Whirlpool
Whirlpool baths have become very popular on the Irish market in recent years. These are baths operated by air and water. The suction of the whirlpool takes the water from the bath and into the pump. The motor then uses air to pump the water around the pipe work and out of the jets. All the jets are turned on and off individually. With the jets turned off, you fill the bath with water, turn the whirlpool system on, and turn the jets clockwise.

Whirlpool baths manufactured before having the whirlpool fitted, usually by a specialist electronics company. All the pipe work for the whirlpool is fitted to the bath by them and connected through the motor. The motor is operated by a pneumatic push button, and it requires a supply of 240V, 13 amps, live, neutral, earth (additional exponential earth located on the side of the pump). The exponential earth connection to the motor is in addition to the supply cord and must be carried out.

Baths should always be cleaned immediately after use, preferably whilst the water is running out and the bath is still warm. The film of insoluble soap products and grime that will otherwise harden on the side of the bath is easily removed at this stage. In hard water districts, insoluble lime salts are deposited below the waterline and under leaking taps. If this deposit is allowed to build up, it becomes increasingly difficult to remove, and looks unsightly. Prompt cleaning is again the answer. Hot soapy water and a cloth should be used and then the bath wiped dry. Abrasive cleaners cannot be used on chrome or gold plated fittings.

Whirlpool baths are of benefit to everybody but particularly to those who suffer from arthritis or other joint and back pain brought by the moist Irish climate. They act as a massage function to the body and depending on the number and power of the jets can re-vitalize the body from the rigours of the working day. Whilst considerably more expensive than your standard bath, the benefits are worth the additional cost.

Whirlpool baths are available in most Irish hardware stores in their basic form but to explore a wider choice you will need to visit a specialist supplier.