The whirlpool bathtub was originally developed for therapeutic purposes, but over time, the attribute has become one of the ways to create comfort in the bathroom. The flow of water under pressure helps not only to relax, but also to achieve inner harmony. Hydromassage also combines healing and soothing properties, has an invigorating effect on the entire body as a whole. To achieve complete comfort, you should choose the right device with the desired set of functions.
Content
- 1 The main advantages and disadvantages of whirlpool bathtubs
- 2 Bathtub with hydromassage: design features, what to look for when buying
- 3 The main sizes and shapes of whirlpool baths: angular, rectangular and round
- 4 Various options for whirlpool baths: acrylic, plastic products
- 5 Additional functions of hydromassage baths: photos of practical models
- 6 The main advantages of purchasing a shower cabin with hydromassage
- 7 Review of models of popular baths with hydromassage: sizes, prices
The main advantages and disadvantages of whirlpool bathtubs
Jacuzzi baths with hydromassage have been used for over 60 years, and during this period the device itself has remained practically unchanged. The design is based on nozzles located on the walls of the bath bowl, as well as a pump with a compressor that supplies water at a comfortable pressure. Thanks to the latest technology, the system has become more compact and almost silent, and the water pressure has been adjusted and some features have been added for convenience.
Interesting information! The first versions of jacuzzi baths were developed back in 1936 in the German capital Berlin. It was then that therapy began to be applied to patients, which consists in the effect of directed jets from a hose when the patients were in the pool. In 1948, an Italian named Candido Jacuzzi invented a pump that plunged into a bathtub and created pulsating jets of water.
The main benefit of hydromassage is that it helps the body to relax faster, especially after a hard day's work or intense physical exertion. In addition, the whirlpool in the bathtub keeps the skin and muscles toned, and in some cases, water massage gives a more noticeable effect than manual massage. Other positive aspects of installing a hydromassage:
- Correctly adjusted water pressure promotes normal blood and lymph circulation, thereby reducing the accumulation of fatty deposits.
- The targeted action of water helps prevent swelling and stagnation of harmful substances in the body.The greatest effect can be achieved if you do at least two sessions a week.
- Underwater massage allows you to cope with some diseases of the musculoskeletal system, and also has a positive effect on the functioning of the digestive tract and heart.
- Jacuzzi is especially useful for young children, because it helps prevent colic and promotes proper muscle formation, as well as improves mood and ensures restful sleep.
In addition, regular procedures make it possible to quickly rehabilitate after injuries and some types of surgical interventions. The procedures will be especially useful for people who perform daily physical work, and those who spend most of the day at work in front of a computer or driving. If you install a whirlpool bathtub with hydromassage and built-in lighting, you can improve your emotional state, relieve stress and get rid of insomnia. At the same time, each backlight color affects a person in its own way: yellow and red tones induce action and change, shades of blue and green relax and soothe.
Along with a large number of advantages, hydromassage baths also have disadvantages, the first of which is the high price of the product. The second disadvantage can be considered the complexity of cleaning the structural elements, which allows some types of bacteria to multiply freely. Therefore, if the system is not equipped with a built-in cleaning system, it will be necessary to regularly disinfect the device using special solutions.
Bathtub with hydromassage: design features, what to look for when buying
Visiting any retail outlet that sells plumbing equipment, you can see a large assortment of whirlpool baths that differ not only in size but also in configuration. In order not to be mistaken with the choice, you should first study the features of the devices and the purpose of all the constituent parts. The main characteristics that you need to pay attention to:
- dimensions;
- the form;
- Colour;
- material;
- equipment;
- functional features and additional functions;
- cost;
- delivery conditions and maintenance;
- warranty.
Important! Before purchasing the device, you need to familiarize yourself with the contraindications for hydromassage, which primarily include hypertension of 2-3 degrees, urolithiasis, oncology, as well as diseases of the veins and blood vessels. In addition, you should not use the jacuzzi when exacerbating any chronic or infectious disease.
The efficiency and comfort of using the device will depend on the type and quality of the equipment installed, therefore special attention should be paid to the consideration of the characteristics. The first parameter that needs to be assessed, according to experts, is the pump performance. The optimal pump power for a standard size of a whirlpool bath (volume 250 liters) is considered to be at least 1 kW. It should be borne in mind that the more nozzles, the more powerful the pump should be.
Inexpensive jacuzzis with hydromassage are equipped with only one pump, capable of changing the power of the water flow in a small range. More expensive options are complemented by a compressor, the main task of which is to supply air to numerous nozzles, which contributes to the appearance of a geyser effect in the bath. The most expensive models have several pumps, where each is responsible for its own group of nozzles.
