Consumer's Guide to
Buying a Whirlpool Bath

Watertech Company Information   Knowledgeable Staff Company Philosophy   Factory Direct Pricing Shipping   Toll Free Number Whirlpool Bath Installation   Watertech vs. the Competition Watertech Warranty Whirlpool Bath Features   Jets Air Injection   Acrylic Colors Difference in Tub Materials   Matching Colors Low Pricing   Rigid PVC Pipe System Steel Base   Tub Skirts Pumps & Motors Whirlpool Bath Options   Air Switch Trim Kits   Heaters Special Pump/Motor Locations   Grab Handles Pillows & Headrests   Low Water Sensors Tile Flange   Drains Faucets   Specialty Switches Additional Jets/Special Jet Location       Underwater Mood Lights

Watertech IS Different From The Rest

Unlike large corporations, Watertech is a family owned and operated maker of superior whirlpool bath products. Our sales people are "hands on" and know the product inside and out unlike many retail salespeople who often mislead or misinform customers about a product they know very little about.

[back]

Knowledgeable Staff

Watertech offers you the services of many skilled craftsmen, engineers, designers and a licensed general contractor to provide you with professional help when you need answers to your specific design and building questions. Their practical solutions, years of experience and on the job training can be a tremendous resource that is only a free phone call away. Plus all of our tubs come with a complete reference guide on how to install your whirlpool tub.

[back]

Our Philosophy is Simple

We want to make a quality product and sell it directly to the consumer with factory direct pricing. But that's not all. After the sale, we are there to serve you if you should have a problem, need a part or like many of our customers — decide to buy another bath from us!

Our website is full of information which we hope will educate you about our product line and what to look for while shopping for a whirlpool tub. No hard sell or slick sales pitches. Our objective is to supply you with the facts so you can make an informed buying decision. Once you do, we feel confident that you will be purchasing your next whirlpool bath from Watertech!

[back]

Why Buy Factory Direct?

By purchasing your next whirlpool directly from the manufacturer you are cutting out the "middle man", the retailer who marks the price up 30-40 — even 50%! Plus, you're dealing directly with the maker of the tub who can listen to your concerns and build a tub custom suited to your needs!

With sales all across the USA, we strive each day to build quality whirlpool tubs which is why Consumer Digest presented us with a "Best Buy Award" based on the quality of our products, low factory direct pricing and attention to service after the sale. Click here for a current pricing and accessories list.

When you purchase a Watertech Whirlpool Bath you're not only getting a top quality product, but a fantastic Factory Direct Low Price from a company that was founded on service. Our Golden Rule is "sell a good product and treat every customer as we would like to be treated." We're proud of the fact that we have had literally hundreds of repeat customers over the years! Satisfied customers are our largest sales force. Our tubs are warranted to ensure your complete satisfaction and we use only quality components in the construction of our whirlpool tubs. If our have any questions, give us a toll free call from anywhere in the U.S. or Canada at 1-800-289-8827 — we'd be happy to talk with you.

[back]

Shipping Information

We ship most orders within 1-3 weeks depending on delivery schedules of our trucks and the section of the country in which you live. We gladly accept Visa, MasterCard or Personal Checks. And remember, our pricing includes shipping charges!

[back]

Want More Info? Call Us Toll Free in the US & Canada!

We want to know if we can ever be of any help to you as you decide on your purchase. Please give us a call at 1-800-289-8827. Our regular office hours are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. ET, and 8 a.m.-Noon ET on Saturdays. If you don't have time to call, send us an e-mail.

[back]

Whirlpool Bath Features

Following is a summary of features that you'll find in Watertech Whirlpool Baths. To see descriptions of individual features listed below, please click the faucet icons below. The descriptions will appear in a new window.

Jets

The main jets used in Watertech Whirlpool Baths are high performance SPA jets each individually controllable. You can regulate the water pressure and direction of each jet. Each jet produces 0-16 gallons of water per minute and is 100% self draining, unlike tub jets which produce only 4-6 gallons per minute. No part of our whirlpool system is ever discontinued, so replacement parts, if needed, are available. Jet nozzles can be taken out from INSIDE the tub in case something ever blocks them such as hair or soap oils. It's a simple two minute job. Other tub manufacturers do not offer this type of jet because of cost. Their jets cannot be removed from inside the tub for servicing.

