3.
Elements last longer.
A vent can be added to the kiln later if you
don't wish to purchase it with your kiln.
A
vent is pretty easy to install. You attach dryer ducting to the
vent unit, and run that outside of your house similar to running dryer
ducting. If desired you can make a hole through an exterior wall,
just like your dryer has. Or if you don't want to cut through your
exterior wall, you can run ducting out a window or a door with good
results.
Venting 2 kilns: This is discussed
above. The kilns can be vented at the same time as long as the
cubic feet of both kilns is not higher than that recommended by the
vent. Or it can be used to vent two larger kilns that are not
firing at the same time.
Venting Oval Kilns: The smallest Olympic
oval kilns are probably fine with 1 vent. Other oval kilns are
best vented with two vents, one on each end. That will produce the
most even venting. This is especially important with the very
large ovals where the cubic feet exceeds the capacity of most vents.
Additional
parts needed: Some vents come with a length of
flexible metal hose (for the others you just buy metal dryer ducting at
the hardware store.) You also choose your own method for the
ducting to leave the room. For example, you can use a dryer
vent.
Some people think that only glazes have toxic
chemicals and need to be vented. But sulfur and other gases are
given off during bisque firings, and believe me, if you do not get those
out of your work area, they will get you out of it!
More info on
venting http://www.ortonceramic.com/faq.asp
http://www.ortonceramic.com/pyrometric/venting.htm
Note
to schools: Check your OSHA guidelines. They probably will require
that your kiln be vented.
Choosing
Between Brands and Models:
People who buy Skutt, L&L or Cress kilns tend to buy the same brand of
vent as their kiln. People who buy other brands of kilns usually buy
Orton Vents. However, the Orton, Skutt and L&L are very similar
and can all be used on any brand of kiln.
