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Previously considered one of the most unbridled luxury massaging, and soaking accessories, the best whirlpool tubs on the market today are no longer reserved for the wealthy.
So, if you don’t have gold taps and you can’t afford to brush your teeth with champagne, don’t despair. Almost everyone who has a thousand dollars or half to spare can enjoy a nice water massage regularly in the comfort of their home.
The demand for these pieces of therapeutic items has not only crashed the prices but brought better integration of practical technologies in these products.
But how do you choose the best quality whirlpool tub? Well, the answer, we are sure, can be found here in our guide where we will introduce you to the best whirlpool bathtub models.
What is a whirlpool tub?
A whirlpool bathtub is a type of bathtub with self-contained water jets. The air and water jets massage users’ muscles and help them have the utmost relaxation while soaking. The water present in the tub is sucked and reintroduced into circulation through the nozzles. Depending on the size of the hole in the vents and the shape, the air is delivered differently with an effect on the body. To modulate the pressure and water supply, there is a special selector.
The whirlpool tub can be installed in many bathrooms, not just the larger ones, or you can reserve a protected space outside, in the garden, or on the terrace. Thanks to the delivery nozzles it is equipped with, the air comes out together with the water simulating the effect of a pleasant massage and simultaneously treating various parts of the entire body with a variable intensity chosen by the user.
This object has numerous benefits because the combined water and air massage it generates can stimulate blood and lymphatic circulation, even during pregnancy. But not only that, a nice bath with bubbles is enough to relieve stress, relax the muscles, decrease joint pain or contractures and, last but not least, act on the nervous system inducing a delicious feeling of well-being.
Whirlpool Tub: Review of the 8 Best Models
Before telling you the features to watch out for to choose one that meets your needs, take a look at the whirlpool tubs that we have carefully handpicked for you.
ARIEL Platinum AM128JDCLZ Whirlpool Bathtub
The Ariel Whirlpool Bathtub might just be the best hot tub on the market. It has a spacious structure with an overall dimension that measures 71 x 37.4 x 27.5 inches.
For its manufacture, sanitary-type acrylic reinforced fiberglass in a bright white color with stainless steel was used. These are modern high-end materials that make up a structure weighing 253 pounds.
Some of the most prominent features of this 2-person hydrotherapy jetted bathtub is its convenient automated sterilization system, as well as the built-in chromotherapy features, for the ultimate spa experience.
Likewise, it is incorporated with a water pressure regulation mechanism and LED light. The standard bathtub features 14 acupressure water jets with 6 settings for customizable water flow actions.
Pros
- Includes smart LED lighting
- Multi-directional acupressure water jets
- Touch-sensitive LCD screen
- Constructed from acrylic reinforced fiberglass for durability
- Adjustable body massage jets
Cons
- Very heavy and a bit difficult to install
Woodbridge B-0030/BTS1606 Water Jetted/Air Bubble Freestanding Bathtub
The Woodbridge model is a modern freestanding bathtub with water jets and air jets that is considered one of the best value for money tubs. It’s a product with 6 massage jets that are adjustable up to 10 bubble bath jets. Both air jets and water jet features deliver a powerful, enjoyable hydro massage experience.
The combination of acrylic, fiberglass, resin with stainless steel materials is used to provide a long service life due to their reinforced strength. The whirlpool tub has a fairly simple assembly thanks to its lighter weight with the built-in tools provided for the task.
Ideally, the jetted bathtub is only suitable for just one man or woman, as it has the dimension of just 67 x 32 x 23 inches (length by width by height). The model is not as large as the Ariel Platinum we reviewed earlier; that’s why the model is considerably lighter. Freestanding tubs are also easier to install which is one of the things we liked about this deep tub.
Pros
- Combined water and air jets massage
- Beautiful therapeutic underwater LED lighting
- Offers back and foot massage design
- Easy to install thanks to the installation manual
- Stain-resistant; easy to clean
Cons
- Bubble feature may be too intense for some users
ARIEL Platinum BT-150150 Two Person Whirlpool Bathtub With Air Jets
Yet another ARIEL Platinum whirlpool bathtub, the BT-150150 model is an air-jetted product for two persons. It comes with multiple intelligent features for hydrotherapy. Another thing is it measures a compact dimension of 60 x 26.8 x 60 inches. However, the product is not so lightweightt weighs approximately 300 pounds, thus, you may want to make a well-planned delivery and installation.
The Ariel Platinum whirlpool bathtub isn’t heavy for nothing; it’s made of a combination of sturdy materials such as glass, fiberglass, acrylonitrile, acrylic, and butadiene styrene. It’s a jetted bathtub that can be used by children or two adults at the same time.
