Consumer's Guide to Buying a Whirlpool Bath

Watertech Company Information   Knowledgeable Staff Watertech Warranty   Watertech vs. the Competition Watertech Links   Company Philosophy Whirlpool Bath Installation Whirlpool Bath Features   Jets Air Injection   Acrylic Colors Difference in Tub Materials   Matching Colors Steel Base   Rigid PVC Pipe System Pumps & Motors   Tub Skirts     Whirlpool Bath Options   Air Switch Trim Kits   Heaters Special Pump/Motor Locations   Grab Handles Pillows & Headrests   Low Water Sensors Tile Flange   Drains Faucets   Specialty Switches Additional Jets/Special Jet Location       Underwater Mood Lights

Watertech IS Different From The Rest

Unlike large corporations, Watertech is a family owned and operated maker of superior whirlpool bath products. Our sales people are "hands on" and know the product inside and out unlike many retail salespeople who often mislead or misinform customers about a product they know very little about.

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Knowledgeable Staff

Watertech offers you the services of many skilled craftsmen, engineers, designers and a licensed general contractor to provide you with professional help when you need answers to your specific design and building questions. Their practical solutions, years of experience and on the job training can be a tremendous resource that is only a free phone call away. Plus all of our tubs come with a complete reference guide on how to install your whirlpool tub.

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Our Philosophy is Simple

We want to make a quality product. But that's not all. After the sale, we are there to serve you if you should have a problem, need a part or like many of our customers — decide to buy another bath from us!

Our website is full of information which we hope will educate you about our product line and what to look for while shopping for a whirlpool tub. No hard sell or slick sales pitches. Our objective is to supply you with the facts so you can make an informed buying decision. Once you do, we feel confident that you will be purchasing your next whirlpool bath from Watertech!

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Watertech Links!

Call us today for a listing dealers in your area.

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Whirlpool Bath Features

Following is a summary of features that you'll find in Watertech Whirlpool Baths. To see descriptions of individual features listed below, please click the faucet icons below. The descriptions will appear in a new window.

Jets

The main jets used in Watertech Whirlpool Baths are high performance SPA jets each individually controllable. You can regulate the water pressure and direction of each jet. Each jet produces 0-16 gallons of water per minute and is 100% self draining, unlike tub jets which produce only 4-6 gallons per minute. No part of our whirlpool system is ever discontinued, so replacement parts, if needed, are available. Jet nozzles can be taken out from INSIDE the tub in case something ever blocks them such as hair or soap oils. It's a simple two minute job. Other tub manufacturers do not offer this type of jet because of cost. Their jets cannot be removed from inside the tub for servicing.

Every Watertech Whirlpool Bath jet nozzle is equipped with a special neoprene bushing, so the direction of flow selected stays constant. Competitor tubs have no such bushings, just plastic rubbing against plastic which quickly wears out.

It would seem that the more jets in a whirlpool system the better the whirlpool. Actually that may not be so. While most salespeople promote the NUMBER of jets in a whirlpool as being a good indicator of quality, in reality it's only one component in determining tub value and quality. It's much more important to use FULLY CONTROLLABLE HIGH PRESSURE SPA JETS that are strategically placed to massage all body parts than it is to put in a lot of weak pressure jets that don't allow you to control the volume and velocity of flow. It's important to remember that the number of jets and their flow must be designed to match the flow of the PUMP/MOTOR. Some companies promote excessive numbers of jets in their tubs and try to sell on "more is better." Check for number of jets, but also check to see if the horsepower of the motor and pump can accommodate those jets and also check to see the amount of water pressure for each jet.

Some companies only put in a couple of jets because, quite frankly, it costs them less. Less for parts and considerably less plumbing time in the factory. They try to sell you on the "swirling" or "true whirlpool" action of their tubs. These types of tubs do little to soothe aching joints and give you a therapeutic massage — and isn't that why you're buying a whirlpool in the first place?

At Watertech we are constantly changing our tub designs and adding new models to accommodate your needs. And remember, since we're a manufacturer we can custom make your tub the way YOU want it. Just another reason why Watertech is one of the leading manufacturers in the market today.

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Automatic Air Injection

Watertech has added to all of its tub models the new technology of automatic air injectors. This important new part allows each jet to produce a constant air-water mixture which provides equal pressure to all jets unlike other manufacturers noisy air controls which allows the first jet in the system to have more pressure than the last. The old style air controls are noisy — producing a whistling sound as air is sucked into the system. With Watertech tubs there are no knobs for children to remove and lose or break.

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Acrylic Colors

All Watertech whirlpool products are made of ICI cast acrylic — the top acrylic manufacturer in the USA. With an acrylic tub you are assured of a rich, deep, long-lasting color — color that runs all the way through the acrylic sheet — unlike fiberglass, cultured marble or thin veneer acrylic tubs. Watertech tubs have a 5-year warranty not to crack, chip, fade or peel and we use only THICK .125 and .157 acrylic sheets unlike other manufacturers who may use a much thinner .080 sheet of acrylic — drastically reducing the tub's quality and serviceability. Acrylic is a non-porous material that soap, dirt and chemicals won't stick to. Cultured marble and fiberglass tubs are porous and allow soaps, chemicals, etc. to cling to them, producing unsightly, hard to clean films and stains on the tub's surface.

