Tub talk not just hot air

Q: I have a beautiful whirlpool bath in my master bathroom that I show off to friends who visit me from time to time. One of my recent guests started to tell me about new tubs that use "air jets" instead of "water jets," like my traditional whirlpool uses. Can you please tell me more about this type of air tub? -- Jane, Kansas

A: It's the new wave in massage tubs, and they are called "air tubs" or "bubble therapy tubs." Just like the name implies, they massage with air bubbles instead of water jets. The bubbles are pumped into the tub base by a built-in blower unit that forces the air through a series of tiny holes in the floor of the tub. The tiny air bubbles slowly rise around the person in the tub to produce a relaxing, tingly sensation. The feeling is kind of like being in a big glass of champagne, so you can see the attraction to this new type of tub. It's also popular for older people and people with special needs, because it's a gentle massage. Traditional water-powered whirlpools can be a little harsh for some users.

Another great feature is that after the tub is drained, a special "purge" setting can be turned on to blow out all the water trapped in the floor cavity. The water is blown out through the same tiny holes that allow the air into the tub when filled with water. This can cut down on any soap scum that may normally get trapped in the tub cavities and piping. Most water-jet-powered whirlpools do not have that feature.

Bottom line: This new type of air tub is another option when looking at hot tubs. Would you like a vigorous water massage from a water-jetted tub, or more of a Don Ho "tiny bubbles" experience?

Q: I just came across your article about small frogs that can end up in your toilet through the plumbing system. I looked up the article because last night I opened up my shower curtain and found a frog hopping around in my bathtub. Needless to say, it totally freaked me out, and I screamed my head off. But this was not a small tree frog; it was kind of like a toad and was about the size of a tennis ball. I don't think it could fit through the drain, and could not have jumped into the tub because it was so slow-moving. How could this happen? -- Lee, via e-mail

A: Well, since you did not mention the area in which you live, it may be tough to identify the type of frog or toad. If we know what type of critter it was, we may be able to know what it is physically capable of doing as far as getting in through the plumbing drain or vent lines. Maybe one of our readers has a good theory and can write in, but as far as I'm concerned, I'm "hopping mad" that I have no clear answer for this mystery.

Master contractor/plumber Ed Del Grande is known internationally as the author of the book "Ed Del Grande's House Call" and for hosting TV shows on Scripps Networks and HGTVPro.com. For more information, visit eddelgrande.com or write eddelgrande(at)hgtvpro.com. Always consult local contractors and codes.