Pros
- Has built-in microcomputer with LCD control panel
- Designed to accommodate 2 users
- Built-in chemotherapy light
- Features inline heater and water jets
- Provides massage through air and water jets
Cons
- Not for tall users
Platinum 59-3/5″ Corner Acrylic Whirlpool Tub with LED Chromotherapy and Bluetooth
Suitable for corner installation, the Ariel PW1685959CW1 whirlpool tub is a smart triangular hydro massage system with integrated Bluetooth speakers, FM radio, LED chromotherapy, among other features. This jetted bathtub comes with a center drain, overflow, drain assembly and can be used for large-sized individuals.
The corner tub can hold water of up to 119 gallons and weighs 156 pounds; although it’s shorter in length than most models on the market, it measures 59 x 59 x 31.5 inches, which means it’s also wider than most.
Despite its rich features and quality, the major downside, which can be a real concern, is that this jetted bathtub has no approval from UL yet; that is, it is neither listed on UL nor does it feature an approval sticker from the global safety science leader.
Pros
- Touch screen keypad
- Durable fiberglass with acrylic construction
- Features multi-directional jets with water flow settings
- Includes onboard radio and Bluetooth speakers
- Listed by ETLbathtub are its convenient automated
Cons
- Electricians may be reluctant to install this because of no UL approval
DKB Dylan Jetted White Hydro- Massage Whirlpool Tub System
The DKB Dylan is a whirlpool massage system that also delivers 14 acupressure nets and air bubbles that are adjustable for your maximum pleasure. Some of its differentiating features are the handheld shower with chrome finishing. You should however note that no waterfall faucet comes with this, but it’s still an advanced hydrotherapy system for an amazing bathing experience.
Built in acrylic reinforced fiberglass, the water and air jet bathtub has a freestanding rectangular design, a dimension of 68 x 35 x 26 inches, with a polished chrome faucet and drain fixtures.
Pros
- Can contain up to 77 gallons
- Includes multiple jets
- Jet pressure adjustable
- Fits a farmhouse
- Ideal for the home or spa
Cons
- Not suitable for use by two persons
- Doesn’t feature an inline heater; only includes water jets
American Standard 2771VC.020 Evolution 5-Feet by 36-Inch Deep Soak Whirlpool Bath Tub
Also built in acrylic reinforced fiberglass, what differentiates this American standard cadet whirlpool bathtub is hydro massage and EverClean surface. It’s lightweight in construction, weighing just 110 pounds. In addition, it’s compact in dimension, measuring just 36 x 21.5 inches.
However, as expected due to its compact dimension, the whirlpool tub has just eight jets with six water flow settings but which are adjustable. The hydrotherapy system is backed by a 1.4 HP speed water jet pump. What’s great about the EverClean additive is that it is antimicrobial, protects the pipes from old, and offers users a great bathing experience.
Pros
- Compatible for two people
- EverClean system takes care of hygiene and ease of maintenance
- Quiet, powerful working jets
- Has an under-mount option
- Flow adjustable jets
Cons
- Powerful jets but there could be more
Empava 72″ 2 Person Acrylic Hydromassage Rectangular Whirlpool Bathtub Water
Built for a two-person hydrotherapy, the whirlpool bathtub is a rectangular model with a length of 72 inches and a double-ended design. The highlights of the advanced hydro massage system are its removable polyurethane pillows, adjustable jets, slip resistance, with chroma therapy features.
Mainly made of acrylic, the Empava freestanding whirlpool bathtub comes with 10 water jet placements; you have four jets directed to your lumbar region, two to each side of your body region, and another two in your foot region.
Pros
- Freestanding beautiful tub
- Two can enjoy its hydromassage feature
- Large water capacity of up to 177 gallons
- Directional jets designed to target pressure points
Cons
- The inline water heater could be more powerful
- Not as sturdy as models with fiberglass
Empava 72″ 2 Person Acrylic Hydromassage Rectangular Whirlpool Bathtub Water
Built for a two-person hydrotherapy, the whirlpool bathtub is a rectangular model with a length of 72 inches and a double-ended design. The highlights of the advanced hydro massage system are its removable polyurethane pillows, adjustable jets, slip resistance, with chroma therapy features.
Mainly made of acrylic, the Empava freestanding whirlpool bathtub comes with 10 water jet placements; you have four jets directed to your lumbar region, two to each side of your body region, and another two in your foot region.
Pros
- Freestanding beautiful tub
- Two can enjoy its hydromassage feature
- Large water capacity of up to 177 gallons
- Directional jets designed to target pressure points
Cons
- The inline water heater could be more powerful
- Not as sturdy as models with fiberglass
Don’t Miss Tips for The Best Whirlpool Tubs!
