Most people are quite happy to simply use their hot tub for relaxation while being blissfully ignorant about how it actually works. Other people are more inquisitive and like to understand the inner workings of the appliances and machines that they use. If you’re content with simply getting in your hot tub and relaxing without wanting to know what makes it run, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that! However, this article is probably not for you. If you have a curiosity about the various components of your hot tub, we’ve come up with an article that goes over the basics of a little-known unit called the hot tub blower. What is a hot tub blower? Read on to find out.
What Is A Hot Tub Blower?
Hot tub blowers are also known as bubblers or air pumps. These alternate names are actually quite descriptive and shed more light onto their function. A hot tub blower is basically an air pump fitted with a fan that forces air into the water of the hot tub creating effervescent bubbles. The hot tub blower is different than the water jets that create the massaging effect that hot tubs are known for, but they can be combined to create a so-called turbocharging effect.
What Are Hot Tub Blowers Used For?
The bubbles created by the hot tub blower’s combination of air and water creates an energizing and refreshing environment for the bathers. Although a hot tub can easily work without the use of a blower, many users prefer the atmosphere created by a mixture of warm water, bubbles, and massaging jets. Hot tub blowers are a built-in component on many types of hot tubs, but some models allow the addition of one later on. You’ll just need to make sure that your control panel allows for the option.
What Are the Disadvantages of Hot Tub Blowers?
Probably the main complaint about hot tub blowers is that they can significantly reduce the temperature of the hot tub water. This is a result of cold air being forced through the water to create the bubbles. More energy is needed to maintain the temperature of the water and the cost of operating the hot tub will go up. That said, there are hot tub blowers available that will preheat the air before it enters the water to reduce the amount of heat loss. Hot tub blowers also have a reputation for being very loud and disturbing the calming atmosphere that the hot tub was supposed to create in the first place. However, breakthroughs have been made in noise reduction materials to mitigate this concern.
What Variables Are Involved with Hot Tub Blowers?
The main difference between the types of hot tub blowers is the voltage with both 110 and 220-volt configurations being available. There is also a wide array of electrical plugs on the market, so you’ll have to choose a type that’s compatible with the electrical system you have at home. To avoid this decision, you could also hardwire the blower to the control panel of your hot tub. You’ll also need to size your blower to make sure it’s compatible with your setup. Blowers come in 1, 1.5 and 2 horsepower sizes. The power you need will depend on how deep your hot tub is, the length of piping the air has to be forced through as well as the number of 90-degree angles in the piping system. How often the hot tub is used will also play a role in the blower sizing.
To learn more about hot tub blowers and their installation, download a hot tub buyer’s guide below today, or visit us at our hot tub store.