True beauty is in simplicity. Many have heard this expression and would like to test it in practice. For example, build a country cottage in a minimalist style or make a small architectural building “for the soul” with your own hands. Sometimes nature itself suggests a solution. When a portal user and her husband “escaped” from Moscow to the Caucasus in Karachay-Cherkessia, the view from the site inspired her to build a wood-burning jacuzzi, or a bathtub/font in nature - the so-called. hot tub, or, as it is affectionately called, HotTabycha.
Olga Makhmutova FORUMHOUSE participant
One day my husband and I saw a hot tub on the Internet. We liked the picture with relaxing people sitting in a swimming pool in nature, in the mountains or on a snowy plain, so much that we were inspired by this idea. The only thing left to do is to implement all this, which is what we did by building a wood-fired jacuzzi. I’ll say right away that we are not builders. There is little experience, and there are small “shoals”, but the feeling when you sit in hot water, in the fresh air and look at the mountains is simply indescribable! Therefore, I want to tell you how to make your dream come true.
What it is?
A Jacuzzi is a fairly popular plumbing design that has a special system for transmitting targeted jets of water or air under the required pressure.
The direction here will be adjusted by special nozzles. These devices come in outdoor type and can be used indoors. The scope of operation of outdoor Jacuzzis is quite wide. Such designs are actively used for rest and relaxation, as well as for the prevention and successful treatment of many diseases. For example, this kind of Jacuzzi will be useful:
- for thermotherapy - to warm the body;
- to increase the mobility of certain areas of the body;
- to improve blood flow;
- in order to strengthen the walls of blood vessels;
- to improve heart function;
- for better metabolism;
- to get rid of excess weight or annoying cellulite;
- in order to remove dead epidermal cells;
- to get rid of insomnia.
The hydromassage procedure is very useful in any season of the year. Outdoor Jacuzzis help remove harmful substances from the body.
They will differ in their purpose, release materials, shapes and parameters. These products can be classified into 3 categories.
Inflatable
They are the easiest to install, do not take up much space, and are inexpensive. They don’t look as beautiful as other products, but if you properly decorate your site, they can fit perfectly into the landscape.
Stationary
During installation they are installed in the ground. They can be easily used for a whole year.
When choosing a stationary jacuzzi, it is worth checking its functionality and availability of various types of massage. They may contain the functions of aromatherapy, special lighting, air massage, and hydromassage.
Portable
Placed outdoors. They can be actively used even in winter, as they are heated. They are distinguished by their mobility. They can often be found on ordinary terraces or insulated balconies located in the garden and even on the roofs of country cottages. From time to time you can change the location of this product on the site.
Jacuzzi parameters depend on the size of the installation site and the conditions of use. Bowl sizes can range from large bathtubs, more like a small pool that can accommodate 2-5 people, to oversized seating units.
Jacuzzis come in 3 main forms:
- rectangular;
- angular;
- round.
When choosing the appropriate shape and size of the Jacuzzi, you should take into account the possibility of connecting water supply, sewerage and electricity to the product.
Modern outdoor hot tubs are made from different materials. Let's look at the most common ones.
Steel. Lightweight, durable, cheap material. At the same time, it does not retain heat well due to increased thermal conductivity; there will be a lot of noise when drawing water and operating the equipment; if used carelessly, chips are possible. Small selection of different shapes.
Cast iron. The material retains heat for a long time, is not afraid of chemical attack, is strong, durable, and perfectly dampens vibration. But it has significant weight, enamel chips are possible, and high cost.
Acrylic. It is easy to clean, retains heat well, scratches are easily removed, will not fade, is lightweight, is not afraid of UV and UV rays, and will retain its original appearance throughout the entire period of use. Wide range of shapes and design options.
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Beautiful examples
There are a lot of options for exquisite design models. Several examples can be identified as examples.
- A polyurethane vat lined with wooden slats. There is a heating option. Looks beautiful in the garden at the dacha.
- Wooden font with ladder and roof. It is distinguished by incredible aesthetics and practicality. Can be used in winter and summer.
- A bathtub immersed in the ground inside a house. This design looks monumental and evokes a sense of pride in the owner. Water supply and pumping systems and hydromassage are provided.
The owner of a private house must decide which font to put in the yard. But if funds allow, it makes sense to order a larger font. However, for small garden plots it is better to assemble or buy a mobile structure heated by a stove or heating element, which can be placed anywhere in a country house.
Sources
- https://pobedimremont.com/santexnika/vanna/gidromassazhnaya/ulichnye.html
- https://stroy-podskazka.ru/kupel/ulichnye-s-podogrevom/
- https://stroy-podskazka.ru/kupel/s-podogrevom/
- https://2proraba.com/banya/ulichnaya-kupel-s-podogrevom.html
- https://v-banyu.ru/kupel-s-podogrevom-na-ulitse-svoimi-rukami.html
The main differences between inflatable spa pools
Intex spa pools were designed specifically so that you do not have to spend a lot of time comparing them, delving into the intricacies and clarifying the differences between a large number of models. Therefore, the line includes several options, the difference between which is only in the different type of massage and the presence or absence of a chlorine generator - a built-in installation for water disinfection. The filtration and heating system is always included in the standard delivery set.
