12 tips for choosing a whirlpool bath

People who are looking for tips on how to choose a hydromassage bathtub are well aware of its benefits. For some, this option is a mystery and whether there is a need for it is a question. The peculiarity of a bathtub with hydromassage is that not just water acts on the human body, but air-water jets of water with different pressures. The effect is similar to a massage therapist working with a person during water procedures. Experts say that under such conditions the body relaxes much better, gathers strength, comes in tone, i.e. In general, the benefits of such a miracle device are many.

Historical reference: The benefits of massage during water procedures were noted back in 1936 by physicians. The great-great-grandmother of the modern hot tub was created by Candido Jacuzzi in 1948. The man tried to help his son recover and used a pump manufactured by him, which he placed in the bathtub to create a massage effect.

What then scares people away from buying a bath with the option under consideration? As a rule, this is the cost, a variety of choices (oddly enough, but it is a large assortment of many that makes you stupor), the inability to use foam, the additional cost of electricity, the complexity of installation and the need for strong floor ceilings, difficult maintenance, compared to the classic options. Is the beast so terrible as they say about him, and how to choose a hydromassage bathtub that will bring only pleasure, - this is our article. We tried to collect better advice from specialists in plumbing and take into account all the nuances so that you can decide quickly and simply.

Like any device, a hot tub has its own characteristics and basic characteristics, considering which you need to make a choice.

Material

Bathtubs are made from different materials. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to evaluate the features of various options and correlate them with their capabilities and needs.

Steel

Durable material that has the following pros:

• Relatively low price when compared, for example, with a cast iron counterpart.
• "Standard forms" - for small bathrooms a lot is provided steel products familiar rectangular shape.
• Relatively light weight, again compared to the cast iron counterpart.
• Good heat capacity of the material, which contributes to a longer maintenance of high water temperature.

Minuses:

• Older models are quite noisy. In new collections, this drawback is eliminated.

hint: if you liked this material, then choose thick-walled options. Also make sure that the back of the bowl is processed during installation. polyurethane foam - This will reduce noise and keep heat even longer.

Cast iron

Good old, who will last 50 years without problems, if he does not fail the quality of its coating. This material has been used for a very long time and also has its own pros:

• Keeps high temperature of water for a long time.
• Durable
• Easy to maintain.
• It is characterized by low noise.

disadvantages cast iron miracles, in the case of bathrooms, are as follows:

• A lot of weight.
• The complexity of transportation.
• Difficult installation (mainly due to the considerable mass of the product).
• Pretty high price.
• A lot of pressure on the floor (this is necessary be sure to consider before the purchase).

hint: one of the leaders in the manufacturing industry cast iron bathtubs with hydromassage, the French and Italians are considered, so if you are looking for the best products from this material, then pay attention to the manufacturer first of all.

Be sure to pay attention to the quality of the enamel and the uniformity of the coating - the better it is, the longer the product will last.

Acrylic

The most popular material for the production of jacuzzis of various shapes, colors and accessories. What determines the high demand? Here are the main pros:

• Light weight.
• The widest assortment.
• Easy transportation and installation.
• The ability to eliminate scratches and small chips with a special repair kit.

TO disadvantages acrylic hot tubs can include:

• High susceptibility to mechanical (including deformation under the influence of very hot water, etc.) and chemical damage - these features are characteristic of the most economical models.

hint: Reinforcement in acrylic bathrooms is preferable to polyurethane rather than fiberglass.

There are several types of acrylic bathtubs:

• Cast. Products are made under pressure after heating the acrylic sheet. Such designs are stronger than those that will be described below, but also more expensive than two times on average.
• Extruded. The material is obtained by extrusion, and then the production is also carried out under a press from a very hot sheet. After hardening, the structure is also strengthened from the outside with a mixture of epoxy resins. Models from this material are recommended for relatively infrequent use, for example, in the country.

It can also be noted that acrylic itself may be different in chemical composition:

• Acrylonetrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS / PMMA). In this case, a mixture of different substances is used, acrylic from them is about 10%. Such material is prone to rapid "abrasion" due to its roughness.
• Polymethylmethacrylate. This is the most pure homogeneous acrylic. It is characterized by high strength, durability, attractive appearance.