Every Watertech Whirlpool Bath jet nozzle is equipped with a special neoprene bushing, so the direction of flow selected stays constant. Competitor tubs have no such bushings, just plastic rubbing against plastic which quickly wears out.

It would seem that the more jets in a whirlpool system the better the whirlpool. Actually that may not be so. While most salespeople promote the NUMBER of jets in a whirlpool as being a good indicator of quality, in reality it's only one component in determining tub value and quality. It's much more important to use FULLY CONTROLLABLE HIGH PRESSURE SPA JETS that are strategically placed to massage all body parts than it is to put in a lot of weak pressure jets that don't allow you to control the volume and velocity of flow. It's important to remember that the number of jets and their flow must be designed to match the flow of the PUMP/MOTOR. Some companies promote excessive numbers of jets in their tubs and try to sell on "more is better." Check for number of jets, but also check to see if the horsepower of the motor and pump can accommodate those jets and also check to see the amount of water pressure for each jet.

Some companies only put in a couple of jets because, quite frankly, it costs them less. Less for parts and considerably less plumbing time in the factory. They try to sell you on the "swirling" or "true whirlpool" action of their tubs. These types of tubs do little to soothe aching joints and give you a therapeutic massage — and isn't that why you're buying a whirlpool in the first place?

At Watertech we are constantly changing our tub designs and adding new models to accommodate your needs. And remember, since we're a manufacturer we can custom make your tub the way YOU want it. Just another reason why Watertech is one of the leading manufacturers in the market today.

[back]

Automatic Air Injection

Watertech has added to all of its tub models the new technology of automatic air injectors. This important new part allows each jet to produce a constant air-water mixture which provides equal pressure to all jets unlike other manufacturers noisy air controls which allows the first jet in the system to have more pressure than the last. The old style air controls are noisy — producing a whistling sound as air is sucked into the system. With Watertech tubs there are no knobs for children to remove and lose or break.

[back]

Acrylic Colors

All Watertech whirlpool products are made of ICI cast acrylic — the top acrylic manufacturer in the USA. With an acrylic tub you are assured of a rich, deep, long-lasting color — color that runs all the way through the acrylic sheet — unlike fiberglass, cultured marble or thin veneer acrylic tubs. Watertech tubs have a 5-year warranty not to crack, chip, fade or peel and we use only THICK .125 and .157 acrylic sheets unlike other manufacturers who may use a much thinner .080 sheet of acrylic — drastically reducing the tub's quality and serviceability. Acrylic is a non-porous material that soap, dirt and chemicals won't stick to. Cultured marble and fiberglass tubs are porous and allow soaps, chemicals, etc. to cling to them, producing unsightly, hard to clean films and stains on the tub's surface.

[back]

Difference in Tub Materials

Check out this materials comparison chart:

[back]

We Can Match The Color You Need!

Acrylic colors come in a variety to match any commodes and/or sinks you will purchase for your home — an exact match! Watertech produces beautiful, dependable whirlpool tubs which match Kohler, American Standard, Universal Rundle, Eljer and all other major brands of bath fixtures with no problem. The following colors are just a few of the hundreds of examples of colors we can match not to mention the option of marble look acrylic and granite look acrylic surfaces:

Many additional colors are also available. Please call 1-800-289-8827 for color charts, samples, or more information about matching colors and unique, beautiful surface types. Or, click here to view our online color palette.

[back]

Plumbing Your Tub & Parts Descriptions

The plumbing lines that carry the water and air to the jets on a Watertech tub have always been RIGID SCHEDULE 40 PVC pipe. Schedule 40 PVC piping meets all building codes in the U.S. and Canada. Some companies use flexible tubing to plumb their tubs because of its low cost and easy installation. Flex pipe meets absolutely NO building codes in the U.S. or Canada. We use hard piping on your tub to ensure complete draining of the system after you've turned it off. Flex pipe cannot offer you that very important function. Flex pipe tubs or improperly engineered tubs have pipes which sag and trap dirty bath water — water which can cause foul odors, begin the growth of bacteria in your lines and possibly even be a health risk. The suction fitting in your tub is where water is picked up to start the recirculation process. Watertech suction fitting covers are UL listed to provide safe operation for you and your family. All main spa jets have automatic air injectors and all plumbing lines on our tubs are shaped into long curves and bends — reducing noise, increasing jet action and allowing for full drainage.