Aeromassage
The technology involves creating massage waves using jets of air coming out under pressure from special air nozzles in the jacuzzi. Thanks to this, seething and many bubbles are formed, which, in addition to massage, also perform aeration - saturation of the water with oxygen. Bubbles of different sizes rise from the bottom to the surface, touching your skin and creating a pleasant and slightly tickling sensation. This promotes relaxation and lifts your mood. You can add a few drops of an aromatic product to the water - its scent will be revealed much stronger than in a regular bath.
Hydromassage
In this case, massage functions are performed using thin streams of water gushing from the walls of the spa pool. Hydraulic nozzles are located at the bottom and in the side walls. This type of massage is more acupressure than air massage, so it has proven itself well for health purposes. It improves blood circulation and tones the skin and muscles.
Combined aero- and hydraulic system
The most complete type of massage: both air bubbles and water jets work, and at the same time it has both a soft and stronger effect on the skin. Hydro jets work at the bottom of the pool, while air jets tend to rise to the surface - massage is performed at all depth levels. The difference between the temperatures of water and air streams has a tonic effect.
Do you need a chlorine generator?
Our website presents options both with and without a chlorination unit. Whether you need to purchase a more expensive option depends on how often you are willing to refill the pool and how long you plan to use it. It should be taken into account that bacteria or algae can begin to multiply in warm water, and if you plan to change it after each swim or use the hot tub rarely (for example, only on weekends, and keep it dry the rest of the time), you can save on complex disinfection and get by with adding a simple liquid product. But if you bathe frequently and don’t want to use chemical liquids or powders, then a chlorine generator will be a good buy. It uses ordinary salt and disinfects the water (additionally creating a “marine” effect), so it does not bloom, does not acquire an unpleasant odor or color, and remains harmless for bathing even small children for a long time.
Accessories for inflatable Jacuzzis
In order to provide you with maximum comfort on vacation, Intex has a large selection of accessories that will turn your countryside into a real spa resort:
- for added comfort there are comfortable benches, seats, headrests and even drink cup holders;
- compact lighting will create a romantic or festive atmosphere: bright red, green and blue, or classic white light - change the shades to suit any mood;
- Don't forget about cleaning so that you can enjoy your hot tub for as long as possible!
Spa Jacuzzis for a summer house do not have to be outdoors, because they can be placed in a gazebo or summer house (making sure that the flooring can support the weight when filled). This means that the island of comfort from the Intex company is ready to delight you both in summer and winter!
We also advise you to read:
Instructions for using the repair kit
Pool chemicals: what to choose
Draining the water from the pool - step-by-step instructions
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Concrete plunge pool - a miniature pool “for centuries”
Despite all the advantages of a wooden font, the complexity of its manufacture is an obstacle for many home craftsmen. And in order to make a concrete font with your own hands, you don’t need any special knowledge - just be able to hold a shovel and use a concrete mixer. In this case, the sequence of work will be as follows:
1. We dig a hole for the font with a depth of 1.5 - 1.6 m.
2. Install the fittings. We lay the reinforcing mesh on the floor at a height of 5 cm from the bottom. You can raise the mesh by placing it on plastic clamps (“fungi”-stands) for the reinforcement. There is another way: drive 4 pins into the ground so that 5 cm remains on the surface, and only then put reinforcing mesh on them. We place reinforcing mesh on the sides.
3. We put together formwork from OSB, reinforced with timber - for the inner wall. We install it 5 cm higher than our reinforcement mesh (so that the total thickness of the floor is 10 cm). We also make formwork for the outer wall of the font and install it directly on the bottom. If necessary, we provide a hole in the formwork for drainage.
4. Fill the walls with concrete at one time to create a monolith, then fill the bottom.
5. After a week, we dismantle the formwork, plaster the walls, and cover with mortar all the potholes, pits and other deformations remaining after removing the formwork. We level the floor with mortar according to the beacons.
6. Treat the surface of the hot tub with a waterproofing mixture (for example, Ceresit CR 65). Then we prime the surface and paint it with rubber paint. You can use other interior finishing options (tiles, film, etc.), but this option seems the most reasonable in a bathhouse.
7. We install a staircase, organize lighting with LED lamps or a jacuzzi - whatever your heart desires.
Features and Benefits
Outdoor inflatable Jacuzzis have many benefits. All models have a special polyester surface with a silicone base. The bottom of the pools, in addition to the main layer, is covered with leatherette, which prevents it from being damaged by stones, so the units can be placed anywhere. Another advantage of the devices is a special filtration system that softens the water and does not harm the pipes.
The Jacuzzi is easy to install and dismantle. Each model is equipped with a powerful pump that quickly pumps water. Do not inflate the pool with a machine pump, as strong air pressure can damage the walls. The kit also includes detailed instructions for using and adjusting the functions of the unit.
In a matter of hours, the heater brings the water to a temperature of 40 degrees. Models have 100-160 massage nozzles with aero- and hydromassage functions, located along the entire perimeter of the bowl. The set also includes a waterproof remote control for regulating the operation of the pool. If used properly, the SPA pool will last a long time.
