Jacuzzi Vs Hot Tub: What is the Difference?

Jacuzzi vs hot tub: what’s the difference? Often, we get confused between these two terms and mistake a hot tub for a jacuzzi or vice versa. And if anyone does know that they are different, he or she might simply say that jacuzzis are just the fancier counterparts of hot tubs. But is that all? Let’s see.

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What is a hot tub?

Hot tubs are large tubs or artificial small pools, filled with hot water, where you can soak in and socialize. It often comes equipped with a whirlpool bath. This term was first coined during the 1970s. The latest models of hot tubs are embedded with multiple features such as sleek acrylic shells, massaging jets, molded seats, LED lighting, waterfall cascades, electronic controls, soft headrests, Bluetooth technology, flat-screen TVs, and audio systems.

What is a jacuzzi?

The trade name jacuzzi is a brand of hot tubs, bathing products, and pool equipment. It came into existence during the mid-20th century when the Jacuzzi brothers conceptualized an underwater pump to help arthritis patients. The first version featured a built-in jet whirlpool and gradually became so popular, that it became a household feature in almost every home.

The major difference between hot tubs and jacuzzi is that jacuzzi is a brand or a subset of hot tubs. And below, we shall try to explain this with a bit of a detailed explanation.

Read more: Hot Tub Installation: Important Things You Need To Know

Jacuzzi vs hot tub: The history

If you have read histories of ancient civilizations, you will know that hot tubs have been around for centuries. They have gradually evolved and improved to become the relaxation set-ups we see today. The first inventor got his idea for a hot tub from natural hot springs. He realized that the same principle could be replicated by using hot stones to heat water. This is how the first versions of hot tubs were created.

However, the concept of jacuzzis came to prominence at a later time. When the Jacuzzi brothers, in 1956, traveled from Italy to California, they invented a hydrotherapy jet pump. This invention then gave rise to the jacuzzis we know today — complete with massage jets and sleek, sophisticated designs.

Although you will find other brands that imitate similar features, jacuzzis still continue to top the list.

Therefore, a jacuzzi and hot tub are not synonymous. While the genesis of hot tubs can be traced back to early times, jacuzzis are a modern counterpart of their ancestors.

Read more: Jacuzzi bath remodel costs

So, are hot tubs and jacuzzis the same?

In short, the answer is no. Several hot tub brands are available in the market. Although both of them sport several similar features, you cannot use the terms interchangeably.

Other hot water immersion vessels

Now that you know the difference between jacuzzi vs hot tub, let’s guide you through other hot water immersion vessels. After reading this, you will be able to differentiate between all these terminologies and make an informed decision when it comes to getting the right set for your home.

Read more: 9 Ways to Choose Between a Tub and Shower for Your Bathroom

Spa

The term spa refers to a hot tub that comes embedded with strong jets in order to mix the water with air, jetted into the device. It is used for massages and can be installed above the ground level, above an indoor floor or outdoor deck. You can even construct it a part of an inground swimming pool.

Jetted tub

A jetted tub is essentially a bathtub, that’s normally installed within your master bath. It comprises multiple jets, placed around the tub. This network is then linked to small pipes that are again connected to a circulation pump and an air blower. Some models even come equipped with a heater to facilitate hot water release from the tap.

You can simply fill up a jetted tub with water and enter inside to relax and rejuvenate. The water, after use, needs to be drained out. Hence, they have no spa filters or spa covers.

Whirlpool bath

Whirlpool Bath is a sub-brand of a jacuzzi. It includes their collection of jetted tubs and follows the same mode of operation as described above.

Therapy tub

A therapy tub is a high-quality stainless steel tub that is usually installed in training and locker rooms for athletes. It helps in loosening up muscles and relieving pain. Therapy tubs are filled with hot water and usually feature a circulation pump and electric heater.

So, we hope the above explanations give a clear idea about the differences between the major terms related to hot water hydrotherapy. If you have any suggestions, you can leave your comments in the comment section below!

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Written by Anisha Dutta. June 10, 2019

A wordsmith and an experienced content developer, Anisha Dutta currently writes for Kukun. She holds keen interest and knowledge about the latest, upcoming trends in the domain of home design and tries to enrich homeowners with inspirational home-improvement tips and tricks -- while breaking down jargons into simple words. An avid reader and a wanderer by habit, she is a writer by passion.