Acrylic whirlpool baths: varieties, choices, nuances of use
The acrylic whirlpool bathtub is relatively new and has gained popularity right away. People appreciated the convenience and functionality of this appliance, and when arranging bathrooms, they began to increasingly make a choice in its favor.
Specifications
Acrylic Jacuzzis are sanitary fixtures equipped with a high pressure air and water jet system. The devices are capable of combining a water jet with an air stream, which significantly increases the effectiveness of the massage. The design of the bath includes a compressor and a hydraulic pump, powered by an electric motor.
Vortex, micro-jet and rotating nozzles located on the walls and bottom of the bowl are used to adjust the direction of the jets. The range of water-air jets of most samples reaches 70 cm. Brass, steel and heat-resistant plastic are used for the manufacture of nozzles and sprayers.
There are also cheaper samples, equipped only with a pump and without a compressor. The pump drives the liquid along the circuit, and the bubble effect is achieved due to the pressure difference. However, such models are considered less effective than those with a compressor and are not intended for therapeutic purposes, but for relaxation.
The first examples of acrylic hydromassage bathtubs were rather large structures and were used in health centers. However, with their arrival at home, they underwent a number of changes and significantly decreased in size. The average weight of most modern models does not exceed 50 kg, and compact seated products weigh no more than 25-30 kg.
Advantages and disadvantages
High consumer demand for acrylic whirlpool baths is due to a number of their important advantages.
- The Jacuzzi bathtub was invented by the Italian engineer K. Yakuzzi to relieve the condition of rheumatoid arthritis, which his son suffered from. Today it is used as part of complex therapy for disorders of the musculoskeletal system and disorders of the nervous system. Hydromassage relieves stress and tension, normalizes blood circulation and restores the emotional background. The device has a positive effect on the immune, genitourinary, cardiovascular and digestive systems, helps to fight excess weight and has a powerful tonic effect.
- In addition to the therapeutic and health-improving function, whirlpool baths have a positive effect on the condition of the skin and are used for cosmetic purposes.... Already after several sessions of hydromassage, the condition of the skin is noticeably improved and their elasticity increases. Acrylic jacuzzis are very popular among women who want to get rid of cellulite: jet air bubble massage not only helps to smooth the skin, but also acts as a powerful prophylactic agent.
- As for the technical side of the issue, here too, acrylic bathtubs are at their best. The models have low weight and high strength, only slightly inferior to cast iron. In addition, thanks to the special manufacturing technology and good plasticity of acrylic, it is possible to give bathtubs a variety of relief and anatomical shapes. It is worth noting the antibacterial surface of acrylic models, which retains its properties throughout the entire service life.
Moreover, acrylic has low thermal conductivity, and does not allow water to cool quickly. In 30 minutes, the water temperature drops by only 1 degree. Acrylic has excellent sound-absorbing properties, which is why the collection of water in the bath is almost silent. An equally important advantage of acrylic jacuzzi is no reaction of acrylic to the composition and quality of water.
The surface of the bathtubs does not become cloudy or rusty, and retains its original appearance throughout the entire service life.
There are also quite a few disadvantages of acrylic jacuzzis, and along with technical shortcomings, there are also medical contraindications to the use of such baths. Therefore, before purchasing such expensive models, you need to read the instructions and take into account all the nuances.
- So, the use of whirlpool baths is contraindicated for severe viral and infectious diseases, urolithiasis, chronic ailments during an exacerbation, hemorrhages, pregnancy, lactation, open wounds, tuberculosis, thrombophlebitis, pathologies of the cardiovascular system and oncology.
- On the technical side, most acrylic jacuzzis are designed for large bathrooms, especially freestanding and most corner models. In addition, many jacuzzis do not fit through standard 60 cm wide doors - to bring the bath into the room requires dismantling a part of the wall and widening the opening. The downside is the too soft structure of the material, which leads to the appearance of scratches and dents. Disadvantages also include the risk of clogging of the nozzles due to the use of poor quality water.
Views
The acrylic whirlpool tubs are classified according to features such as control system, installation method and nozzle arrangement.
- According to the first criterion there are two design options - electronic and mechanical. The former are equipped with a remote control and a touch panel, while the latter are controlled using buttons, keys, valves and levers located on the bowl body.
- By installation method Jacuzzis are subdivided into wall-mounted and freestanding.The first ones are installed close to the wall or corner, very convenient for small bathrooms. The latter are designed for spacious bathrooms and require lengthening communications. Such models look very stylish, but they are very expensive and are not suitable for most apartments.
- By arrangement of nozzles baths are of several types. In cheaper models, they are concentrated in only one area, more often in the neck or lumbar region, while in expensive models they go around the entire perimeter of the bowl. At the same time, nozzles with large holes are used in the area of the back and hips, and with small holes for the neck and feet.
Shapes and sizes
Acrylic jacuzzis are of several types according to their form. This allows you to choose the appropriate option and more efficiently use the bathroom space.
- Rectangular models are the simplest designs and are not too expensive. Nevertheless, they perform their functions perfectly, have an anatomical bowl and modern controls.
Models can be seated, semi-seated and recumbent, available in a wide range of sizes and shapes.
- Corner baths are the leaders in popularity, they are symmetrical and asymmetrical. The former are an equilateral segment, while the latter can have the most bizarre shapes with differences in depth and different heights of the sides.
