What’s the difference between hot tub and a jacuzzi? It’s simple! A jacuzzi is a type of hot tub. Jacuzzi is a brand name and a type of hot tub. Sometimes people use the word jacuzzi to refer to all types of hot tubs. The brand name ‘jacuzzi’ has become so strong, that it is often used instead of ‘hot tub’.
JACUZZI vs HOT TUB
So, what is a jacuzzi? And, are there any differences between a jacuzzi and a hot tub? Jacuzzis have a specific design and set of features that make them different from other types of hot tubs. Below, we cover everything you need to know about the differences between a jacuzzi and a hot tub. Want to get to something quickly? Use the links below.
What Is a Jacuzzi? | What Is a Hot Tub? | The Jacuzzi Company | History of Hot Tubs | Key Differences Hot Tub vs Jacuzzi | Which Is Better?
WHAT IS A JACUZZI?
A jacuzzi is a type of hot tub that uses jets of air and water to create streams below the water line. The streams are strategically located around the tub to target and massage specific areas of the body. A jacuzzi uses use electric pumps to circulate water or air through the jets and create the stream effect. And, they often come fitted with special LED lighting to boost relaxation effect.
The water inside the jacuzzi is heated to the user’s preferred temperature for optimal comfort. This allows the user to soak inside the tub for as long as they wish. The temperature and jet streams can be controlled using a panel on the side of the device.
Jacuzzis are used for their relaxing hydro-massage, to relieve stress, to reduce muscle and joint pain, and to improve circulation. They come in a wide range of sizes and are commonly found in homes, spas, and gyms all over the world. They are one of the most popular brands of hot tub on the market.
WHAT IS A HOT TUB?
A hot tub is a large open-top container that is filled with warm water and used for relaxation, soaking, and hydrotherapy. Hot tubs can be built for either indoor or outdoor use and come in a wide range of shapes and sizes.
The most popular hot tubs are circular or rectangular in shape and can be shared by 2-6 people. They are also a very common feature in gyms, hotels, and health spas. Some, but not all, hot tubs are fitted with jets that create streams of water or air to massage the user while they sit in the tub.
Just like jacuzzis, hot tubs are used for relaxation, boosting circulation, and reducing muscle and joint pain. They are usually constructed from wood, fiberglass, or acrylic materials. There are many different brands of hot tubs available – with jacuzzi being one of the most popular brands on the market.
THE JACUZZI COMPANY
Jacuzzi hot tubs are made by the Jacuzzi company based in Irvine, California. The company was founded in 1915 by seven brothers of the Italian immigrant family – Jacuzzi. They began operations as a machining company and won a contract to produce propellers for US warplanes.
It wasn’t until 1926 that they began producing water pumps. And, in 1968 they made their first whirlpool bath that used jets to mix water and air. The company has expanded over the decades and is now a leading producer of hot tubs, swim spas, saunas, and pool equipment.
HISTORY OF HOT TUBS
The history of hot tubs dates back to ancient times when they were used for therapeutic and relaxing effect. In fact, hot tubs were a common feature in Roman times, where they were known as ‘balneae’.
Communal hot baths were also enjoyed by the ancient Greeks and date right back to 500 BC. That’s over 2,500 years ago. And, it would take thousands of years before the idea of the modern hot tub was born.
It wasn’t until the Jacuzzi brothers founded their world-famous family company in California in 1915 that the stage was set for the development of the modern hot tub. And, it wasn’t until 1968 that the company introduced jets of air and water for what would later become the Jacuzzi we recognize today.
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THE KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN HOT TUB AND JACUZZI
Does a jacuzzi have any advantages over a hot tub? What are the key differences between the two? Let’s take a look at how a jacuzzi vs hot tub stacks up.
BRAND NAME
The main difference between a jacuzzi and a hot tub is the brand name. Jacuzzi is a well-known brand name and a private company. A jacuzzi is a type of hot tub manufactured by the Jacuzzi company. A hot tub is a term used to describe all large tubs that people use to relax and soak in hot water.
TRUSTED COMPANY
Jacuzzi is a company with a long track record and a highly regarded name in the hot tub industry. So much so, that their name is often used to refer to all hot tubs. Hot tubs stamped with the Jacuzzi name are known to be among the best hot tubs out there. They have been making hot tubs for years and their name is highly trusted.
JET STREAMS
One of the most distinctive features of a jacuzzi is its powerful jet streams. These streams are used to shoot jets of water and air through the water and gently massage the body while you relax. Not all hot tubs come with jet streams.
LED LIGHTING
Many jacuzzis come fitted with LED lighting. The lights often change color and can be set to match your mood while relaxing in the warm water. Not all hot tubs come with this feature. And, many have no lighting at all.
WHAT’S BETTER JACUZZI OR HOT TUB?
Which should you buy – a jacuzzi or a hot tub? And, which is better? The simple answer is it depends on the two models you are comparing against each other. Seeing as a jacuzzi is a type of hot tub, you are essentially comparing two different models of hot tubs against each other.
Our advice is to go for the hot tub that best meets your needs. To do this, you should sit down and make a note of what you want from a hot tub. You should way up the features of each model and decide which one is the best for you. See below for a list of questions you should ask yourself.
- How big is the hot tub?
- Will it fit the space available?
- How many people does it comfortably hold?
- Is it for indoor or outdoor use?
- Does it come with water or air jets?
- Does it come with LED mood lighting?
- What material is it made from?
- What are the maintenance requirements?
- How much does it cost?
- Is there a warranty?
- What reviews is the product getting?
(check Amazon, Google Reviews, etc) - What reviews is the manufacturer getting?
(check Trust Pilot) - Do you have any special requirements?
Now you know the difference between a jacuzzi and a hot tub you’re all set to jump right in find your dream hot tub today.
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About the Author
AMY SHAFER
• Allied Health Specialist
Meet Amy, a dedicated advocate of sport, fitness, and the application of infrared sauna therapy. Originally from Texas, she moved to the Sunshine State at an early age. Growing up in the Tampa Bay area, she enrolled in the University of Tampa where she graduated with a BS Degree in Allied Health and a MS in Athletic Training.
Amy’s expertise lies in infrared sauna therapy, with a special focus on the synergistic effects of infrared sauna in combination with traditional therapies. She has a passion for exploring and developing innovative approaches to wellness enhancement and injury recovery.
Amy began her journey as a swimming coach at the YMCA Aquatic Center in Central Florida. Here she developed a passion for applying her sporting knowledge to help individuals achieve their goals. Transitioning to a role more closely aligned with her allied health and athletic training degrees, she delved into the field of infrared sauna therapy. She has been instrumental in pioneering the use of infrared sauna in rehabilitation and injury recovery.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Amy is actively involved in a community-based soup kitchen where she helps support her local homeless community. In her free time, she enjoys cycling and exploring her local national parks, including Biscayne Park, Big Cypress, and the Everglades.