Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about our metal casting furnaces, shipping, returns, and more. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us anytime.

Shipping

1. Do you offer free shipping?

Yes, we offer free shipping on all orders within the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii. No minimum purchase is required.

2. How long does shipping take?

Standard delivery takes 3–7 business days. Freight items such as industrial furnaces may take 5–10 business days. Orders are processed within 1–3 business days, and you'll receive a confirmation email with tracking information once your order ships.

3. Do you ship internationally?

Currently, we ship within the United States only. We are working on expanding our shipping capabilities to serve international customers in the future.

Returns

4. What is your return policy?

You may return unused items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. Items must be in their original packaging and in resalable condition. Contact us at info@metalcastingfurnace.com to request a return authorization.

5. How do I start a return?

Email us at info@metalcastingfurnace.com with your order number and the reason for the return. We will provide a return shipping label and instructions for packaging your item.

Warranty

6. Do your furnaces come with a warranty?

Yes, our furnaces come with a manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty periods vary by product — typically 1 year for hobby furnaces and up to 2 years for industrial models. Check the product page or contact us for specific warranty details.

7. What does the warranty cover?

The warranty covers manufacturing defects in the furnace body, heating elements, and electrical components. It does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, normal wear of consumables (such as crucibles), or unauthorized modifications.

Furnace Operation

8. How do I operate my furnace for the first time?

Read the included manual thoroughly before starting. Place the furnace on a stable, non-flammable surface in a well-ventilated area. Pre-heat the crucible gradually, add your metal, and monitor the temperature with a pyrometer. Always wear proper safety gear.

9. How long does it take to melt metal?

Melting time depends on the furnace type, power, metal type, and quantity. A typical 10 kg electric furnace can melt aluminum in 20–30 minutes. Larger industrial furnaces or higher-melting-point metals like iron will take longer.

Temperature

10. What temperature range do your furnaces reach?

Our furnaces cover a wide range: hobby and electric crucible furnaces typically reach 2,000–2,400°F (1,093–1,316°C), while industrial induction and arc furnaces can exceed 3,000°F (1,649°C). Check each product's specifications for exact temperature ratings.

11. How do I monitor the temperature accurately?

Use a digital pyrometer with a thermocouple probe rated for your furnace's temperature range. We offer compatible pyrometers in our accessories collection. Insert the probe into the melt (not the crucible wall) for the most accurate reading.

Crucibles

12. What type of crucible should I use?

Graphite crucibles are versatile and work well for aluminum, brass, copper, and other non-ferrous metals. Silicon carbide crucibles are more durable and handle higher temperatures, making them suitable for bronze and iron. Always choose a crucible rated above your metal's melting point.

13. How often should I replace my crucible?

Crucible lifespan depends on usage frequency, metal type, and maintenance. Inspect your crucible before each use for cracks, thinning walls, or glaze buildup. Replace immediately if you see any damage. With proper care, a graphite crucible can last 20–50 melts.

Gas vs. Electric

14. Should I choose a gas or electric furnace?

Electric furnaces offer precise temperature control, clean operation, and are ideal for indoor or workshop use. Gas-fired furnaces (propane or natural gas) are more portable, often more affordable for larger capacities, and can reach high temperatures quickly. Your choice depends on your workspace, power availability, and portability needs. See our Buying Guide for a detailed comparison.

Safety

15. What safety equipment do I need?

At minimum, you need heat-resistant gloves, a face shield, a leather apron, and closed-toe leather boots. We also recommend a fire-resistant jacket, safety glasses underneath the face shield, and a Class D fire extinguisher rated for metal fires. Browse our safety equipment collection for recommended gear.

Payments

16. What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), as well as Shopify Pay, Google Pay, and Apple Pay for fast, secure checkout. All transactions are encrypted and processed through Shopify's secure payment gateway.

17. Is my payment information secure?

Yes. All payments are processed through Shopify's PCI-compliant payment platform. We never store your credit card information on our servers.

Order Tracking

18. How can I track my order?

Once your order ships, you'll receive an email with a tracking number and link. You can also contact us at info@metalcastingfurnace.com or +1 (415) 234-9920 with your order number, and we'll provide a status update.