Heated outdoor Jacuzzis are equipped with a chlorine-hydrogenation system; it disinfects the water with a special salt composition. Regular rest in such a unit not only promotes relaxation, but also improves the health of the body as a whole, as it has some SPA elements. The aeration and filtration functions provide soft water that will not dry out the skin, but rather soothe it.
Staying in an outdoor jacuzzi tones and invigorates the body, improves metabolism, strengthens muscles and smoothes the skin, eliminating cellulite with the help of hydromassage. Improved sleep, normalization of the nervous system, and improved blood circulation are also observed, resulting in oxygen supply to the tissues.
When purchasing an inflatable Jacuzzi, you should consider some features of its operation. It must be remembered that its use is possible only from April to October; swimming in winter is prohibited, as the body may crack.
Despite the special filtration, the device still requires care and cleaning.
Try to keep away animals with sharp claws and teeth, since, despite the increased strength of the material, it still requires careful use. You can’t pump the bowl too much, because in the heat the air tends to expand and it will need additional space, so the sides should be slightly lowered
Assembly principles
The main feature of outdoor inflatable pools is their ease of assembly. They can be installed in a short time by simply inflating them with the pump included with the product.
When choosing a place to install a pool, you need to take into account some subtleties. It is better to install an inflatable pool in close proximity to sanitary systems (sewage, water supply) and away from fences
The best option would be to place the product on the south side of the site. There should be no grass, stumps or stones at the installation site.
Many people prefer to level the area under the jacuzzi by concreting it. This is unnecessary; it will be enough to choose the optimal place, clear it of debris, level it, pour sand and compact it. You can put a special mat under the pool.
The inflatable pool is not tied to a location, so if desired, it can be installed every year in a new location. In this case, you need to take into account:
- planting location;
- location of structures;
- site design;
- presence of a children's area.
Principle of operation
To understand what hydromassage is, you need to look at the “filling” of a jacuzzi.
The first option was a bathtub, to which one hose was connected. It created a directed flow of water and air, which set the water in motion and gave a massage effect.
The design was subsequently improved and integrated into the bathtub structure. In this form, the first Jacuzzis appeared on sale in pharmacies and specialty stores.
Modern hot tubs consist of several important elements.
- Bowl. This is a bathtub of greater depth and size than a standard non-massage bathtub. But a wider and deeper bowl is the optimal, and not the only possible option. Manufacturers produce models of different sizes and configurations. There are Jacuzzis for individual parts of the body: legs, arms, head, as well as bowls combined with a shower stall. Their sizes are compact, designed for small bathrooms.
- Water intake. Water from the bowl is collected in the water intake, and from there it enters a system of hoses and pipes to complete the cycle and return through the nozzles to the container. Due to this, the necessary pressure in the jets and a massage effect are created.
- Pumping system. With its help, water circulates through the hose system, is saturated with oxygen and receives the necessary pressure.
- Injectors. These are holes located in the walls and bottom of the thicket through which water returns to it. The nozzles are usually positioned in such a way that the flow of water or air is directed to the specific parts of the body that most need a massage.
- Drain and overflow system. It helps regulate the water level in the bowl so that there is always enough water. It can be automatic or manual.
- Control system. It is necessary to turn the massage system on and off. Since a Jacuzzi functions like a regular bathtub, if the system is not working, manual operation is a must. It is also designed to increase the pressure of massage flows and switch it to different areas of the body.
- Elements for additional functions. The basic configuration of a jacuzzi with hydromassage does not offer advanced capabilities, but there are also more advanced models. They have built-in systems for aromatherapy and ozone therapy, control of color lighting and multimedia gadgets.
- Plumbing elements. These are taps, mixers, a drain system that drains water into the sewer system, filters that prevent debris from entering the drain, and a siphon.
The combination of these elements ensures the working process of the whirlpool bath.
How to make a font yourself?
If you really want, you can assemble such a structure yourself. Anyone who confidently works with wood can try their hand at making a wooden hot tub. For this work, a minimum set of tools is required: a circular saw, drill, grinder, jigsaw, milling and jointing machines, tensioning mechanism with tape.
The preparatory stage includes several operations:
- Assembling the bottom panel from tongue-and-groove boards.
- Cutting wooden staves - planks for the wall.
- Making steel hoops for tightening containers.
The number of planks for the walls is calculated based on the size of the font. The most convenient way to do this is to draw the outline of the bottom of the future container on the shield.
The shape of the joining part of the strips should ensure tight contact. Most often it is made oval or semicircular.
The oval shape of the docking lock ensures tightness and facilitates assembly
Having determined the number of boards needed for the wall of the font, the bottom is carefully cut out of the shield using a jigsaw. After this, they take a router and cut a tenon along the entire circumference of the bottom at its end.
Connection of the bottom of the font with the wall
Having prepared three strip steel hoops with tightening devices, you can begin assembly.
In order to make a quality font with your own hands, all seams must be treated with silicone sealant before joining. It will protect the container from leaking when the boards dry out.
In order to have enough space under the font for installing a drainage system, the length of the boards must be increased by 10 cm so that they form a supporting contour below the bottom mark. At the same time, a drain hole is drilled in the bottom of the font.
