Acrylic bathtubs with hydromassage: advantages and tips for choosing
Initially, acrylic baths with hydromassage function appeared in sanatoriums and similar health facilities. Users instantly appreciated the relaxing effect of such devices, which manufacturers did not fail to take advantage of and released more compact bathtubs for home use.
Today you can find hot tubs from a variety of materials.However, acrylic models are still in greatest demand. The secret of their popularity is a worthy combination of quality and affordable cost.
Special features
The bath with a hydromassage function is a standard bath equipped with nozzles, of which water jets are energized. They provide the massage effect.
Hydromassage fittings are made of metal, but this does not lead to a significant increase in the weight of the structure.
Medium-sized bath weighs an average of 25-30 kg, the weight of the overall devices can reach 50 kg.
In addition to the acrylic bowl and nozzles, the design is equipped with an electric pump, the task of which is to maintain the circulation of water throughout the bath. It is due to the presence of the pump that water is supplied to the nozzles, where it mixes with air bubbles, and then is released under pressure. The device is controlled using the control panel, on which there are buttons on / off the device, the choice of the appropriate mode of operation.
The arrangement of hydromassage nozzles is carried out along the massage lines. around the neck, shoulders, back, thighs, buttocks, calves, feet. The design of the bowl assumes the presence of recesses and armrests in it for more comfortable placement.
Devices from acrylic with hydromassage function has its advantages.
- Strength. By their strength, acrylic bowls are comparable to cast-iron bowls, but at the same time they have less weight and do not rattle when typing water.
- Long service life.On average, acrylic baths are operated for 10-15 years.
- High insulation performance. This means that the collected water cools slowly - on average, by 1C in 30 minutes. This is an important indicator, since the time of receiving hot tubs is usually at least 30 - 40 minutes.
- Lack of response to water quality. An important indicator, especially for residents of apartment buildings. Rusty water or water with a high chlorine content often runs from the tap. Fortunately, this does not affect the appearance of the material and its operational properties.
- High sound insulation performance. Such a bath does not rattle when taking water, using a shower.
- Easy installation. Low weight for easy installation. Connecting such a bath is no different from connecting similar devices.
- Ease of use. It is easy to wash an acrylic bathtub, on it spots and stains are not formed. When chips appear on the enamel surface, they can be eliminated with your own hands, using special pastes.
- Attractive appearance. Acrylic is smooth and pleasant to the touch. Modern manufacturers produce a large number of models that differ in color and design.
The presence of hydromassage nozzles provides a relaxing effect.Acupressure water-air massage improves blood circulation, which is an excellent prevention and method of combating obesity, cellulite. Procedures are indicated for people suffering from diseases of the musculoskeletal system, frequent headaches and osteochondrosis.
Like any device, acrylic whirlpools have disadvantages. First of all, it is low antibacterial protection. It is believed that a teaspoon of water from the tap contains several hundred microorganisms. In the same amount of water from the jacuzzi account goes by the thousands. This is due to the fact that in the closed space of the bowl the multiplication of bacteria occurs more actively.
The way out of this situation is the acquisition of models with built-in disinfection system or special formulations added to the bath. It is recommended to wash the bath not only after each use, but also before the procedure.
Among other shortcomings, the high cost of the product is often called. However, in the opinion of most users, this disadvantage is leveled by the comfort and pleasant sensations that the hydromassage bath gives.
Besides,The cost of an acrylic bowl is much lower than similar devices made of cast iron or stone.
Kinds
For the production of the bowl is used acrylic - a special polymer, which can be of 2 types:
Cast
It is an acrylic sheet that heats up to a fluid state (heating temperature is about 20 ° C). Then the raw material is subjected to a press, the outlines of which correspond to the shape of the future bath. In the process of pressing, the desired shape is squeezed out, which then cools down and acquires the necessary margin of safety.
Extruded
This material is obtained by extrusion, otherwise the production technology does not differ from that described above. However, the extruded acrylic bath is additionally reinforced after curing. This is done by applying from the outside a special mixture based on epoxy resins.
The cast bowl is stronger and more durable than extruded, however, it costs 2 times more expensive. Extruded analog is suitable for rare use (up to 6-7 times per season) and is optimal, for example, for installation in a country house.
Acrylic can vary in chemical composition, which also affects the performance characteristics of the bowl from it.There are 2 types of acrylic, depending on the chemical composition:
Acrylonetrilbutadiene styrene (ABS / PMMA)
Acryl made by this method involves the mixing of components in liquid form, having different properties. The finished product as a result consists of only 10% of acrylic, all the rest - compounds with low density and high moisture absorbing properties. In addition, this material is rough, subject to rapid abrasion.
Polymethyl methacrylate
It is a homogeneous acrylic with high strength, wear resistance and attractive appearance, with the possibility of restoration. The service life of such devices is 10 years, and with careful handling this period is extended by another 2-3 years.
Depending on the features of the device injectors emit baths:
- hydromassage;
- combined.
In the former, water trickles provide a massage effect, and in the latter there is a system where water is enriched with oxygen bubbles. The resulting water-air jet is softer, foamy. In addition, in the combined devices it is possible to reduce water consumption, without reducing the power head.
Hydromassage jets are of the following types:
- micro jet;
- vortex, including letting out streams-spirals;
- turning points;
- providing tingling effects, etc.
In addition to hydromassage, the following additional options can be provided in an acrylic bath:
- ozone therapy;
- aromatherapy;
- chromotherapy (backlight water jets).
