How to Choose a Massage Tub
Build your own personal spa oasis around one of American Standard's massage tubs. With every option from the gentle, soothing bubbles of an air bath to the stronger, vigorous massage of a whirlpool, to the variety of a combo massage, American Standard's massage tubs offer something for everyone.
Here's what to consider when choosing a new massage tub...
What type of massage system is right for you?
Whirlpools
Whirlpools are perfect for those looking for a strong deep tissue massage to soothe sore muscles and joints or to reduce stress. A whirlpool uses a pump to force water through the jets. Many American Standard whirlpools include one or more air volume controls which allow precise control of jet force levels by adding air into the water jets to soften the force. American Standard whirlpools are offered with various systems including Ecosilent™, EverClean®, and standard.
Air Baths
Enjoy the gentle pampering of thousands of warm air bubbles with American Standard's Everclean® air baths. Air baths use a blower and built-in heater to force warm air through perfectly smooth air jets located around the tub perimeter. The air jets are quiet, self-draining, and easy to clean, while the built-in heating unit keeps the water warm. Selecting the strength of the air bubble massage, from calm and gentle to brisk and invigorating, is made with the touch of a button.
Combo Massage Systems
American Standard's EcoSilent™ Combo Massage Systems feature the patented Everclean® system and combine the massage jets from a whirlpool with the relaxing smooth air jets from an air bath which allows you to choose from a variety of massage options, ranging from a gentle air bubble massage to an invigorating water jet massage, to match a wide range of bathing needs.
Will the massage jets match your needs?
Whirlpool Jets
There are a wide variety of jets available on different American Standard whirlpool models. While each type of jet provides and soothing massage there are some differences.
Multi-directional Jets: allows you to move the individual jet in virtually any direction to target body areas needing the most powerful massage
Flow-adjustable Jets: allows you to adjust the amount of water flowing through the jet and thus the strength of the massage
Rotary Jets: lumbar jets that rotate automatically from the water pressure, resulting in a pulsating massage
Clean Jets™: the Clean Jet™ design makes the jets easier to clean and are directionally adjustable. The jets are flush against the tub, so you can soak without being poked.
Ideal-Flow™ Jets: high output jets are both multi-directional and flow adjustable
Body-Flow™ Jets: body massage jets that are both multi-directional and flow adjustable
Air Jets
Designed to excite the skin and massage the body, American Standard's perfectly smooth air jets around the tub perimeter pamper you with thousands of warm air bubbles to create a unique form of gentler hydrotherapy.
Number of Jets
Whirlpool jets should surround and soothe the entire body. When choosing a whirlpool, consider the number and location of the jets. Some whirlpools feature extra or specialized jets in specific areas such as the lumbar region.
Do you want a quiet, energy efficient system?
The revolutionary American Standard EcoSilent™ whirlpool system cuts noise levels by 50 percent while using 45 percent less energy than the previous generation of whirlpools thanks to innovative engineering, which integrates the pump and motor into a single unit. The powerful factory-installed motors allow you to select your preferred whirlpool experience, from a relaxing swirl to a vigorous deep tissue massage, without accompanying noise or vibration. All EcoSilent whirlpools include the Everclean® system.
Is cleanliness important to you?
The EverClean® system, exclusively from American Standard, is the easiest way to keep your whirlpool and air bath circulation system clean. Featuring a patented antimicrobial additive molded into the piping, Everclean protects the pipes from algae, fungus, and mildew.
What kind of installation fits your bathroom design?
Massage tubs from American Standard come in a variety of installation types to match nearly any bathroom design.
Deck mounted
Deck mounted tubs, also called drop-in tubs, feature a self-rimming finished edge and are 'dropped' into a surrounding platform. These tubs can be installed in a variety of locations including corners, recesses, and islands. They can also be sunk into a floor so that the rim is at floor lever. Deck mounted tubs are supported from below.
Undermounted
Undermounted tubs are mounted under the deck of the surrounding platform creating a smooth deck surface. These tubs can be installed in a variety of locations including corners, recesses, and islands. The tub is supported from below.
Alcove
Alcove installations consist of a tub location that is surrounded by walls on three sides. Both integral apron tubs and tubs with optional aprons can be installed in alcove locations. Some models come with an integral tile flange to keep water from getting between the tub and the walls. For alcove tubs it is important to choose a tub with the correct drain location, either left or right-hand.