Click here for photos and more details of the parts we offer.

[back]

Galvanized Steel Base

All Watertech whirlpools come with a pre-leveled structural steel base to reinforce the bottom of the tub and to securely hold the motor in place (cutting down vibration). This galvanized, rust-proof, steel will not flex, warp or rot. Watertech is the ONLY tub maker to offer this important structural innovation. This solid steel base incorporated into your tub is essential to ensure a rigid tub bottom and quiet motor mounting platform. The most common reason for noisy pumps and motors is the use of plastic or wood which can vibrate loose from the tub — allowing the motor to vibrate. Watertech uses no plastic or wood in its tub bases. Tubs which feature plastic drip pans eliminate the opportunity to use mortar under the tub, as most plumbing codes now require. Salesmen often unintentionally mislead the public into believing the drip pan collects water should a leak ever occur. Close inspection of these pans reveals the tub's water far exceeds the volume the pans can hold. Obviously, once the pan is full, it's the same as having no pan at all — leaving you with water damage.

[back]

Tub Skirt Access Panel

Customers have asked for installation tips when they attempt to install an acrylic skirt on their tub when the wall and framing of the area in which the tub is to be installed is slightly out of plumb or level. Sometimes the floor area has tile and other times vinyl — both are of different thickness. This and other minor problems lead the customer to have to make small changes in the skirt. Cutting or adjusting an acrylic tub skirt can be a problem without special tools.

Watertech offers an unfinished oak tub skirts which can be stained to match your cabinets or vanities. Our oak skirts have a removable front door to allow you access to your pump/motor and lines. The oak skirt is also put into place with finish nails and screws. So, minor adjustments that have to be made on the job can be done by even a do-it-yourselfer. The skirt after installation can be stained or painted to match your cabinetry — millworked — or even the tub itself. The oak skirt will come oversized so that you can cut it to fit your opening. Often a tub skirt is used as an area to access the pump — our new oak skirt has a beautiful raised panel that is easily lifted off to access the underside of the tub which is where the pump and plumbing is located. Without question, the best skirt/access panel available and it's easy to install. Models 6032 Ultra, 6043 and 7243 require an additional 1" in width for skirt installation.

[back]

Whirlpool Pumps

All Watertech whirlpools come standard with a quiet 2.0 horsepower GE SPA MOTOR. A 10-year factory warranty is offered on all our pumps and we offer a 3-year warranty on the GE motor. All pumps are 100% self draining, come with a factory installed three-prong electrical cord and plug; have a plastic quick release pump stand that allows for easy servicing and disconnect unions on the pump — making for a plumber's dream for easy installation. Unlike other manufacturers, Watertech uses only GE SPA MOTORS which are designed and engineered specifically for whirlpool baths. Other tub makers may use universal motors with less horsepower that are loud and have excessive vibration. Universal motors are designed to run anything from fans to washing machines. The cost is cheap but performance and quality is poor. Watertech's Spa Jets allow you complete control of direction and water pressure which eliminates the need for variable speed pumps which many manufacturers try to market as an expensive upgrade. Watertech is proud to say that the only pump we have ever used is the Ultrajet driven by a GE motor — so if a part is ever needed, we know exactly what to ship. And, if its under warranty, we can UPS ship you a new pump at NO CHARGE the same day! There is no such thing as a discontinued part as far as Watertech is concerned. Simply give us a call!

[back]

Watertech Bath Options

All Watertech Whirlpool Baths are built with only the highest quality components and leave our factory ready to be installed in your new home, remodel, or addition. Just take a look below at the options available to you.

For photos and more details on Watertech Bath options, please visit our Watertech Bath Options page. To see descriptions of individual features listed below, please click the faucet icons below. The descriptions will appear in a new window.

[back]

E Switch

An electronic switch that turns tub on/off. Only U.L. listed switch on the market. Gives individuals with arthritis a knob to turn on/off instead of pushing an air button.

[back]

Air Switch

An air switch is an air activated button that turns your system on and off with the touch of your finger. No electrical current can reach the bather since this device is air activated. It's convenient, safe, and unlike a light switch or timer, does not have to be placed away from the tub to meet National Electrical Codes. Factory installation of your air switch is included if ordered with your whirlpool — and the switch can come in chrome, polished brass or the acrylic color of your tub.