After this, the bottom is placed on a support and connected in series with the boards of the walls. The last stave board is driven from above by blows of a mallet with a rubber striker.
Wooden font assemblies
The last operation is the installation of steel hoops. To do this, the walls of the font are compressed with a special device - a wide flexible tape with a tension mechanism.
Having pulled the wooden container along the contour, hoops are put on it. After tightening them with a wrench, the work can be considered completed.
The hot tub stove is made of stainless steel. Its design is very simple: a sealed tank with top loading of fuel and a chimney installed above the firebox.
An external heat generator is more difficult to manufacture, since it has a heat exchanger in its design. The circulation pump supplies hot water to the heating “coil” of the font.
Models and prices
There are many models of inflatable pools with water heating function on sale. They are produced by almost all manufacturers, since the demand for luxury products is noticeably higher than for ordinary bowls.
With heating device
Heated inflatable pools are equipped with heating devices built into the circulation system. As a rule, they are placed after filters and circulation pumps to avoid losses of thermal energy during the passage of equipment elements.
There are relatively small and larger inflatable heated bowls. The operating principle of the heaters is no different, the only difference is in the power and cost of the models.
Small
Among the small inflatable heated pools, the following models can be distinguished:
Summer Escapes P21-0515
Children's pool, equipped with:
- chlorine generator,
- heater,
- cartridge filter and water pump.
The bowl is round in shape, with a diameter of 152 cm. Depth - 38 cm, which is optimal for bathing children under 7 years old. Cost - 8400 rub.
Bestway Fast Set Pools
The bowl is round in shape, with a diameter of 2.44 m and a depth of 0.66 m. The delivery set includes a filter pump and a repair kit; the heater must be purchased separately. The price of the pool is 4200 rubles.
Intex Soft Side 58431
A round bowl with two inflatable rings at the top and bottom of the sides. Diameter 1.88 m depth 0.46 m. Complete with:
- filtration system with water pump,
- heater,
- stairs and awning.
The price of the set is 1500 rubles.
Large
Large bowls are designed for simultaneous bathing of several people. The volume of water in them is much larger than that of small inflatable pools, so the use of heating systems becomes a necessity. Without them, using the pool will become almost impossible. Popular models:
Intex Easy Set 28176/54920
A round bowl with a diameter of 4.59 m and a depth of 1.22 m. It holds 20 m3 of water, which requires the mandatory use of a heating system.
It is included in the package, along with:
- circulation system,
- filter,
- tent,
- ladder and mat.
Price - 26 thousand rubles.
Bestway Fast Set 57212 / 57291
The diameter of the round bowl is 5.49 m. Depth is 122 m. It is equipped with a full set of equipment, accessories and protective elements (awning, bedding). Price - 48,000 rubles.
Jilong GIANT
The rectangular bowl measures 305 cm long and 183 cm wide. The depth of the pool is 50 cm, which is suitable for a family holiday with children.
It is equipped with all necessary systems (filtration, heating, cleaning) and accessories (awning, mesh, backing). The price of the bowl is 2200 rubles.
With hydromassage
This category of inflatable pools consists of the most expensive models, equipped with:
- bubble massage systems,
- controls,
- devices for programming and servicing the complex.
Such pools are intended only for water procedures and hydromassage. They cannot be used as ordinary inflatable bowls, since the specific design requires compliance with certain operating rules.
The most popular models of inflatable pools with heating and hydromassage:
Intex PureSpa Bubble Therapy 28404
The bowl has a diameter of 145 cm (outer diameter - 196 cm) and a depth of 71 cm. Water is heated at a rate of 1.5-2.5° per hour, maximum 40°.
It is equipped with a PureSpa system consisting of 120 nozzles for supplying warm air bubbles. The price of the pool is 60.5 thousand rubles.
Bestway Lay-Z-SPA Miami AirJet 54123
Round bowl with an outer diameter of 180 cm. Internal (working) diameter - 132 cm. Bowl depth - 66 cm. Equipped with 81 nozzles for bubble hydromassage.
Electronic control with a remote unit allows you to adjust the intensity of the massage, water temperature and other operating parameters. Price - 44,000 rubles.
Bestway Hawaii Airjet
This is a square model, which is rare. Dimensions - 1.8x1.8 m, depth - 71 cm. Equipped with a full set of circulation equipment, a soft inflatable bottom, and accessories. The price of the pool is 51,000 rubles.
Types of outdoor hot tubs
Outdoor spa pools and hot tubs are manufactured by various companies. They differ in purpose, materials of manufacture, shape and size. In total, there are 3 main groups of such hydromassage baths.
Inflatable. They are very easy to install, take up little space on the site, and their price is not bad at all. Of course, unlike portable and stationary models, they do not look as presentable, but with the correct design of the recreation area, they fit harmoniously into the landscape.
Interested in inflatable hot tubs? You can find detailed information about the pros and cons, as well as a review of manufacturers, in our special article.