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Difference in Tub Materials

Check out this materials comparison chart:

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We Can Match The Color You Need!

Acrylic colors come in a variety to match any commodes and/or sinks you will purchase for your home — an exact match! Watertech produces beautiful, dependable whirlpool tubs which match Kohler, American Standard, Universal Rundle, Eljer and all other major brands of bath fixtures with no problem. The following colors are just a few of the hundreds of examples of colors we can match not to mention the option of marble look acrylic and granite look acrylic surfaces:

Many additional colors are also available. Please call 1-800-289-8827 for color charts, samples, or more information about matching colors and unique, beautiful surface types. Or, click here to view our online color palette.

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Plumbing Your Tub & Parts Descriptions

The plumbing lines that carry the water and air to the jets on a Watertech tub have always been RIGID SCHEDULE 40 PVC pipe. Schedule 40 PVC piping meets all building codes in the U.S. and Canada. Some companies use flexible tubing to plumb their tubs because of its low cost and easy installation. Flex pipe meets absolutely NO building codes in the U.S. or Canada. We use hard piping on your tub to ensure complete draining of the system after you've turned it off. Flex pipe cannot offer you that very important function. Flex pipe tubs or improperly engineered tubs have pipes which sag and trap dirty bath water — water which can cause foul odors, begin the growth of bacteria in your lines and possibly even be a health risk. The suction fitting in your tub is where water is picked up to start the recirculation process. Watertech suction fitting covers are UL listed to provide safe operation for you and your family. All main spa jets have automatic air injectors and all plumbing lines on our tubs are shaped into long curves and bends — reducing noise, increasing jet action and allowing for full drainage.

Click here for photos and more details of the parts we offer.

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Galvanized Steel Base

All Watertech whirlpools come with a pre-leveled structural steel base to reinforce the bottom of the tub and to securely hold the motor in place (cutting down vibration). Watertech's steelbase will not flex. Watertech is the ONLY tub maker to offer this important structural innovation. This solid steel base incorporated into your tub is essential to ensure a rigid tub bottom and quiet motor mounting platform. The most common reason for noisy pumps and motors is the use of plastic or wood which can vibrate loose from the tub — allowing the motor to vibrate. Watertech uses no plastic or wood in its tub bases. Tubs which feature plastic drip pans eliminate the opportunity to use mortar under the tub, as most plumbing codes now require. Salesmen often unintentionally mislead the public into believing the drip pan collects water should a leak ever occur. Close inspection of these pans reveals the tub's water far exceeds the volume the pans can hold. Obviously, once the pan is full, it's the same as having no pan at all — leaving you with water damage.

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Tub Skirt Access Panel

Watertech offers two different types of tub skirts, acrylic and oak. The oak skirt is unfinished which allows it to be stained or painted on the job to match the bathroom's cabinetry, tile, wall color, etc. The oak skirt is easy to install and comes oversized which allows the installer to cut or sand it to fit the job specifications. The skirt has a raised panel that lifts off after installation of the skirt, which allows access to the underside of the tub where the pump and plumbing is located. The oak skirt should be fastened to job site framing with screws for easy removal.

Any job site adjustments can be done by any do-it-yourselfer, carpenter, plumber, etc. Tub models 6032Ultra, 6032 Elite, 6043, 7243 will require an additional 1" in width for skirt installation.

Watertech's acrylic skirt comes cut to size in the same color as the tub ordered. Each skirt comes with fasteners and brackets that are easy to install on the job site. After installation of any acrylic skirt, if service is ever needed, skirt comes off by removing 4 fasteners. The only tool needed is a phillips-head screwdriver.

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Whirlpool Pumps

All Watertech whirlpools come standard equipped with either a 2 HP or 3HP pump. Some models have dual pumps. Each pump carries a LIFETIME WARRANTY. Pumps are 100% self-draining with quick disconnect unions and electrical cord for easy servicing. All pumps are specifically engineered for whirlpool baths. If a problem ever develops with a pump, simply call, with proof of purchase and a replacement will be shipped at no charge.

Pumps can be converted into variable pressure and flow with the addition of a variable flow pump control system or a two speed switch system which are sold as options.

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Watertech Bath Options

All Watertech Whirlpool Baths are built with only the highest quality components and leave our factory ready to be installed in your new home, remodel, or addition. Just take a look below at the options available to you.

For photos and more details on Watertech Bath options, please visit our Watertech Bath Options page. To see descriptions of individual features listed below, please click the faucet icons below. The descriptions will appear in a new window.

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E Switch

An electronic switch that turns tub on/off. Only U.L. listed switch on the market. Gives individuals with arthritis a knob to turn on/off instead of pushing an air button.

