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Posted
I am remodeling my condo bathroom and planned to install a whirlpool tub. Problem is, I just realized that my current tub is only 58" long. Is there anyone who makes a whirlpool tub that can fit this same space? I am limited to a rectangular shape.
 
Posts: 3 | Registered: 17 July 2005Reply With QuoteEdit or Delete MessageReport This Post
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You should be able to get a 54" from a company called Hydro-systems. Are you sure you want a whirlpool tub. Research has shown that the majority of people who install one, rarely use it. Part of the reason is the water temp drops drastically after the first ten minutes ulike a hot tub that stays heated. Not trying to talk you out of it, just food for thought. Make sure the frequency of use will be worth the investment.
Christy
 
Posts: 33 | Location: Michigan | Registered: 19 June 2005Reply With QuoteEdit or Delete MessageReport This Post
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Thanks for the reply! I didn't know about the water temp issue. I will look into it.
 
Posts: 3 | Registered: 17 July 2005Reply With QuoteEdit or Delete MessageReport This Post
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They make heaters for tubs, which will keep the water hot
 
Posts: 7 | Registered: 26 July 2005Reply With QuoteEdit or Delete MessageReport This Post
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If you haven't removed the tub surround walls yet you may still have a standard 60" tub. In most installiations there are two layers of wall materials, half inch wet rock/wallboard/ hardibacker board etc., then the tile finnished wall.So you may have about 1 inch or so of the tob covered up. We do lots of remo's and most are this way. Hope this helps.
 
Posts: 1 | Registered: 26 July 2005Reply With QuoteEdit or Delete MessageReport This Post
edq
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iwal,
I am a plumbing designer for a commercial engineering firm and am called upon daily to specify plumbing fixtures for residential and commercial projects. In all likelyhood, don50tbird is correct. 58" is not a standard size for ANY tub manufacturer that I am aware of. You can get 54"(4-1/2 feet) tubs (soakers and whirlpools) and the next step up in length is 60"(5'). If indeed you DO have an odd 58" tub size (very unlikely) you will probably need to go with a smaller tub (4-1/2') and figure out a way to frame in the extra 4". There are many manufacturers of whirlpools in the 54" length, and I know of at least one 48" whirlpool, but it is a drop-in style. That one is by Crane-Fiat (http://www.craneplumbing.com), Model 2310W Easy Living IV. They also make a 54" standard tub (not a whirlpool) called "Lawton". Other manufacturers of 54" whirlpools are Clarion (http://www.clarionbathware.com) models #RE 4401L, RE4402R, RE2000, and Briggs (http://www.briggsplumbing.com), Model "Biscay 54", and Lasco (http://www.lascobathware.com), Model "Gardenia I". There are a lot of others, but this should get you started. These are available in various materials, mostly gelcoat fiberglass and acrylic.

Being a plumbing designer, I am constantly aware of liability issues and one of those issues is with waterbourne diseases (such as legionella, or Legionaire's Disease). Related to that, one thing to be aware of with whirlpools is the construction of the piping around the base of the tub to the various jets and bubblers. If it is a flexible hose, then water tends to lay in the low spots and all sorts of nasty things can start growing there. Then the next time you turn on the pumps, it can blow all of those nasties into your bath water. They make treatments and cleaners for this but the best thing to do is look for a tub with rigid piping that slopes toward the drain. There are other things to look for, but this is probably not the forum for that discussion.

Yes, it's true that people rarely use whirlpools, but for those few times that you DO use it, it sure is nice. And a whirlpool tub is definitely a big selling point when you decide to sell your condo.
 
Posts: 5 | Location: Alexandria, VA | Registered: 14 June 2005Reply With QuoteEdit or Delete MessageReport This Post
Lou
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Do yourself a big favor and check into the Bain Ultra tubs. We searched for months for the right tub, and the minute we saw one on the showroom floor we were sold! They are far superior to the traditional "jacuzzi" type and easier to install and maintain.
Granted, we do not use ours that often but have no regrets. No worries about standing water in the plumbing either.
http://www.ultrabaths.com
 
Posts: 1 | Location: Casper, Wyoming | Registered: 27 July 2005Reply With QuoteEdit or Delete MessageReport This Post
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I am trying to replace a standard tub with a whirlpool. Unfortunately, I cannot seem to find anyone who installs them. Can someone give me any tips?
 
Posts: 1 | Location: Laurel, Maryland | Registered: 27 July 2005Reply With QuoteEdit or Delete MessageReport This Post
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Thank you for all of that helpful information!
 
Posts: 3 | Registered: 17 July 2005Reply With QuoteEdit or Delete MessageReport This Post
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