Understanding the Types of Whirlpool Baths

At Luna Spas we understand one of the first steps to finding your ideal whirlpool bath is understanding the different types of systems available. Normally when people refer to "whirlpool" or Jacuzzi bath, they are referring to the jets in the side of the bath but there is more to it than that.

Water Jet Systems (Hydrotherapy)

These are designed for a targeted, invigorating massage, every system we supply is built around hydrotherapy. We believe in the benefits and go to great lengths to supply a product that achieves this.

How they work: In a basic sense water is drawn from the bath, propelled by a powerful pump, and then forced back into the bath through the jets. This recirculation creates a strong, focused stream of water. We elevate this by adding an air blower to our 20, 30, 40, 50+ jet systems. The addition of this allows for the water to be power boosted back through the jets, increasing the benefits.
What are the benefits: These systems are ideal for deep tissue massage, easing muscle tension, aiding recovery after exercise, and stimulating circulation promoting restful sleep. To find out more read, How whirlpool baths improve muscle recovery after workouts.
What to Consider when comparing:
- Number and Placement of Jets: We offer from 20 to 32 strategically placed jets to target specific areas like your back, feet, or sides. More jets can mean a more comprehensive massage.
- Flush fitting and adjustability: We offer Koller's flush fitting Flatline® brass jets. These are ergonomically designed for comfort, the body jets are directional so you can direct them to customise your massage.
- Pump flow rate: We specify the pump to the system and bath size to give the best massage possible. We are focussed on suppling a quiet and highly effective pump for the number of jets and size of bath you are looking for.
- Heaters & Displays: A real hydrotherapy benefit is the addition of an inline heater. This continuously heats the recirculating water, preventing the bath from cooling down during extended use, to read more about the health benefits of hot baths click the link. We also offer a digital display so you can make sure you are getting in at the perfect temperature for hydrotherapy (39°C Celsius).

Air Jet Systems (Air Spas)

These are designed for a softer, effervescent, full-body experience. We specify these for our Tranquility Wellness Spas.

How they work: Instead of recirculating water, these systems blow warm air through 16 or 20 small jets located in the base of the bath. This creates thousands of gentle, bubbling sensations.
What are the benefits: They provide a soft, all-encompassing, and soothing massage, promoting full-body relaxation and a sense of weightlessness. They are often perceived as quieter than water jet systems.
What to consider when comparing:
- Number of Air Jets: Air baths usually feature a higher quantity of jets compared to water jet systems, ensuring full coverage of bubbles. The greater the number of the jets the better. See our range of 40 and 50+ Jet Whirlpool Spas, that feature this system.
- Type of Jet: We specify our 30+ Jet system with a hybrid jet which can be both an Air Spa or a Hydrotherapy Jet, giving you the best of both worlds. This means you can enjoy a targeted hydrotherapy massage, a gentle air spa, or combine both for an ultimate experience.
- Speed control: Our systems allow you to adjust the intensity of the bubbles, from a gentle fizz to a more invigorating effervescence and everything in between.

Bath Types

Beyond the whirlpool systems, the size and type of bath are vital considerations when looking to make your purchase. We stock a wide selection of bath types top optimise the space available.

Single Ended & Double Ended: This refers to the position of the tap and overflow. Single ended baths are designed to have them at one end, ideal for solo bathing. Double ended baths are designed to have the fittings in the middle, thus allowing you to lay back at either end, perfect for two bathers.
Two Person Baths: An excellent choice when you have a lot of space to work with. As the name suggests two person baths are designed for two bathers to lay side by side to share in the Home Spa experience.
Extra Deep Baths: Why would you not want an extra deep bath? These baths perfectly lend themselves to having a hydrotherapy whirlpool system fitted. With the extra deep RIHO baths we stock, we add an extra 4 jets just because we can.
Freestanding Whirlpool Baths: True statement pieces, offering incredible design flexibility and becoming the focal point of the bathroom.
Shower Baths: These are offered as both P Shaped and L Shaped in a variety of sizes. Shower baths make the most of the room you have got by having a dedicated showering area at one end and a regular bathing shape at the other.
Corner & Offset Baths: Are a space saving solution for smaller or awkwardly shaped bathrooms. Corner baths offer a spacious bathing area for a relatively small footprint.
D-Shaped: An excellent shape to not only make a statement but to not overwhelm the bathroom. The D-Shape offers a spacious double ended bathing area while the curved edges ofter a softer feel.

Considerations Before You Take the Plunge

Now have a better understanding of the different types of whirlpool systems we offer, it is time to consider what size of whirlpool bath will work best in your space. We have a huge selection categorised by length or by their actual size. Maybe you are replacing an existing bath or perhaps you are starting a fresh, here's what to consider.

Size and Space

Perhaps the most basic consideration is whether the size of bath will physically fit into your desired location within the room it is intended. It's worth also giving some thought as to how will you get the bath into the desired room during delivery as well, keep in mind 180 degree turns on staircases can be tricky. Keep in mind the even the big two person baths can be turned on their side to get through doors quite easily.

Accurate Measurements: Measure and measure again the length and width of the space that the bath is to go in, and even the height of the ceiling if you're considering shower bath models with shower screens. It is also worth considering if you need space around the bath for cleaning, plumbing access, and free movement around the bath.
How many Bathers: One, two, four people? Consider the baseboard measurements, this better gives the internal dimensions rather than just the external footprint.
Access for Delivery: It is worth considering how you will get the bath into the space, where there is a will there is a way.
Water Capacity: A larger bath can carry more water. Give consideration that your boiler or hot water cylinder can adequately fill your chosen bath to temperature. Keep in mind the hot water cylinder capacity is for hot water only, when you run a bath you blend in cold water a rule of thumb is that the cylinder should be a 2/3 ratio of the bath's capacity, so 120L bath = 180L cylinder.

Plumbing & Electrical Requirements

Whirlpool baths are sophisticated appliances, and proper installation is paramount for safety and function.

Drainage: if you are replacing an existing bath it's worth checking the location of your existing drain and see whether it aligns with the bath's waste on the product you are looking at as changes to drainage can add to installation costs.
Water Supply: Check your hot and cold water pipes are accessible, it's worth noting the water supply only needs connecting to the fill device of the bath, be it taps, flow valves or a digital mixer, the feeds do not connect directly to the whirlpool system.
Dedicated Electrical Circuit: This is of course necessary for the function of the bath. Whirlpool baths require a dedicated electrical circuit, typically 13 amp, that is RCD (Residual Current Device) protected and located safely outside the bathroom zone. If you are looking to have an inline heater fitted or collagen promoting Koller Milk system, you will likely require 2 electrical feeds.
Professional Installation: Water and electricity in the bathroom is best handled by a qualified plumber and electrician. This is not just recommended but is a requirement of our warranty.
For a comprehensive, step-by-step guidance on setting up your new bath, read our Tips for Easily Fitting a New Whirlpool Bath article

The Ultimate Guide: Choosing Your Perfect Whirlpool Bath