Kiln Ventilation CFM Calculator
Exhaust hood airflow for a pottery kiln.
Enter your values
ⓘ Live results
Results
- Required exhaust
- 2,000 CFM
- Method
- Canopy hood above the kiln
- Duct size at 1200 FPM
- 17.5 in dia
- Makeup air needed
- 2,000 CFM
- Room air changes in a 2000 cu ft studio
- 60
Quick answer
Kiln canopy hoods are sized on hood face area at 100-150 FPM capture velocity, with downdraft vents rated per cubic foot of kiln.
CFM = hood area x capture velocity
How to use the Kiln Ventilation CFM Calculator
- 1Decide between a canopy hood or a downdraft vent system.
- 2For a canopy, size it to overhang the kiln by 6-12 inches on each side.
- 3Provide an equal amount of makeup air so the room does not go strongly negative.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- MethodCanopy hood
- Hood width4 ft
- Hood depth4 ft
- Capture velocity125 FPM
- Kiln volume10 cu ft
Results
- Required exhaust2,000 CFM
- MethodCanopy hood above the kiln
- Duct size at 1200 FPM17.5 in dia
- Makeup air needed2,000 CFM
- Room air changes in a 2000 cu ft studio60
Frequently asked questions
Do electric kilns need venting?
Yes — firing clay and glazes releases sulphur, fluorine and carbon monoxide regardless of the heat source.
Downdraft advantages?
It captures fumes at source with far less airflow, so you lose less conditioned air.
About this calculator
- Built and reviewed by James Whitfield · How we build and test calculators
- Report an error
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.