The main types of baths with hydromassage: the main parameters
The quality of work is influenced not only by the number of nozzles, but also by their location. It is better when a number of nozzles are grouped in certain zones.The holes located on the side of the bathtub provide a general relaxing effect, while the bottom jets provide a high-quality back massage.
In models with one pump, the jet intensity is influenced by the number of holes. The lower its power, the lower the outlet water pressure, respectively, the lower the quality of the massage. For these reasons, it is advised to choose bathtubs depending on which zone you want to pay maximum attention to, and it is also necessary to ensure that the nozzles are concentrated exactly where it is needed.
Another important parameter is the quality of the control system, which is responsible for the normal operation of the structure. Built-in microprocessors facilitate correct regulation of the water level and also control the pump operation. The more skilled the management, the more functions the bath can perform.
Depending on the features and price, hydromassage baths are divided into the types indicated in this table:
System type | Number of nozzles | Features: | Healing effect |
Wirpool | 6-8 | Water jets are enriched with air and massage | Lymphatic drainage, normalization of metabolic processes |
Airpool | 10-15 | Underwater massage is performed due to air bubbles, which is why the second name of this procedure is air massage | Relaxation of the muscular system, oxygenation of the skin and rejuvenation |
Turbopool | 14-18 | The most preferred option, which combines the advantages of the previous two. | Effects on the deep layers of the skin, combating fat and salt deposits, general therapeutic effect. |
The main sizes and shapes of whirlpool baths: angular, rectangular and round
The shape and size of the bath should be chosen not only on the basis of price and personal preference. The main parameter when choosing is the size of the bathroom where the device will be installed. Undoubtedly, it is very important that it is comfortable to be in the bowl itself. In addition, it is necessary to provide a convenient approach to it, and an unhindered exit from it. The device should also fit nicely and complement the interior. It is believed that the standard size of a bathtub with a hydromassage is 170x70 cm. With a smaller bowl, it will not be possible to take a comfortable lying position in it.
Helpful information! As testimonials testify, whirlpool baths can have different parameters, but the most optimal constructions are considered, the depth of which is 45 cm, and the length is about 170-180 cm. It is these dimensions that are most popular.
As for the shape of the jacuzzi bowl, here are the following options:
- rectangular;
- corner;
- oval;
- round;
- asymmetrical.
Before deciding on the shape, you should consider the installation features and choose a suitable place for the bath. If the room is small, it is best to purchase a traditional rectangular bowl. As for non-standard oval baths, such irregularly shaped products are more relevant to be installed in large rooms, while the device can be placed both in the center and near a window or any other surface. Corner bowls take up no less space than rectangular baths, but their main advantage is the use of an unclaimed corner of the room. Other rules for choosing the shape of a bath for an apartment:
- For a small bathroom, it is better to purchase a rectangular bathtub with hydromassage 150x70 cm, which will fit well near the free wall.
- It is recommended to install a round or oval product in the central part of the bathroom, which has a large area.
- If a person is of great height or weight, it is better to select structures of increased size.
- A double whirlpool bathtub can be large and is perfect for families with children who are conveniently bathed at the same time. In this case, you can choose corner baths with hydromassage 180x80 or 170x100 cm - it all depends on the amount of free space.
When choosing the size of the bowl, you should pay attention to personal comfort, because it should be comfortable to sit in the bath and constantly feel the fulcrum. Otherwise, you will have to constantly slide along the bottom. The optimum depth of the product is 42-43 cm, but not more than 45 cm. For children, it is recommended to fill the bathtub with water only halfway.
Do not forget that, depending on the size, the allowable volume of water that the bowl can hold will also vary. The standard volume is 200 liters. The larger the parameters of the device, the higher its final weight with water will be. Therefore, if we are talking about a private house with wooden floors, it is better to first evaluate them in order to understand whether they will withstand the future load. A similar survey should be carried out in an apartment building of an old fund, where the floors are often in poor condition.
Various options for whirlpool baths: acrylic, plastic products
The price of a whirlpool tub is determined not only by the water supply system itself, but also by the quality, as well as the type of material used to make the bowl body. The basic rule applies here: the more expensive the product, the better the material is used, therefore, the longer the plumbing will last. In addition, the comfort of using the bath depends on this criterion, because different materials cause different tactile feelings. As evidenced by the reviews, hydro massage baths differ in a number of positive and negative characteristics. Therefore, before buying, it is better to inspect the bowl yourself and touch it.
The cheapest hot tubs are made from regular plastic. They look quite attractive, but at the same time they actually do not tolerate the effects of hard water, salt, and can also change color under the influence of sunlight. Therefore, it is not recommended to pay attention even to attractive glossy plastic bathtubs due to the fact that after only a few years they will have to be changed, and not only due to the violation of the integrity of the bowl, but also due to the rapid contamination of its surface. The budget baths also include fiberglass models, which are slightly better in terms of parameters, but also quickly scratch and are difficult to clean.