For an example video with recommendations for choosing acrylic spa baths:

Artificial stone and natural

This option designers especially love for the variety of colors and the ability to prepare products for any type of interior, whether classic, modern or, beloved by many, minimalism.

Pros:

• High strength.
• A large assortment.
• The ability to create an exclusive product.
• Durability.

Minuses:

• Relatively high cost, especially for custom-made products.

hint: not all companies work with this material - it will be easier to initially look at offers on the Internet or contact a specific manufacturer on the recommendation of acquaintances / friends.

Combining different materials

Today you can find models that combine marble, glass, steel, etc. Such devices are not inferior to others and in many ways even surpass them by taking advantage of each material.

The form

Particular attention should be paid to this point, because the choice is great: there are also sedentary models and even something more reminiscent of a small pool than a bath. Therefore, we consider briefly the features of different models:

Rectangular Classic

Suitable for different types of rooms of various sizes and is presented on the market in the largest assortment. Differs in practicality, convenience, "familiar" look for many. They take up relatively little space.

Oval and round

Such models look appropriate in spacious rooms and can be installed anywhere in the room, as in most cases, they will be the “highlight” of the bathroom interior.

Due to its considerable size (as a rule), it is important to take into account the dimensions of the device with the equipment and its weight in order to calculate both the passability through the doors and the degree of pressure on the floors.

Often, non-standard models have exactly smooth shapes, as in the image below.

Corner

These are divided into two options: models with the same sides and with different. The difference is only in shape, so focus on the size of the room and design.

Sedentary and horizontal type

In this case, we are talking about placing a person already in the bath itself. The fact is that models with horizontal placement are quite overall. Therefore for small bathrooms you can search for devices of a sedentary type: they are most often more compact.

hint: For people with back problems or other health problems that prevent them from lying properly, sitting-type hydromassage devices are great.

The size

Everything is simple here: there are a lot of options, but you need to choose the one that fits into the design of the room taking into account its area. And, importantly, the device must go through all the doorways to the bathroom. Also pay attention to the height of the sides and the presence of steps and handrails if the bath is too high for you or those who will use it.

Hint: if you are going to do comprehensive bathroom repair Do not buy a bath first, especially if the bathroom is small. Many craftsmen use drywall to wall alignment, and just laying tiles can "eat" a considerable area of ​​the room. Therefore, it is better to consult with a repair specialist in advance and discuss this issue.

Nozzles

This detail is what sets the bathtubs with hydromassage apart from the usual ones. Let's consider what nozzles (jets) are, how they can be located and what it affects.

Nozzles can be large and small. Depending on the size, the degree of “delicacy” of the massage will also change: small jets have a softer effect on the body and are more likely to have a relaxing effect, while larger ones produce more intense pressure on the skin and muscles and help relieve deeper and stronger tensions.

As for the location, the nozzle is standardly set in groups for certain areas of the body:

• Collar area.
• Feet.
• Loin.
• Hips, etc.

The number of nozzles as a whole affects what part of the body will be massaged with water jets: that is, the larger the jet, the more pleasant.

Types of nozzles and modes that correspond to them:

• Water. They create water jets of different intensities that perform a softer or deeper massage. In modes, this is Wirpool (for this type of hydromassage, usually 6 to 8 nozzles are used).
• Aero. They provide an “air massage” - under pressure, air bubbles flow on the skin, which, in addition to massage, gives the skin additional pleasure as they burst. In modes, this is Airpool (it works from 10 to 15 nozzles).
• Combined. Create water-air currents. In modes it is Turbopool (different types of nozzles work simultaneously).
• Rotational. Their peculiarity is that they can spin a stream of water, creating a kind of whirlpools. They help to do "oriental hydromassage" - an imitation of the strong pressure of the fingers of a masseur.
• Swivel. Rather, it is worth considering as an additional option - the water pressure throughout the body will smoothly move when you select a particular mode.

There is also the so-called waterfall imitation - A strong stream of water that falls in a cascading fashion.

hint: most often hydromassage nozzles are placed on the sides of the tank, and combined and aero at the bottom. Also usually aerojets are smaller in size. But in each case, it is better to clarify the characteristics of the model you like with a consultant.

