# Kiln Log Template: Firings, Element Wear and Maintenance

Cluster: For Studio Owners
URL: https://claybook.studio/blog/kiln-log-template/

# Kiln Log Template: Firings, Element Wear and Maintenance

A kiln is the most expensive piece of equipment in most studios, and it wears out silently. A log gives you the history to spot problems early, plan repairs and answer the question "what happened in that firing?"

## What to record for every firing

* Date and who fired
* Bisque or glaze, and the program used
* Target cone and peak temperature reached
* Start and end time
* Number of pieces and how the kiln was loaded
* Problems: slow climb, error codes, uneven results
* Cooling time and unload date

## Kiln log sheet

Copy this onto a clipboard sheet by the kiln or into a spreadsheet.

| Date | Fired by | Type | Cone | Program | Start | End | Peak temp | Pieces | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |

## Track element wear

In an electric kiln, elements age with every firing. Their resistance changes, firing times grow longer and eventually they fail.

* Count total firings, with a separate tally for high-temperature glaze firings.
* Note how long a standard firing takes. A steady increase is a sign of wear.
* Check elements visually at regular intervals. See [understanding your kiln's elements](/learn/understanding-your-electric-kiln-s-elements/).
* Record the date any element is replaced.

Follow your kiln manufacturer's guidance for testing and replacement. Work on a kiln should be done with the power disconnected, or by a qualified person.

## Track shelves and furniture

* Inspect shelves for cracks and glaze drips, and re-wash when needed. See [kiln wash](/learn/kiln-wash-protecting-your-shelves/).
* Retire warped or cracked shelves.
* Record the date of each re-wash and any shelf replacement. See [caring for kiln shelves](/learn/caring-for-your-kiln-shelves/).

## Maintenance schedule

| Task | How often |
| --- | --- |
| Check the kiln room for ventilation and clutter | Every firing |
| Inspect shelves and kiln wash | Monthly |
| Inspect elements, lid and peepholes | Every three months |
| Check thermocouple or sensor | As the manufacturer recommends |
| Full service by a professional | Yearly, or per the manual |

Adjust this to your kiln and the manual.

## Why it pays off

* You see patterns before something fails.
* You can show the history to a technician or insurer.
* New staff learn the kiln's habits quickly.
* You can answer member questions with facts.

## Want this in your studio?

Claybook handles this for your studio: firings, element hours and maintenance reminders in one place.

Tell us how you run things today and we will tailor it to your studio. See [everything we offer studios](/studios/features/).