Jacuzzi: what it is, pros and cons, choice, use

The days when the jacuzzi was considered a sign of luxury are long gone. Today, such a bathtub is available to most Russian families, since manufacturers offer a wide range of models at a variety of prices. But the decision to install a hot tub in an apartment or house should be balanced and well thought out.

The whirlpool bath, in which everything is "bubbling", got its name in honor of the manufacturer - an American company. She, in turn, took in the name the Italian surname Jacuzzi, which correctly reads "Yakuzzi". But the mispronunciation very quickly took root in most languages ​​of the world and so began to call the whirlpool baths of any manufacturer.

The company that first started making bubble baths opened in 1917. It was founded by one of the seven Yakuzzi brothers who emigrated to the United States from Italy. At first, the enterprising Italian tried to produce aircraft, but failed. Then he retrained production to produce pumps for farmers, but this undertaking was not a commercial success either.

The Yakuzzi family had a child who, for health reasons, required constant massage, and it was only in 1956 that a prototype of a hot tub was invented. Then the brothers together changed and improved the design many times, received about 2.5 hundred copyright patents.

Mass production began in 1968. The jacuzzi bath, as conceived by the manufacturers, works as a universal massager, in which the action on the active points occurs with jets of water. But gradually, such a word began to call things that have nothing to do with home hydromassage, for example, this is how they often call a place under a waterfall or at the threshold of a river.

Modern Jacuzzis are not just baths with a pump that supplies air to multiple jets. These are real thermal springs within the most ordinary apartment. You can choose geyser baths and waterfall baths, illuminated structures, musical ones, as well as pulsating exactly in time with the fluctuations of the planet's magnetic field.

Hydromassage as a method of beneficial effects on the human body has been known for a long time. Water jets act pointwise on those parts of the body that are commonly referred to as active zones, and this effect is often used in the prevention and even treatment of certain diseases. Modern Jacuzzi offer three massage options:

• hydromassage - the impact occurs with water jets;
• air massage — exposure occurs with jets of air;
• turbomassage — the impact occurs both with water and air at the same time according to the combined type.

Usually the nozzles are located in those parts of the bath where certain parts of the bather's body should be located - shoulders, back, thighs, feet. The air jets are positioned under the buttocks and thighs.

The advantages of such plumbing devices are undeniable.

• Jacuzzi promotes more effective muscle relaxation and reduces stress levels.
• The hot tub maintains skin firmness and health by improving blood circulation and skin nutrition. If you take such baths regularly, there will be less problems with cellulite and wrinkles.
• The procedure in water helps natural pain relief, relieves headaches, muscle and joint pain. This is important for people with disabilities of the musculoskeletal system.
• Jacuzzi looks stylish and modern in any bathroom setting, regardless of style and design.

However, bathtubs "with bubbles" also have their drawbacks, which many begin to guess only after the bathtub has already been purchased.

• A jacuzzi takes up a lot of space, and therefore it is almost impossible to fit a bathtub into a small bathroom. Even corner and round jacuzzis are rather bulky items.
• Using a whirlpool tub increases water consumption by several times, and therefore bills will be higher.
• The cost of a bath, although not as high as before, is still not budgetary.
• An installed hot tub requires careful and vigilant care. After application, water remains in the nozzles. With insufficient care, it becomes a favorable breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Injectors require special treatment and periodic replacement.
• There is no shower in the jacuzzi, so you can only swim under the tap. Also, the design does not provide for the use of the bath directly for washing - dirt and sweat can contaminate the nozzles.

The jacuzzi body can be made of different materials. Most often found acrylic and cast iron bathsbut the hot tub can be and plastic, as well as made of natural stone.

The most inexpensive options are bowls made of polymer materials. Acrylic and plastic jacuzzis look beautiful and attractive, pleasant to the touch, but these materials cannot be called durable. Cast iron and stone are more durable.

Considering that it is acrylic that is chosen most often, today manufacturers offer bathtubs, the bowls of which are made of two-layer or three-layer acrylic; for greater strength, they make a reinforced metal grate.

Such bathtubs are lightweight, it is not difficult to take them from the store to the house, lift them to your floor, mount and connect. One adult man can easily cope with this. Cast iron products will require the simultaneous efforts of several people.

