Heated Soaking Tub or Jetted Tub: Here's How to Choose

If you're trying to decide between a heated or jetted tub, you wouldn't be the first. Both give you a better bath than a standard tub. Beyond that they're pretty different products, and which one makes sense depends on what you're actually looking for and how much upkeep you're willing to deal with.

What a Heated Soaking Tub Is

A soaking tub is just a deeper version of your regular tub that's designed specifically for full-body immersion. The heated version has a built-in inline heater that keeps the water at a consistent temperature so it doesn't cool down while you're in it. No jets, no motor, just hot water that stays hot.

They're quieter, simpler, and significantly easier to clean than a jetted tub. The design has gotten really popular over the last several years and the options right now, freestanding oval and rectangular styles especially, look great in any bathroom. If the goal is a long, calm soak, this is the one.

The tradeoff is that there's no massage included. The water is still and warm and that's the experience. For a lot of people that's exactly what they want. For someone dealing with chronic muscle pain or joint issues, it might not be enough on its own.

What a Jetted Tub Is

Jetted tubs use either water jets or air jets, different mechanisms slightly but overall they give the pretty similar results. Here are the differences though:

Whirlpool jets push water through nozzles at pressure. The massage is targeted and pretty powerful, similar to what you'd get at a physical therapy facility. Good for sore muscles, post-workout recovery, arthritis, circulation. The internal plumbing that makes it work is also what makes it more complicated to maintain.

Air jets push warm air through small holes across the tub floor and walls. The sensation is gentler and more even across the body. Easier to keep clean than whirlpool jets because there's no water sitting in internal pipes between uses.

Both types need regular cleaning. Whirlpool jets especially, because water sits in the internal plumbing between uses. So bacteria and biofilm can build up if the system isn't flushed regularly. Most manufacturers recommend running a cleaning cycle monthly. It's not a huge deal but it's a step that doesn't exist with a soaking tub.

One thing a lot of people don't know going in: bath bombs and oils can damage jet systems. If that's part of your bath routine, a soaking tub is the better choice.

Installation and Cost

Soaking tubs are simpler to install. Freestanding models basically need a water supply and a drain. If the model has a built-in heater it needs an electrical connection too, but it's straightforward compared to a jetted tub.

Jetted tubs require both plumbing and electrical work, and the motor and pump need to be properly housed and accessible for maintenance. The install is more involved and the tub itself costs more. Repairs down the line, if the motor or jets need attention, are also more expensive than anything that can go wrong with a soaking tub.

Want A New Tub?

Aversa Contracting handles bathroom remodels across South Jersey. If you're planning a primary bath and trying to figure out which tub to go with, give us a call at 609-233-6617 or reach out on Instagram or Facebook for a free estimate.