Do I need an Air Blower or Venturi on my Hot Tub?

In this video I will explore the question of whether you need an air blower or venturi on your hot tub. If you’re a hot tub owner, you may have heard these terms before and wondered what they are, or if they’re even necessary. Likewise, if you are in the design stages of a new hot tub you may be wondering what to do.The truth is, both of these components can enhance your hot tub experience, but it depends on your personal preferences and the specific features of your hot tub. In this post, I’ll break down the differences between air blowers and venturis, and provide you with the information you need to decide which one, if any, is right for your hot tub.Whether you’re a seasoned hot tub owner or new to the world of hot tubs, this post will give you a better understanding of these components and help you make an informed decision. So, let’s dive in!What is Venturi for hot tubs jets?A Venturi is a component that can be added to hot tub jets to enhance the water flow and create a more vigorous massage experience. It works by using the pressure of the water flowing through the jet to create suction, which draws in air and mixes it with the water.This process results in a powerful, swirling water flow that can provide a deep tissue massage and help relieve sore muscles.The Venturi is typically installed on the front face of the jet, and can be adjusted to control the amount of air that is mixed with the water. This allows hot tub owners to customize their massage experience, by either increasing or decreasing the intensity of the water flow. This is done with an air valve that is usually found on the top of the tub While not all hot tubs come equipped with a Venturi, they can be added as an aftermarket accessory. However, it’s important to note that not all hot tub jets are compatible with Venturis, so it’s important to check what kit you actually have inside. You can always send me a picture if you are not sure!Additionally, some hot tubs may have a built-in Venturi system that is activated by a separate control knob or button on the hot tub’s control panel.Overall, a Venturi can be a valuable addition to hot tub jets for those who prefer a more intense massage experience. What is a hot tub air blower and how does it work? A hot tub air blower is a component that can be added to a hot tub to create a bubbly and effervescent water flow. It works by using a motor to suck in air and then force it through a pipe, which is connected to small air jets in the hot tub. These air jets then release the air into the water, creating thousands of tiny bubbles that can create a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Hot tub air blowers are typically located outside of the hot tub and can be controlled with a separate switch or button on the hot tub’s control panel. This allows hot tub owners to customize the amount of air that is released into the water and adjust the intensity of the bubbly water flow. One of the main benefits of a hot tub air blower is that it can provide a gentle massage experience that is less intense than a jet massage. The bubbles created by the air blower can help to soothe sore muscles and promote relaxation. Additionally, the air bubbles can help to distribute heat more evenly throughout the hot tub, which can result in a more comfortable and enjoyable soaking experience. While hot tub air blowers can be a valuable addition to a hot tub, they are not for everyone. Some people may prefer a more intense massage experience provided by hot tub jets, while others may find the noise of the air blower motor to be disruptive to their relaxation. Additionally, some hot tubs may have a built-in air blower system, while others may require an aftermarket accessory to be installed. I’m building my Hot Tub out of Block or Concrete - should I use a blower or venturi? The Gunite Bodies which are used in this type of hot tub build, are designed to work with a blower. There are two pipe fittings per jet, a 2” water line and a 1.5” air line. The water and the air mix inside of the Gunite body through the process of venturi.However, unlike the process described above, the Gunite body is expecting the air to be blown into the pipes rather than drawn in. Given the size of the air lines on this style of hot tub build, they are not suitable for a pure venturi process, they need a blower to be attached. Can I upgrade a venturi system to a blower? In the most basic terms, the answer is yes, you can. However, in order to do so, you will need to cap off the air valves that are used for the venturi process. The main difference between a venturi system and an air blower is that the pipework for an air blower is a closed system so pressure builds. For venturi, it is open as you are opening valves to let the air in. If you open a valve whilst the blower is running you will lose pressure and also the noise will increase - not what you want on a hot tub.

[@frugalmcdogal8779]

This is helpful information. I have a pool that I am in the process of adding a spa with a spill over into my pool. I would like to be able to heat my pool with my heater still. Will I be able to still heat my pool with my existing heater or will i need two different heaters? I have a Hayward spa/pool heater now?

[@Buildahottub]

Really depends on the temperature that you want in your hot tub - putting cooler pool water into it so that it spills over is counter productive if you are trying to heat it up. I would have a divert on it so that you can stop the spill over and then just heat the hot tub. Then, arguably you can just have one heater and switch whether it heats the pool or the tub - hope that helps - Andi

[@revid64]

Just built a hot tub for cabin heated by stainless steel stove . I want to add some sort of jets, either water or air and thinking air pumps would be easier and need less power to run cause Iam on solar setup. I read somewhere that the air would cool my water so was thinking of building a small enclosure around my stove and pump air from there. What do you guys think ? I have my tub mostly insulated cause we get cold winters.

[@Buildahottub]

The heat loss from the blower would be marginal to say the least - you would be losing more heat vertically whilst you were in the tub from the water. You can get heated blowers, but not worth it in my opinion, have very little impact or difference to a non-heated version - hope that helps - Andi

[@revid64]

Thanks Andi, any recommendations on a small blower?

[@Buildahottub]

I tend to use this one in most of my builds - parts4tubs.com/product/hydro-quip-silent-aire-blower-as-820u/

[@gagecasza3882]

1)Which gunite body would I need to use to allow for a venutri system with no blower? I only see you review and discuss the 1.5 x 2 in gunite bodies and I'm not finding smaller bodies.
2) If I use a venturi system do I need a stronger water pump?

[@Buildahottub]

Hi Gage, the bodies that I use and have reviewed on my channel are the ones for the concrete or block tubs - they are the only only ones that I use in that type of build. For Stock tanks I use a smaller body which is a 1" water and a 1" air line. If you use venturi, no, you dont need a stronger pump - but I would recommend a blower - they are inexpensive in the hole grans scheme of things and the performance is so much better than venturi. - Thanks - Andi

[@gagecasza3882]

Thank you so much for your response! The reason I’m looking at Venturi is I’m making a system that works on 120v and 20amps or less.