In the assortment of modern plumbing stores, you can also find a jacuzzi from kvarila... This polymer material is composed of acrylic and quartz sand. Such baths are more resistant to mechanical damage, scratches and chips.

Steel and cast iron Jacuzzis are more expensive, they are more durable, laborious to transport and install. But it's worth it. Cast iron retains heat better, the water in the bath does not cool down longer. Cast iron baths are more expensive than steel ones; steel bowls do not retain heat so well.

The choice of material is important in determining the acceptable price, the material of the bowl does not have any additional effect on health, enhance the healing effect, and therefore it would be incorrect to pose the question of which bathtub is more useful - plastic or steel. Regardless of the material of the bowl, manufacturers provide the same safety measures so as not to harm human health.

For example, when the bowl is empty, the equipment does not turn on, and in order to avoid electric shock during the procedures, equipment with automatic shutdown and RCD is used. If a failure occurs during use, the power will simply turn off.

Jacuzzis are symmetrical and asymmetrical in their shapes. Today it will not be difficult to find the following models on sale:

• classic rectangular - optimal for small bathrooms;
• corner - located in the corner of the sanitary room and freeing its center for other design ideas;
• lateral - they are installed against the wall and have an increased internal volume;
• round - they require a lot of space, sometimes they are installed in the very center of the room on a small pedestal;
• non-standard - this includes oval, asymmetric, hexagonal and octagonal bathtubs, as well as a heart-shaped Jacuzzi, sinks.

Classic single jacuzzis are sized to fit even in small rooms. Corner products are also in demand, since they can have adequate dimensions - 150x150 cm or 180x180 cm.

Bathtubs of this size are often equipped with two headrests, which makes them two-seater. For comfortable single use, the dimensions 140x140 cm are enough. Remember that small bathtubs are usually deep enough - up to a meter. And it can be difficult to get into them for the elderly, as well as for children.

Medium-sized tubs are rectangular jacuzzis 1.8 mx 1.8 m. Their depth is usually 60 cm. In such a tub, you can enjoy hydromassage while lying down with great comfort. Popular sizes are considered to be 170x75 cm, 170x70 cm, 150x70 cm. The dimensions must be determined based on the size of the room.

To understand how many people can fit in a jacuzzi, it is important to consider not only the original dimensions, but also the location of the jets. Their effect must be anatomically accurate, only then will hydromassage be beneficial.

If you are the proud owner of a large bathroom in your own home, then you can pay attention to the models of the following dimensions:

• oval or round hydromassage bath 2.1x1x0.6 m;
• rectangular classic version measuring 2x1.5 m;
• corner model with dimensions 1.9x1.9 m.

When buying a jacuzzi for an apartment, if it means installing a bathtub above the first floor, you need to take into account the weight. And weight is considered taking into account equipment, water and body weight of a person.

The decision to install a jacuzzi in the bathroom opens up a lot of designer's imagination. Whirlpool baths fit perfectly into a wide variety of interiors. The only advice that experts usually give is in the requirement to comply with the general style of the room.

For this there is a little trick that will help keep the Jacuzzi in the general style. The edges of the bathtub are framed with the same materials that are used for finishing the premises.

The design tips will be as follows.

• If you are decorating a bathroom in a classic style with tiles, then try to choose a Jacuzzi with a cast iron or marble bowl. For apartments, it is worth choosing lightweight acrylic multi-layer options.
• If the bathroom is designed in a minimalist style, the jacuzzi should not be too large and luxurious. Choose modest models of small dimensions without decorative trim.
• A large bathroom is a good reason to consider a round or oval hot tub. A jacuzzi of this shape looks especially good in rooms with windows and natural light.
• The presence of a jacuzzi requires a special approach to lighting. It is important that the number of fixtures provides a high level of illumination in the bathroom.
• Next to the jacuzzi, designers consider it appropriate to install special holders for towels, as well as furniture. If space permits, when creating a design project, you can provide for the location next to the hot tub of flowers or a tub with plants that do not require a lot of sunlight, but love high humidity.