Stationary. These models go deep into the ground during installation. The entire hydraulic system that ensures the functionality of the product is located under the bowl or in the technical room. Depending on the circulation of water, stationary models are divided into: overflow (they have a simpler design, there is no high pressure) and skimmer (water is supplied under pressure through nozzles).
They can be used all year round. This is very useful since most people like to enjoy swimming in hot tubs when there is already snow all around.
Portable. They are installed outdoors or indoors - the main thing is that communications can be made. If desired, they can be used outdoors even in winter, as they are heated.
Such fonts combine mobility and solidity. They are installed in the garden, on terraces, balconies and even on the roofs of country houses. Of course, they are not so easy to transport, unlike inflatable ones. But it is possible to periodically change the location of the bowl on the site.
When swimming in a spa pool in winter, you can choose the optimal water temperature, because... All of them are equipped with heating. Most models are equipped with thermally insulating protective covers - covers that play an important role when operating in cold weather.
Kinds
The hot tub can be implemented in the form of both complex and simplified designs. For example, complete with a polypropylene bowl lined with wood, there will be a layer of insulation for the walls and floor, an insulated lid, a drainage system, hydromassage and lighting, as well as a stainless steel stove. For ease of use of the font, there is also a suspended ladder with a stand and handrails. A wooden font equipped with stainless steel hoops is much cheaper for the buyer. The shape of the font can be a circle, oval, rectangle or polyhedron. There are also corner designs.
The heating of the hot tub varies depending on the type of structure itself. For example, it is customary to heat metal containers through the bottom. The container is installed above a stone platform, where a small stove is assembled, then heated with wood. Plastic and wooden mini-pools located outside are heated using wood-burning stoves equipped with a built-in coil.
Boiling water from the stove flows either directly into the bowl, or into a system of pipes running along the perimeter of the font. Some plastic tanks use an immersion oven.
Street
An outdoor font is a heated container installed in the fresh air. For example, it could be a Japanese furako bowl, whose appearance resembles a giant barrel, inside of which there is a bench around the perimeter. To heat the liquid, a wood-burning stove is used, immersed directly in water. In the case when the furaco is installed indoors, the wood-burning stove can be replaced with an electric one.
The original option is a font made from a Eurocube - a plastic container with a volume of 1000 liters.
Since the parameters of a cubic container do not differ in size, an adult will be able to sit in it only with his legs crossed.
Domestic
Internal fonts, as a rule, are installed in the appropriate premises: baths or saunas. Quite often we are talking about a Finnish thermowood barrel, and a more convenient oval shape. Eco-friendly material provides both healing and relaxation. For children, you can also purchase a mini sauna plunge pool.
Installation
Even the simplest, inexpensive models of heated hydromassage baths for massage and relaxation in a spa in the country, designed for four, usually come with all the necessary equipment for installation:
- filter for cleaning a jacuzzi;
- water pump;
- heater;
- compressor for pumping air for massage.
To install a Jacuzzi for massage and relaxation in an outdoor SPA on the street on your own, it is important to think through the drainage system, storm sewer, or connect the hot tub to a centralized drainage system by preparing a trench. You will also need to install wiring to connect the internal hot tub heating cable.
You can make an outdoor spa yourself, using an old bathtub as a reservoir for a children's jacuzzi, and tubes and a compressor for pumping air as nozzles for massage, but it is better to buy electrical equipment for heating in a store
You will also need to install wiring to connect the hot tub's internal heating cable. You can make an outdoor spa yourself, using an old bathtub as a reservoir for a children's jacuzzi, and tubes and a compressor for pumping air as nozzles for massage, but it is better to buy electrical equipment for heating in a store.
It is better to entrust the installation of electrical wiring, connection of the heating and lighting systems to a professional, so that the hot tub in an outdoor SPA with lighting and heating will last a long time, and at the same time receive a guarantee for the Jacuzzi and installation of the SPA.
If a spa visit and massage are planned outdoors, including for rest and relaxation outside in winter, a Jacuzzi requires protective insulation and waterproofing. You can make formwork from wooden boards. This option for an outdoor SPA will look beautiful in combination with a wooden terrace.
Operating rules
- Install coarse filters on the water supply in front of the jacuzzi so that the holes for supplying water jets (hydromassage) do not become clogged with sand.
- To prevent the pump and compressor from failing due to overheating, limit massage sessions to 30 minutes and after each one, turn off the equipment for at least 10 minutes.
If there is a hydromassage function, periodically pump a disinfectant solution through the pump and massage circuit.
To do this, you need to fill the bathtub and dissolve a special disinfectant composition in water (you can buy it in stores like “bath supplies”), then let the equipment run for 10 minutes.
Let's decide on the composition
Usually a small area in the pool is allocated for a jacuzzi. If the pool is stationary and its bowl is concrete, then the Jacuzzi system is worked out and laid in advance. Moreover, according to the design, the common pool and the Jacuzzi pool can be either combined or two independent bowls, which can be located on the same or at different levels. It all depends on desire and design.
Do not confuse a jacuzzi with a spa pool. The latter water is supplied completely disinfected, purified, using cartridge filters and always warm. Such a complex procedure is an opportunity to filter hard chlorinated water and neutralize it. If you don't do this, your spa equipment, which is more sensitive than a hot tub, will quickly become caked with lime and fail.