Pump

Mandatory part of the hot tub.Its power depends on the number of nozzles that are used, and on the volume of water with which it will be necessary to work.

So, some designs are equipped just one pump (Its power of 800-900 watts is more than enough). The larger models are usually equipped with at least 2 pumps, with a total power of 1500 watts. Also with the sizes of bathtubs increases and compressor power, which is in any device with aero or combined nozzles: its power on average fluctuates around 400-700 watts (this data is averaged and each model must be considered individually).

Control

There are two options: mechanical and electronic. Both of them are used in models of different types, but the second type at this stage is much more common. The main differences they are as follows:

• Cost. Electronic versions are usually more expensive.
• Ease of use. The mechanical “control box” itself is simpler, but in some cases switching from mode to mode is more difficult to do than in the electronic version. And in the automatic (electro) control it can be more difficult to understand due to the large number of options and modes.

Mechanical

Mechanical includes levers, valves, buttons and toggle switches built into the bath body, has the following pros:

• Affordable cost.
• Ease of Management.

Electronic (automatic)

It can be represented by a touch panel, stationary or remote control. The latter is practical if the bathtub is equipped with a large number of additional options, including "entertainment" ones. Among the benefits:

• Wide functionality.
• Possibility of remote control.

Additional functions

Whether they are needed or not is a moot point. Someone loves all inclusive, someone needs to try all the options, and someone prefers simplicity in everything. Therefore, in the words of the poet: "Everyone chooses for himself ...". Let's consider the most popular and interesting additional options in hydromassage bathtubs:

• Player (video, audio): practical and necessary for those who do not like silence or prefer to relax in the company of friends with fun music.
• Chromotherapy: the word is smart, it is often used in instructions - in fact, backlighting. It can be of different colors, which, according to manufacturers and psychologists, affects the human condition, that is, it can relax or invigorate.

• Aromatherapy: This term is already familiar to most people. In the case of the bath, it works like this: somewhere in the building there is a special compartment for essential oils. Different flavors also have different effects on the body.

hint: Always use the oils according to the instructions - you do not need to pour them 2-3 times more because the smell is like, in which case the aroma will be too intense and will most likely cause discomfort.

• Ozone therapy: It has an anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory effect on the body and well affects the condition of the skin.

There are options that are designed to protect and simplify the process of using the bath:

• Built-in water filters.
• Auto power off in case of power failure.
• Temperature control due to the operation of the thermostat.
• Protection against the inclusion of an empty tank.
• The presence of handrails.
• Voice control.
• Disinfection device, etc.

Well-known manufacturers

On the one hand, in the question of manufacturers everything is standard: there are more eminent companies, and there are less well-known companies. The quality may be different, the price will be different, so you need to look, compare, choose.

How to identify a completely “bad” manufacturer:

• Price is too low, especially with wide functionality. Unreasonably high cost should also alert.
• Lack of warranty, quality certificates and other documentation, such as instructions. There are no options here today - we don’t even look at this.
• There is no installation service. The system itself has a number of features and proper installation will guarantee the correct operation of the device.Companies with a good reputation and quality products always offer installation.

What kind manufacturers are best known in this area? Here is some of them:

• Jacuzzi. Here it is possible without comment - the first company in this field initially holds the brand to this day. All equipment from this manufacturer has a stylish design and good quality.
• Wgt. A renowned Italian company that loves to pamper customers not only with high-quality modern sanitary ware, but with interesting highlights in the electrical equipment of its products.
• Villeroy & bosh. Also a world famous company. It produces high-quality products in its field, it is known for innovations, for example, kvaril (a special subspecies of artificial stone).
• French companies that can present some interesting and high-quality models of bathtubs: Porcher, Neomediam, Jacob Delafon, Tes.
• Finnish manufacturers who have firmly taken good positions in this market: Scanpool, Ido and Novitec.
• Italians who will please with good quality and fairly affordable prices are companies Ilma, Teuko, Albatros.
• Positive feedback collects products from the Austrian Pamos.
• The Spaniards feel confident in their niche: Roca and Pool-Spa.
• Pleased Swedish hot tubs Cadazzo.
• Among Chinese manufacturers, there are also many who monitor product quality, for example, are popular Apollo.
• In the domestic market, they are most trusted. Radomir, Aquanet, BellRado and BAS.

