Hot Tubs, the Inner Workings
Nothing is more relaxing after a hard day’s work than soaking in hot water with a glass of Bordeaux chilled at just the right temperature so you are warmed both inside and outside. This is even better if there are jets spewing out clean pressurized water to massage your sore muscles.
Except for the red wine, a hot tub can provide you all these. With a few machines and pipes, the water is kept hot for as long as you like. It is also kept clean and free from microorganisms. And with tiny spouts, it gushes out streams of air and water.
A hot tub consists of a water pump, heater, water filter, and a network of pipes. An air induction system, air blower, and an ozonator may also be added. Most modern tubs incorporate a control panel allowing you to set the desired temperature as well as regulate its other functions. All you need to do is to push buttons on the panel and the tub comes to life.
Pushing the start button activates both the pump and heater. The pump draws water from the tub at or near the surface of the water, and forces it into the heater. Heating elements raise water temperature according the level previously set. The heater is equipped with switches that regulate the flow of water through it. Thus water is held within the heater until it reaches the set temperature. Another switch prevents overheating that could happen when water flow from the pump is restricted.
To help keep the water clean, a filtration system is necessary. This may be installed before the pump or after the heater. Filters before the pump are called suction types, while those after the heater are pressure types. These remove floating hair, dead skin, and other debris that have been left or fallen into the tub.
From either the heater or the pressure type filter, the water flows to the jets via a web of PVC pipes. These jets are usually installed in several places in the tub. In order to generate high-pressure bursts for hydromassage, it is necessary to have an induction system. This brings in air and mixes it with the warm water before it is delivered into the tub. This mixture can be controlled and adjusted for a stronger or weaker spray.
A separate blower can also be installed if you wish to have bubbles in your tub. This has its own machine that draws in air and delivers air through its own pipes and jets.
An ozonator is an optional gadget that helps minimize your expenses for bromine and chlorine by getting rid of bacteria, viruses, yeasts, and other microorganisms.