What could be more luxurious than a wonderful whirlpool bathtub? It’s no wonder that so many homeowners are starting to choose these fixtures for their bathrooms since they bring to mind the luxury of a 5 star hotel room or spa, and not to mention the fact that they look incredibly stylish.
However, many homeowners rush into upgrading their bathroom suite to include a whirlpool tub without thinking about what it involves. They can be difficult to install and may not be as comfortable as expected once you have one in place. Lots of people end up being very disappointed by the experience that they get from their whirlpool bath. So, let’s look at what you should bear in mind if you are thinking of investing in one.
Try It Out
While it may be embarrassing in a bathroom showroom, you should always get into any tub you are thinking of buying before you make your purchase. If you are going to share a tub with someone else, get them to climb in too. You need to see if it’s comfortable to sit in, and whether it is easy to get into and out of.
Installation
If you are thinking of getting a drop in model rather than a freestanding tub, you need to think about the challenge of installing it. You need to consider where the air system, heating system and water pump will go. You may need some anti-tipping brackets for a freestanding tub and these will need to be installed around any pipes or heating wires which could be difficult. You will need to discuss this with a plumber or builder before making a choice.
Size
You must choose a tub which fits well into your bathroom. Often, an oversized tub may sound luxurious but may look odd in your space. It may also be too large to relax properly in. Plan the layout of your bathroom before you buy so you know where the tub will be placed and take into account the size of your hot water tank since it will not be able to cope with a large tub.
Electrical Requirements
Not only do you need to install a tub, you need to install a host of electricals too. Plan out where these will be accessed – maybe in a nearby room or closet – and work out where you will be able to install control units near the tub. Ask an electrician or plumber about installing the electrical elements of the tub as adjustments to the breakers may be required.
Ventilation
If you add jets to your bath, you need to think about the extra ventilation you will need. The heat and bubbles will increase the moisture in the air and you’ll need to ensure that no mold will build up.
Fixtures
Never choose the fixtures such as the sprayer and filler before you have chosen your tub. You will need to consider where you will sit in the tub and the direction which you will face before you install a handheld sprayer.
With all of this to bear in mind, it might be easier to just take a long hot shower instead!
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