Hot Tubs vs. Jacuzzis: What’s the Difference?
Hot Tubs vs. Jacuzzis: What’s the difference?
The word “hot tub” is often used synonymously with the word “Jacuzzi,” but it turns out there are a few subtle but important differences between the two:
- Hot tubs are large tubs of hot water that can be used to relax and entertain.
- Jacuzzi is a trademarked brand of hot tubs and other products.
Here, we’ll learn more about the differences between a hot tub and a Jacuzzi.
What Is a Hot Tub?
Hot tubs, which can also be accurately referred to as spas, are defined by Merriam-Webster as a large tub of hot water, especially one that’s equipped with a whirlpool device, in which bathers soak and socialize.
The word “hot tub” originated in the 1970s, when hot tubs of the time could only be made out of wood. Today, hot tubs have evolved to sport a variety of new features, such as:
- Sleek acrylic shells
- Massaging jets
- LED lighting
- Cascading waterfalls and spillways
- Intuitive electronic controls
- Cushioned headrests
- MP3 audio systems
- Flat screen TVs
- Bluetooth technology
Although the words “hot tub” and “spa” can refer to the same thing here in the U.S., many parts of the world use the word “spa” to refer to natural mineral springs. The word “spa” itself comes from Spa, a 17th-century Belgian town that was famous for its healing mineral springs.
What is a Jacuzzi?
Similar to how many people use the word “Kleenex” to refer to any type of tissue, some use the word “Jacuzzi” to refer to any type of hot tub or spa.
In fact, Jacuzzi is a trademarked brand of hot tubs, bath products and pool equipment. The company’s history can be traced back to the mid-20th century when the Jacuzzi brothers invented an underwater pump that could be used to relieve pain in arthritis patients.
They soon created a tub with a built-in jet whirlpool, which took off in popularity. In just a few years’ time, Jacuzzi became a household name and was quickly used to refer to any and all hot tubs, however incorrectly.
Are Hot Tubs and Jacuzzis the Same?
In short, hot tubs and Jacuzzis are not the same. Hot tubs can be manufactured by a variety of brands, and many sport the same high-quality components and advanced features as Jacuzzi products, often for a lower price. Jacuzzi may have been the first well known hot tub brand, but they may not offer the most affordable spas for sale on today’s market.
For example, many hot tubs and Jacuzzis share the same amenities, such as:
- Ample seating
- LED lighting
- Waterfalls
- Massaging jets
- Electronic controls
- Multiple color choices
- Cushioned headrests
Some hot tubs also come with features that Jacuzzi products do not, such as flat-screen TVs and built-in MP3 audio systems.
To find a hot tub that’s perfect for you, your lifestyle and your budget, take a look at Aqua Living’s wide selection of American-made spas.
