Massage tubs are a great, luxurious addition to your bathroom, and the benefits are well worth the investment. Massage tubs can help increase blood circulation and give you a soothing, gentle massage as you bathe. Finding the best massage tub to fit your needs is important, and American Standard offers different massage tubs to fit your preferences. 

STEP 1: Consider the Size of Your Bathroom

 

 

 

Thinking about the space in your bathroom is important when choosing the right massage tub. Massage tubs come in a variety of sizes, so make sure to first measure your bathtub space to determine the best size for your bathroom. When choosing a size, you should also consider how much the tub will weigh to ensure the floor can support it, as well as the volume of water the tub will use. Massage tubs can hold a lot of water, up to 90 gallons - which can raise two issues. First, if you live in an area with water shortages, you might want to consider a smaller model to help conserve water. Second, a deep massage tub may use more water than your hot water heater can hold. Ask your plumber. A second heater can be easily installed. If not, you can also consider an in-line bath heater.

 

STEP 2: Determine the Best Massage Tub Configuration

Massage tubs come in a variety of different styles with different methods of installation. Look at your bathtub space to see which bathtub model would be best for your bathroom. 

Drop-in Tubs

Drop-in bathtubs feature a self-rimming finished edge and are 'dropped' into a surrounding platform. These tubs can be installed in a variety of locations including corners, recesses, and islands. They can also be sunk into a floor so that the rim is at floor lever. Deck mounted tubs are supported from below. Drop-in tubs sometimes have an Undermounted installation option. Undermounted tubs are mounted under the deck of the surrounding platform creating a smooth deck surface. The tub is supported from below.

Alcove Tubs

 

Alcove  tubs consist of a tub location that is surrounded by walls on three sides. Both integral apron tubs and tubs with optional aprons can be installed in alcoves. Some models come with an integral tile flange to keep water from getting between the tub and the walls. For alcove tubs, it is important to choose a tub that matches your bathroom’s drain location, either left or right-hand.

STEP 3: Decide on a Massage Tub System

Massage tubs typically come in three different massage systems, with each offering different benefits to suit your needs.

 

Whirlpools

Whirlpool Bathtubs are perfect for those looking for a strong deep tissue massage to soothe sore muscles and joints or to reduce stress. A whirlpool tub uses a pump to force water through the jets. Many American Standard whirlpools include one or more air volume controls which allow precise control of jet force levels by adding air into the water jets to soften the force. American Standard whirlpools are offered with various systems including Ecosilent™, EverClean®, and standard.

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Air Tubs

Enjoy the gentle pampering of thousands of warm air bubbles with American Standard's Everclean® air baths. Air baths use a blower and built-in heater to force warm air through perfectly smooth air jets located around the tub perimeter. The air jets are quiet, self-draining, and easy to clean, while the built-in heating unit keeps the water warm. Selecting the strength of the air bubble massage, from calm and gentle to brisk and invigorating, is made with the touch of a button.

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Combination Massage Systems

American Standard's EcoSilent™ Combo Massage Systems feature the patented Everclean® system and combine the massage jets from a whirlpool with the relaxing smooth air jets from an air bath which allows you to choose from a variety of massage options, ranging from a gentle air bubble massage to an invigorating water jet massage, to match a wide range of bathing needs.

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STEP 4: Treat Yourself With Enhanced Massage Tub Features

Massage tubs can be designed with a number of features to help enhance your bathing experience. American Standard Massage tubs include a variety of features to help fit your needs.

Number of Jets

Whirlpool jets should surround and soothe the entire body. When choosing a whirlpool, consider the number and location of the jets. Some whirlpools feature extra or specialized jets in specific areas such as the lumbar region.

 

Chromatherapy

 

Chromatherapy is a lighting system that consists of LEDs located below the waterline which flood the water with a range of calming colors that can be selected manually or cycled automatically to match your mood. Chromatherapy systems are offered on both air baths and combo massage systems.

 

Quiet Energy Efficient System

 

The revolutionary American Standard EcoSilent™ whirlpool system cuts noise levels by 50 percent while using 45 percent less energy than the previous generation of whirlpools, and integrates the pump and motor into a single unit. The powerful factory-installed motors allow you to select your preferred whirlpool experience, from a relaxing swirl to a vigorous deep tissue massage, without the distracting noise or vibration. All EcoSilent whirlpools include the Everclean® system.

 

Cleanliness

 

The EverClean® system, exclusively from American Standard, is the easiest way to keep your whirlpool and air bath circulation system clean. Featuring a patented antimicrobial additive molded into the piping, Everclean protects the pipes from algae, fungus, and mildew.