When shopping for a jetted tub, you’ll need to choose between whirlpool jets, air jets, or a combination tub with both air and whirlpool jets.
Whirlpool tubs have been widely available since the late 1960s, when Roy Jacuzzi invented the first fully integrated whirlpool bathtub, the Roman, which featured built-in water jets and a hydrotherapy pump. Air jetted tubs (aka air tubs) have become popular over the past decade as a gentler alternative to the vigorous massage provided by whirlpool tubs.
Whirlpool tubs and air tubs both offer jet-powered massage that can be therapeutic and relaxing. However, once you start shopping for one of these hydrotherapy tubs, you'll quickly notice some major differences. The key difference between air jetted tubs and whirlpool tubs is how their jets operate and the type of massage they provide.
A whirlpool tub is equipped with a centrifugal pump and large multi-directional water jets that circulate pressurized water within the tub to provide a soothing hydrotherapy massage. Whirlpool water jets are usually side jets installed along the interior walls of the tub. These adjustable jets are arranged strategically to reach different muscles of your body (back muscles, leg muscles, etc.). Water is pumped in and then directed out through these jets at high speed to deliver a deep, targeted therapeutic massage that improves blood circulation and skin health and helps relieve sore muscles and stiff joints. Most whirlpool tub models allow you to adjust the water pressure for a soft or intense massage.
Air jetted tubs, on the other hand, use an air blower motor to push warm air out through numerous small air jets strategically placed in the bottom of the tub. This process creates thousands of tiny, tingling air bubbles, which provide a soothing and relaxing massage experience. Air jetted tubs provide a gentle, effervescent massage that promotes stress relief and relaxation. An air massage tub can also help stimulate your circulatory system and promote lymphatic drainage.
Dual therapy tubs, which combine water and air jet systems for a customizable hydrotherapy experience, are also readily available for anyone who wants the benefits of both systems. Many dual-therapy tubs allow you to activate both the air jets and water jets together, combining the deep, targeted massage from the water jets with the gentle, effervescent air bubbles from the air jets. You can also choose to run each system independently, using either the whirlpool jets or the air jets during a bath.
To learn more about the main differences between air jetted tubs and whirlpool tubs, check out our guide below:
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Air Jetted Tubs vs Whirlpool: Which is More Expensive?
Air jetted tubs are significantly cheaper than whirlpool tubs. Most air tubs cost between $1,000-$5,000, though more expensive high-end models that cost up to $15,000 are also available!
Air tubs are less expensive than whirlpool tubs because they have a simpler design. They primarily consist of small air jets and an air blower motor, whereas whirlpool tubs require more complex parts like larger adjustable jets, a centrifugal pump, and plumbing components. Manufacturing whirlpool tubs is also more labor-intensive compared to air tubs, which adds to their increased cost.
Due to their complex design and higher manufacturing costs, whirlpool tubs often start at $2,000 and can go up to $15,000 or more for luxury models.
A dual therapy tub will be somewhat more expensive than a standard whirlpool tub. This type of tub usually starts at $3,000 and can go up to $15,000 or more.
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Air Jetted Tubs vs Whirlpool: Which is Easier to Maintain?
Both whirlpool tubs and air tubs require regular cleaning, but air tubs are generally easier to maintain. That’s because air tubs have a self-drying feature, often called an automatic drying cycle or automatic system purge, that helps reduce moisture in the jets after draining the tub. This helps minimize the risk of mold, mildew, and bacteria buildup.
Whirlpool tubs, on the other hand, require more manual maintenance because mold and bacteria can easily grow in the water lines of the tub. That’s why it’s important to flush accumulated bacteria and build up out of the internal tub plumbing on a regular basis. To prevent the buildup of oil, bacteria, mold, and mildew, it’s also important to regularly deep clean the crannies and crevices of a whirlpool tub with vinegar and baking soda.
Each tub model has specific cleaning instructions that you should follow to prevent build-up and damage to the tub’s jet system.
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Air Jetted Tubs vs Whirlpool: Which is Better for Health?
Both whirlpool and air tubs offer jetted massage and hydrotherapy benefits. Which model you choose will depend on personal preference and needs. For optimal therapeutic and relaxation benefits, select a combination tub with both air and water jets, such as a Meditub walk-in tub with whirlpool & air jetted package.
The Hydrotherapy Benefits of a Whirlpool Tub
Whirlpool tubs use jetted water massage to promote muscle relaxation and relieve aches and pains associated with chronic health conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia. The water jets in a whirlpool tub can be swiveled in various directions to target specific body areas. As a result, a whirlpool tub can deliver a targeted, stronger deep-tissue massage (while an air tub is going to be most useful for stimulating circulation throughout the body and promoting relaxation).
Most whirlpool tub models offer the ability to adjust the water speed, allowing you to control the intensity of the massage. Additionally, you can easily change the direction of the water jets to customize your hydrotherapy experience. Some whirlpool baths also use air induction to add small amounts of air to the circulating water. This enhances the pressure and creates a more vigorous massage.