Each whirlpool bath, depending on the model chosen, can have a different set of functions. For example, nozzles installed by manufacturers can be supplied with removable panels, dispensers, a separate disinfection system. The jacuzzi may have lighting and the ability to connect musical equipment to the plumbing. Almost all models have a set of shelves for a comfortable positioning of detergents. Some can be connected to a telephone and even a TV.

Much depends on what kind of hydromassage lover you are. There is standard systems, in which the effect of massage is achieved by air-water flows. There is combined systems with air massage, in them you can get the effect of air, water jets and, separately, bubbles. It is believed that the second type of jacuzzi is more functional and has a more pronounced effect on the human body.

Some models have automatic adjustment, in them you can set the type of procedures that you like, and with a certain sequence. The change of modes is non-contact, requiring no effort from a person. For example, at first only the side nozzles with a small pressure will work, then the air massage nozzles will be connected to them, and then the functions of the turbo massage of the back or shoulder girdle will be activated.

Many hot tubs have LED lighting. This is not only done to more effectively integrate the bathtub into the overall design. Doctors have long proven that the light regime is important for the healing effect of procedures. Gentle and soothing lighting in this case enhances relaxation and helps withstand stress.... Some manufacturers base their whirlpool baths on the principles of chromotherapy - a method of color treatment.

So, jacuzzi with green backlit helps relieve severe stress, get rid of muscle clamps, blue the backlight effectively soothes and yellow helps to raise mood and get rid of depression. Red LED lighting in the whirlpool tub adjusts to the work rhythm and fills a person with energy.

Today, a jacuzzi can be chosen from the lineup of almost any major manufacturer of sanitary ware. Therefore, we have compiled a rating based on customer reviews. It includes different models of different manufacturing companies.

Gemy's models can hardly be called budgetary, the cost starts from 75 thousand rubles and varies depending on the set of functions. The jacuzzi of this model is spacious, you can soak up in them for two or even three. The material of the bowl is acrylic, the function of deep back massage is provided. There is ozonation function, there is a multi-colored backlight and a built-in radio. Massage type - standard hydromassage.

This is a more economical option, the cost of which starts from 17 thousand rubles and with the maximum functional content rarely exceeds 59 thousand. According to customer reviews, quick to install and easy to adjust. Has only the necessary functions, no frills. The dimensions are small and many people say that they would like more depth.

The model is called optimal for small bathrooms. Has a good build quality. It has a nice design, elegant shine. It has two types of massage functions, a comfortable seat and functional armrests. The cost starts from 79 thousand rubles. Has built-in lighting and radio, built-in mixer.

An interesting hot tub with a decorative semicircular waterfall. Disinfection is carried out with a simple push of a button. Manufacturers position it as a bathtub for two, but users argue that it becomes a little cramped for two.

Whirlpool baths from this manufacturer are available to different categories of buyers, since prices start from 33 thousand and reach 99 thousand rubles. The downside is that the bathtub is delivered unassembled and only those who are familiar with plumbing work do not have problems. The rest will have to work hard, armed with assembly instructions and patience.

This model of jacuzzi enjoys the well-deserved love of Russians. It is inexpensive, made of non-slip acrylic, which does not fade over time and continues to delight its owners with its appearance. It has the functions of chromotherapy, hydromassage, comfortable headrests are included.

Hot tub with air massage of a very unusual shape. According to reviews, has very comfortable armreststhat allow you to relax further. It has an additional screen that can be installed to hide communications and equip a place for storing detergents. Anti-slip acrylic, there is a color function therapeutic illumination.

Classic whirlpool tub with acrylic bowl. Has a rectangular shape. The number of injectors is small - there are only six of them... But the price is also very democratic - from 29 thousand rubles. Has comfortable armrests.

In choosing a jacuzzi, plays an important role type of procedures presented. If you know exactly what effect you need, it will not be difficult to choose exactly the hot tub that will help you achieve the most positive effect on the body. It can be a device with side nozzles, if a massage effect is required in the area of ​​the shoulders, shoulder blades, and feet.

You can also choose a device with spinal nozzles that will target your back, lower back, thighs and buttocks. If you need a general effect on all zones, you should choose a combined type of nozzles, which are present both in the bottom and in the side of the model.

