Shape
The shape of the bathtub along the upper outer edge. This determines both the appearance and the installation features, and in many cases, also the use. Note that the outlines of the interior space (where the water is directly poured) often do not match the declared shape - for example, rectangular bathtubs usually have an oval interior. This is done to ensure the convenience of the bather.
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Rectangular. Traditional, the most common form. It is very versatile, equally well suited for installing a bathtub separately from the walls, against a wall or even in a corner. There are also angles that are not strictly straight, but are made with a characteristic rounding. Beveled angles give a feeling of smoothness and harmony. Note that both the contours of the bathtub as a whole and its bowls in particular can have a rounded shape.
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Rectangular with an arc. Rectangular bathtubs with one of the sides in an arc (curved) shape. Such a design trick can have both aesthetic value and practical advantages. In particular, the arc shape often improves ergonomics, supporting a more comfortable position when taking a bath.
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Corner versatile. A mandatory feature of any corner bathtub is the presence of two sides converging at a right angle (they are tightly adjacent to the walls of the room when installed). In this case, these sides have different lengths, henc
...e the name. The outer part, not in contact with the angles, can have different shapes, but most often it is made rounded.
— Corner symmetrical. A type of corner bathtub in which the sides adjacent to the corner of the room have the same length. In all other respects, such models are completely analogous to corner symmetrical ones (see above).
— Oval. In oval bathtubs, the shape of the outer edge usually follows the contours of the interior space. The appearance and design of such products can be different — for example, some look like rounded rectangles and can be installed close to the wall, while others are closer to the classic oval (without straight lines) and are designed rather for freestanding placement.
— Round. As in oval (see above), the external and internal shapes in such bathtubs are identical. This shape is convenient for two-seater models; in addition, it is very advantageous — a round bathtub requires less material than an oval or rectangular bathtub of the same volume. However, such products are practically not suitable for installation in a corner.
— Square. For a number of reasons, the square shape is found mainly among two-seater bathtubs, and even then very rarely. The interior space in such products can be either round or oval (elongated diagonally from the square); and the square shape of the outer edge is provided for the convenience of corner installation. Note that such bathtubs take up quite a lot of space.
— Semicircular. Baths in the shape of a half circle are usually designed for installation against a wall, with the flat side against the wall. This option is found mainly in designer models with two seats.
— Barrel-shaped. Baths that resemble a barrel in shape. Typically, such models have curved sides that form a rounded and smooth shape — like a classic barrel. With their outlines, barrel-shaped products create visually pleasing effects and ensure a comfortable fit in the bath.
— Non-standard. This category includes bathtubs that do not belong to any of the above-described shapes. “Non-standard” products are available in a variety of shapes: a rectangle with a curved front, an oval with a panel for corner installation at one end, a polygon, a triangle with rounded angles, etc. This option should be considered primarily by those for whom the original appearance of the bathtub is important along with functionality.Volume
The working volume of the bath is usually indicated by the amount of water that can be poured to the level of overflow.
In general, the larger the volume - the, as a rule, the more comfortable the bath, the higher the likelihood that it will be able to lie down or even dive into the water almost entirely, up to the neck. However, it should be borne in mind that models of the same volume can differ markedly in size and shape (both external and internal). This means that large capacity does not yet guarantee convenience for a particular user. In addition, filling the volume bath will take more time and require more water, which can be critical if there are meters or limited water supply (for example, hot water from the storage boiler).
Functions
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Hydromassage. Massage performed by means of strong jets of water coming from nozzles at the bottom and walls of the bathroom. Such effects have a tonic effect, normalize metabolism and contribute to the removal of slags and toxins from the body. It should be borne in mind that in this case, it is usually not the presence of a hydromassage system, but the possibility of its installation; the systems are sold separately or installed only in some modifications of the bath. Also note that in some situations (for example, in heart diseases) can be used hydromassage only on the recommendation of a doctor.
