It's possible to have a relaxing, spa-like experience at home with a whirlpool tub.Many homeowners upgrade to jetted tub as they embark on bathroom renovations.Space requirements, design options, and the complex installation process are some of the factors to consider when buying one.
Step 1: There is a space to store the tub's pump and wiring.
A few feet of the tub requires extensive electrical wiring and a pump.If you have a cabinet next to the tub, it can be stored there.You need an alcove tub with an apron or a drop-in tub built into a deck if you don't.The electrical equipment will be hidden by these styles.If your tub has many jets, you may need up to 2 square feet of storage space for the pump.A claw-foot tub is a great option if you have an adjacent space to store the pump.
Step 2: You can measure the space where the tub will go.
Determine the length, width, and depth of the space you want the tub to fill.Measure the bathroom doorway to make sure your new tub will fit through it.A standard tub is about 30 to 32 inches wide, 60 to 150 inches long, and 20 to 50 inches deep.Tubs should fit through a standard bathroom door.To be sure, some older homes have narrower doors.If you are interested in a drop-in tub, keep in mind that the deck it drops into will take up a few extra inches of bathroom space all the way around the tub.
Step 3: Take a look at where the current tub's drain is.
Unless you are doing extensive renovations, your new tub's drain will need to be in the same location as the old one.If the drain is left, right, or center, look for a new tub that will match it.
Step 4: Determine the capacity of your water heating device.
It is printed on the side of the water heating unit.If you have a small unit, you may need to upgrade to a larger one.If you buy a tub, aim for it to have at least 23 capacity.A 75-gallon tub should have a 50-gallon water heater.You should have between 30 and 40 gallons of water.If you have a large family and budget is not an issue, you can get a 100 gallon water heater.
Step 5: Choose between water jets or air jets.
Water-jet whirlpool tubs force water through jets, giving more pressure and a massage.Air is forced through tiny holes for a lighter massage in an air-jet whirlpool tub.A whirlpool tub that uses both will be more expensive and use more energy.Bath salts and oils can damage the pumping mechanism of the water-jet and combination tub.Water-jet and combination tub drawbacks are that some water stays in the jets, and mold can develop if they are not regularly cleaned out.
Step 6: Decide which material is right for you.
fiberglass is the lightest and cheapest material.Cast iron is heavy, but it is durable.If you choose cast iron, you will need to install additional floor support.A cast-iron tub can cost over a thousand dollars, but an acrylic tub will be less than that.
Step 7: Look for special features.
Light therapy is offered by the colored lights built into the sides of the whirlpool tub.Others have self-cleaning jets that blow air out after every use to dry the lines and prevent mold.
Step 8: Pick a design that will fit your family's needs.
If you have elderly family members or anyone with mobility issues in your house, you should get a walk-in tub.Getting in and out of the tub is easier with the doors and grab bars.If you have small children, it's a good idea to get a tub with sides that are easier to climb over.
Step 9: A budget can be created.
How much you can spend on the tub, the fixture, and the installation is outlined in a budget.You can compare costs of tub with and without special features.If you want the white tub to be beige, it could go from $1450 to $1500.Determine how important each feature is to you.If a tub is offered at a better price from a different seller, do some research.Customer service may be affected by a lower price.
Step 10: You can visit a showroom.
If you want to buy from a small, local dealer or a large home supply store, you need to be able to look at a variety of tubs.It might look good online, but it might be uncomfortable when you get inside.
Step 11: Sit in a tub.
The size and shape of the tub should be taken into account.Make sure the tub is big enough for you and your significant other to use at the same time.
Step 12: You can check reviews online.
Check out Consumer Reports and other rating sites to make sure there aren't any common complaints about the tub you like.If they are new to you, check for complaints against the manufacturer and dealer.
Step 13: It's a good idea to consult contractors.
There is a lot of work that goes into installing a whirlpool tub.You may need to make plumbing modifications.Give the specifications for the tub to an electrician or general contractor.They will let you know if work needs to be done.If you'll be purchasing a drop-in tub, ask your contractor to build a deck.
Step 14: Purchase a faucet.
You can purchase a faucet and accessories once you have selected your tub.If you've chosen a free-standing tub, be sure to purchase a tub filler that's free standing, because it requires different types of hardware.
Step 15: Installation services can be scheduled.
Installation services are usually offered by the business you buy the tub from.You can schedule this at the time of purchase, or you can hire your own plumbing or general contractor.