US vs Import Walk-in Bathtubs
This is a major question brought about by customers seeking out quality construction of the walk in bathtubs as well as tub companies comparing one tub from the next to justify their cost.
The first thing to remember is that there are several different countries that make tubs and there are several components that make up the tub and can be from different parts of the world.
The fact is that many products we use in our daily lives are made overseas and typically from China. When it comes to the walk in bathtubs it is no different. There are definitely different grades of quality that come out of China and it is just as important to research the walk in tub company and their BBB standing to check their quality service and complaints. Many walk in bathtub companies will claim to assemble their tubs in the U.S and they are actually bringing the tubs in from overseas and warehousing them in the U.S. Most companies do this and will still state that they are U.S made. The important factor is if they institute a quality control system and if they have a water testing facility for the door seal and jets. (Ask for pictures of their facility.) There is virtually no other way to tell the difference between a product assembled in the U.S or overseas. In fact some companies importing tubs overseas will have better quality standards in the states than U.S manufacturers.
The Therapeutic massage jets should ONLY be manufactured in the U.S, UK or Canada. This is verifiable and you should ask for the name of the manufacturer of the jet system.
Another important thing to ask for is UL approval as well as IAPMO approval and again we can’t stress enough the BBB rating.
These certifications are given by 3rd party control companies to make sure that these components adhere to the strictest form of quality and craftsmanship.
Certifications:
- UL-(Underwriting Laboratories) Electrical certification
- IAPMO certification -International Association for Plumbing and Mechanical Organization. (Plumbing code)
- Some states will require these codes in order to install. (M.A, W.A)
- CSE( Canadian Approval)
- CE & ETL both covered under IAPMO certification.