Hydrotherapy bathtubs, more than a luxury, for some users, can be considered therapeutic and ultimate relaxation equipment, since the pressure generated by their nozzles, added to cold, warm, or hot water, controlled by the inline heater, significantly help to release tension and offer health benefits.
Here is a small guide to buying the best whirlpool tub, which we hope will be of great help to you. First, we will see the criteria for purchasing the best whirlpool tub that suits your needs.
The type
Originally designed for those who are most conscious of health and wellness structures, such as spas, residences, or hotels, the modern-day whirlpool tub can be installed and positioned almost anywhere. Depending on the space available in the bathroom, you can choose an indoor one exclusively for your needs, or share the larger models with your family or friends by purchasing one suitable for outdoor use. Basically, there are three types of whirlpool tubs.
- Indoor
Inside the bathroom, you can install a single or two-person bathtub with a rectangular shape. If you have a large corner available, you need to choose a corner whirlpool tub that makes the most of all the available space with a very unique design.
The indoor bathtub can be installed recessed, with an exposed frame, to also offer the pleasantness of the harmonious and modern shapes of the device. You can also install them on the wall; this is a more practical, compact solution for those who want to avoid masonry work.
- From outside
The outdoor hot tub lets you enjoy the green of the surrounding nature, or even just the open air while immersed in warm and bubbling water. The type of soaking tub can be installed on gardens, larger terraces, or on the roof after evaluating the weight supported by the flooring with its pre-leveled tub bottom.
It is also necessary to provide an electrical connection which may require the intervention of an electrician. The models of this type do not need to be buried and are covered with a removable shell that distinguishes the specific design of the tub.
- Inflatable
The inflatable hot tub is the most affordable product for everyone because it does not require drastic changes in the bathroom or particularly high costs. In addition, it can be easily assembled or used outside, on a terrace, or in the garden.
Usually, they use the combination of the massage of the whirlpool jets together with the water temperature to offer the same advantages as a classic hot tub, but they have a lightweight inflatable structure and are resealable. It’s made with high-quality materials that withstands the typical outdoor problems, i.e. overheating caused by the sun or wear caused by rain thanks to the practical cover sheet that always comes with it.
Shape, size, and durability
Choosing a bathtub also means having to decide on the shape, size, as well as durability. While in some cases there are no restrictions of any kind, in others, you may choose a tub of a certain size and shape for logistic reasons.
Now, assuming that you have no problems with space, your choice, as regards the shape, is among the rectangular, circular, and oval models, which are the most common. Those who don’t have a lot of space can always choose a corner whirlpool tub that is triangular as corner tubs are very space-saving, although not very easy to install.
A question you should ask yourself is how many use the tub at the same time? Answering this impertinent question is used to understand the dimensions; you can tell the seller that you like to stay wide while taking a bath if you are going to use it with your partner or if your kids would like to take advantage of it.
We already mentioned that a hot tub can also be outdoor; in this case, they integrate a system for raising and lowering the water temperature.
Another important thing is the tub is beautiful, comfortable, and grants great relaxation that would make you want to soak for hours. However, sometimes you are in a hurry and the quickest solution is a shower. If you do not have a second bathroom or a shower room, choose a combined bath/shower solution; that is, a hydrotherapy tub with a shower wand.
On the other hand, there is the issue of the strength, stability, and durability of the structure, which will depend directly on the materials used for its construction. These must be high-end and have their respective certification for meeting quality standards.
Those mainly used by manufacturers are stainless steel for the base with fiberglass and ashland resin for the structure. Likewise, glass is usually incorporated into a small area to view the water level from the outside.
Control panel and working modes
Regardless of how much your hot tub costs, you will need to keep it simple to operate. To do this, you will have to verify that the structure is provided with a control panel with an intuitive design, whose buttons and functions can be duly identified.
In addition, it should be placed in a visible and easily accessible area. In this way, when you immerse yourself in the bathtub, you will be able to access it without any inconvenience.
You will find various models of hydrotherapy bathtubs and, although they have the same operating mechanics, they have some distinctive characteristics. In this sense, we refer to the configuration and working modes.
Most of the current whirlpool tubs have a small control panel with an on-off button among other functions to adjust the motor speed, pressure, and direction in which the nozzles are projected.
Likewise, it could also have a chromotherapy mode. These settings provide a better user experience.
Water treatment
Cleaning the bathwater is another issue of great importance since our body will be in direct contact with the vital liquid when we submerge. It means if we are not consistent with giving it a deep clean, we could invoke some type of allergy or subcutaneous infection.