Pay attention to the sizes - if a bath is needed for a home, you can consider options for medium and large sizes, if for an apartment - small and small, although here it all depends on the parameters of the room... At the cottage and in your own bath, there is usually more space for installing round and oval Jacuzzis. Also, initially it is worth deciding whether the bathtub will be intended for one person or for two. There is a jacuzzi for large groups for 3-7 people.

Whichever model you choose, you should make sure that all equipment is marked with a safety mark. The choice of material is an individual matter, but experts advise focusing on acrylic thickness of at least 7 mm. It is these models that are presented by manufacturers today. Jacuzzi and Teuco. If you want a quaril product, you should pay attention to the range of manufacturers Villeroy & Boch and Albatros. Such models have an additional orthopedic bed, which reduces the load on the spine.

If you want the bathtub to delight you with a presentable appearance for a long time, you should not choose products with spectacular gilded decorative elements. They will fade in a few years. Chrome elements are considered more durable. Pay attention to such characteristics as pump power... Experts advise choosing bathtubs with pumps of 700-800 watts. The more power, the more durable the product should be.

Experts advise to choose only products from well-known manufacturers to protect yourself and your family from the frustrations caused by low-grade counterfeits. In addition, the purchase of official products guarantees that in the event of a breakdown, you can easily buy or order the necessary spare part on the website of the official manufacturer.

Jacuzzi belongs to high-tech products, and therefore you need to use the bathroom correctly, in strict accordance with the instructions. The instruction itself is necessarily attached by the manufacturer to each model. Before switching on for the first time, you need to check if the device is installed correctly.

• Before starting the hydromassage, make sure that all the jets are covered with water.
• The water temperature should be between 37 and 40 degrees. It is this temperature that is considered the most suitable for the pronounced effect of massage procedures.
• It is worth setting up hydromassage for yourself after turning it on. If there are ready-made massage programs on the menu, try them out. If possible, you can set your own mode using buttons labeled "plus" and "minus".
• After completing the procedure, you need to turn off the hydromassage and only then open the drain hole.
• Make sure that the water does not stagnate in the pipes and pump, drain it from everywhere. To do this, you need to turn on the hydromassage a couple of times for 3 seconds after the general drainage of the water is completed.

Hydromassage bath requires careful maintenance, only if it is available will it serve for a long time, and its use will be safe and useful. The surface of the bowl must be kept clean; it is recommended to wash it at least once a week. Wherein do not use aggressive detergents. The best way is to wash the bowl with a soft sponge and regular soap. Leave the foam for a few minutes, then remove it with smooth movements and rinse the bowl.

The hydraulic system also requires maintenance. It needs to be cleaned and disinfected from time to time. To do this, fill the bowl with water to the level of full coverage of the nozzles, add a special disinfectant to the water according to the instructions, turn on the hydromassage and leave the bath to "boil" for a quarter of an hour. Then the water and detergent are drained in the usual way, remembering to clean the nozzles and pipes after draining.

In order for the jacuzzi to serve for a long time, you should know exactly what to do with the bathroom:

• it is not recommended to plug into the outlet with wet hands;
• do not pour boiling water into the bowl - the maximum allowed temperature is 50 ° C;
• do not clean the bathtub with iron hedgehogs or aggressive abrasive products;
• the procedure in the jacuzzi should be limited to half an hour;
• it is not recommended to use salt and foam for baths during hydromassage procedures - nozzles may be damaged.

According to customer reviews, the jacuzzi pleases and gives real pleasure. But sooner or later, the euphoria from the purchase passes, and an irresistible desire arises to use the hot tub as usual. And then plumbing manufacturers offered their help - special plugs for nozzles are sold in stores. Closing them turns the jacuzzi into an ordinary bathtub.

The larger the window in the room in which the hot tub is installed, the more unique the atmosphere of the room is. If possible, feel free to place the jacuzzi by the largest window in the house - minutes of relaxation and relaxation are provided to you.

If there is no window in the room, you can successfully replace it with waterproof photowall-paper with views of nature, mountains, sea, big city.

An interesting combination is provided by an electric fireplace and a hot tub within the same space. This gives the atmosphere more romance, coziness and creates intimacy.

In the setting of the most ordinary bathroom in a standard apartment, a jacuzzi can also look very impressive. Especially in combination with light wall and floor materials and mirrors.

For information on how to choose the right jacuzzi, see the next video.