whirlpool-bathtube

How to choose whirlpool tub

All whirlpool tubs entail added cleaning and maintenance. You might also prefer a deep, non-whirlpool soaking tub if you like your luxury without a massage. Those deep tubs lack a whirlpool’s complexity and start at about $300.If you decide on a whirlpool,Remember that extras such as colored underwater lights, known as chromatherapy, can add up to $1,200 to the price. Then keep these points in mind:Think outside the suite. Because suites don’t match tubs with other bath fixtures as closely as they do faucets with towel racks, whirlpools are an appropriate place to mix and match.Consider the configuration. Drop-in tubs like those we tested come without sides, allowing for a customized surround (about $1,000 or more). You can also buy tubs that come with one, two, or three sides; look for removable sides that allow access to the pump and motor.Try before buying. More showrooms have working whirlpools that let you immerse a hand or arm. But even a dry tub can tell you whether the length, width, and depth fit your physique.Check the jets and controls. Besides favoring center-mounted controls and a more vertical seating position, we also found that more air jets along the sides, rather than at your back, tend to create a better, bubblier massage. Also look for handles and armrests, and, for water-jet models, easily adjustable jets.Consider efficiency. You’ll pay only about $17 per year in electricity for a water/air tub using both pumps, based on Department of Energy averages for one 15-minute bath per day. But that doesn’t include heating the 70 gallons of water these tubs hold. At roughly 30 gallons more per bath than regular tubs, water use could be an issue in drought areas


Types: Weigh the type of massage you want against noise and cost
WATER-JET
Best for those who like a more vigorous, concentrated massage. Water is drawn into a pump and forced through jets on the sides and ends. Benefits include less splashing and noise than air tubs.But some water-jet whirlpools may be too vigorous for some people. Neither bath salts nor oils can be used, since they can coat and block the pumping system. Pumps on some models can be damaged if run with an empty tub.Price $500 to $3,600 for most.
AIR-JET
Best for those who like a subtler, more enveloping massage. Air is forced through tens or hundreds of pinholes along the tub walls and bottom or through mushroom-shaped caps on the bottom. Using bath salts and oils in air-jet tubs is OK, since water doesn’t contact the pump.But they tend to splash more and make more noise than water-jet tubs. Those we tested also lost heat more quickly, so you might have to add hot water sooner.Price $1,200 to $3,600 for most.
COMBINATION AIR/WATER
Best for those who prefer a varied massage. These allow you to run wateror air separately or together, combining water’s targeted massage with the enveloping effect of air-jets.But these tend to cost the most and use the most energy when their water and air pumps are run together. They also include the same drawbacks for water- and air-jet models, and require two electricalconnections for their two pumps.Price $1,300 to $5,200 for most.

How to Buy a Whirlpool Tub

Step 1 Choose a tub system. In air-jet tubs, air is propelled through dozens of small holes for an all-over bubbling action. In whirlpool tubs, air and water is forced through four to eight large jets for a vigorous massaging action. These powerful jets open, close and swivel to adjust pressure and flow. Smaller jets may cycle along the backrest or target the feet or neck
Step 2 2Figure out where the tub will go. Easiest to install are 5-foot (1.5 m)-long models that slide into your existing tub alcove. Recess-mount tubs fits between walls, which butt against the tub rim. Deck-mount tubs drop into the floor or a platform, requiring a tiled surround. Corner tubs maximize floor space.
Step 3 Make sure your water heaters is large enough to fill about twothirds of your tub with warm water. Whirlpool tubs vary in size, holding 25 to 150 gallons (95 to 560 liters) of water.
Step 4 Test size, back support and comfort in showroom models. To accommodate short and tall people, compromise on a tub about 5 1/2 feet (1.7 m) long by 33 to 42 inches (84 to 107 cm) wide. Before buying a giant tub for two, think how often you'll share it, since you'll be paying to heat a lot of water.
Step 5 Weigh your tub options. Enameled cast iron is durable but heavy-- make sure your floor can support it. As for lightweight plastic, molded acrylic resists stains better than sprayed-on gelcoated fiberglass tubs. Easy-care enameled steel tubs come in just a few sizes and shapes.
Step 6 Make sure you have access to the components. All mechanical tubs require maintenance access via an apron or a panel in the tub surround. Whirlpool tubs may require a large opening to reach pipes; air-jet systems need motor access only.
Step 7 Pay attention to the details: Look for protected jets, and sensors that cut the motor if the water is low, so the motor won't burn out. Built-in grab bars and slip-resistant floors add safety. Units with internal water heaters maintain a consistent temperature.
Step 8 Determine if you want a self-cleaning system. Because whirlpool tubs recirculate water, their systems need frequent cleaning. Some air-jet systems automatically purge bacteria-causing residue after each use.
Step 9 Consider your budget. Whirlpool and air-jet tubs sell for anywhere from less than $1,000 to more than $20,000, depending on system, size, materials used and other options.