Freestanding
Freestanding baths can be installed nearly anywhere within a bathroom. The tub is often supported by a decorative base or individual feet. Freestanding tubs often come in clawfoot or slipper soaking models.
Corner
Corner or triangle tubs are designed to fit into the corner of a room. These tubs can be either deck mounted or available with a front apron. Most corner tubs are five sided, two sides that meet the corner walls and a three sided front, but can also come with a bowed front. Many are designed for two person bathing.
How big is your bathroom?
Space can be a problem when choosing a massage tub. It can be helpful to first measure the space to find which sized tub will best fit before looking at tubs. This way you don't fall in love with a large tub that won't fit your bathroom. Many of American Standard's massage tubs come in the same sizes as bathtubs so there are plenty of options to choose from even for small spaces.
When choosing a size also consider how much water the tub will use. Massage tubs can hold a lot of water, up to 90 gallons which can raise two issues. First, if you live in an area with water shortages, you might consider a smaller model. Second, it may use more water than your hot water heater can hold. Ask your plumber. A second heater can be easily installed or consider an in-line bath heater. In addition, be sure the floor can support the extra weight.
What style do you like?
Bathroom fixtures set the tone for your total bathroom look. Your toilet, lavatory and massage tub can have design elements that harmonize with each other. However, since tub designs are often less stylized than other fixtures such as the toilet, you can often mix and match similar designs.
What other options are important to you?
Chromatherapy
Chromatherapy is a lighting system that consists of LEDs located below the waterline which flood the water with a range of calming colors that can be selected manually or cycled automatically to match your mood. Chromatherapy systems are offered on both air baths and combo massage systems.
Heater
Once your tub is filled with warm water, you will want a way to keep the temperature warm to prolong a comfortable and soothing bathing experience. American Standard massage tubs all come with either built in or optional heaters to keep the water warm.
Warranty
All of American Standard massage tubs feature a limited lifetime warranty, with free-in home warranty repairs, guaranteed. American Standard's proven track record is supported by our National Warranty Program and National Service Agent Network.
Safety Features
Safety should be an important consideration. All American Standard whirlpool systems are completely UL® listed and approved. Not just individual components. A dedicated circuit is necessary for the pump, and your electrician should install a ground fault circuit interrupter. If it detects a short, it immediately shuts off the power. All our whirlpools also offer a built-in, non-slip surface for added safety
Take the “Help Me Choose” Interactive Quiz
Here's what to consider when choosing a new massage tub...
What type of massage system is right for you?
Whirlpools
Whirlpools are perfect for those looking for a strong deep tissue massage to soothe sore muscles and joints or to reduce stress. A whirlpool uses a pump to force water through the jets. Many American Standard whirlpools include one or more air volume controls which allow precise control of jet force levels by adding air into the water jets to soften the force. American Standard whirlpools are offered with various systems including Ecosilent™, EverClean®, and standard.
Air Baths
Enjoy the gentle pampering of thousands of warm air bubbles with American Standard's Everclean® air baths. Air baths use a blower and built-in heater to force warm air through perfectly smooth air jets located around the tub perimeter. The air jets are quiet, self-draining, and easy to clean, while the built-in heating unit keeps the water warm. Selecting the strength of the air bubble massage, from calm and gentle to brisk and invigorating, is made with the touch of a button.
Combo Massage Systems
American Standard's EcoSilent™ Combo Massage Systems feature the patented Everclean® system and combine the massage jets from a whirlpool with the relaxing smooth air jets from an air bath which allows you to choose from a variety of massage options, ranging from a gentle air bubble massage to an invigorating water jet massage, to match a wide range of bathing needs.
Will the massage jets match your needs?
Whirlpool Jets
There are a wide variety of jets available on different American Standard whirlpool models. While each type of jet provides and soothing massage there are some differences.
Multi-directional Jets: allows you to move the individual jet in virtually any direction to target body areas needing the most powerful massage
Flow-adjustable Jets: allows you to adjust the amount of water flowing through the jet and thus the strength of the massage
Rotary Jets: lumbar jets that rotate automatically from the water pressure, resulting in a pulsating massage
Clean Jets™: the Clean Jet™ design makes the jets easier to clean and are directionally adjustable. The jets are flush against the tub, so you can soak without being poked.
Ideal-Flow™ Jets: high output jets are both multi-directional and flow adjustable
Body-Flow™ Jets: body massage jets that are both multi-directional and flow adjustable
Air Jets
Designed to excite the skin and massage the body, American Standard's perfectly smooth air jets around the tub perimeter pamper you with thousands of warm air bubbles to create a unique form of gentler hydrotherapy.
