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Q. What is "scald protection," and is it something
I should put in my new bath?
A. There are a number of new devices that can make hot water flow from faucets,
bathtubs, and showers much safer. Hot water can cause horrible burns. One common
disaster is for someone to slip in the shower and on the way down, knock their
head or hand against the hot or cold water faucet initiating a flow of dangerously
hot water. Burns can be very serious. In some cases, the person who has fallen
can't readily get up and may suffer from substantial burns simply because they
can't get out of the lethal flow of steaming water. One very simple way to reduce
this risk is to turn your hot water heater thermostat down to 120 degrees. If
you find that you tend to run out of hot water at that setting, consider using
a larger hot water tank rather than resetting the thermostat to a higher temperature.
There are now special faucets that cut off when the water suddenly becomes too
hot. A good plumber should be able to help you with either or both options.
Q. We were thinking about getting either a whirlpool tub
in the bathroom or a hot tub in the back yard. Which is better?
A. People buy each for different reasons. A whirlpool in the bathroom is intended
to be used for washing, soaking, and therapeutic massage. Most indoor tubs remain
empty when not in use and are filled on demand using the house's normal hot
water supply. Most bathrooms can only accommodate a tub large enough for one
person. Creating the space for the tub and installing it involve considerable
expense. Many seniors have considerable trouble getting into and out of tubs,
so make sure you install plenty of sturdy handholds and grab bars.
The outdoor hot tubs and spas are not usually hooked up to the plumbing, and the water is only changed occasionally, making them less appropriate for washing. Outdoor tubs are usually much larger and can accommodate anywhere from two to eight people depending on the tub. The tub usually includes a heater, which may have to be on for several hours, before the tub reaches the desired temperature. Most tubs are also equipped with filters and chlorinators just like a swimming pool. Surprisingly, most people report that having a tub out in the cold is quite comfortable. The cloud of steam keeps bathers warm on all but the windiest days.
Q. What features are currently the most popular in bathrooms?
A. Second sinks are very popular because they allow two people to use the bathroom
at the same time. Some people are putting in separate toilets and even separate
showers. Many people replace tubs with showers. Most people add storage space
and counter space and improve the lighting. Nearly everyone elects to include
an exhaust van -- often incorporating a heater on a timer.