- Oval baths they look very unusual and can be installed both against the wall and in the middle of the room.
- An equally interesting option is round sampleshowever they require a lot of space and appropriate interior decoration. They look very rich and stylish, freely accommodating two people.
- Square baths intended for installation in the middle of the room, they are classified as premium products. They, like round samples, are equipped with a large number of additional functions, are equipped with head restraints, a powerful pump and a large number of all kinds of nozzles.
- Non-standard models are the smallest category, are very expensive and are often custom made. Products can take on the most daring shapes, the most interesting of which is the heart-shaped bathtub.
As for the sizes of acrylic jacuzzi, their choice is simply huge. This allows you to choose the right model not only for the dimensions of the room, but also for your height. Among rectangular full-size bathtubs, the most common are models 170-180 cm long, 70-80 cm wide and 50 cm deep.More compact semi-seated samples have dimensions of 150x70 cm and a depth of 46 cm.
The most common size of corner symmetrical baths is 120x120 cm.
Such products are well suited for small spaces and allow for more ergonomic use of space. For spacious bathrooms, a round model with dimensions of 180x180 cm is suitable, and in a very small bathroom you can buy an asymmetric seated Jacuzzi bathtub measuring 100x130 cm.When choosing a size, it should be borne in mind that double baths with a length of more than 200 cm require reliable ceilings. This is due to the large volume of such models, which can hold 1000 or more liters of water.
Color spectrum
Acrylic whirlpool tubs in white are the classic option, representing the most numerous category of bathtubs. However, modern technologies do not stand still, and more and more often you can see models of different colors, decorated with patterns and even sparkles. This makes it possible to choose a product for any color of the bathroom or toilet.
But experienced designers do not recommend purchasing models of flashy aggressive colors and are advised to focus on all shades of water (blue, greenish, aquamarine) or on delicate pastel colors. Baths of black and red colors look very impressive, but they are less conducive to relaxation and have a stimulating effect on the nervous system.
Style and design
An acrylic jacuzzi bathtub should be combined with the environment and harmoniously fit into the interior. In large rooms, it is better to choose tall freestanding bathtubs, taking into account the style in which it is decorated. So, oval bathtubs on high curved legs will perfectly fit into classic and retro styles, and rectilinear designs will be more appropriate in modern interiors.
Round jacuzzis look great both in old and trendy directions, the main thing is to choose the right color and plumbing fittings.
Manufacturers overview
The modern market offers a large number of acrylic jacuzzis from different companies. Below are the three most famous companies that produce beautiful and functional models.
- Russian LLC "Triton" manufactures quality products in a wide price range, which significantly increases their consumer availability and allows you to buy a product for any wallet. The cost of the most inexpensive model is 6,000 rubles, while for the most advanced one will have to pay more than 95 thousand.
- Spanish-Russian firm Roca also well known to the domestic consumer. The range of the company is represented by rectangular, angular and oval models, often equipped with headrests, armrests, built-in drawers for storing soap utensils and comfortable handrails. A variety of massage systems and integrated thermostatic mixers are used for the manufacture of baths. The cost of products depends on their functionality and varies from 8.5 to 120 thousand rubles.
- Czech company Ravak manufactures comfortable and easy-to-use whirlpools, guaranteeing the durability and high quality of each sample. The line of the enterprise includes both economy class models and elite samples, the cost of which reaches 400,000 rubles. These jacuzzis are equipped with aromatherapy and automatic dehumidification functions, have a built-in radio and telephone, and are equipped with speakers and a TV screen.
The most budgetary Ravak model can be purchased for 10,000 rubles.
How to choose?
When choosing an acrylic whirlpool bath, there are a number of important points to consider.
- The number of layers of acrylic layer should be at least 5. You can count their number on the edge of the bath rim, where they are usually well distinguishable. And you can also shine a flashlight on the wall of the bathtub, and if the light is visible from the back side, it is better not to buy a bathtub.
- When pressed on the bottom of the bath, acrylic should not vibrate and sag, and its surface should be smooth, uniform and glossy. If the bowl has a matte finish, then most likely it is a plastic fake.
- It is advisable to choose adjustable nozzles, located not only horizontally, but also vertically. The ideal option would be a model equipped with an air compressor that increases the jet pressure.
- The depth of the bowl should be at least 42 cm before the overflow, as it is very difficult to relax in the shallower bathtubs.
Operating rules
In order for a whirlpool tub to last as long as possible, you must use it correctly. Below are some important rules, the observance of which will ensure long and safe operation:
- compulsory waterproofing of the bathroom will prevent the flooding of neighbors and the ingress of water onto the wires in the event of a breakdown of nozzles and nozzles;
- in view of the fact that the jacuzzi is an electrical device, the allocation of a separate line, grounding and installation of an RCD are mandatory;
- to extend the life of the injectors, you need to install a filter;
- using foam while hydromassage is on is strictly prohibited;
- after each use, the bowl should be rinsed well, and the nozzles should be cleaned of hair and dirt;
- in order not to have to deal with the restoration of the acrylic coating, the use of metal sponges and abrasives is prohibited;
- after every 6-8 massage sessions, you need to run disinfectant solution through the system.
How to choose a quality hot tub, see the video below.