Number of Jets
Whirlpool jets should surround and soothe the entire body. When choosing a whirlpool, consider the number and location of the jets. Some whirlpools feature extra or specialized jets in specific areas such as the lumbar region.
Do you want a quiet, energy efficient system?
The revolutionary American Standard EcoSilent™ whirlpool system cuts noise levels by 50 percent while using 45 percent less energy than the previous generation of whirlpools thanks to innovative engineering, which integrates the pump and motor into a single unit. The powerful factory-installed motors allow you to select your preferred whirlpool experience, from a relaxing swirl to a vigorous deep tissue massage, without accompanying noise or vibration. All EcoSilent whirlpools include the Everclean® system.
Is cleanliness important to you?
The EverClean® system, exclusively from American Standard, is the easiest way to keep your whirlpool and air bath circulation system clean. Featuring a patented antimicrobial additive molded into the piping, Everclean protects the pipes from algae, fungus, and mildew.
What kind of installation fits your bathroom design?
Massage tubs from American Standard come in a variety of installation types to match nearly any bathroom design.
Deck mounted
Deck mounted tubs, also called drop-in tubs, feature a self-rimming finished edge and are 'dropped' into a surrounding platform. These tubs can be installed in a variety of locations including corners, recesses, and islands. They can also be sunk into a floor so that the rim is at floor lever. Deck mounted tubs are supported from below.
Undermounted
Undermounted tubs are mounted under the deck of the surrounding platform creating a smooth deck surface. These tubs can be installed in a variety of locations including corners, recesses, and islands. The tub is supported from below.
Alcove
Alcove installations consist of a tub location that is surrounded by walls on three sides. Both integral apron tubs and tubs with optional aprons can be installed in alcove locations. Some models come with an integral tile flange to keep water from getting between the tub and the walls. For alcove tubs it is important to choose a tub with the correct drain location, either left or right-hand.
Freestanding
Freestanding baths can be installed nearly anywhere within a bathroom. The tub is often supported by a decorative base or individual feet. Freestanding tubs often come in clawfoot or slipper soaking models.
Corner
Corner or triangle tubs are designed to fit into the corner of a room. These tubs can be either deck mounted or available with a front apron. Most corner tubs are five sided, two sides that meet the corner walls and a three sided front, but can also come with a bowed front. Many are designed for two person bathing.
How big is your bathroom?
Space can be a problem when choosing a massage tub. It can be helpful to first measure the space to find which sized tub will best fit before looking at tubs. This way you don't fall in love with a large tub that won't fit your bathroom. Many of American Standard's massage tubs come in the same sizes as bathtubs so there are plenty of options to choose from even for small spaces.
When choosing a size also consider how much water the tub will use. Massage tubs can hold a lot of water, up to 90 gallons which can raise two issues. First, if you live in an area with water shortages, you might consider a smaller model. Second, it may use more water than your hot water heater can hold. Ask your plumber. A second heater can be easily installed or consider an in-line bath heater. In addition, be sure the floor can support the extra weight.
What style do you like?
Bathroom fixtures set the tone for your total bathroom look. Your toilet, lavatory and massage tub can have design elements that harmonize with each other. However, since tub designs are often less stylized than other fixtures such as the toilet, you can often mix and match similar designs.
What other options are important to you?
Chromatherapy
Chromatherapy is a lighting system that consists of LEDs located below the waterline which flood the water with a range of calming colors that can be selected manually or cycled automatically to match your mood. Chromatherapy systems are offered on both air baths and combo massage systems.
Heater
Once your tub is filled with warm water, you will want a way to keep the temperature warm to prolong a comfortable and soothing bathing experience. American Standard massage tubs all come with either built in or optional heaters to keep the water warm.
Warranty
All of American Standard massage tubs feature a limited lifetime warranty, with free-in home warranty repairs, guaranteed. American Standard's proven track record is supported by our National Warranty Program and National Service Agent Network.
Safety Features
Safety should be an important consideration. All American Standard whirlpool systems are completely UL® listed and approved. Not just individual components. A dedicated circuit is necessary for the pump, and your electrician should install a ground fault circuit interrupter. If it detects a short, it immediately shuts off the power. All our whirlpools also offer a built-in, non-slip surface for added safety
Take the “Help Me Choose” Interactive Quiz
