🎛️ Harvia C170VKK Control Panel – Professional 3-17kW Sauna Controller with Weekly Programming
Intelligent sauna management for commercial and residential installations with eight programmable schedules and remote start capability
♨️ Product Overview
The Harvia C170VKK Control Panel is a professional-grade external control unit engineered for electric sauna heaters rated between 3 kW and 17 kW. Designed as the successor to the trusted C150VKK, this advanced controller brings sophisticated automation to commercial saunas, spas, hotels, and housing developments where reliable, programmable operation is essential.
At its core, the C170VKK features a responsive 2.3-inch touchscreen interface that provides intuitive control over heating schedules, lighting, ventilation, and electronic locks. The integrated weekly timer allows operators to programme up to eight distinct heating schedules, ensuring the sauna is ready precisely when needed whilst minimising energy waste during quiet periods.
Manufactured by Harvia, Finland’s leading sauna specialist with over 70 years of expertise, this control panel delivers the precision engineering and durability expected in professional wellness environments. The sleek white steel enclosure and compact wall-mount design integrate seamlessly into any sauna control room or reception area.
⭐ Key Features
✅ Weekly Timer with 8 Programmable Schedules – Create customised heating programmes for different days and times, perfect for facilities with varying usage patterns
✅ 2.3″ Touchscreen Display – Intuitive interface with clear icons for temperature, time, and system status monitoring at a glance
✅ Remote Start Capability – Activate the sauna remotely via connected switch or building automation system for ultimate convenience
✅ Multi-Function Control – Manages heater operation, lighting (max 100W), ventilation fan (max 100W), and electronic locks from a single unit
✅ Wide Heater Compatibility – Works with electric sauna heaters from 3 kW to 17 kW (higher output possible with optional LTY17 power extension unit)
✅ Safety Switch Integration – Compatible with Harvia SFE safety switches and door switches for automatic shut-off protection
✅ Adjustable Temperature Range – Precise thermostat control from 40°C to 110°C with sensor calibration capability
✅ Resettable Overheat Protection – Built-in safety cut-out with manual reset eliminates component replacement after thermal events
✅ IPX4 Splash Protection – Rated for installation in humid environments adjacent to sauna rooms
✅ Dehumidification Mode – Automatic 45-minute drying cycle helps preserve sauna cabin condition and extend lifespan
✅ Power Failure Memory – Resume operation automatically after electrical interruptions (configurable setting)
✅ CE Certified – Full compliance with European safety standards for commercial and residential installation
🔧 Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | C170VKK (SKU: SHCON170VKK) |
| Heater Compatibility | 3-17 kW (expandable with LTY17) |
| Operating Voltage | 400 V~ 3N, 50-60 Hz |
| Maximum Current | 3 × 25 A |
| Temperature Range | 40°C – 110°C |
| Timer Range | 1-12 hours (18h/24h with supervision) |
| Pre-selection Time | 0-12 hours |
| Programmable Schedules | 8 weekly programmes |
| Control Panel Dimensions (H×W×D) | 55 × 240 × 20 mm |
| Power Unit Dimensions (H×W×D) | 225 × 240 × 75 mm |
| Recommended Installation Opening | 425 × 260 × 150 mm |
| Total Weight | 1.6 kg |
| Sensor Cable Length | 5 m (approximately) |
| Light Control | Max 100 W, 230 V 1N~ |
| Fan Control | Max 100 W, 230 V 1N~ |
| Auxiliary Output | Max 100 W, 230 V 1N~ |
| Temperature Sensor | NTC Thermistor (22 kΩ at 25°C) |
| Sensor Dimensions | 51 × 73 × 27 mm |
| IP Rating | IPX4 |
| Ambient Temperature Range | 5°C to 50°C |
| Storage Temperature Range | 0°C to 40°C |
| Construction | Steel housing |
| Colour | White |
| Certifications | CE Marked |
📐 Compatible Heater Sizing Guide
The Harvia C170VKK controls heaters from 3 kW to 17 kW. Use this guide to determine the appropriate heater size for your sauna:
Basic Heater Sizing Formula:
1 kW = 1 - 1.5 m³ sauna room volume
Adjustment Factors:
| Condition | Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Glass door/windows | +1.5 m³ per m² of glass |
| Uninsulated/log walls | +25-50% to volume |
| Outdoor/barrel sauna | +25-30% to volume |
| High ceiling (>2.3m) | Add extra volume |
Heater Compatibility Examples:
| Heater Power | Recommended Room Size | Typical Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 3-4 kW | 3-6 m³ | 2-3 persons |
| 6-8 kW | 6-12 m³ | 3-6 persons |
| 9-11 kW | 9-16 m³ | 5-8 persons |
| 12-17 kW | 12-25 m³ | 6-12 persons |
💡 Note: For heaters above 17 kW, the optional Harvia LTY17 power extension unit may be connected.