As for the jacuzzi, everything is simple here, the water can be ordinary from the common pool and cool. But it is desirable that the pool has the ability to heat the water, since the effect of a massage in cold water will not be. Since this is a separate small space, it can, for example, be placed in the corner part of the pool and make the depth only up to 60 cm, and the length up to 1 m 80 cm. This size is enough for several vacationers to lie down or sit down. The air and water supply nozzles are placed in such a way that some of them are directed to the cervical region, some to the lumbar region and some to the legs. The nozzles can also be placed on the side walls of the bowl. This is necessary for a good relaxing effect. Function control can be located on the panel, or using a pneumatic button or remote control.
Let's say you already have a ready-made in-depth pool on the site, then you can dig an additional jacuzzi pool nearby and decorate this composition with a podium. The result is an excellent spa terrace where you can relax with family or friends. You can make a canopy from the sun.
Choosing a form
First of all, you need to decide on the material from which the font will be made, and its shape. Previously, in Rus', such a bathing container was an ordinary wooden barrel in the shape of a circle or oval. But the development of modern construction technologies allows you to choose any shape: from a traditional circle to a triangle or square. The only question is how many people the bathhouse is designed for and whether there is room to place a mini-pool in the house or on the veranda.
Traditionally, fonts are built in the shape of an oval. It saves space and can be installed even in a small steam room. In addition, oval fonts hold their shape well and are easy to assemble during installation.
The spherical shape is ideal for the traditional Japanese bath - ofuro. The difference between ofuro and the usual Russian bathhouse is that it is essentially both a bathhouse and a place for swimming at the same time. The Japanese version requires a separate place to place the stove: it can be installed inside the structure itself or located nearby. A do-it-yourself font with a stove can be made in exactly this form.
The square shape rarely becomes a favorite among bathhouse owners. It is not practical and its design is not rigid enough. In addition, square structures dry out much longer than their spherical “brothers”, and this happens very unevenly, and this can lead to defects in the wooden structure. It is for this reason that experts round the corners on the inside.
Triangle-shaped structures are traditionally made of wood or artificial materials (for example, plastic). Its advantages are that it is compact and can stand in the corner of the room without taking up much space in the bathhouse. Visually, such a mini-pool is pleasing to the eye and looks modern and representative. It is universal and suitable for almost all types of premises. Ofuro is ideal for those who are thinking about how to make a heated font with their own hands.
Photo from the site https://strb64.ru
Useful tips
In order for the hot tub to serve for a long time and not lose its effectiveness, you must follow two simple rules: carry out regular maintenance and make timely repairs.
Jacuzzi components inevitably wear out before the bowl itself. Once every ten years, some spare parts will need to be replaced. The best option for this is to use “original” spare parts, that is, from the same manufacturer. It is advisable to purchase all spare parts in advance so that they correspond as closely as possible to the original configuration.
To keep the auxiliary components in good working order longer, it is important to install filtration on the hot and cold water pipes. Filters should be not only large-caliber, but also small ones
And the system also gets clogged if you wash in the jacuzzi as in a regular bath with the hydromassage turned on. This is not recommended by the manufacturer, nor is the use of essential oils in a hot tub, which does not have an aromatherapy function. Fatty oil components clog injectors and pipes. It is better to make mixtures of oils and drip them into the aroma lamp next to the jacuzzi, rather than clogging the plumbing.
Regular maintenance is responsible for the safety of the system and appearance.
At the level of daily procedures, it is necessary to dry the bathroom so that dampness does not stagnate in it
But it is also important to rinse the Jacuzzi bowl with cool water and wipe its surface with a soft, dry cloth. The absence of moisture in the bowl will protect it from rust
At the level of monthly procedures, disinfection is important. If the function is not built into the jacuzzi model, you can do it yourself. You can use a weak bleach solution or ready-made products. 50-100 ml of solution should be poured into a Jacuzzi filled with water 5-10 cm above the top row of nozzles, turn on the pump for half a minute, then leave the bath for 15-20 minutes and drain the water. After this, you need to run the pump with clean water in the font to get rid of the smell of chlorine.
Once a year, the system needs to be cleaned of stone deposits, this is how it is designed. To do this, pour 1.5-2 liters of acetic acid of 7% concentration into a filled Jacuzzi, rinse the system, turn off the pump and leave the water-acetic solution overnight. In the morning, you can rinse the entire system with cool water.
Scratches on acrylic are carefully rubbed with fine-grain sandpaper. You can apply car polishing paste on top, and the Jacuzzi will shine like new again.
To see how a Jacuzzi is made, see the following video.
Organization of water drainage
Draining water from the font is quite simple if you take care of it in advance even before installing the mini pool. If in a steam bath the barrel drain is usually connected to a sewer pipe, then in the street version you usually have to use a portable hose, or even worse, use a storm sewer.
The situation is worse with wooden hot tubs; in this case, you have to drain the water through a submersible hose, as in the case of an ordinary garden tank. It’s better not to even try to cut the fitting into the bottom or wooden wall; over time, the wood will swell or shrink, and a water leak will certainly appear.
