posts and furniture, and other equipment wear. We default to 25 percent of energy plus labor as a reasonable starting point for shared community studios. Your number may be lower if you have new equipment or higher if your kiln sees heavy use.
Should kiln cost be built into my class price?
Yes. Firing cost is a real direct cost of running a clay class. Calculate the cost per firing here, estimate how many firings your class will need (typically two: bisque and glaze), then add that to your materials line in Class Price Calculator.
Related free tools
Pricing the whole clay class?
Firing cost is one line in a much larger picture. Class Price Calculator models instructor time, materials, coordinator hours, facility overhead, risk buffers, and enrollment scenarios in one tool. Built by the teaching artists at the Lander Art Center.
Get Class Price Calculator