People who purchase a walk-in bath usually do so out of a need for greater accessibility. The entry door and low step make it easier for those with reduced mobility to enter and exit the tub. But these tubs can also provide a therapeutic experience through the many add-on features they offer. Two of the more popular features you’ll find are massaging water jets and air jets. How do these two kinds of jets differ, and what are their benefits? Keep reading to find out.
Water Jets
As the name implies, water jets circulate the water in the tub, pulling it through an inlet and shooting it out of the jets at high pressure. In a bathtub, the jets are usually placed at strategic locations to provide a massaging sensation to areas of the frequently sore body, such as the back, legs, and feet. Water jets are also referred to as a hydrotherapy system, as they provide many of the same benefits as standard massages, all from the comfort and convenience of your bathtub.
Water jets are an excellent option if you frequently need to rub away aches and pains in your muscles and joints. They’re also beneficial to those who might experience circulation issues in their legs and feet, as an invigorating massage can help promote better blood flow in the body’s extremities.
However, some people don’t enjoy the feeling of a firm massage. While many tubs allow you to adjust the pressure of your hydrotherapy, those water jets still apply a certain amount of pressure to circulate the water properly. If you have sensitive skin or are otherwise sensitive to pressure, the sensation of hydrotherapy may be too much for you.
Air Jets
As you could probably guess, air jets circulate air into your tub instead of circulating water. They pull air from outside the tub, heat it, and blow it into the water, surrounding you with millions of tiny bubbles. While this still covers you with rippling, flowing water, it’s a much gentler sensation than what you’ll get from water jets.
An air therapy system won’t provide you with the same invigorating massage that a hydrotherapy system will. However, it can still stimulate and nourish your skin, leaving it feeling soft and silky after your bath. Additionally, air jets can often be combined with an aromatherapy system. You add a few drops of essential oil to the aromatherapy chamber, and the air jets will circulate that relaxing scent into the tiny bubbles it creates. This makes it ideal for those who want a more comfortable, rejuvenating experience and don’t need a massage from their tub.
If you’re purchasing a walk-in bath, look for these add-ons and decide which option is right for you. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to get both!