Things are a little better with plastic barrels - fonts. Most containers are installed on a pre-prepared site, and the water is drained through a drain pipe soldered into the bottom. You will have to lay additional street drainage, but it can also be used to drain water after washing the font.
Draining water outdoors is always difficult. If a wooden container is left to winter outside, then at least ¾ of the volume of water will need to be drained and a couple of pine or deciduous logs filled with the remaining amount. This scheme does not allow the remaining water to rot and fill the mini pool with a foul odor, and in cold weather it will not allow frozen ice to deform the font.
Additional functions of hydromassage baths: photos of practical models
In addition to a variety of massage options, baths for greater comfort of use are complemented by other functions that have a positive effect on relaxation and healing of the body, as well as a positive effect not only on the physical, but also on the moral state. Bathtubs, depending on the model, are equipped with the following options:
- chromotherapy;
- automatic water heating;
- automatic filling of the bowl;
- built-in audio system with Bluetooth;
- control using a remote control, allowing you to select the desired mode without unnecessary movements.
Bathtubs with hydromassage can be equipped with additional options: chromotherapy, water heating, audio system, control panel
Chromotherapy is underwater lighting that affects a person’s emotional state. When using the function, a number of LED lamps with light filters are turned on, which have minimal power consumption. Depending on the price, some models will light up in only one color at all times, while others offer a smooth alternation of colors and light intensity, which speeds up the relaxation process. The best manufacturers integrate lamps so that they are not felt to the touch.
Anyone who likes to relax in the bath for long periods of time has experienced the need to constantly fill up hot water to maintain comfort. Some hydromassage models are distinguished by the presence of an automatic heating function, which allows you to set the required temperature on the sensor, which will be maintained throughout the entire bathing period. The presence of such a function makes it possible to take a bath at any convenient time and not depend on the presence of a hot central water supply.
Brands
Modern hot tubs come in a variety of brands. The world's most famous manufacturers of Jacuzzis for outdoor use are several companies.
- Polish brand Poolspa. The company produces hot tubs, spas and swimming pools of excellent quality. For more than 20 years, Poolspa has been part of the Roca group of companies, and is considered one of the leaders in the global market for hydromassage products. Products from the Poolspa brand can perfectly combine everyday comfort and the sophistication of a stylish design that delights others.
- Jazzi Pool amp; Spa Products – produces the best equipment for various types of pools and Jacuzzis. The brand is well known in many countries around the world; in the USA itself, products are manufactured under a recognizable trade name – Island Escape.
- The Hungarian company Wellis has been producing its products since 2003. During this time, the company gained enormous popularity in European countries. After all, more and more people are choosing a high-quality lifestyle and want to use the highest quality wellness equipment, be it a spa, a swimming pool, a small whirlpool bath or a huge counter-current pool.
Manufacturing materials
A hot tub or bowl is made from the same materials as regular bathtubs. In this case, the choice of material determines the aesthetic characteristics of the product and its performance qualities. How often you will have to wash off the plaque on the surface of the bathtub, how many years it will last, whether the bathtub will be light and fragile or impact-resistant and heavy - all this depends on the choice of material.
Different types of raw materials are popular. If we are not talking about an apartment, but about a private house, a sauna, an outdoor jacuzzi, a bathhouse or a hammam, then it is important to use concrete structures.
Concrete Jacuzzis are strong and solid; the entire system of pipes and compressors is securely fixed with mortar. This is one of the cheapest options, which allows you to fill a Jacuzzi of any shape and configuration. Service life – from 20 years.
Concrete models also have disadvantages. It is unsafe to fill such a bathtub in an apartment; repairing the internal water intake and supply system is difficult due to the fact that the structure can be buried in the ground or the foundation of the bathhouse; concrete itself is a cold material. It requires additional decorative finishing on top and good care.
An alternative option for a private home is a wooden Jacuzzi. In the apartment, wood trim is also found, but it is more of an external cladding that hides all the functional elements of the system. The bowl itself is made of acrylic or stainless steel.
A wooden Jacuzzi has a number of advantages. This is an environmentally friendly material that can be given any shape. It enhances the therapeutic effect of massage, creates a feeling of harmony with nature, and fits perfectly into many bathroom interior styles. Wood is warm and maintains the water temperature at the desired heat level for a long time.
But wood is quite expensive, and its service life in a humid and warm environment is shorter than that of a hot tub made from other materials. This is due to the fact that the wood will begin to darken and rot over time, and stains and defects may appear on it.
An option for both an apartment and a house is cast iron hot tubs with an enamel coating. Cast iron is resistant to mechanical damage, high strength and durability. The outer coating protects it from the negative effects of water. The coating looks beautiful and can have different shades in both monochrome and color spectrum. The coating is easy to care for; it is not afraid of water and chemicals.
Cast iron bathtubs weigh a lot. They are difficult to transport and require a good filling of the bathroom floor. Cast iron lasts longer than its inner lining.
The properties of a steel Jacuzzi are close to those of cast iron.
- This is a stainless, impact-resistant, durable, malleable material. It fits harmoniously into many modern interiors; heating works great in steel structures.
