What is the typical lead time to order most products?
What options do I have if I need product sooner than the average lead time?
What size hot water heater should I have for the bathtub I am considering?
Can I use bubble bath or bath oils in a whirlpool bathtub?
What are the electrical/pump access requirements?
Can I put a custom whirlpool system into any tub?
What is the main difference between acrylic and gelcoat fiberglass?
What is the difference between whirlpool and air systems?
Are there any additional requirements to install a whirlpool bathtub?
Who installs the whirlpool bathtubs?
Are acrylic bathtubs available in the same colors as the rest of my bathroom products?
What sales presentations should I be aware of when looking for a whirlpool bathtub?
Q: Are whirlpool bathtubs available in standard sizes like a hall bath?
A: Yes, and they are typically deeper than those tubs as well.
Q: What is the typical lead time to order most products?
A: While each manufacturer is different, the average lead time is three to four weeks.
Q: What options do I have if I need product sooner than the average lead time?
A: We do maintain a number of tubs in stock. Some are already jetted and ready to go. We have tub only units that we sell as soaker tubs or place jetting systems on them in two to three days. Some manufacturers have models available for next day shipping. Most companies also have a rush order program in which bathtubs can be shipped in 3-5 days, for an additional fee. We also have access to large warehouse inventories nationwide. Many popular faucets can even be shipped overnight.
Q: What size hot water heater should I have for the bathtub I am considering?
A: This question is best answered by a plumber (or water heater manufacturer) because there can be so many variables: the setting of the temperature; number of people; and whether the dishwasher and washing machine will be drawing hot water from the water heater.
Q: Can I use bubble bath or bath oils in a whirlpool bathtub?
A: While you can use bubble bath in most whirlpool systems we would advise that you use very little. You will end up with a mess on your hands and bubbles overflowing out of the tub. Bath oils are fine for some air tubs but we do not recommend the use of bath oils with most standard whirlpool systems unless you follow a stringent cleaning regiment.
Q: What are the electrical/pump access requirements?
A: This may vary based on you local building codes, but generally each whirlpool tub requires its own 20Amp GFI dedicated circuit. If you go with one of the optional electrical heaters, it too requires its own 20Amp GFI dedicated circuit. You will also be required to have an access panel to get to the pump should it need servicing. This access panel does not have to be ventilated, but it should be big enough to get the pump out. We suggest a minimum of a 16" x 16" panel. If the pump is any distance from the access panel you may want to consider a larger panel.
Q: Can I put a custom whirlpool system into any tub?
A: Yes! We have put systems into cast iron, fiberglass, marble and acrylic. We can place the pump where you want it, and of course the jets where you need them. The only restriction is making sure that the wall of the tub is flat at the jet location. Need help finding the tub for your custom system? We can help with that as well.
Q: What is the main difference between acrylic and gelcoat fiberglass?
A: Acrylic is a sheet of material that is heated and vacuum-formed over a mold, creating a continuous waterproof membrane. It is then reinforced with fiberglass for added stability and insulation value. Acrylic is non-porous by nature, warm to the touch and retains its gloss finish better than any other material. Acrylic is well recognized for its ability to withstand constant use and cleaning. Gelcoat fiberglass is a colored polyester resin sprayed onto a mold then reinforced with fiberglass. Being more porous and brittle than acrylic, the gelcoat/fiberglass surface has a greater tendency to dull and discolor over time. See comparison chart below for more details.
Material Comparison Chart
| Characteristics | Acrylic | Cultured Marble | Fiberglass |
| Porosity | Non-porous | Very porous | Porous |
| Weight | Light | Very heavy | Light |
| Repairability | Excellent | Poor | Good |
| Color Fast | Excellent | Poor | Fair |
| Useful Life | 30+ Years | 1-8 Years | 1-8 Years |
| Initial Cost | Moderate | Moderate-High | Low |
| Strength | Strong | Fragile | Fragile |
| Surface | High Gloss | Dull Opaque | Matte |
| Thickness | .60-.125 | .015 | .008-.02 |
| Cleanable | Excellent | Fair | Poor |
| Styles | Wide Variety | Limited | Moderate Variety |
| Colors | 200+ | Limited | Good |
| Value | High | Poor | Fair |
Q: What is the difference between whirlpool and air systems?
A: In very basic terms, the whirlpool system works on the forceful movement of air and water through venturi jets, whereas the air system works on the introduction of air into the water to create a bubbling effect. A whirlpool jet is designed to massage and invigorate the body. With air massage, millions of heated air bubbles bounce and burst to massage every part of your body simultaneously, though more gentle than whirlpool jet hydrotherapy.
Q: Are there any additional requirements to install a whirlpool bathtub?
A: Electricity and access. For more details view, What are the electrical/pump access requirements?
Q: Who installs the whirlpool bathtubs?
A: Usually the plumber. If your plumber has never installed a whirlpool bathtub before, we would be more than happy to help him through the process.
Q: Are acrylic bathtubs available in the same colors as the rest of my bathroom products?
A: Most definitely! Acrylic comes in a variety of colors to match any toilets and/or sinks you will purchase for your home. Kohler, American Standard, Eljer, Universal Rundle and all other major brands of bath fixtures are no problem. Don't forget, however, that you are purchasing a variety of products that are made from different materials and there is no way to ensure that colors will match exactly. For example, china or ceramic will color differently than acrylic because it is entirely a different type of material.
Q: What sales presentations should I be aware of when looking for a whirlpool bathtub?
A: Be aware of marketing "gimmicks". Companies are always looking for ways of making their product appear superior. If a company claims that tests have been done to prove their claims, discover whether these tests were run by an independent testing company or by the company themselves (where they can control the results of the test). Here are a few of the more common ones we see:
1. Larger Horsepower - What is important is whether or not the horsepower of the pump/motor matches the whirlpool system itself. If you have jets with large orifices, you had better have a large horsepower pump to push the water sufficiently through the large hole. With a smaller orifice it doesn't matter how large the horsepower of the pump, you will only push a limited amount through the hole. If there are several jets in a jetted bathtub you may even require 2 pumps.
2. Number of Jets - You can have all the jets you want but if they don't provide any hydro- therapy benefits you may only have a system that will require 2 pumps and a big waste. Sometimes six strategically placed superior jets with a 3/4HP pump will do more for you than twenty jets running with dual 2HP pumps. Also be aware that all jets are not created equal. Some jets are more efficient than others. This is where are knowledgeable staff is very helpful.
3. Insulation - It is amazing the number of people who forget basic science when they first hear this sales presentation. Hot air still rises and unless you plan on putting a top on the bathtub while you are bathing you are going to loose some hot water. The acrylic/fiberglass combination already provides a natural insulation barrier. Consider the fact that more heat benefit could be gained from allowing the heat from the motor to circumvent the back side of the tub in a well insulated area. Be aware that these companies may be using the insulation to secure their inferior flex pipe systems. Also be sure you get a tub with air controls that pull air from underneath the bathtub and not the top. This will help the heat factor as well.
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