It is clear that we could not make out the entire industry of production of the products in question and there are still a considerable number of worthy firms, but now you have some options that can be used for comparison.

Alternatives

The mentality often tells our compatriots what you can do yourself ... Is this possible in the case of a jacuzzi? Now let's figure it out.

DIY hydromassage bathtub

How does this happen? First, the old bathtub is dismantled, because it will have to be finalized. Then, all the necessary additional components are purchased that are not only suitable for price and quality, but also work well together: nozzles, compressor, pump, pipes, etc.

When you have everything you need on hand, you can get down to business. First you need to drill holes for nozzles, then you need to install them and connect pumps, filters, tubes, etc. It is important to seal everything well. After everything is assembled, a test drive of the system is carried out. It is imperative that there are no leaks, because the design will simultaneously work with both electric current and water. If everything is functioning properly, then you can install the structure.

In general, as practice shows, and the simplest miscalculation of the cost of parts, such an approach is impractical and unreasonably expensive. It will be more profitable and easier to purchase a finished product. But then everyone has a choice.

Alternative No. 2 - budget

There are two more “light” options for those who want to join those who know what hydromassage is:

1. Mini bath. Yes, you won’t sit in such a container entirely, but after a busy day, foot massage with jets of water and air is an excellent option.
2. Mat. This miracle device is used in the bath. It is attached to the bottom of the container by suction cups. The system itself is equipped with a compressor, small nozzle-type openings, and a control panel. Rugs may have options such as ozonation and air heating.

Video with an overview of the mat for creating the hydromassage function in a regular bath:

Precautionary measures

To make bathing pleasant and useful, you should familiarize yourself with the following recommendations:

• For relaxation, it is better to take a bath in the evening for about 30 minutes at an average water temperature of 37 degrees, for waking up in the morning it is not recommended to sit for longer than 10 minutes in water with a temperature of 30 degrees.
• Do not change the temperature of the water during water procedures, choose one mode now, another next time.
• Caution with hot water, if you like water with a temperature of more than 39 degrees, then put a cold, wet towel on your head.
• It is undesirable to take a bath immediately after exercise, it is better to give preference to the soul.
• If you have problems with your heart, blood vessels or you are pregnant, then consult your doctor for advice on the possibility of taking baths.

Proper care

Bath with a hydromassage, as you already understood, the device is not the easiest, therefore, it requires some care. With proper maintenance, the system will work for a long time and without problems:

• Water filters required. If they are absent, the system may fail during the year if the water is very polluted.
• Instructions in order to read it at the beginning, and not when something breaks. Therefore, initially, when buying a bath, familiarize yourself with all the operating features, and especially with those that relate to the ban on the use of salts, foam and other products.
• The system must be cleaned and disinfected regularly. This is also spelled out in the instructions with recommendations. Wash the bath every time, and disinfection should be carried out after 5-7 uses. It is important to carry out any care only with the means recommended by the manufacturer. Also, after each cleaning, wipe the container dry.

• The hydromassage system needs to be used. If the downtime is long, the device will also fail more quickly. On average, these bathrooms are recommended to be included at least once a week.

Given all of the above, you can save your purchase in good condition for 10 years plus / minus.

Instead of output: select instruction

We summarize everything that was said and described above. To choose a spa bath you need:

1. Decide on a budget.
2. Take measurements of the room and doorways to understand what size bathtubs are suitable in a particular case.
3. Choose the material that you like more than others, taking into account the pros, cons and opportunities.
4. Decide on the shape and color of the product.
5. Consider a clear list of functions that must be mandatory: type of hydromassage, type of control, power of the pump and compressor, the presence of additional options (chromo-, aromatherapy, etc.).
6. View suitable options from manufacturers who have the best reputation, make sure of the provision of warranty, delivery and installation services.
7. To compare, select at least 2-3 models that are suitable, evaluate them again, find out the difference and the consultant, and ultimately make your choice.

We hope that this article will help you choose a bathtub that will please you for a long time.