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Air Switch

An air switch is an air activated button that turns your system on and off with the touch of your finger. No electrical current can reach the bather since this device is air activated. It's convenient, safe, and unlike a light switch or timer, does not have to be placed away from the tub to meet National Electrical Codes. Factory installation of your air switch is included if ordered with your whirlpool — and the switch can come in chrome, polished brass or the acrylic color of your tub.

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Trim Kits

Trim kits come in four metallic finishes; nickel, chrome, oil-rubbed bronze and polished brass which provide an elegant distinct look to the whirlpool. Trim kits can be added to a whirlpool at any time. Each kit includes covers for all jets in the tub. Trim kits are typically ordered with the tub so that Watertech can factory install them for you.

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Heaters

Watertech offers you two types of heaters:

1) A 1.5 kw electric in-line heater designed to maintain the water temperature in your whirlpool. Especially nice in larger tubs or for those individuals who relax in the tub for long periods, the 1.5 kw in-line heater runs off a simple 110-volt circuit. (Refer to local codes. Have all work performed by a licensed electrician.) Heaters require a separate GFCI circuit. Heaters and pumps should not be hooked to the same GFCI circuit.

Find out how our Certified Real Heat™ electric heaters can keep you in the “Comfort Zone.”

2) The non-electric Heat Flow heater that will keep your tub water at its original temperature without the use of electricity! This heater collars and traps heat off your motor and transfers it through special membranes to keep your water hot. This is a proven product that works just as well as the electric in-line heater and it is used by all major whirlpool manufacturers. No electrical circuit is needed!

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Special Pump Locations

A service offered only by Watertech! All our whirlpool tubs come with a standard pump and motor location which is shown in our color product catalog. But we know that many customers cannot gain access to our normal pump and motor locations which is why we can offer you a special pump and motor location to fit YOUR needs. Just let us know when you order your tub and for a very small fee we will custom make your tub and ship it to you within 2-3 weeks in most cases. Remember, ALL building codes require access to the pump for electrical hook-up and servicing — something many salespeople forget to tell you when selling you a tub. All special pump locations require that a sketch be provided indicating where the pump should be located. Please contact your local sales representative who will then forward the sketch with your order to Watertech.

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Additional Jets or Special Jet Locations

While all Watertech Whirlpool Baths are computer engineered and tested to ensure maximum hydrotherapy, we also realize that certain individuals may want or need special jet locations to provide them with hydrotherapy to particular body areas such as knees, hips, feet, lower back, etc. Watertech is the ONLY tub manufacturer that will customize any of its whirlpools to meet YOUR individual needs. Our engineering department will review all of your requests to meet your specifications and to ensure proper design. All special and additional jet locations require that a sketch be provided indicating where the jets should be located. Please contact your local sales representative who will then forward the sketch with your order to Watertech.

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Low Water Sensors

Great for those families with young ones running around, the low water sensor is a factory installed device that will not let the tub operate unless the water level is above the jets. This is a nice safety precaution to keep young children from turning on the tub while it is empty. Note: The cost of the low water sensor also includes the air switch.

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Underwater Mood Lights

Watertech offers two different types:

• LED underwater mood light - Allows for precise color display, enabling the bather to pause on any of the 8 main colors, or any transitional color, or continuously scroll through colors every 10 seconds.
• Underwater mood light - Comes with interchangeable clear, blue or red lens covers.

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Grab Handles

Clear acrylic with nickel, chrome, polished brass and oil-rubbed bronze inserts. Also, available in white, biscuit or bone. Grab handles are not factory installed, but are easily installed on the job site by contractors, owner, plumber or do-it-yourselfer.

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Pillows & Headrests

Pillows or headrests come as part of the tub on many of our models. For those that don't, we offer a soft, water resistant pillow with suction cups that easily attach to the tub surface. All of our pillows work with suction cups so you can remove them for easy cleaning. Pillows and headrests are available in black or white.

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Tile Flange

A tile flange is a metal waterproofing device that can be installed on any tub that is also going to be used as a shower. This metal strip has a waterproof adhesive strip on one edge and is easy to install. It's much better than thin, conventional tile flanges that often leak. Used on many commercial jobs.

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Drains

(Also Known As Waste & Overflow.) Watertech can supply you with a drain for your whirlpool tub that fits the extra depth of all our whirlpools. We stock chrome and polished brass finishes. You may purchase this item when ordering.

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Faucets

All whirlpools must have a faucet. Most whirlpool faucets are deck mounted. Watertech offers a complete line of these faucets. Faucets are available in chrome, nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, or polished brass finishes.

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Oak & Acrylic Skirts

Cabinet grade removable front panel for easy service. Can be stained or painted. These skirts have the easiest installation in the whirlpool industry! Remember, Watertech can also custom make acrylic skirts to match your tub.

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Hometech produces quality products under the tradenames WATERTECH Whirlpool Baths,
Spas and Accessories and WEATHERGUARD Steel Structures, Car and Patio Covers.

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