Dimensions
In determining the parameters of the tank, it is important that their use is convenient for all family members. The optimal height is considered to be 50-70 cm. It will be both comfortable for adults and safe for children.
The length of the product must be such that the highest family member can lie in the bathroom., straightening his legs and resting his head on a special stand. Ideally, it is 150-180 cm. However, in small rooms one has to be content with sedentary baths, the dimensions of which are 120x70 cm.
The standard width of acrylic baths is 75-80 cm. However, when it comes to hydromassage devices, this width is insufficient.
For smaller rooms, you can purchase a corner model.which is quite compact but roomy.Its minimum size for most manufacturers is 135x135 cm. The dimensions of 150x150 cm are considered optimal.
For standard baths, it is also possible to use rectangular baths with dimensions of 150x70 or 160x70 cm. In such a construction, an adult will most likely not be able to straighten his legs. Much more preferable analogs of 170x70 cm.
Forms
Standard acrylic bathtubs with a hydromassage have a rectangular shape. The rectangular bowl fits into most of the bathrooms, located along one of the walls. It is versatile, goes well with most types of interior.
For small rooms, the installation of corner models is recommended.which are usually in the form of a quarter circle. The main advantage of such devices is their ergonomics, while the inner surface of the bowl is quite roomy.
Jacuzzi oval, round or asymmetric shape provide a large area of the bathroom. As a rule, they are installed at some distance from the walls or in the center of the room. It is worth noting that due to the plasticity of the material, manufacturers produce baths of the most incredible forms that become the "highlight" of the interior.
Colors
A classic white acrylic bathtub is considered. However, today devices with a hydromassage function can have various shades, as well as be decorated with patterns and sparkles.
When choosing a bath, it is not recommended to choose too aggressive, “flashy” colors, as the jacuzzi is a place of relaxation. The most suitable are shades of water (blue, aquamarine, greenish), as well as delicate pastel and beige colors.
Some buyers fear that the color coverage will be short-lived. This is excluded because the staining is not done from the inside, but outside the bath. That is, color layers are first poured, and on top of them is standard acrylic. As a result, the color is reliably protected.
Style and design
The bathtub of white color of a laconic form optimum will fit into rooms of any style. For large rooms it is better to choose a round bowl, which is installed in the center of the room. Linear designs are more suitable for modern interiors, while counterparts with rounded corners are classic.
When choosing a bath of complex design, abandon its performance in bright color. Color baths should be combined with the palette of the room, "fall" in one of the shades used for decoration.
Famous manufacturers and reviews
Among the most famous manufacturers should highlight the Spanish company. Roca. Manufactured products may have a rectangular or oval shape, in addition, there are corner models. Baths are characterized by the presence of armrests and headrests, decorative panels and built-in storage boxes for hygienic accessories, a variety of hydro-massage modes.
A variety of collections boasts manufacturer from Poland Ventura. In its assortment are the most popular models of rectilinear and asymmetric models. In addition to the diversity of the model range, the baths are characterized by a wide price range - from fairly affordable models to premium devices.
Have a good reputation baths from the Polish manufacturer Rihowhich are made only from acrylic sheet. The thickness of the sheets in this case is 6-8 mm. Most models have a concise form and a classic design. The most popular model Columbia.
The optimal ratio of price and quality show the baths of domestic production Nati, Libra, Vista, Aquanet. According to user feedback, an unpleasant odor emanates from the reinforcing layer, which disappears itself after a couple of weeks.
Brand designs are very popular Bas, for the production of which Austrian acrylic sheet is used, as well as imported components.
But cheap models from China of unknown brands should be abandoned.
How to choose?
When buying, pay attention to the thickness of the acrylic layer. To do this, examine the edge of the side of the bath and simply count the layers (they are usually distinguishable). Ideally, they should be 5-6. The more layers, the stronger the design.
To determine the appropriate thickness of the acrylic bowl, you can use a flashlight. Direct a beam of light from one side of the bath wall. If it appears on the back of the wall, it is better to refuse the purchase.
Press down and push down on the bottom of the bath. If it "plays" and vibrates, then it is either a plastic fake or a low-grade and insufficiently reinforced acrylic.
The bath surface should be smooth, uniform, without streaks and stains. High-quality acrylic bath has a nice glossy color, a kind of glow.Plastic counterparts, issued for acrylic, - dull, dull.
The nozzles must be adjustable. It is better if they are located not only horizontally, but also vertically. If funds allow, choose a model equipped with an aerocompressor. The latter is designed to increase the pressure of the jet.
Tips
Cleaning the hydromassage system with abrasives is not allowed. This will lead to the appearance of cracks and, as a result, the loss of its properties in the bathroom. After each use, the bowl should be washed with water and wiped with a cloth.
Once a month it is recommended to fill the bath with water and add a special cleaner for acrylic there. After that, you should enable the Jacuzzi option and do not let the water down for 15-20 minutes. After the specified time, the nozzles must be turned off, the bowl should be drained, rinsed and wiped.
Once a month should wash the round filter whirlpool. To do this, it is necessary to remove it, rinse it under running water, and then soak it in a basin or bucket, adding in it a means to clean the SPA filters. After the required time, the filter is again washed under water and mounted.
Often, manufacturers tend to trim the outer panel of the bathroom with decorative elements. When buying such devices, remember that it is more difficult to care for faceted and rough surfaces. Although they look more attractive.
How to choose the right acrylic bath, see the following video.