Embodiments use an apparatus comprising a media path that is adapted to transport media sheets within the printing apparatus. Fuser rolls are positioned along the media path, and the fuser rolls are adapted to fuse marking material on the media sheets as the media sheets pass the fuser rolls. A heating belt is positioned to pass a first location between the fuser rolls and to pass a second location separate from the fuser rolls. A heater is positioned in the second location, and the heater is adapted to heat the heating belt. In addition, an iso-thermalizing roller is in contact with the heating belt. In some embodiments, the elements can be positioned in any order. In other embodiments, the elements are positioned such that the heating belt passes the elements in the following order: the heater, the fuser rolls, and then the iso-thermalizing roller.