💷 Estimated Running Costs
The C170VKK controller itself consumes minimal electricity (display and electronics only). Running costs depend entirely on the connected heater size.
Energy Rate Used: £0.2635/kWh (Ofgem price cap Q4 2025)
Example: 9 kW Heater with C170VKK Controller
| Usage Level | Sessions/Week | Hours/Year | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏠 Light Use | 2 | 150 | £356 |
| 🏠 Regular Use | 4 | 300 | £711 |
| 🧖 Heavy Use | 6 | 450 | £1,067 |
Calculation Formula:
Annual Cost = Heater kW × Hours/Year × £0.2635
Example (9 kW heater, Regular Use):
9 kW × 300 hours × £0.2635 = £711.45
Per session cost: Approximately £3.56 per 1.5-hour session
⚠️ Actual costs depend on heater size, usage patterns, session length, and current energy rates. The C170VKK’s weekly programming helps reduce costs by preventing unnecessary heating cycles.
⚡ Installation Requirements
Electrical Requirements:
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | 400 V~ 3N (3-phase + neutral) |
| Frequency | 50-60 Hz |
| Maximum Current | 3 × 25 A |
| Dedicated Circuit | Required |
| Installation Location | Outside sauna room (dry area) |
Control Panel Installation:
| Position | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Mounting | Wall-mounted, vertical orientation |
| Installation Opening | 425 × 260 × 150 mm (recommended) |
| Ambient Temperature | 5°C to 50°C |
| Environment | Dry location, protected from direct water |
Temperature Sensor Installation:
| Position | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Location | Inside sauna room, on wall |
| Height | Approximately 1.0m below ceiling |
| Distance from Heater | Follow manufacturer guidelines (typically >1m) |
| Cable Length | Up to 5 m from control panel |
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Installation must be carried out by a qualified electrician in accordance with BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations) and local building codes. The control unit must be installed outside the sauna room in a dry area.
🛡️ Safety Features & Certifications
Built-in Safety Features:
✅ Resettable overheat protection with manual reset button
✅ Adjustable maximum operating time (1-12 hours standard; 18h/24h supervised mode)
✅ 6-hour rest period option between heating cycles
✅ Safety switch input (compatible with Harvia SFE)
✅ Door switch input for automatic monitoring
✅ Automatic dehumidification mode (45-minute cycle)
✅ PIN code lock for access control
✅ Power failure memory (configurable)
Certifications:
✅ CE Marked – European conformity certification
✅ IPX4 Rated – Protected against water splashes from all directions
🎯 Ideal Applications
| Application | Description | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| 🏢 Commercial Saunas | Gyms, wellness centres, health clubs | Weekly scheduling, remote start, access control |
| 🏨 Hotels & Resorts | Guest amenities, spa facilities | Programmable schedules, energy management |
| 🏠 Residential Complexes | Housing associations, apartment blocks | Shared facility management, booking integration |
| 🧖 Day Spas | Professional wellness environments | Multi-function control, dehumidification |
| 🏊 Leisure Centres | Public facilities with scheduled access | Timed operation, safety switch integration |
| 🏡 Premium Home Saunas | High-end residential installations | Remote start, sophisticated control |
🎛️ Control Options & Accessories
Included with Controller:
- C170VKK control panel with 2.3″ touchscreen
- Power unit with integrated circuit protection
- WX232 temperature sensor with overheat protector
- Sensor mounting hardware
- Installation and operation manual
Compatible Accessories (Sold Separately):
| Accessory | Code | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Safety Switch | Harvia SFE | Mounts above heater, prevents operation if obstructed |
| Door Switch | Various | Magnetic sensor for door monitoring |
| Additional Sensor | WX325 | Secondary temperature sensor for enhanced accuracy |
| Power Extension | LTY17 | Enables control of heaters above 17 kW |
| Remote Switch | Various | External activation switch (short-circuit type) |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size heaters will this controller work with? A: The C170VKK is compatible with electric sauna heaters from 3 kW to 17 kW. For more powerful heaters, the optional LTY17 power extension unit can be added.
