Q: What is the difference between a soaker, whirlpool, air jetted and combo tub?
A: A soaker tub is designed for bathing only. It has NO jets and require no electrical hookup to operate. This will be all that some people may want for an accessible bathroom. The whirlpool option offers a system that circulates a mixture of heated water and air to the bodies different muscle groups such as hips and back area and usually comes with 6-8 directional jets. Adding more jets in optional, however in most cases not recommended because without increasing the power of the pump which is usually from 1 HP to 1.5 HP the extra jets will only spread the power of each jet and there will be less power coming from the extra jets. The air jet option adds jets around the perimeter of the bottom of the tub and seat and forces headed air through them for a relaxing feeling over the entire body but does not address direct muscle groups like the whirlpool/hydo-jets. The most popular option today is the combo which includes both the whirlpool/Hydo-Jets and the Air Jets for a total body massage of your choice.
Q: What is the difference between a walk-in tub and a wheelchair accessible tub?
A: A normal walk-in tub is designed for people who may have trouble entering and exiting a normal bathtub but do not require a wheel chair for normal daily routines. They are available with a seat or as a reclining tub with a door for easy access. A wheelchair tub is designed so that the person using the wheelchair can be wheeled beside the tub and just slide from the wheelchair directly onto the tub seat. The door opens outward and makes greater entrance space for the bather.
Q: What size do I need?
A: Choosing a size that is right for you or your loved one is important. Be sure to consider the size of the space it is going to fit and also the doors and hallways that it will need to pass through to get into the bathroom. Tubs are available from a small 27″ X 39″ up to a bariatric 36″ X 60″. Be sure to consider the capacity of your water heater and space available when making this choice.
Q: What is aromatherapy?
A: Aromatherapy is a feature that is available with the air-jet option that allows you to use fragrant beads that distribute the smell of whatever you have chosen for your bathing pleasure. Cost is around $195 -$250 and in some cases will be offered as a promotional value at NO COST. Be sure to ask for it.
Q: Is a heated seat a good option?
A: Heated seats are very popular in walk-in tubs today because you must be in the tub while it is filling up with water and sometimes the seat can be cold while you are waiting. The average cost of the heated seat option is $499, so price is a consideration on this option. Anther thought is to use the hand sprayer to spray warm water over the seat area as the tub is filling up. This will instantly heat the seat for comfort and save you money while doing so.
Q: Does Chroma therapy add to the bathing experience?
A: Chroma therapy lighting has become popular in all tubs today. Both designer tubs and walk-in tubs. However, this is an option that should be considered as a thrill item when making a choice. It does not increase the actual hydrotherapy effect but does add a calming effect to some as the changing lights add an ambiance to the bathing pleasure. Expect to pay around $200-250 for this option but ask them to consider it as a bonus for your purchase.
Q: Gelcoat or Acrylic surface, which is best?
A: Most walk-in tubs in a moderate price point have a gelcoat finish. Expect to pay an additional upcharge for acrylic. Gelcoat is similar to automotive paint except it has a special harder added. In most cases it is applied with at least three coats for a thick surface finish. Acrylic is in a sheet form that is about 1/8 inch thick and in the process is heated and vacuum formed onto the mold. Both are then back with marine-grade fiber glass for strength. Check the surface warranty on the tub you are considering for how long it is guaranteed.
Q: How much does a walk-in tub weigh and does the floors need to be reinforced?
A: Most walk-in tubs even when fully equipped with all options weigh less than the old stand cast iron tubs. This is about 275 lbs. to 350lbs. There is no need for floor reinforcement in most cases and none at all if it is installed on a slam foundation.
Q: How important is it to have the drain in the precise location?
A: You will need to consider if the drain in to be located to the left or right side of the tub as you are facing it from the front however since the tub is raised slightly off the floor, the drain line can be adjusted some to fit the actual drain location in the floor.
Q: What is the warranty on walk-in tubs?
A: It’s best to check with the manufacture that you are considering buying from to be sure of their warranty. Also, some manufactures offer an extended warranty that covers the tub for a longer period of time and offers in home service if needed. This is usually at a cost of $499 to $699 depending on the extended time chosen.
