Choose a bath ‘hydrotherapy’ to match your lifestyle
Q. I have been following your plumbing advice for years and have learned that planning well in advance is the key to a successful remodel job. I’m putting together my plans for a future bathroom remodel and want to choose the perfect bath. What ideas can you suggest for a therapeutic-type bathtub?
A. Years ago, your home hydrotherapy bath choices would have been very basic. But today’s fixtures offer a variety of tub styles and bathing experiences.
With that in mind, I put together a few of the most popular and relaxing bathing options that I’ve had the opportunity to work with:
1. Bubble-massage therapy — “Easy does it” is the key phrase for this type of bath. For a very gentle experience, a bubble-type tub pushes air through tiny holes positioned in the bottom of the tub. This is a great choice for aging-in-place bathrooms.
2. Traditional whirlpool jets — “If you work hard, play hard” with the powerful action of pump-driven water jets complete with air induction.
3. Kohler’s VibrAcoustic sound therapy — “Unwind your mind” with this new technology that uses vibrating musical sound waves that travel through the water, plus colorful mood lighting for an added benefit. This is the kind of relaxing tub therapy that literally lets you tune in and tune out!
Ÿ Master plumber Ed Del Grande is the author of “Ed Del Grande’s House Call” and hosts TV and Internet shows. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eddelgrande@cs.com. Always consult local contractors and codes.
Scripps Howard News Service