[back]

Trim Kits

Our trim kits come in polished brass or chrome to provide that elegant, distinctive look to your new bath. These high quality kits can be added to your tub at any time. They just snap on over the existing jet housings. All trim kits are solid metal that will never chip, peel, fade or discolor like cheap plastic trim kits that are coated with metallic finishes that don't last long.

[back]

Heaters

Watertech offers A trouble-free automatic resetting heater.

1) A 1.5 kw electric in-line heater designed to maintain the water temperature in your whirlpool. Especially nice in larger tubs or for those individuals who relax in the tub for long periods, the 1.5 kw in-line heater runs off a simple 110-volt circuit. (Refer to local codes. Have all work performed by a licensed electrician.)

Find out how our Certified Real Heat™ electric heaters can keep you in the “Comfort Zone.”

[back]

Special Pump Locations

A service offered only by Watertech! All our whirlpool tubs come with a standard pump and motor location which is shown in our color product catalog. But we know that many customers cannot gain access to our normal pump and motor locations which is why we can offer you a special pump and motor location to fit YOUR needs. Just let us know when you order your tub and for a very small fee we will custom make your tub and ship it to you within 2-3 weeks in most cases. Remember, ALL building codes require access to the pump for electrical hook-up and servicing — something many salespeople forget to tell you when selling you a tub.

[back]

Additional Jets or Special Jet Locations

While all Watertech Whirlpool Baths are computer engineered and tested to ensure maximum hydrotherapy, we also realize that certain individuals may want or need special jet locations to provide them with hydrotherapy to particular body areas such as knees, hips, feet, lower back, etc. Watertech is the ONLY tub manufacturer that will customize any of its whirlpools to meet YOUR individual needs. Our engineering department will review all of your requests to meet your specifications and to ensure proper design.

[back]

Low Water Sensors

Great for those families with young ones running around, the low water sensor is a factory installed device that will not let the tub operate unless the water level is above the jets. This is a nice safety precaution to keep young children from turning on the tub while it is empty. Note: The cost of the low water sensor also includes the air switch.

[back]

Underwater Mood Lights

Romantic? Want that beautiful look that will really set your bath apart? Watertech's underwater mood light is for you. A safe, mood-setting underwater light available in your choice of blue, red or clear colors. Our lights have front access for easy bulb replacement.

[back]

Grab Handles

Available in polished brass or chrome finishes, our metal grab handles can be added to any tub at the location you choose (Note: some of our whirlpool models have built in clear acrylic rails so metal grab rails would not be needed for those models). Perfect for those of us who are older and have trouble getting into and out of tubs.

[back]

Pillows & Headrests

Pillows or headrests come as part of the tub on many of our models. For those that don't, we offer a soft, water resistant pillow with suction cups that easily attach to the tub surface. All of our pillows work with suction cups so you can remove them for easy cleaning. Pillows and headrests are available in black or white.

[back]

Tile Flange

A tile flange is a metal waterproofing device that can be installed on any tub that is also going to be used as a shower. This metal strip has a waterproof adhesive strip on one edge and is easy to install. It's much better than thin, conventional tile flanges that often leak. Used on many commercial jobs.

[back]

Drains

(Also Known As Waste & Overflow.) Watertech can supply you with a drain for your whirlpool tub that fits the extra depth of all our whirlpools. We stock chrome and polished brass finishes. You may purchase this item when ordering.

[back]

Faucets

All whirlpools must have a faucet. Most whirlpool faucets are deck mounted. Watertech offers a complete line of these faucets. Call 1-800-289-8827 and we will be happy to send you catalogs and pricing. Faucets are available in chrome or polished brass.

[back]

Oak or Acrylic Skirts

Cabinet grade removable front panel for easy service. Can be stained or painted. These skirts have the easiest installation in the whirlpool industry! Remember, Watertech can also custom make acrylic skirts to match your tub.

[back]

Copyright © 2008, HOMETECH INDUSTRIES GROUP. All Rights Reserved.
Hometech produces quality products under the tradenames WATERTECH Whirlpool Baths,
Spas and Accessories and WEATHERGUARD Steel Structures, Car and Patio Covers.

Web design by Addweb Marketing