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Air massage. Body massage with air bubbles coming from nozzles at the bottom of the bath. Air massage has a relaxing and cleansing effect; its combination with hydromassage (see above) is considered to be particularly effective, so in many bathrooms these functions are combined. Air massage systems in most cases also need to be bought and installed separately.
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Ozonation. Ozone saturation of water - an active gas, capable of destroying bacteria and viruses, and (in small doses) to produce a beneficial effect on the body. Ozone therapy, in particular, helps to normalize metabolism and hormonal balance, increase immunity, and eliminate toxins and slags. At the same time for such an impact there are contraindications, so before using such a bath does not hurt
...to consult a doctor.
— Disinfection. This function occurs only in baths with massage systems (see above). It is designed to clean pipelines and nozzles in such systems from micro-organisms, which can not only cause various diseases, but also cause blockage of pipelines and the appearance of an adverse odor. For the disinfection system may need a special cleaning agent.
— Dry motion protection. Special fuse on board hydromassage baths, which does not allow the pump to pump air if there is no water in the bathroom. While idling, the pump units overheat and deform, which can lead to premature equipment failure.
— Anti-slip coating. Special coating that makes the bottom of the bath less slippery. Most often provides relief of a special shape, «clinging» to the foot of a person and does not allow her to slip. This minimizes the chance of slipping in the tub and getting injured.
— Antibacterial coating. The presence of a special hygienic coating prevents the reproduction of pathogenic bacteria and helps to maintain the purity of the bath, reducing the likelihood of appearance of plaque and unpleasant odor. In addition, the smooth antibacterial surface also improves the appearance of the product.
— Underwater light. Water illumination in the bathroom; may have different colors, incl. with the possibility of color change. The main possibilities are not affected by underwater light, but it gives the filled bath a pleasant appearance and contributes to a relaxing atmosphere (which is sometimes no less important than the comfortable shape of the surface and the optimal water temperature).
— Perimeter lighting. Decorative illumination of the exterior walls of the bath. For the purpose and features are completely similar to the above underwater light. Note that in some acrylic bathtubs (cf. «Material body») the perimeter illumination can be installed between acrylic and external reinforcement and illuminate not only the outer space, but also water (through translucent acrylic).
— Strengthening (insulation). This feature is indicated for reinforced baths - typically acrylic models using various technologies, for example PU Plus by Ravak, or similar to it - Flight by Jacob Delafon. These technologies allow you to create a denser and heavier material than normal acrylic, which has a positive effect on both the strength of the bath and thermal insulation: such products are more reliable than ordinary acrylic, and water cools down more slowly. However, reinforced models are not cheap.
— Water heating. The bath has its own heating element, allowing to heat water. The power of such an element is usually not very high, it is intended more for maintaining the temperature of hot water than for heating cold. However, this function is very convenient: it allows you to lie in the bath for a long time, without being distracted by draining cold water and adding hot.
— Built-in radio. Radio with speaker (speakers) built directly into the bath. This feature allows you to take water treatments while listening to music or a favorite talk show. Built-in radio is usually designed for the FM range - it is in it broadcast almost all modern music stations.
— Display. The presence of own display in the design of the bath is usually the simplest single color LCD screen, although there are exceptions. The display is used to display service information: the selected mode of operation, hours, settings of the timer and remaining time, notification of faults, etc. This makes the use of the bath more convenient, and the control - simple and visible.Dimensions (LxWxH)
Size of the bath in length, width and height. When choosing, it should be borne in mind that the length and width are specified on the outer dimensions - this allows you to estimate the place required for the installation of the bath, but its internal dimensions are inevitably obtained less. But as a height it is customary to indicate the depth - the distance from the top edge to the bottom. Here we note that the high altitude allows you to dive deeper into the water, but may cause some people (for example, elderly or suffering from leg diseases) problems when entering the bath.
Bath depth
The depth of the bowl, measured from the sides of the bath to the bottom of the inner space. This can vary widely, ranging from about 30 to 65 cm in increments of 5 cm. Usually
is located in the area of 40-45 cm. For bathing in deeper products may need a special podium, step or highchair, which will help to cross the high side of the bath.