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As the inventor of the original reclining chair, La-Z-Boy has long been known for comfort, innovation, and customizable furniture. Over the years, the company has introduced numerous features designed to enhance the reclining experience, including power recline, adjustable lumbar support, power headrests, and more.
One upgrade that often generates curiosity among shoppers is the Heat & Massage Upgrade.
According to Tim Young, Sales Consultant at La-Z-Boy Hunt Club, the answer often depends on how frequently someone uses their recliner. "Customers who spend a lot of time in their recliner tend to appreciate the Heat & Massage Upgrade the most. For many of them, it becomes part of their daily relaxation routine."
While some shoppers immediately love the idea of built-in heat and massage, others wonder how it compares to a traditional recliner and whether they'll actually use it regularly.
In this article, we'll explain how the Heat & Massage Upgrade works, what it costs, its advantages and limitations, and whether it's the right fit for your lifestyle.
In This Article...
For many homeowners, the answer is yes.
The Heat & Massage Upgrade can add another level of comfort to your recliner by combining lumbar heat therapy with multiple massage settings designed to help you relax while reading, watching television, or winding down at the end of the day.
However, the upgrade isn't for everyone. Those expecting a commercial massage chair experience may find the feature more subtle than anticipated, while occasional recliner users may not get enough value from the additional investment.
According to Tim, customers who use their recliner regularly tend to see the greatest value. "The people who are happiest with the feature are usually the ones who use their recliner every day. They're more likely to take advantage of the heat and massage settings consistently."
The Heat & Massage Upgrade is a built-in feature that provides targeted lumbar heat and vibration massage while you're seated in your recliner.
Unlike a traditional massage chair, the system focuses specifically on the lower back, providing gentle support and relaxation where many people experience tension after a long day.
Everything is controlled via an attached handheld remote, allowing users to personalize their experience.
One of the biggest misconceptions about La-Z-Boy’s features is that it functions like a commercial massage chair.
According to Tim, understanding the purpose of the upgrade is key to customer satisfaction. "Many shoppers hear the word massage and imagine something similar to the chairs you see at the mall. The Heat & Massage Upgrade is designed to enhance comfort while you're relaxing in your recliner, not replace a dedicated massage chair."
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What It Does |
What It Doesn't Do |
|
Provides targeted lumbar heat |
Provides full-body massage |
|
Offers vibration-based massage settings |
Includes massage rollers |
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Allows adjustable heat levels |
Massages the neck or shoulders |
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Includes multiple massage patterns and intensities |
Replicate a spa-style massage chair |
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Enhances comfort while seated |
Provide deep-tissue kneading massage |
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Complements power reclining functionality |
Replace professional massage therapy |
A recliner with Heat & Massage offers more than just another feature on a remote. For many homeowners, it becomes part of their daily comfort routine.
Many users enjoy using the heat and massage functions while reading, watching television, or simply unwinding after work.
The combination of gentle vibration and warmth can create a more relaxing seating experience compared to a standard recliner.
Because the heat function focuses on the lower back, many users appreciate the added comfort during extended sitting sessions.
This makes the feature particularly popular among retirees and homeowners who spend several hours per day in their recliner.
Many customers tell us they regularly use the feature before bed while watching television or reading.
The gentle warmth and vibration can help create a more relaxing environment at the end of the day.
Unlike many fixed comfort features, the Heat & Massage Upgrade lets users adjust the duration, intensity, heat level, and massage style to suit their preferences.
This flexibility helps accommodate a variety of comfort needs and lifestyles.
The Heat & Massage Upgrade is not available across the entire La-Z-Boy recliner lineup.
Instead, it is currently offered on select models designed to support the additional technology required for heat and massage functionality.
Currently, the Clayton Gold Power Lift Recliner is the primary La-Z-Boy recliner available with this feature.
Its one-piece seat and back move together during reclining, helping maintain consistent support while using the heat and massage functions.
Many customers visiting our Ottawa, Gatineau and Kingston showrooms appreciate how the Clayton's supportive seating complements the lumbar heat feature.
