A Short History Of Hot Tubs

by Adriana Noton

A Jacuzzi, also referred to as a spa or hot tub, is a large or medium sized pool that is filled with water which is then heated with a solar, electric, or natural gas heater. Hot tubs are usually designed to be only kept outside and are used generally for soaking, relaxing, and hydrotherapy. Due to the facts that the warm waters are often breeding grounds for dangerous organisms, regularly sanitizing the hot tubs and treating the waters are very important.

Any historian will agree that heated waters were first used back in the year two thousand B. C. In ancient Egypt. Back then, naturally heated water was used for therapeutic reasons as it was thought to possess healing properties. The world’s first spa’s remains have been traced back to the year six hundred B. C. And were made usually out of big cauldrons and the waters were heated by placing fire heated stones in it.

Primitive hot tubs and Jacuzzis started cropping up in Finland and Japan a couple of decades later and are still very popular today. Their bathing houses were considered crucial social spots and were known to include rooms of spas, private wash rooms, steam rooms, and massage rooms.

By the nineteenth century, the usage and popularity of the hot tub had made its way over to Western Europe and America. Frequenting a spa there was considered to be a major part of the gentile and wealthy lifestyle. The bathing houses evolved with time and began including other things like hotels, shopping malls, and even casinos.

A much smaller version of the hot tub began appearing in American homes in the forties. It was reminiscent of Europe’s bathing centers was made generally out of cedar vats and oak barrels. The early prototype was made cheaply and was often prone to leaking. People began, in the sixties, to construct spas out of smoked wood and heaters. The device resembled today’s hot tubs and featured far better circulation. An extra that helped out a lot with sanitation.

The popularity of the items began to quickly spread across this country and were then manufactured in ways that let average middle class Americans afford some of their own. The spa proved to be a beneficial item for just about anyone with sore muscles or arthritis. They also proved to be relaxing for people looking to quickly unwind at the end of their busy day.

Over time, the Jacuzzis began being equipped and made with fiber glass shells out of a need to prevent the wood in them from bursting or warping. The fiber glass not only stopped leaks, they allowed companies to mold custom seats and ensure the sanitation of the hot water.

The waterproof fiberglass shells aren’t enough to keep bacteria away on their own, to ensure the safety of your tub you will have to commit to regular cleanings and water changes as well. Maintaining the item’s pH balance and water chemistry will help you prevent the spreading of any waterborne diseases. The special cleaning chemicals and water testing kits you will need are available in any pool or hardware store.

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