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Guide to Bathtubs
Whirlpool tubs
Think of these hydromassage units simply as bathtubs with air jets. Unlike an outdoor spa, the whirlpool uses a standard hot-water connection; once your soak is over, the water is drained.
Most models resemble standard acrylic platform tubs; a pump and venturi jets are what create the whirlpool effect. Jet designs vary. Generally, you can opt for high pressure and low volume (a few strong jets) or low pressure and high volume (lots of softer jets). Typically, the more jets, the easier it is to access an aching body part -- though some users find these setups less soothing and prefer the massage effect of the stronger jets.
Though some professionals build custom whirlpool tubs from scratch and even retrofit old bathtubs, it's simplest and safest to buy a complete whirlpool kit. Look for a unit that's UL-approved. Want extras? Consider adding a digital temperature control, a timer, a built-in fill spout, or a cushy neck roll.
Because of their extra weight when filled, deep whirlpool tubs may need special floor framing. Your unit may also require a dedicated 120- or 240-volt circuit to power the pump and controls.
Soaking tubs
These tubs, like Japanese furos (made of wood), have deep interiors. They come in recessed, platform, and corner models, with rectangular or round interiors of fiberglass or acrylic.
Hot tubs, which use a wooden-barrel design and continuous water supply, can present moisture problems in all but the best-ventilated spaces. They are probably best confined to a deck or private garden.
Think of these hydromassage units simply as bathtubs with air jets. Unlike an outdoor spa, the whirlpool uses a standard hot-water connection; once your soak is over, the water is drained.
Most models resemble standard acrylic platform tubs; a pump and venturi jets are what create the whirlpool effect. Jet designs vary. Generally, you can opt for high pressure and low volume (a few strong jets) or low pressure and high volume (lots of softer jets). Typically, the more jets, the easier it is to access an aching body part -- though some users find these setups less soothing and prefer the massage effect of the stronger jets.
Though some professionals build custom whirlpool tubs from scratch and even retrofit old bathtubs, it's simplest and safest to buy a complete whirlpool kit. Look for a unit that's UL-approved. Want extras? Consider adding a digital temperature control, a timer, a built-in fill spout, or a cushy neck roll.
Because of their extra weight when filled, deep whirlpool tubs may need special floor framing. Your unit may also require a dedicated 120- or 240-volt circuit to power the pump and controls.
Soaking tubs
These tubs, like Japanese furos (made of wood), have deep interiors. They come in recessed, platform, and corner models, with rectangular or round interiors of fiberglass or acrylic.
Hot tubs, which use a wooden-barrel design and continuous water supply, can present moisture problems in all but the best-ventilated spaces. They are probably best confined to a deck or private garden.
