The standard heater that is included in most of our sauna kits is the KIP heater. The size of the sauna will determine the standard kilowatt size paired. 

Our heater upgrade models include the KIP (dials), KIP (digital), The Wall Heater (dials), Cilindro Heater (dials or digital), Virta (digital), and Virta Combi (digital). Select outdoor saunas are also eligible for an upgrade to a wood-burning heater.

The overall experience is similar whether heating with electric or wood. Anelectric heateris standard with every sauna we sell, and we also havewood-burning options for our larger outdoor saunas. Installation should be done in accordance with the sauna and heater manufacturer's recommendations, being sure to abide by any local building codes as well

Typically, our saunas will heat to 165°F in 30–40 minutes and to 185° in less than 60. Our heaters offer a standard heat up time of 45-60 minutes and will reach 170°-185°F+.

However, the time it takes a sauna to heat up depends on the climate in which you live; heat up time depends on the ambient temperature surrounding the sauna. For example, if you have an outdoor sauna and you live in a northern climate and it’s the middle of winter, give your sauna a little more time to heat up. Furthermore, some people like their sauna hot and some like it blazing – that’s a factor that will influence heat-up time too. 

Proper stone placement ensures the stability of heating elements and keeps them correctly spaced, helping to extend the lifespan of your heater.

Stones should be placed between each row and between each loop of the heating elements to maintain proper spacing and stability.

Water should only be added when the stones have reached a minimum temperature of 160°F (71°C). Do not pour more than one ladle or 1/4 cup at a time.

It is recommended to check the stones annually for any degradation or settling that could cause metal-on-metal contact between the heating elements or with the heater’s outer frame.

Bends, cracks, or bubbling on the heating elements can be caused by:

• Pouring water before the stones reach 160°F (71°C)
• Metal-on-metal contact
• An electrical surge to the unit

A replacement guide for the KIP B series heating elements is attached to this email. You can also find replacement parts on our websitehere.

Heating elements are covered by a 1,3-year warranty.

If you suspect your heating elements need to be replaced and are still under warranty, please send photos of your exposed heating elements and any visible serial numbers toSupport@warmliving.comalong with your name and order details.