Installation of a hydromassage bath and hydromassage equipment
Long gone are the days when a hot tub was solely a sign of wealth.A wide range of products, as well as the loyal pricing policy of leading manufacturers, makes such plumbing equipment quite affordable for most buyers.
If you are planning to purchase and install a Jacuzzi in a bathroom, then you need to understand the operating principle and design of a hydromassage bath, and understand the variety and functional features of the models. This information is presented in detail in the article.
To make your task easier, we have prepared a list of criteria that should be taken into account when purchasing, and also provided useful recommendations for choosing plumbing fixtures.
The content of the article:
Thermal spring within the walls of the house
Hydrotherapy is a common method of relaxation and healing that has been actively practiced since the 1st century BC. Its medicinal properties are mentioned in the Indian Vedas.
The first hydromassage bath in our usual sense appeared in Berlin in the mid-30s of the last century.
Thanks to the skill of one of the Jacuzzi brothers, the system was supplemented with a pump that ejects a powerful jet with many air bubbles, and numerous nozzles from which streams called the “thousand fingers” erupted.
In subsequent decades, hydromassage bath systems became more complex and improved. Geysers and whirlpools, color rays, musical accompaniment, and even a magnetic field pulsating in time with the earth's vibrations appeared in them.
Today, hydromassage is a solution to many problems.
In addition to relaxation, a hot tub also has a healing effect.Thermal and reflex effects activate metabolism, stimulating blood and lymph flow, and also inhibit intestinal motility and relieve muscle spasms.
Hydromassage baths are designed in such a way that the created jets of water affect only those parts of the human body that are not contraindicated for massage: the collar area, back, lower back and pelvis, calves and feet.
Hot tub design
The main structural elements of such a bathtub are the body and the equipment placed in it. The main unit of hydromassage equipment is an electric pump. It maintains a continuous water circulation, ensuring smooth operation of the system.
The pump is designed to draw water from a pipeline located on the outside of the structure and supply it under pressure to each nozzle. The maximum pressure value directly depends on the power of the unit. But the higher the pump power, the higher the cost of the bath itself.
The main elements of hydromassage equipment are also:
- injectors – form and direct the introductory jets;
- check valves – prevent the reverse flow of water;
- compressor – responsible for supplying air to the system;
- thermostat – controls the water temperature.
Nozzles are calibrated holes equipped with round plastic or metal plates with many holes. In one second, such a hole can release up to 800 air bubbles.
The nozzles come in different diameters and can be located both in the bottom and in the walls of the body in those places where the corresponding part of the body will be located during water procedures.
The size, number and location of nozzles depends on the type of model and determines the level of fragmentation of air flows.
If desired, some of the nozzles not currently in use can be turned off, thereby increasing the pressure in other jets.
Since modern hydromassage baths are intended more for sanitary and hygienic procedures than for physiotherapy, the second task of the nozzles is to prevent the entry of soap solution and clogging of the supply pipe system.
Models of a more complex device require a compressor. It is an independent device that supplies air through an air duct to each nozzle, which operates in parallel with the pump.
Under the influence of the compressor, the air is mixed with streams of water, which are released out through miniature holes cut into the bottom of the bath - jets.
In some models, the supplied air is preheated with a special hairdryer. This solution eliminates the unpleasant effect of a water flow at room temperature on a well-warmed body.
Thanks to the work of the compressor, a delicate air massage effect is created.
The operation of the system is controlled using a pneumatic remote control or an electronic touch display. It also sets a certain water temperature, portions of mixed air, intervals in pulsation mode, and even sets the radio station setting (if such a function is provided in the system).
System options
There are many available on the modern market hydromassage system options. Depending on the configuration and materials of manufacture, they are divided into several types.
Materials for making bowls
The body of hydromassage baths can be made of acrylic, cast iron, plastic, natural stone or metal.
Bowls made of polymer materials are famous for their low price and aesthetic appearance. Acrylic and plastic are pleasant to the touch, but short-lived, but relatively cheap.
Acrylic bathtubs are very convenient to transport, since the weight does not exceed 40 kg. One person can handle their installation and connection of the system.
Recently you can also find on sale models from quaril. The modified polymer is based on acrylic and quartz sand. Quartz sand enclosed in acrylic capsules makes the material, although relatively light in weight, resistant to mechanical stress.
Bathtubs made of steel and cast iron are no less in demand.
The enamel coating that forms the top layer is vulnerable to mechanical damage and requires careful handling.
Bathtubs with steel bowls are much cheaper than their cast iron counterparts. But they are inferior to them in terms of operational parameters: they do not retain heat for so long and create noise when filling the container.
Regardless of the material used to make the bowls, modern hydromassage equipment is absolutely safe for human health. The main thing is to strictly follow the installation instructions.
But even in the event of a malfunction, the system provides protective functions. For example, the equipment will not function if the bowl is empty.
