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Studies have shown that whirlpool baths offer the best form of stress relief, as well as relief from back and neck aches, muscle and joint pain, sprains, stiffness, and other minor injuries. They are the ultimate in luxury and relaxation. Whirlpool bathtubs can also increase the resale value of our homes by 10,000 to 20,000 dollars. They are a feature that is highly valued in today’s real estate market. With so many choices, how do you go about buying a whirlpool tub for your home?
First, you must decide if what you really want is a whirlpool bathtub or an air jet tub. A whirlpool system offers a vigorous massage aimed at certain parts of the body by forcing air and water through 4 or more large jets. An air jet system has an overall bubbling action caused by air being propelled through dozens of small holes.
Second, you must decide if you want a brand new whirlpool tub or if you would rather just have a company come in and install the system to your existing tub. There are several companies available that can install multiple pressurized jets and a motor in your existing tub. You can have this therapeutic hydromassage installed with no demolition or tub removal. Be sure the company gives you at least a 2-year warranty that guarantees that the system will be free from defects due to workmanship and materials and a 2-year warranty on the electric pump motor.
When considering purchasing a whirlpool tub, be sure to measure how much room you have available. Whirlpool tubs come in various sizes, shapes and colors. Most tubs come in 5 ft., 6 ft., Corner, or Oval sizes and shapes. Corner tubs can maximize floor space. Some larger models are made for two people and will take up much more room than the standard sizes. Before considering a whirlpool bathtub for two, ask yourself how often you will be sharing the tub and if it will be worth the extra expense due to extra water and energy usage. Whirlpool bathtubs come in a variety of colors such as white, sand, rose, black, navy blue, or green. You can find just about any color to match your decorating needs. When considering purchase, also determine if your water heater is large enough to support a tub that will hold 25-150 gallons of warm water.
When you have decided on the size and shape, you must decide what material you would like your tub to be made of. A few examples of material would be enameled steel, acrylic, and cast iron. Enameled steel comes in only a few sizes and shapes. Cast iron is very durable but is extremely heavy and you must be sure that your floor will support it. Acrylic is pretty standard and resists stains very well. Some tub systems that drop into the floor or sit on platforms might require a tub surround made of tile or other material.
Your next consideration might be cost. Whirlpool tubs can cost anywhere from $1000 to $20,000. Cost depends on brand name, material, number of jets, size, shape, and color. There are several brands and materials to choose from. Whirlpools usually come with 4 to 8 standard jets and options for 1 or 2 lumbar jets. Motors are usually 1 to 2 HP. The larger the HP the more power you have and the less energy consumed. The most standard and least expensive colors for tubs are classic white or off-whites.
Some whirlpool systems come with extra features such as timers, water level sensors, water temperature sensors, and even mood lights. Other extras might include grab bars or slip-resistant floors for safety.
When you have decided on a few models, go to a showroom, look at them, and try them out. Determine how easy it is to access all the parts of the system including the motor, pipes, and other components. Get in each one and decide which one offers the most back support and comfort. And of course, when buying a whirlpool tub, be sure that the manufacturer includes at least a 15-year warranty on parts and any labor.
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