Bathroom Whirlpool Bath

Whirlpool Bath

Checklist before operating a whirlpool bath.

1. Make sure water is 1" - 3" above jets when operating.

2. Make sure jets are open.

3. Check suction opening and pressure.

4. GFCI - make sure it stops pump when tested.

Whirlpool baths are very relaxing to bath in. Operated incorrectly and costly damage can be done. Operated unsafely and serious injury can occur.

Problem: Inoperative pump. Causes include there may be no electric power for the pump (ie. the GFCI may have tripped or may be defective), the pump motor may be burned out, the pump may be seized and/or there may be a control problem. The whirlpool function of the tub is defeated.

Problem: Excess pump noise/vibration. Excess noise or vibration may be caused by bad bearings, foreign material in the pump, cavitating pump because of air on the suction side and/or a pump that is not well secured. The implications may be premature pump failure or leakage.

Problem: No pump access. This is an installation issue. Damage to interior finishes may result when pump service is required.

Problem: Jets inoperative or immovable. The jets may be seized as a result of deterioration or foreign material. People won't be able to set up the whirlpool effect the way they want. If the jets won't deliver water damage may be done to the pump.

Problem: Dirty water from jets. The pipes on the circulation system may be dirty. This is particularly likely if the tub has been idle for some time. The system may not be sanitary.

Problem: Odor. An odor may be caused by dirt and bacterial growth in the circulation system. This is a health concern.

Problem: Suction cover missing. Hair and other things may be drawn into the circulation system. The implication is foreign materials entering the pump and possible drowning.

Problem: Surface defects. These may be the result of an impact, dripping faucets with copper or steel supply piping, harsh chemicals in the tub, sometimes the water from wells will stain and/or abrasive cleaners used on delicate materials such as acrylics. In many cases these are simply cosmetic defects. Where cracks appear mold growth is a problem.

Problem: No Ground Fault Circuit Breaker. All whirlpool tubs should have a dedicated electric circuit protected by a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). A missing GFCI is an installation issue.

Problem: Electrical switch or receptacles too close to tub. If the switches are electric they should be 3 feet or more from the tub. Receptacles should similarly be at least 3 feet from the tub. This is an installation issue. Electrocution is the risk here.

Problem: Leaks. Leaks can occur at the tub itself, the pump, supply drain or circulating piping, connections at any of these, anti-siphon devices, the overflow and/or spills and splashing around the outside of the tub. These can be installation, maintenance or operation issues. The implications of leakage are cosmetic damage to interior finishes below and structural damage to wood members exposed to the moisture.

Problem: Inappropriate finishes in wet areas. Absorbent finishes will draw moisture in and are likely to stain or deteriorate. Wood is a good example of this. Plaster or drywall in wet areas will crumble and disintegrate. Textured finishes hold water and foster growth of mold and mildew. Areas around bathtubs and showers should have smooth, hard, non-absorbent finishes to a height of a least six feet above floor level. This is an installation issue.