Therefore, it is important to verify that the product to be purchased incorporates some type of automated disinfection or sterilization technology.
For example, most water tubs have an ozone generator attached, which is one of the best methods of purifying water, keeping it fresh while remaining bacteria-free.
In addition, it is important to mention that ozone is free of chemical residues, so it is completely ecological. Likewise, it provides a deodorizing effect, which will block any bad smell generated by humidity.
On the other hand, the ultraviolet treatment that is carried out utilizing an underwater mood lamp that automatically irradiates the light and purifies all the water stands out.
Choose whirlpool bathtubs with chromotherapy and aromatherapy
Speaking of hot tubs, we could not fail to talk about what appears to be a new trend. Chromotherapy, it is said, relieves some physical, physiological, and mental illnesses. The effects would be amplified with water. Warm colors such as yellow, orange, or red promote a good mood.
Now, how does a hot tub emit colors? Simple: it is integrated with LED lights as well as a controller for choosing colors.
There are those who instead of color, or in addition to colors, also emit perfumes. These are known as hot tubs with aromatherapy. They have an aroma diffuser, ensuring that you breathe deeply while you let yourself be massaged.
Accessories
While you must focus your search on a good and inexpensive hot tub, you must also consider other aspects that will benefit you in the long term.
It involves the incorporation of some accessories in the purchase package. In this way, you will get a better assembly experience. In addition, you will avoid making an extra investment by purchasing the necessary material for the task separately.
In general, manufacturers usually accompany the whirlpool bath with an adjustable thermostatic faucet. However, you must verify that the manufacturing material is anti-corrosive with a robust body that guarantees its useful life.
Similarly, it is quite common to find some brands that offer a fairly complete assembly kit together with their products. In them, you will find various tools, such as fixing brackets, and connections, a drain pipe, among other necessary elements.
If you wonder
How much do whirlpool tubs cost?
On average, hot tubs cost more than 1,500 dollars. Although in many cases, the best whirlpool tubs of 2021 have a higher price than jetted tubs, it is not difficult to find great offers on the market. Although most are still sold for a price range of $1,000 to $3,000 price range, today, you can still find tubs that are sold for under $500.
- Low budget: The ones in this range usually do not have the functionalities that the high budget ones give you, they usually do not maintain the water temperature, or they are designed for a single person.
- Medium budget: With the price range, you will find everything, although if you are looking for more spacious ones with more functionality you should take a look at the high-budget ones.
- High budget: Here you will find different higher functions, in this range, you can purchase those with digital ignition and BlueTooth function.
Are whirlpool baths noisy?
A whirlpool bath on average has a noise level of around 71 decibels. For some users, the sound of the heat pump and the running motor can be a mood killer. However, thanks to technology, they have been quieter than they were a few years ago.
Do whirlpool baths need electricity?
Yes, they use electricity. They have components such as the inline water heater that produce heat, LED for lighting, and air jets, all of which require electricity. However, there are strict regulations because of the proximity of the electricity source to water. So, your hydrotherapy tub must have approval stickers from organizations such as IE, UL, CE, FCC, ISO9001, and more.
Which is better air tub or whirlpool?
Even though whirlpools require more maintenance and a little bit more expensive, they are the best for those who want a bathing experience accompanied with a deep massage. However, if you want a good relaxation in the bath, tubs with air jets may be the best option for you as they provide gentle air massages.
What is the difference between a jetted tub and a whirlpool tub?
The Jacuzzi tub, also known as the whirlpool tub, and the jetted tub are a pair of products with identical operation. However, there is a slight differentiation that can confuse buyers. The term Jacuzzi is the last name of the father of the hot tub, who patented the invention under that brand. For their part, other manufacturers recreated the concept under a generic name such as “hydromassage bathtubs”.
What is the best brand of whirlpool tub?
The brand is an important factor to worry about, depending on the manufacturer you already get an image of what product it will offer you and what quality. We have created the guide recommending the best tubs on the market from the brands that generate reliability, security, and confidence when making your purchase.
Some of the best brands of whirlpool tubs are American Standard, Woodbridge, Intex, Ariel Bath, among others.
Conclusion
Whirlpools have come a long way but the good thing is they are no longer as expensive and they are now equipped with the latest hydromassage and air-jet massage technologies.
So, if you ask us which are the best whirlpool tubs to buy, we will tell you not to just look at the manufacturer name and focus on the features, the value for the money, and the customer reviews written by consumers like you who, like us, have no interest in advertising or denigrating this or that product.
We’re confident you will find a tub that meets your needs from our whirlpool tub reviews, and by going through our guide again, you’ll end up with something that will stay functional for years.