What's more, the Clayton is designed to assist individuals who may require additional help transitioning between sitting and standing positions, making it one of La-Z-Boy's most feature-rich lift chairs.
To learn more, take a look at our complete review of the Clayton Gold Power Lift Recliner.
One of the most common questions customers ask is whether the La-Z-Boy Heat & Massage Upgrade significantly increases a recliner's price.
The answer is yes, but it's important to understand what you're receiving in return.
Because the Heat & Massage Upgrade is paired with premium power recliners and lift chairs, these products fall into La-Z-Boy's higher-end comfort category.
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Product Type |
Starting Price (with Heat & Massage) |
|
Power Rocking Recliner |
From $2,559 |
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Power Lift Recliner |
From $3,229 |
*Please note that La-Z-Boy prices listed in this article are subject to change without notice. Information is current as of June 3rd, 2026. Contact your local La-Z-Boy stores in Ottawa, Gatineau, and Kingston by phone or in person for up-to-date pricing.
Compared to a standard recliner, the Heat & Massage Upgrade does increase the overall investment.
However, many homeowners view the feature as a worthwhile addition because it combines:
La-Z-Boy also offers furniture financing options for those who may not have the full amount right away. To learn more about La-Z-Boy’s Furniture Financing, take a look at this article.
The La-Z-Boy manufacturer's warranty covers the mechanical parts, spring assembly, and frame parts of power recliner chairs for a lifetime. The frame parts of lift recliner chairs are also covered for a lifetime.
When it comes to the heat and massage components, electrical issues in recliners are covered for up to 3 years.
For more detailed information on the Manufacturer’s Warranty at La-Z-Boy, take a look at the article Are La-Z-Boy Recliner Chairs Guaranteed for Life?
If you wish for more peace of mind, you may consider purchasing La-Z-Boy’s 5 Year Comprehensive Service Plan. Take a look at the article Is La-Z-Boy’s Extended Warranty Service Plan Worth it?
Like any furniture feature, the Heat & Massage Upgrade comes with both advantages and limitations. For those looking for a quick breakdown, here is our list of pros and cons.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Adds lumbar heat and massage functionality |
Additional cost |
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Customizable settings |
Requires power |
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Enhances relaxation |
Available on limited models |
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Easy-to-use remote controls |
Massage is more subtle than commercial massage chairs |
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Works well for frequent recliner users |
Not everyone uses the feature regularly |
The Heat & Massage Upgrade isn't necessary for every homeowner. Whether it's worth the investment largely depends on how often you use your recliner and which comfort features you value most.
According to Tim, customers who use their recliner daily tend to appreciate the feature the most. "The people who get the most value out of Heat & Massage are usually the ones who use their recliner every day. It becomes part of their routine when they're reading, watching TV, or simply relaxing at the end of the day."
The upgrade is often a good fit for retirees, readers, home theatre enthusiasts, and power lift recliner shoppers who want additional comfort and customization. Many users enjoy being able to adjust the heat, massage style, intensity, and session length to suit their preferences.
However, homeowners who rarely use their recliner or are working within a strict budget may prefer to invest in other upgrades first. It's also important to remember that this feature is designed to enhance relaxation, not replace a dedicated massage chair.
The best way to decide if the Heat & Massage Upgrade is right for you is to try it in person at one of our Ottawa, Gatineau, or Kingston showrooms.
And there you have it! You now know everything you need to know about the La-Z-Boy Heat & Massage Upgrade.
If the heat and massage upgrade is for you, what are you waiting for? Why not start experiencing enhanced reclining relaxation today?
Before you make your final decision, it is important to perform a final sit test to ensure that your chosen recliner fits your unique body shape.
If you’re looking for custom furniture in Ottawa, Gatineau or Kingston, La-Z-Boy offers a wide selection of customizable options to match your style and needs. Visit us at any one of our Canadian-owned and operated La-Z-Boy locations today.
If you’re interested in learning more about our recliners, take a look at our comprehensive Recliner Buyer’s Guide.
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