Whirlpool Baths
A whirlpool bath, as discussed here, refers to a bathtub with a water recirculating system that is used for regular bathing. The bathtub is directly filled from the house's regular water supply and drained after each use. Heating of the water is typically provided by the domestic water heater. These features are different than spas or hot tubs which should contain treated water, are not drained after each use and should not be used for bathing or cleaning purposes.
A jetted bath's recirculating system utilizes a pump and plastic piping to direct a water stream through a nozzle (jet) into the tub. There is also an associated aeration system that channels air into the tub through a small opening at the end of the jet. The combination results in a whirlpool or circulating effect to the water flow within the tub.
Despite the advantages to having a jetted bathtub to enjoy, there are several special issues to be aware of when using and maintaining them. One is a concern over the potential buildup of contaminants within the piping system. Even with regular use, residual standing water mixed with normal body oils, hair, etc. within the circulation system can provide an ideal breeding environment for infectious bacteria and other microorganisms.
Due to these concerns, industry standards have been developed regulating what constitutes an acceptable amount of fluid retention within the system after draining. Ideally, there should be no fluid retention; however, in some systems, even when designing to the standards, there is still a probability that as much as an aggregate half cup or more of fluid may remain in the system after draining.
If a jetted bathtub is used regularly, many manufacturers recommend flushing the system with water after each use and cleaning the system every month or two using a solution of a powdered dishwasher detergent. But limited usage does not negate the need for regular cleaning.
Some research has shown that with certain style units, simply adding a household disinfectant or cleaning solution may not be effective in cleaning the circulation system. In these cases, or as a precaution, a professional cleaning on a periodic basis may be warranted to ensure that contaminant buildup is not a problem.
There are also concerns over the use of some types of suction drain covers that allow for the hair on a persons head to be drawn in, causing entrapment, which could lead to drowning. Changes in industry guidelines for the design of these covers are intended to minimize concerns but do not eliminate them altogether.
Generally of concern is any cover with holes, slots or other openings greater than 1/8 inch (0.3mm) in width. Older units are more likely to have potentially hazardous covers particularly those in pre-1985 units. To confirm acceptability of any questionable cover, contact a local distributor or the manufacturer prior to bathtub usage.
Important Information on Jetted Bathtub Use
- Do not allow small children to use a bathtub or jetted bath unattended.
- Never operate/use electric appliances or electronic devices in or near any bathtub or whirlpool. Relocate any light switch or receptacle located within 5-6 feet (2+/-m) of the wall of a bathtub or whirlpool.
- Confirm Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter (GFCI) protection regularly. Replace any GFCI unit that malfunctions; add a GFCI if not pre-sent on the jetted bathtub equipment circuit.
- Any person under medical care, or pregnant, should only use a whirlpool with their physician's consent. Any person with a communicable or infectious disease, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or using medication that may cause drowsiness should not use the unit.
- Do not use the whirlpool pump if the suction covers are missing or have not been determined to be acceptable by current standards. Heads should not be immersed in water and do not allow hair or any body parts within 6 inches of a suction drain. Hair entrapment and drowning could occur.
- Do not operate the pump unless the tub is filled with water 2 inches above the highest jet. Maintain bathing water temperature in the whirlpool below 105° F (41° C) or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Avoid use of oily bath products (soaps, bath oils, etc.) in a jetted bathtub. Clean the circulation system according to the manufacturer's recommendations on a regular basis, or as conditions warrant. Do not use abrasive cleaners.
The manufacturer's operating instructions should be reviewed before using a jetted bathtub; it should not be used if any health or safety concerns are apparent. The inspection of a jetted bathtub as part of a home inspection is generally limited to fixture condition and functional flow and drainage. Recirculating system operation and components are not evaluated unless specifically stated.
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