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Why Upgrade your Heater?

Why Upgrade your Heater?

by Stella Spero in Blog

The standard KIP heater included in our indoor sauna units reaches 170-180°F within the first 45-60 minutes and a maximum temperature of 194°F. If you’re looking for a faster, hotter, and more efficient sauna experience, upgrading to a Spirit or Virta heater is a great option.

While saunas typically don't exceed 194°F, you can experience 200°F+ by introducing steam once the heater nears its maximum temperature.

Why Upgrade Your Standard Heater?

Faster Heat-Up Times

  • The Spirit and Virta heaters heat up more quickly than the standard KIP with dials, so you can enjoy your sauna session sooner.
  • Maintains peak temperatures more consistently allowing for a more intense sauna experience.

Ideal for Cold Climates

  • Engineered for freezing conditions, ensuring consistent high temperatures.
  • Powerful heating elements generate and sustain heat more efficiently.
  • Even heat distribution prevents cold spots for a more comfortable session.

Optimized for High Elevation

  • Designed for high-altitude efficiency, where thinner air affects heating.
  • Powerful and consistent heat provides steady warmth, even in low-oxygen environments.
  • Advanced heating technology ensures your sauna reaches and maintains the desired temperature reliably.

Recommended Heater Upgrades

If you would like to upgrade from the standard KIP heater, we recommend:

  • Spirit Heater (available in 6kW to 8kW)
  • Virta Heater (available in 6kW to 10.5kW)
  • Benefits: Heats up faster, maintains higher temperatures, and improves overall efficiency.
  • Drastically reduces wait time for your sauna to reach its desired temperature.

Advanced Digital & WiFi Controls

Not only do the Virta and Spirit heaters get hotter in less time, but they also support Xenio digital controls, unlike the standard KIP heater. This allows you to:

  • Turn on your sauna with the push of a button.
  • Use a 12-hour pre-set timer instead of the standard 8-hour dial control.
  • Control your sauna remotely with the MyHarvia WiFi app, a standard feature on these heaters.

Virta Combi: A Sauna & Steam Room in One

For those looking for something extra, the Virta Combi is a luxurious upgrade that combines a traditional sauna with a steam room experience.

  • Built-in steam generator allows for humidity levels up to 80%.
  • Can be connected to a water line for continuous operation or manually refilled.
  • Provides both wet/dry sauna experiences with adjustable temperature & humidity settings.
  • Maintenance Tip: To extend the heater’s lifespan, turn off the steam generator and run just the heater for 20–30 minutes after each session to dry out excess moisture.

The Virta Combi offers the ultimate balance of heat and humidity, creating a spa-like experience in your own home.

Ready to Upgrade?

Check the product page of your sauna for available heater upgrades, or give us a call with any questions. Upgrade today for a hotter, faster, and more efficient sauna experience!

Tags: Before You Buy
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