- Stainless steel is easy to clean, nozzles are almost invisible on it, it is non-slip and pleasant to use.
- Steel hot tubs without a special coating on top have several disadvantages.
- They become covered with an unsightly coating that can only be removed with a dry cloth.
- Do not clean steel products with abrasive substances - they will become scratched.
- When you fill a steel Jacuzzi with water, it makes much louder noise than acrylic, cast iron or wood. The closest neighbors usually don't like this noise.
Acrylic Jacuzzis are considered optimal for apartments. This polymer material looks beautiful, does not crack, does not darken, is impact-resistant and durable, does not make noise and releases heat slowly, it is ten times lighter than cast iron.
Acrylic as a raw material is very plastic. This allows you to make a Jacuzzi of any shape and size from it and paint the products in any color. Both traditional white Jacuzzis and bolder options - red, black, with a pattern - look gorgeous in the interior of a modern bathroom.
A type of acrylic is methacrylic. These materials differ little in their properties, but transparent products can be made from methacrylic. This opens up a wide range of possibilities for Jacuzzi design.
Adding quartz sand to methacrylic turns it into quaril, the most durable of polymer materials. It is superior to its counterparts in all respects, but costs several times more and weighs more.
Separately, it is worth noting the inflatable Jacuzzis. This is a convenient mobile design made of PVC materials that you can take with you to the country house or install in your apartment. The aesthetics of inflatable Jacuzzis are questionable, but their practicality is one hundred percent.
Heating types
This is a very important question when creating a font from scrap materials. Basically, several methods are used.
- External heating with wood burning firebox. In this case, the structure is based at the top on a forged lattice with characteristic legs or is lined with stones. There is a stove below. This option can be used even in winter if the required temperature is maintained.
- External heating on the side at a short distance from the vat. This option with a stove is also acceptable. A screw-type heating element is mounted at a distance. There is firewood for heating inside. The upper and lower ends of the heater are brought directly to the barrel to ensure contact with water. The design is not suitable for a bathhouse, but can be installed in the garden, near the house.
A metal, cast-iron vat heated with wood is the simplest solution to the problem when creating a hot tub with a stove for a heated outdoor cottage.
Another option is heating warm water using a heating element. If the font is winter, the heating method is better suited than others, because the temperature can be maintained automatically. The only condition is the availability of electricity. Hot water is kept in the vat as long as the electrical device is plugged into the outlet. This cannot be achieved in portable hot tub models.
Small fonts are often taken with them to the lake if the water temperature in the reservoir does not allow swimming. It is advisable to do this if there are small children in the family. Compact vats are made of lightweight plastic or special, waterproof material. But in this case, you will have to carry a small potbelly stove with you to heat the water. Of course, this is not a Finnish sauna, but you will certainly be able to relax and have fun in the lap of nature.
Country jacuzzi
If you are interested in installing a jacuzzi in your country house, then this can be done with minimal investment of time and money. There are functional models for country use on sale, including heated inflatable bathtubs and stationary outdoor systems. However, you can make a country jacuzzi with your own hands.
Tools and consumables
First of all, you will need to prepare the following consumables:
The tools used for assembly are spatulas, a grinder, a hammer, a tape measure, grinding equipment and a building level.
Installation location
A country jacuzzi can be installed on flat and hard surfaces with a convenient approach. If the dimensions of the structure exceed 3 m, care must be taken to ensure free access for vehicles to deliver equipment to the site.
Manufacturing instructions
Having chosen a place for installation, you should carefully prepare it. To do this, you need to remove surface unevenness and clean it from dust and dirt. Then the arrangement of the bowl of the future hydromassage bath with your own hands begins. The action is carried out by installing brick or concrete fences. In addition, you can take the finished acrylic bathtub outside.
The next step is to connect plumbing fixtures, including pumping equipment, fittings, pipes and hoses. The specifics of installation depend on the type of pipes. The main thing is that they are of high quality and look harmonious.
Finally, all that remains is to connect the Jacuzzi to the electrical network and install the cladding.
How to choose?
The main question concerns financial capabilities, hard work and the desire to assemble a font with your own hands from scrap materials. If there is no motivation to create a structure yourself, it is better to buy a ready-made model, connect the equipment and enjoy water treatments. In another case, when there is a strong confidence in setting up a swimming pool with your own hands on a summer cottage, you need to use useful instructions.
Massive, deep structures can be purchased and installed over a large area. If there is an obvious shortage of total space in a country house, it is advisable to assemble a small font. When the choice is made in favor of a specific model, you should decide on key materials.
Below are the main pros and cons of wooden, polypropylene and metal vats for water procedures.
- Made of wood. Advantages: environmental safety, low cost, attractive aesthetics. Disadvantages: the wood dries out and cracks over time. There are also certain difficulties during assembly.
- Made from polypropylene. Advantages: absolute tightness, durability, can be maintained with detergents. Disadvantages: high cost, external finishing with decorative materials is required.
- Made from stainless steel. Advantages: long service life, tightness, immunity to external influences. Disadvantages: high price, need for decoration, certain discomfort for the body.
Many believe that the best option for a hot tub on your own property is products using a polyurethane bowl.
