When the locking handle is too tight to move, the tension on the handle mechanism is set higher than it needs to be, and the fix is an adjustment rather than a repair. The chrome handle on the stainless steel inward swing door is held by a lock nut behind the front apron, under a small protective cap. Loosening that nut reduces the handle tension and tightening it increases tension. The first thing to check, though, is that the tub is level, because a bowed door frame stiffens the handle just as surely as an over-tightened nut. This symptom shows up mostly on stainless steel inward swing doors, where the interior locking handle has to be lifted by the bather, and a handle that is so tight a spouse cannot move it is a real comfort concern that is worth correcting right away.

Likely Causes

• The lock nut on the handle mechanism set too tight.
• The tub out of level, so the door frame is bowed and the latch binds.
• Residue on the seal or frame making the door harder to pull tight.
• A handle mechanism that stays stiff after adjustment, which the team confirms from photos.

What to Check, in Order

1. Drain the tub and confirm it is level front to back and side to side. Every leveling leg must sit solidly on the floor. If the door also rubs the frame, follow the door rubbing fix before adjusting the handle.
2. Remove the front apron to expose the back of the door handle mechanism.
3. Locate the protective cap over the lock nut and remove it.
4. Loosen the locking nut a small amount to reduce tension. Work in small steps, since a nut that is too loose will let the handle sit away from the tub wall and stop pulling the door tight.
5. Retest the handle with the door closed. It should lift and lower with a light, positive motion and the door should still press evenly against the seal. The full procedure is in handle lock nut and hinge adjustment.
6. Replace the cap and the apron, then fill the tub and confirm the door stays dry. Everyday use of this door is described in using the stainless steel inward door.

In the video, the front apron is removed, the protective cap on the handle mechanism is taken off, and the locking nut is loosened to reduce handle tension or tightened to increase it before the door is retested.

When to Open a Ticket

If the handle stays stiff after you have leveled the tub and backed off the lock nut, contact your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850, or open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support. Include your model and serial number, a photo of the handle from inside the tub, a photo of the mechanism behind the apron, and a short video of the handle being moved so the team can confirm what is binding.

Common Questions