To minimize the risk of electric shock, many leading European manufacturers equip their equipment with circuit breakers and RCD – residual current devices.
In the event of a malfunction of the electrical equipment, the supply circuit will automatically break, and as a result, the bath will be completely de-energized.
Dimensions and shape of plumbing fixtures
Baths can have different shapes, both externally and internally. Rectangular models fit perfectly into the bathrooms of apartment buildings with a standard layout.
Hydromassage baths with round bowls look very beautiful and original. But they are demanding of space and therefore are not acceptable in small spaces.
Corner, round, oval and square models are designed for larger bathrooms as they take up more space.
The most popular are corner models measuring 1.4 m and 1.8 m with a bowl depth of 0.6 m.
As an alternative, you can purchase a hydromassage box. It is a hybrid between a bathtub and a shower stall. The box can have any shape: rectangular, round, trapezoidal.
The choice is limited only by the buyer's preferences and bathroom configuration. But models measuring 0.9*0.9 m are considered the most convenient to use.
The material for making the pallet can be ceramics, metal or polymer.
Compared to bathtubs, hydromassage boxes have the advantage that in addition to the healing hydromassage of horizontal and vertical types, thanks to special nozzles and closed walls, the structures can create a “tropical shower” effect.
And when the steam generator is operating shower cabins with sauna create the effect of a Turkish bath or steam bath with elements of aromatherapy.
Hydromassage shower boxes are specially created for those who cannot part with a comfortable bath, but at the same time are aware of the economic benefits of a shower.
Additional system functions
Each bathroom, depending on the chosen model, may include: permanently installed nozzles and a removable front panel. Dispensers and a disinfection system, lighting and music, shelves for detergents and even a telephone can also serve as auxiliary devices.
According to the type of device, hydromassage equipment for baths is divided into two types:
- conventional hydromassage systems – in them massage is carried out using standard air-water flows;
- combined hydro-air massage systems – the work is carried out by air-water and air-bubble flows.
Hydromassage equipment of a combined type, using hydro- and air-massage nozzles, makes relaxing and health-improving water procedures more effective.
In bathtubs equipped with an automatic adjustment system, it is convenient to create entire massage “plays”.For example, first the side nozzles are launched at low intensity, after a few seconds a soft aeromassage system is connected to them, which is replaced by a powerful stacatto, giving a turbo massage to the back, shoulders and feet.
Systems are often additionally equipped with halogen lamps and LED backlighting. The presence of lighting can create a unique atmosphere in the bathroom, promoting maximum relaxation and effective treatment.
Chromotherapy is implemented in some systems using built-in lighting.
The effect of the procedure is achieved due to the beneficial effects of color with a certain wavelength on the body:
- green - relieves internal tension;
- blue – calms;
- yellow – lifts the mood;
- red – fills with energy.
Some models are equipped with an ozonation system. As you know, ozone is an effective replacement for chlorine. But the natural oxidizing agent does not have a harmful effect on the human body.
On the contrary, it has a bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effect, stimulating healing and creating an analgesic effect.
Developers annually improve hydromassage systems, adding new functions to them. In the latest models, the number of massages can reach three or more dozen. For example, in the model J. Sha Mi trademark Jacuzzi there are about fifty of them.
Among the latest technological innovations, the pipeless hydromassage system has gained wide popularity. It differs radically from the traditional version in that the installed nozzles are equipped with individual motors with a turbine.
According to the developers, such a system is more hygienic, since it eliminates stagnation of water, and therefore does not require disinfection and makes it easier hot tub maintenance.
Criteria for choosing wisely
Hydromassage procedures have a beneficial effect on the entire body. But to get the maximum benefit, equipment should be selected according to the type of procedures presented in it.
Possible options:
- side — use nozzles installed opposite the shoulders, shoulder blades, sides and feet;
- dorsal — involves the location of the nozzles in such a way that their therapeutic effect is felt not only by the back, but also by the lower back and buttocks, as well as the back of the thighs;
- combined - includes nozzles mounted in the bottom of the bowl and located in its side walls. Using the control system, they are turned on simultaneously or in a given order.
In order to avoid disappointment, it is worth deciding in advance on the type of impact of water flows. Some people don’t like side hydromassage, others are annoyed by the tickling touch of small bubbles of soft air massage.
It is also worth considering that hydromassage procedures should be used with caution in the presence of cardiovascular diseases.
When choosing a hot tub, be guided by the external dimensions of the equipment. They are often superior to traditional bathtubs.In this case, the volume of the inner bowl can have standard dimensions or “shallow” ones.
The choice of material from which the bowl is made also plays a key role. Among the models in the mid-price segment, hydromassage bathtubs with acrylic bowls, the walls of which are at least 7 mm thick and additionally reinforced with fiberglass, have proven themselves well. These are models from leading brands Jacuzzi And Teuco.
