Frequently asked questions about
What does “pipeless” mean in a pedicure chair?
“Pipeless” refers to the jet system inside the pedicure spa basin. Traditional pedicure chairs used internal plumbing and long pipes to circulate water — which made cleaning difficult and created risks of trapped debris. A pipeless pedicure chair uses magnetic, motor-driven jets inside the actual bowl, without internal pipes. This design is more sanitary, easier to clean, quieter, and fully compliant with modern health and safety standards.
What’s the difference between pipeless and plumbed?
“Pipeless” refers to the jet technology, while “plumbed” refers to the water connection. A plumbed chair is permanently connected to your salon’s fresh water supply and drain line, just like a sink. Many pipeless pedicure chairs are also plumbed — giving you sanitary jets with full hot/cold running water.
Do I need a discharge pump for my pedicure chair?
A discharge pump is needed only if your drain line is located higher than the drain on the pedicure unit or if the plumbing is more than a few feet away.
Most salons need a discharge pump when:
- The drain is in the wall (not the floor)
- The drain line is several inches above ground level
- The chair needs to push water “uphill” to reach the plumbing
If your drain is at floor level, you generally do not need a discharge pump. When in doubt, your plumber can confirm based on your salon’s layout.
What plumbing is required to install a plumbed pedicure chair?
A typical plumbed pedicure chair needs:
- Hot and cold water supply lines (½” or ¾”)
- A dedicated drain line (usually 1½”)
- A GFCI-protected electrical outlet for the chair, jet motor, and massage system
All plumbing should be completed by a licensed plumber. At Buy-Rite Beauty, we can provide spec sheets and installation diagrams for any model you’re considering.
Do pipeless pedicure chairs require special maintenance?
Not at all — pipeless systems are designed to be low maintenance and easy to sanitize. After each service, simply:
- Remove the magnetic jet
- Clean and disinfect the components
- Wipe down the basin
Because there are no internal pipes, there’s no place for debris or bacteria to hide, making ongoing maintenance much easier than older pipe-based systems.