The Physical and Mental Health Benefits of an Air Tub
In an air tub, pre-warmed air surges through strategically placed jets, surrounding your entire body with effervescent air bubbles. This allows for a gentle enveloping massage vs the more intense, targeted massage of a whirlpool tub. Most air baths will allow you choose between two or more pressure settings so you can adjust the intensity of your air massage.
Air tubs are typically more useful for general relaxation and stress relief. A heated air jet massage is perfect for anyone who prefers a quieter and gentler alternative to a noisy whirlpool or hot tub! An air tub can also help promote circulation, lymphatic drainage, and skin health.
Additional Therapeutic Benefits of Jetted Tubs
Soaking in warm water has been associated with a wide variety of mental and physical health benefits including lower blood pressure and improved sleep. Most jetted tubs retain heat better than regular soaking tubs:
- Many whirlpool tubs come with an inline heater, a built-in heating element that maintains water temperature and keep it consistently warm throughout your bath.
- Most air tubs also come with an air heater to help maintain water temperature. However, this system is less precise than the inline heater of a whirlpool tub. An air tub’s heater slightly warms the air being pushed through the jets, which can help slow the cooling of the water, but does not actively maintain or increase water temperature.
Many air tubs and whirlpool tubs offer additional features that may enhance relaxation and enjoyment, such as chromotherapy lighting and aromatherapy systems.
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Additional Factors to Consider Before Buying an Air Jetted or Whirlpool Tub
Tub Material
Whirlpool tubs are typically made from fiberglass-enforced acrylic. This material is durable, lightweight, and easy to clean and maintain, making it a common choice for contemporary whirlpool tubs. However, an air jet system can be added to acrylic and non-acrylic tubs alike!
Tub Size
Another key benefit to selecting a whirlpool tub is their generous dimensions. Whirlpool tubs are often made for two people to use at the same time. If you’re searching for an extra large whirlpool tub for two, check out these recommendations.
Note: air tubs designed to accommodate two people are also available.
Accessible Design
If you are looking for a walk-in whirlpool tub, air tub, or combination dual therapy tub, there are many models available. This includes bariatric and wheelchair accessible jetted tubs. To learn more, check out our guide to Types of Walk-In Tubs.
Installation Requirements
You’ll want to choose a jetted tub that will fit in your bathroom layout and meet plumbing requirements. Air jetted and whirlpool tub models are available for alcove, corner, drop-in, and freestanding installation. Walk-in jetted tubs designed for retrofitting are also available. Always check a tub’s installation requirements before purchasing.
Safety Features
Additional safety and operation features to look for in a jetted tub include:
- Adjustable water pressure/jet intensity and temperature controls.
- Water-tight remote control or touch control panel.
- Automatic safety timer/automatic turn-off/child-lock feature.
- Textured, slip-resistant tub floor and handrails or grab bars.
- Back flow prevention system.
- Overflow protection to prevent water spillage.
- Anti-microbial additives in water lines or air circulation components to help reduce bacteria and mold buildup.
- Inline heater (whirlpool tub) or air heater (air tub).
Optional Features
Some optional features for added comfort and relaxation to look for in a jetted tub include:
- Padded and/or heated headrests.
- Built-in Bluetooth sound system.
- Color changing LED lighting system.
- Aromatherapy system.
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Air Jetted Tubs vs Whirlpool Tubs: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Air Jet Tubs | Whirlpool Tubs |
| Noise Level | Quieter operation | Louder due to water jets |
| Massage Type | Gentle, full-body massage | Vigorous, targeted hydrotherapy |
| Maintenance | Self-drying for easier upkeep | Requires more cleaning due to water jets |
| Cost | Generally less expensive | Typically more expensive |
| Installation | Easier to install | More complex installation |
| Tub Material Options | Acrylic, copper & stone resin | Limited to acrylic and fiberglass |
| Jet Adjustability | Adjustable pressure settings | Adjustable speed, intensity, and direction |
| Heat Retention | Air heater | Often includes an inline heater |
| Suitability for Two Users | Less common for two users | Widely available in 2-person models |
| Luxury Features | Chromatherapy lighting | Deluxe models with seating, Bluetooth, lighting, and more |
Air tubs have many benefits compared to whirlpool tubs:
- Quieter operation.
- Gentler massage.
- Self-drying feature (makes tub easier to maintain).
- Less expensive.
- Easier to install.
- Unlike whirlpool tubs, air jet systems are available for modern copper & stone resin freestanding tubs.
Whirlpool tubs also have their own unique benefits:
- Water jets provide more vigorous, targeted hydrotherapy massage.
- Better for muscle relaxation and recovery.
- Jets are fully adjustable (both speed/intensity and direction).
- Likely includes an inline heater that can keep water temperature consistent.
- 2-person whirlpool tub models are widely available.
- Deluxe models are available with luxury and high-tech features such as built-in seating, Bluetooth audio system, and chromotherapy lighting.
Choose the Best Jetted Tub for Your Home
Whichever jetted tub model you ultimately choose will depend on your unique needs, preferences, and budget. If you’re not sure which model to buy, opt for a combination tub that has both whirlpool and air jets. Or contact our Customer Service team for assistance with selecting the best jetted tub for your home!
