If you are doing basic research before deciding if a hot tub is right for you, you might find the following information helpful — a basic Hot Tubs 101.
Hot Tubs 101
A hot tub, which is sometimes called a home spa, and by the trade name Jacuzzi, is a large tub or water-filled enclosure that is heated and maintained at a desirable temperature. Made for relaxation and hydrotherapy, because most have massage-jetted therapy, they are popular with people of all ages.
Hot tubs are generally located outdoors, sometimes under a canopy or gazebo, and can accommodate multiple users, depending upon their size. They are somewhat comparable to swimming pools as far as upkeep and maintenance, but those not customized in-ground are on a much smaller scale and can be moved when empty.
Basic Components
The major component is the hot tub body, usually made of fiberglass, vinyl, acrylic, cement or wood in the shape of a circle or rectangle.
A pump provides pressure via reinforced hoses to the interior water jets, while at the same time, suction systems retrieves the water and recycles it.
A pump provides pressure via reinforced hoses to the interior water jets, while at the same time, suction systems retrieves the water and recycles it. A filter is normally located in the hose system to trap debris and particles. The filter can be inline or part of a separate pump system which acts independently, either running constantly, or during timed settings.
An air induction system is provided to compress the water stream and this produces a stronger water massage effect. Sometimes an air blower is used to create the agitated bubbly effect. Some hot tub systems are an ozone activator which helps to clean the water and remove harmful minerals and chemicals, depending upon the sophistication of the model. Most hot tubs use either an electric or gas operated heater, controlled by a thermostat which raises and maintains the water temperature.
Physics and Science
Water is supplied to the hot tub water pump from an outside source. The hot tub pump’s impeller rotates at a high rpm, forcing water through the intake hose at moderate pressure to a heating device. The heater excites the water molecules, actually making them move faster, thus creating a higher temperature.
The heated water is then directed to the jets through a valve diverter box which branches off into several lines. The lines lead to several discharge jets on the inside of the tub.
Best Hot Tubs showroom stocked with Bullfrog Spas’ Massage Jets
Bullfrog Spas — the hot tub our firm specializes in — actually utilizes about 90% less plumbing than other designs for a much more efficient system. The discharge massage jets have a Venturi design that constricts the flow of water, compressing it, and speeding it up while pulling in air which further compresses and speeds up the air/water mixture.
Depending upon the shape and number of the discharge nozzle openings, a spray or stream is created which causes the familiar massage reaction. The tub water is then sucked through the intake system, filtered, and then pumped through the cycle again.
The filter can be located before or after the pump, depending upon the configuration of the hot tub model. Covers are routinely used to keep evaporation down, preventing as much as 75% of the water loss. Because covers are so important, at Long Island Hot Tub they are included in our package.
Maintenance
Hot tubs are not drained after use, and must be routinely treated. Sanitation chemicals keeps them free of microorganisms. Prescribed amounts of bromine and chlorine are needed at occasional intervals. The amount of acidity or alkalinity, or pH level, must also be regulated to assist the sanitizer in performing properly. This means the hardness of the water, or amount of calcium must also be kept in check.
Contaminants that cannot be filtered such as perspiration and soap films must be removed by oxidation, and this is where a non-chemical ozonator can be beneficial.
Best Hot Tubs-Maintained Bullfrog Spa (Huntington/NY):
Staff at hot tub distributors like Best Hot Tubs (Westbury, Farmingdale, Windham, NY) can give you a quick tutorial on how to keep your spa water clear, sparkling, and odorless. Our teams also do regular maintenance for those who wish it in order to keep water pristine. This photo is of a Bullfrog Spa that we maintain regularly in the Huntington, NY area.
Q. Why We Recommend a Bullfrog Spa?
A. One key difference is the Patented JetPak Therapy System
Bullfrog Spas Easy-To-Change Massage JetPaks:
We specialize in Bullfrog Spas because of their patented JetPak Therapy System and because a Bullfrog Spa is completely customizable and upgradeable. You will be in charge of your own hydro massage preferences.
In addition, superior technology makes your Bullfrog Spa extremely energy efficient.
Bullfrog Spas use 90% less plumbing for a more efficient and powerful water therapy. You will enjoy a completely personalized therapy experience with the ability to interchange your favorite massages quickly and easily.
Bullfrog Spas offer completely customizable and upgradeable hot tubs. And you will have the ability to interchange your favorite massages quickly and easily.
