Bailey's Top-Loading Electric Kilns are built to give you many years of reliable firings. This does take some maintenance on your end to replace important parts once they begin to wear out. Longer firings are a common indication that it is about time.
A quick test to confirm your kiln is working efficiently is the Full Power Test. A full-power test is used to test the relays and elements of the kiln. Instructions can be found on page 28 of the Bartlett Controller Operation Manual. You will program a one-segment Vary Fire program to go up as fast as possible (9999 degrees per hour) to 1000 degrees with no hold. Leave the kiln lid open and start firing. Check the 3 red indicator lights on the control box: all lights should be on steady, not cycling on & off. After 10-20 minutes (do not wait for the kiln to reach 1000 degrees), observe each element from where it comes into the kiln and all the way around. After observing, end firing.
Possible observations and what they mean:
If any of the red indicator lights on a Bailey Kiln do not turn on during the Full Power Test. This indicates a bad relay in that zone.
One element is not glowing at all and its corresponding indicator light is on. This indicates a broken element.
There are darker (cool) spots on the elements. This indicates worn elements.
When you buy a Bailey Top Loading Electric Kiln, you also get an extra set of elements so you won't have to wait for replacements to arrive. You can be back to firing quickly.
We have support staff here to answer questions you may have about firing. If you receive a flashing error on the controller display screen, jot it down so when you call we'll be able to quickly help you.
