Bathing is one of the greatest pleasures in human civilization, long regarded as a source of relaxation, rejuvenation, and social interaction. From ancient cultures to modern households, soaking in warm, soothing water has always had an irresistible allure. With changing demands and technological advancements, the bathing experience is no longer limited to merely soaking in water; it can also include features like hydrotherapy, spa treatments, or massages.
When a homeowner seeking the ultimate soaking experience looks for the perfect bathtub, a hot tub often comes into consideration. So, what exactly is a hot tub, and how does it work? Let's explore these topics with Giving Tree Home.
What is a Hot Tub
According to Merriam-Webster, a hot tub is a large tub filled with hot water in which people can soak and socialize, with some models featuring whirlpool jets. At Giving Tree Home, we define a hot tub as any large container filled with hot water, designed primarily for social interaction.
We use the term "container" rather than "bathtub" because, in our philosophy, all bathtubs should aim to provide relaxation and healing. In contrast, hot tubs are primarily designed for social activities. Therefore, hot tubs are usually large enough to accommodate up to six people or more. You can chat, play, and even swim with friends in a hot tub. Due to their size, these tubs are difficult to install in a bathroom and are typically placed in a backyard or on a balcony. This makes sense, as a hot tub intended for social use would be unsuitable in a small, enclosed bathroom and is better enjoyed in an open environment.
With the increasing demand for enhanced experiences, hot tubs now come with additional features such as lighting and Bluetooth speakers, returning to the core purpose of a hot tub—socializing. Imagine how awkward it would be for a group of people to chat while soaking in hot water. Adding speakers or lighting can instantly elevate the atmosphere and prevent any awkwardness.
Often, people confuse hot tubs with Jacuzzis, but this is a misunderstanding. Jacuzzi is a well-known brand that sells a variety of products, including whirlpool baths and hot tubs. However, not all hot tubs on the market are made by Jacuzzi.
Brief History of Hot Tubs
The tradition of bathing in hot water has deep roots in ancient civilizations. The Greeks and Romans were early innovators, creating elaborate public baths called thermae that were integral to their social and cultural lives. These baths served multiple purposes: cleanliness, relaxation, socialization, and even business transactions.
In Japan, hot springs, or onsen, have been cherished for centuries for their therapeutic benefits. The Japanese developed a rich culture around communal bathing, deeply believing in the health advantages of natural hot spring waters. Similarly, Native Americans and other indigenous cultures worldwide have long used hot springs for their medicinal and spiritual properties.
The modern hot tub, as we know it today, began to evolve in the mid-20th century. The advent of portable, self-contained units with built-in heating and filtration systems revolutionized hot water bathing, making it more accessible to homeowners. Nowadays, hot tubs are a common feature in many homes, spas, and resorts, providing a private retreat from the stresses of daily life.
How a Hot Tub Works
Shell
The shells of the first hot tubs were typically made of fiberglass, but acrylic quickly replaced fiberglass due to its greater reliability and ease of molding. Today, most hot tub shells on the market are made of acrylic.
The primary purpose of the shell is to hold water, but it can also integrate features like jets and LED lighting. Since you'll be sitting in it for extended periods, it's important to consider whether the shape of the hot tub conforms to ergonomic design for better comfort and support when purchasing one.
Heating System
Even an insulated bathtub with an insulating structure can lose about 20 degrees in temperature within 50 minutes, not to mention outdoor hot tubs. To maintain a constant water temperature over long periods, hot tubs usually have heating elements installed, allowing users to adjust the water temperature through a control panel.
Mainstream hot tubs generally use electric heaters, though there are models that use fuel for heating. Early hot tubs maintained heat using hot stones, so fuel heating is not surprising. However, electric heaters are recommended because they offer precise temperature control and are easy to maintain.
Jet System
The jet system works through an auxiliary jet pump, which compresses air and expels water with pressure, creating a stream of flowing water. The placement of the jets is critical because the main purpose of customized jet features is to allow pressurized water streams to contact your skin for a massaging effect.
Some brands may use the number of jets as a selling point, boasting about the massage capabilities of their product. However, the quality of a hot tub is not directly related to the number of jets. The focus should be on the flexibility of the system, meaning that users can customize the massage areas and intensity through a control panel. Too many jets require more power to operate, leading to higher electricity costs.
Circulation System
A hot tub operates on a closed-loop system that completes the process of intake, filtration, and return. First, water is drawn through a drain and skimmer into the intake line and transported to the pump. Here, the filter and heating element come into play. The filter traps hair or other debris, and the heating element warms the water. The filtered and heated water is clean and warm, then sent to the jet system, ready for use.
Some advanced hot tubs also include an ozone generator, which is a device that decomposes pollutants and kills bacteria by injecting ozone gas into the water for this purpose.
Ending
A hot tub is a type of bathtub that uses electricity to create a hot water circulation system, typically used outdoors. Its primary purpose is social interaction rather than immersive soaking, so it is often larger in size, making it ideal for users who wish to enhance family or friendship bonds through water-based entertainment. If you want to create a water-themed retreat at home, a hot tub is a great choice.
However, if your goal is to renovate your bathroom and unwind from a long day through soaking, a hot tub might not be the best option. For this purpose, a soaking tub is a better choice. Soaking tubs are designed specifically for an immersive experience, providing deep relaxation and soothing effects, allowing you to release stress in the comfort of warm water.
