Does my choice of a bathroom module really make a difference?
A typical bathing or shower module occupies a large area in the bathroom, and presents a major task for replacement. Selecting a module should go beyond the visual aspect. A main concern should be in the unit construction and its long-term durability.
What is the difference between an acrylic and a gelcoat unit surface?
The surface of an acrylic unit is vacuum formed from a single sheet of solid plastic. Spraying a pigmented polyester resin onto a mold creates the surface of a gelcoat unit, much like making a fiberglass boat hull. Regardless of the surface material, all Aker units are reinforced with the same fiberglass and resin composite and hand rolled for strength and durability.
Why should I choose an Aker bathroom unit?
At Aker Plastics, the emphasis has always been on building a high quality bath product at a reasonable price. Founder Don Aker, has been an important figure in the development of fiberglass products over the years. It’s been his commitment to quality that has made Aker Plastics the company it is today. That same commitment remains evident in every product we produce. We don’t want to be the cheapest bath unit on the market, only the best!
Will Aker sell a unit directly to me?
We’re sorry, but Aker bath products are sold only to established plumbing wholesale distributors in truckload quantities for distribution in their area. Due to our strategic distribution system and regional available, only select wholesale plumbing distributors have a direct relationship with Aker Plastics.
Future plans for this site will allow a search for distribution near your location. Unfortunately until then, you will need to contact Aker for distributors in your region.
Can you give me a price of a unit?
Due to unit style, shipping cost and available options, prices will vary from area to area. You will need to visit your nearest Aker distributor for pricing on the unit you are interested in.
How can I properly clean and care for the surface of my Aker unit?
Through routine use, the unit surface can collect residues from soap, bath additives and natural body oils. Additional deposits can also collect from minerals or particles found in the water.
After each use, wipe the excess water from the unit. This practice will reduce the build-up of deposits and help maintain the natural unit luster.
Following a thorough surface cleaning, an application of quality automotive wax will help reduce major accumulations. The actual schedule for cleaning, and waxing, will depend on unit usage and water quality.
For best results, keep the following in mind when caring for your AKER bath unit:
• Never use abrasive materials or abrasive cleaners on the unit surface.
• Use extreme caution when trying any cleaner, acid or solvent on the whirlpool system trim.
What is the best way to clean and sanitize my AKER whirlpool system?
The following procedure is recommended to remove most deposits and avoid major accumulations inside the system piping. The actual schedule for cleaning will depend on system usage and water quality, but should not exceed 90 days.
Step 1: Fill tub to the top of the trim ring on the highest jet with lukewarm water.
Step 2: Add 1-cup low-sudsing, automatic dishwasher detergent and run the whirlpool system for 20 minutes. (Bodywrap system = 1 complete timer cycle.)
Step 3: Drain tub, refill with clean water and operate the system for 20-minutes to rinse (Bodywrap system = 1 complete timer cycle).(Rinse thoroughly.)
Occasionally sanitize the system by following the cleaning procedure above, but substitute 1-cup of household bleach for the dishwasher detergent. (Rinse very thoroughly.)
For best results, keep the following in mind when caring for your AKER plumbing products:
• Never use abrasive materials or abrasive cleaners on the whirlpool trim (jets, air controls, and suction covers)
• Use extreme caution when trying any cleaner, acid or solvent on the whirlpool system trim. Refer to our WHIRLPOOL SYSTEM CARE AND CLEANING for complete details.
How should I clean the trim of my AKER whirlpool?
In order not to damage the finish of your whirlpool trim, only use a mild liquid detergent for cleaning followed by a thorough rinsing.
I’ve found light scratches and dull spots on my Aker bath unit. What can I do to fix them?
Most minor surface abrasions can be easily removed by using a water based white automotive polishing compound applied in a circular motion with a clean rag to the affected area. Wipe off the residue and follow with a coat of quality automotive paste wax.
CAUTION: Avoid applying wax to the floor of the unit!
Can I install a cap on my unit?
Yes, provided the unit you’ve selected has an available cap, and the unit has NOT already been secured into the framing area. To properly install a unit cap it must be attached to the unit first and then secured to the framing.
Why do I need to have an access under my whirlpool?
Access is required to the underside of the unit in the event that servicing is needed. This access may be located inside the bathroom or inside an adjoining room or closet.
What are the electrical requirements for your whirlpools?
The main pump/motor electrical connection consists of a single dedicated line with a 20-amp ground-fault circuit interrupter breaker (GFCI) and a 20-amp receptacle. For a unit with an in-line heater, a separate dedicated line, also with a 20 amp ground-fault circuit interrupter breaker (GFCI) and receptacle is necessary.
My drywallers/painters got over-spray on my tub. What can I use to remove it without damaging the finish of my Aker unit?
If the substance on your bath unit is drywall compound or ceiling texture coat, plain water should take care of the problem. If the substance will not come off with water then it’s probably paint or primer and will require something a little stronger. On a gelcoated bath unit, you can use acetone. If your unit has an acrylic surface do NOT use paint thinner or acetone. The strongest product you can use on acylic surfaces is isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol). Regardless of which solvent you use, follow up with soapy water and a thorough rinsing.
Why doesn’t my whirlpool go on when I push the on/off button?
Check the following items before calling for service:
• Confirm that the circuit breaker is turned on.
• Confirm that the gray control box is plugged into the outlet and the pump cord is connected to the control box.
• Confirm the control line from the button to the control box is connected.
On a Bodywrap system, the connection will be one wire with a red connector on the end, from the on/off button running to the gray control box.
For a Homestead system a clear plastic tube from the on/off button is attached to the bottom of the gray control box.
Can I use bubble bath in my whirlpool?
There is no issue with using bubble bath in our whirlpools. However, you need to use discretion. The reasoning is simple; a very small amount of bubble bath can result in a huge column of bubbles when the system is operated. While this will not hurt the system, it does make for a messy cleanup.
Can I use bath oils in my whirlpool?
Aker does not recommend the use of bath oils in your whirlpool. While the bath oil does not pose a problem to the system, the oil will leave a residue on the interior of the system. To remove these residues, see “What is the best way to clean and sanitize my Aker whirlpool system?”
How long is the warranty on my Aker unit?
All Aker acrylic surface models carry a ten (10) year limited warranty against manufacturing and material defects. Gelcoat models are covered by a three (3) year limited warranty against manufacturing and material defects.
How long is the warranty on my Aker whirlpool system?
All Aker whirlpool systems carry a two (2) year limited warranty against manufacturing and material defects. The motor has a five (5) year warranty.
How do I file for service?
Contact the installer or builder. They will file the paperwork necessary to initiate the service process, then the wholesaler will send us the paperwork.
How can this happen to a new unit?
Many times damage to a unit occurs after it has left our control and is a result of handling, transportation to the site, or following installation at the site, prior to completion of the home.
Can I use therapeutic products in my Aker bath unit?
Certain types of therapeutic products when added to bath water, or if applied non-diluted directly in the bath, may damage the unit finish. Test the product on a small inconspicuous surface prior to use.