Acrylic bathtubs without hydromassage or with a hydroelectric unit are considered one of the most popular today, because, in addition to their attractive appearance, they are also lightweight and quite affordable. These products are characterized by a variety of configurations, since, due to the characteristics of the material, it is easy to give them almost any shape and color.
It is interesting! The body of the acrylic corner bathtub with hydromassage (as well as the standard one) is distinguished by the absence of joints or seams, the bowl is smooth and pleasant to the touch. Another significant advantage can be considered the possibility of carrying out the restoration in case of damage to the integrity and appearance of scratches. If the bathtub is of high quality, then it will not be easy to damage it.
The disadvantages of acrylic baths include a relatively short service life, especially when compared with cast iron products. The average life of an acrylic bath is 10-15 years, but the warranty is only given for 10 years. Another negative aspect is the difficulty of removing some types of stains.
Another material similar to acrylic is kvaril, where an acrylic compound is also used as a base, only quartz and some polymer inclusions are added to it. Due to the admixture of elements, the bathtub has a high weight, becomes more resistant to various kinds of damage, and also prolongs its service life. Accordingly, the price of a quaril bath will be higher than the cost of a standard acrylic version.
Whirlpool tubs made of steel, cast iron and marble
Cast-iron baths with hydromassage are most reliable, because the products are resistant to mechanical damage, it is difficult to scratch or chip them. In many families, baths are used for a significant amount of time. There are many examples when a cast iron bowl retains its integrity even after 50 years of use, and such cases are not isolated.
The main disadvantage of installing a cast-iron jacuzzi is considered to be a rather large weight of the product, even without water. The average varies from 85 to 130 kg. Large weight also plays a positive role, because, regardless of the power of the motor and the pressure in the system, it will be impossible to move the bowl filled with water. In addition, due to the high weight during the whirlpool bath, the likelihood of strong vibrations is reduced.
Another feature of cast iron baths is thermal conductivity: the bowl retains heat well, but water should be poured at a higher temperature than necessary, because a significant part of the heat will go to warm up the walls of the device. When choosing a product, it is important to carefully inspect the surface for integrity, since the installation and transportation of a heavy bath cause significant difficulties. You should also pay attention to the fact that such bathtubs for the most part are rectangular in shape, which is associated with the difficulties of working with cast iron.
Steel is the material from which budget options are made. One of the advantages is the low weight and price of whirlpool baths. Such products are easy to transport, the body is durable. Maintenance of the device will not cause problems either, because the surfaces are easily cleaned even without the use of aggressive chemicals.
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The main disadvantage is that water will quickly cool in a thin steel bath, which will not allow you to rest in it for a long time. Other negative aspects include the fact that the process of filling the bowl will be accompanied by noise, although some modern models are additionally processed with a noise-insulating layer.
The highest price for a Jacuzzi bathtub with a hydromassage will be for a product made of marble. This option is recommended to be installed only in a large bathroom, as well as with an unlimited purchase budget. At the same time, the high cost is inherent in products made of both artificial and natural stone. The main positive aspects of using a marble bath include:
- ability to keep warm for a long time;
- long service life due to increased wear resistance of the material;
- minimal noise when filling the bowl with water;
- good stability;
- attractive appearance that complements the luxurious and expensive interior.
The relative disadvantages of marble baths are considered high cost, as well as significant weight.
Additional functions of hydromassage baths: photos of practical models
In addition to a variety of massage options, baths for greater comfort of use are complemented by other functions that have a positive effect on relaxation and recovery of the body, and also have a positive effect not only on the physical, but also on the moral state. Baths, depending on the model, are equipped with the following options:
- chromotherapy;
- automatic water heating;
- automatic bowl filling;
- built-in audio system with Bluetooth;
- control using the remote control, which allows you to select the desired mode without unnecessary movements.
Chromotherapy is an underwater illumination that affects a person's emotional state. When using the function, a certain number of LED lamps with light filters are turned on, which differ in the minimum power consumption. Depending on the price, some models will always glow with only one color, while others will offer a smooth alternation of colors and light intensity, which speeds up the relaxation process. The best manufacturers embed lamps in a way that they are not felt to the touch.
Anyone who likes to relax in the bath for a long time has come across the fact that they have to constantly draw hot water in order to maintain comfort. Some hydromassage models are distinguished by the presence of an automatic heating function, which allows you to set the required temperature on the sensor, which will be maintained throughout the entire bathing period. The presence of such a function makes it possible to take a bath at any convenient time and at the same time not depend on the availability of hot central water supply.
