How to Choose a Whirlpool Bath

Master bathroom with whirlpool tub.

Whirlpool tubs, often called jetted tubs, are luxury essentials in many master bathrooms. The available features include an invisible edge, color therapy, back massage jets, two-or-more-person sizes and more. If it can be imagined, it is probably available at some price point. Most homeowners opt for a one-person, standard-jets tub with a shape or back angle that they like. Selecting from among so many choices can be a bit daunting in the showroom, but a few determinants will reduce the selection to a manageable size.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Notepad
• Budget
• Prioritized features list

Instructions

Choosing A Whirlpool Tub

1. Measure the space where the tub will be installed. Often this is between two fixed walls that may house plumbing pipes. Unless the room is gutted, space becomes the first limiting choice factor. While measuring the space, note any existing plumbing, as this may be a limiting factor if the intention is to try to use existing plumbing positions for a tub replacement.

2. List the features on the tub that are most important for the application. Prioritize the list so that the top features are first and the features that may be subject to compromise are further down or last.

3. Create a budget for just a tub; for a tub with installation; or for a tub with new plumbing, new walls and installation. Keep in mind that plumbers often install twice or even three times. The first installation will be roughing in the plumbing. The second installation will be installing the tub and connecting the drainage and plumbing that exists under and behind or beside the tub. The third installation will be installing fixtures and making final connections. Depending on the tub selection, the fixtures may mount to the wall or to the deck platform rather than the deck. Some mount to the ceiling. All of these affect price and budget.

4. Create a budget for using the tub. This may include the addition of a second water heater if the tub is quite large. Water capacity may require significant water usage. These may be factors in your tub choice.

5. Establish, by looking at the available space, where an access panel could be located to work on the whirlpool motors for maintenance. This factor may preclude certain tub models whose motor locations cannot be fitted to the application. Most tubs have a preferred orientation for the homeowner (how the tub should sit or face in the room), this orientation, along with access will limit some tub choices.

6. Take the revised list of size, features, orientation, accessibility, and budget for both buying, using and installing the tub to your preferred showroom. Identify the tubs which meet the criteria. When possible climb into the actual tub and see how it fits. Each tub has different back slopes, heights and curves. While appearance is important, how a tub feels will greatly impact users' pleasure.

Tips & Warnings

• Style is transient. Select an enduring model with a good reputation made of quality materials. Some materials hold heat less well. If the tub is intended for longer soaks, then ensure that the choice will maintain water temperature for the time period that is preferred. Make sure the tub you select can be carried to its intended location (especially that it fits through doors and up staircases).

• Many whirlpool tubs look similar. Check your consumer fact sheet for models and manufacturers with good to excellent recommendations.

References

• Sauna Hot Tubs
• Kohler
• Accurate Inspection

Resources

• Jacuzzi