Companies produce sanitary ware from innovative quaril Villeroy&Boch And Albatros. Most models of these brands are equipped with a special orthopedic bed, which allows you to remove the load from the spinal column and take a comfortable position during water procedures.
When choosing a model, it is important to consider the number of nozzles. After all, their number and location directly affects the power and efficiency of the equipment. The average number of hydromassage nozzles is 6-8 pieces.
The total number of air massage nozzles can reach from 10-15 to 30-35 pieces. Some models allow you to adjust the angle of rotation of individual elements.
Also pay attention to the material used to make the decorative overlays.
The uninterrupted operation and durability of the system largely depends on the power of the electric motors of the installed pumps. The average performance of hydromassage baths ranges from 700-800 watts.
The power of more equipped models can reach 1500 W. In any case, when choosing a model, follow the rule that the higher the engine’s power reserve, the greater its “safety margin”.
Add-ons significantly improve the functionality of the equipment.But the more functions, the more expensive the bath.
Among the additional elements that are often not included in the basic package, but will certainly be needed during operation, it is worth highlighting bathroom faucets. An automation system for controlling the operating modes of plumbing fixtures will also cost a considerable amount.
By choosing products from trusted manufacturers, you can not only protect yourself from low-quality products. When hot tub repair and the need to replace a separate element, you can order a spare part on the official website of the manufacturer.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
Expert advice on choosing a Jacuzzi by type of material and technical equipment:
By spending more time reviewing the models on the market and paying attention to every little detail, you will be able to choose the best bath option for water treatments and complete relaxation in a pleasant home environment.
Do you have anything to add, or do you have questions about the design and selection of a hydromassage bath? Please leave comments on the post. The contact form is located in the lower block.
On the one hand, it seems that it would be very cool to have such a hot tub at home. It’s good to come home tired from work, climb into such a bath, turn on the massage and relax. But on the other hand, a healthy pragmatism kicks in in your head, which says that you won’t be able to use the bath often. Simply because it takes a lot of time. It also needs to be washed constantly. And you finally realize that you’ll somehow get by with an ordinary bathroom, looking at the price tag.
Jacuzzi is a thing! You could say, a mini-sanatorium at home.It only noticeably affects the family budget, and I’m not talking about the cost of the bathtub itself and equipment - this is a one-time expense. I'm talking about monthly payments. A Jacuzzi is both water and electricity, and taking such a bath (and therefore keeping it on) is obviously not supposed to take five minutes. There’s no point in even filling up the Jacuzzi for five minutes. So consider it! Next comes the issue of area. In most apartment bathrooms, it is sometimes difficult to position the washing machine so that it does not disturb anyone. And here is a rather large container. As a result: although hydromassage baths are no longer available to only a couple of percent of the world’s population, not many can afford them. I don't have a jacuzzi either, if that's the case)))
Do I need to obtain any permits to install a jacuzzi in an apartment? He's heavy. Should we strengthen the floor there and all that?
Hello, Oleg. Whether it will be necessary to obtain permission to install a hydromassage bathtub in the bathroom of an apartment building or not depends on the characteristics of the bathtub itself.
For example, if this is a KOLLER POOL Malibu 170x75 Eco Hydro hot tub, which weighs only 40 kg and has a capacity of 210 liters, then you do not need to obtain any permits. Since ordinary modern acrylic bathtubs have the same parameters in terms of displacement, they only weigh about 20 kg.
If you plan to install a larger and heavier hydromassage bath, for example, Triton Victoria 150*150, weighing 60 kg and capacity 450 liters, then in this case you will have to obtain permission. BTI representatives will carry out calculations and tell you whether additional strengthening is necessary.
Hello. I don’t have a jacuzzi, but I would logically assume that according to Article 25 and subsequent LC of the Russian Federation, the installation of a jacuzzi is a renovation that requires approval.
Again, leafing through the articles, you will find the order of approval: “Reconstruction of premises in an apartment building is the installation, replacement or transfer of utility networks, sanitary, electrical or other equipment that requires changes to the technical passport of the premises in an apartment building". Check this point with your local management company. In addition, there is a question about the possibility of increasing the provided energy capacity.
As for the load - again, check the weight of the desired device, the permissible load on the floors and install. I think this shouldn't be a problem. But again. It depends on the model and configuration. I think the simplest ones don’t need to be coordinated in any way if the house wiring allows it.
When making repairs, they put a hundred bags of 25-40 kilograms per couple of square meters. Nothing stands
Hello, help me solve the problem, the hot tub is 2009, name Belibel, hasn’t been used for 5 years, now the red light on the control panel lights up when turned on. neither the engine nor the injectors work. The red light on the panel is just on and the red indicator on the water sensor is also on. In the box with the boards everything is dry and clean, you can’t see that anything has burned out, the fuse is intact. The air sensor took off the hose and blew it out, but it didn’t blow through, as if there was no air passage. Can you give advice on what could be the cause of the breakdown and a method for eliminating it. Thank you in advance.