The main advantages of purchasing a shower cabin with hydromassage
A shower panel with hydromassage is considered a relatively new sanitary fixture that is used to create a bathroom interior and allows you to combine business with pleasure. A hydromassage shower, in comparison with a bath, has the following advantages:
- Reduced dimensions. This fact helps to install a washing machine or other useful household appliance in a small room.
- Security. While using the shower stall, you don't have to think about the water overflowing. This should be worried only by those who purchase a bathtub with a shower cabin in one design.
- Relaxation. The nozzles are visible to the user; during the washing process, you can easily change the direction of the water flow to the area in need of massage. And also many models have nozzles built into the bottom that provide a full foot massage.
- Multifunctionality. In addition to using the booth as a massage, you can also take a quick shower.
- Saving resources. While taking a shower, a person spends from 50 to 100 liters, and it takes 200-250 liters to fill a bath. In addition, taking a relaxing massage shower takes significantly less time.
- Careful use. The presence of specially sliding doors prevents splashing water on the bathroom floor, which eliminates the possibility of slipping, and also simplifies cleaning the room.
The main disadvantage of using a booth, in comparison with a bath, is the inability to lie down and completely relax in warm water. The main types of hydromassage cabins include:
- Steam shower. It has the function of a steam generator and is distinguished by the presence of an upper and lower hydromassage. It is characterized not only by convenience, but also by a stylish design. Average price - 70 thousand rubles.
- Finnish sauna model.In addition to the directional nozzles, the device has an additional compartment that generates dry steam. Price - from 100 thousand rubles.
- A cabin with an infrared bath. Usually it is a corner structure with sliding doors. The price starts at about 30 thousand rubles.
- Hydromassage with Turkish bath. The built-in steam generator maintains the temperature inside the cabin at about 50 ° C, while the humidity reaches 100%. After a good warm up, massage will have a much greater effect.
Additionally, we can highlight the fact that most shower cabins with hydromassage have a built-in device, which allows you to enjoy listening to radio channels or your favorite music during the procedure. Additionally, you can connect a telephone to the panel and, without interrupting the process, receive calls. The standard sizes of shower rooms are 75x75, 80x80, 90x90, 100x100 cm, and the height is usually 220 cm.
Review of models of popular whirlpool baths: sizes, prices
After installing the bathtub, you can enjoy the hydromassage at any free time. To prevent the device from quickly failing, you should choose products from only trusted manufacturers. A Chinese bathtub is cheaper, but due to the poor quality of workmanship, it can quickly break. Before planning a purchase, you need to consider that the cost of connecting a hydromassage bath is often 20-30% of the price of the product itself. To perform high-quality work, some models may require preliminary water purification, which will entail the cost of installing additional filters.
Useful advice! You shouldn't prefer the cheapest options, but you don't have to choose the most expensive models. It is better to purchase a bath from a trusted manufacturer at an affordable price.
So, among budget baths with hydromassage 170 x 70 cm, one can single out the Katrin model of the domestic company Triton, which is made of a composite material consisting of sandwich panels based on acrylic glass and polymer resin. The bath has four jets for back massage and six jets for general relaxation. An additional advantage can be considered the presence of a semi-automatic overflow mechanism. Other advantages of the Triton hydromassage bathtub:
- classic appearance;
- low cost - 16 thousand rubles;
- ease of use.
Firm "Triton" produces more compact models. Thus, the Troy corner bathtub has a size of 150x150 cm, which makes it easy to place it in a corner of even a small room, and a height of 70 cm will be enough for a comfortable semi-sitting position. The total volume of the bath is 300 liters. The convenience of the product is added by a built-in corner seat, additional nozzles on the bottom and side bumpers that can be used as shelves. The price of a corner bath with hydromassage is 23 thousand rubles.
Another Russian company producing jacuzzi baths is Radomir. The asymmetric bathtub with hydromassage "Valencia" is characterized by dimensions of 170x95 cm, while the height is 68 cm. The bathtub with hydromassage "Radomir" has a powerful 1500 W motor, 14 large and 4 small jets, which provide a high-quality massage of the whole body. The color of the nozzles can be selected based on the model version. The built-in Turbo-pool system has a pronounced analgesic effect, and for better performance there is an opportunity to additionally install 10 aerojets at the bottom of the bowl. The price of an acrylic bathtub with hydromassage starts at 31 thousand rubles.
If you want to have a massager in your apartment, but there is not enough space, an excellent option is a small foot bath with hydromassage, which has massage rollers built into the bottom.After filling the bath with water, the vibration mode is activated, which positively affects the nerve endings and key points on the legs, which is especially useful for those who lead an active lifestyle.
It is necessary to choose a bathtub with hydromassage taking into account not only personal needs, but also the peculiarities of the configuration and size of the bathroom. It is imperative to take into account the location of the massage nozzles. Even a few procedures a week after a short period of time will have a positive effect on the general condition, and not only physical, but also emotional.