Q: Can I programme the sauna to heat at specific times? A: Yes, the weekly timer allows up to 8 programmable schedules. You can set different heating times and temperatures for each day of the week, perfect for facilities with varying usage patterns.
Q: Does this controller work with remote/building automation systems? A: Yes, the C170VKK includes a short-circuit type remote input compatible with home automation systems, time switches, and external control switches.
Q: Where should the controller be installed? A: The control panel must be installed outside the sauna room in a dry location with ambient temperature between 5°C and 50°C. Only the temperature sensor is installed inside the sauna.
Q: What happens during a power cut? A: The configurable power failure memory can automatically resume operation after power is restored, or require manual restart depending on your preference setting.
Q: Can I control sauna lighting and ventilation with this unit? A: Yes, the C170VKK includes 230V outputs for lighting (max 100W) and fan control (max 100W), allowing centralised management of your sauna environment.
Q: Is a safety switch required? A: According to IEC/EN 60335-2-53, remote start functionality requires either a safety switch (on the heater) or a door switch. Harvia recommends the SFE safety switch for optimal protection.
Q: What is the dehumidification mode? A: When enabled, a 45-minute drying cycle runs after each sauna session at 40°C with ventilation activated. This helps protect the sauna cabin from moisture damage and extends its lifespan.
📥 Downloads & Resources
📄 Installation & Operating Manual – Complete installation guide with wiring diagrams and programming instructions
📄 Spare Parts Catalogue – Reference for replacement components
📄 EU Declaration of Conformity – CE certification documentation
🏆 Why Choose the Harvia C170VKK
✅ Finnish Engineering Excellence – Over 70 years of Harvia expertise in sauna technology
✅ Comprehensive Automation – Weekly scheduling with 8 programmable cycles for energy-efficient operation
✅ Future-Ready Design – Remote start capability and building automation compatibility
✅ Multi-Function Control – Single unit manages heater, lighting, ventilation, and locks
✅ Professional Safety Features – Integrated overheat protection, safety switch compatibility, and access control
✅ Energy Management – Programmable schedules and rest periods help reduce operating costs
✅ Proven Reliability – Updated version of the trusted C150VKK with enhanced features
🤝 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs
✅ UK-based company with dedicated local support
✅ Fast UK delivery on all orders
✅ Expert advice from sauna and wellness specialists
✅ Competitive pricing on genuine Harvia products
✅ Full warranty support and after-sales service
✅ Easy returns within 30 days
✨ Summary
The Harvia C170VKK Control Panel delivers professional-grade automation for electric sauna heaters from 3 kW to 17 kW. With its intuitive 2.3″ touchscreen, eight programmable weekly schedules, and comprehensive safety features, it’s the ideal choice for commercial saunas, hotels, leisure facilities, and premium residential installations. Finnish-engineered and CE certified, this controller provides reliable, energy-efficient sauna management backed by Parts4Tubs expert support and fast UK delivery.







