If your drain handle turns but the drain no longer opens or closes, the drain cable that connects the handle to the drain has most likely come loose or broken, and replacing the drain cable is the fix. The stainless steel cable is a replaceable part, the repair is done from the tub deck and the drain connection box behind the front access panel, and no special plumbing work is required. Replacement cables are available from the support team through ellasbubbles.com/support; include your model and serial number so the right cable is matched.

How Your Drain System Works

Most Ella walk-in tubs use dual 4-port T-type 2 inch drains that are opened and closed by stainless steel cables running inside protective black plastic sleeves. Turning the chrome drain handle pulls the cable, which moves an armature inside the connection box on the drain, and the armature raises or lowers the drain stopper via the drain stem. Dual drain technology explains why there are two of them.

Because these systems differ, please include your model and serial number when requesting a cable so we match the correct part. Not sure where the label is? See where to find your model and serial numbers.

What Causes a Drain Cable to Fail

Stepping on an open drain causes tremendous stress on the cable and can cause breakage. That is why warning stickers are placed on every tub before it ships. Please step around the drain stoppers when entering and exiting the tub, and never push a stopper closed with your foot; use the handle.

Watch the Replacement, Then Follow the Steps

1. Remove the small service panel on the connection box on the drain.
2. Carefully and slowly remove the armature from the connection box, then remove the barrel end of the cable.
3. Using an Allen wrench, remove the drain handle on the tub deck.
4. Loosen and remove the retaining ring nut on the vent, then remove the drain vent assembly completely.
5. To free the cable from the assembly, simply unscrew the entire cable.
6. Screw the new cable in completely, then tighten the locking nut firmly. Do not over torque.
7. Place a thin bead of silicone onto the back of the drain vent assembly, insert it into the drain vent hole on the tub, replace the retaining ring and lock nut, and tighten firmly without over torquing.
8. Place the cable barrel head end onto the drain armature and carefully insert the assembly into the connection box, making sure the flat side of the cable connection is facing up.
9. Confirm there is a positive connection between the drain stem and the armature, then replace the small panel on the connection box.
10. Replace the drain handle. Open and closed positions are indicated by the handles being straight up and down.

Adjusting the Drain Height

Ella tubs have adjustable height drains. If your stopper sits too high or too low, the drain stem can be adjusted by loosening or tightening the stem, then securing it with the lock nut. It is critically important not to loosen the stem too much, otherwise the stem can fall off and go down the drain. A properly set stem assures you of the fastest drain possible. Plugs, stems and gaskets are covered in drain plugs, stems, gaskets and hair catchers.

Quick Checks Before You Replace Anything

• Slow draining is usually not a cable issue. The handle must be opened completely, and the house drain itself must flow freely; see tub drains slowly or not at all.
• If the tub loses water during a bath, make sure the drain closes completely and that the locking nut is tightened on both stoppers.
• Transfer models have extension handles on the drain openers. Handle up means open.
• Everything in this article is reached through the front access panels. There is no need to remove the tub or open the subfloor; planning service access shows where the panels are.

Common Questions

Still need help? Open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support with your serial number, and our technical support team will be glad to walk you through it, including by live video. You can also call (800) 480-6850.