Why Doesn't the Extension Panel Attach on the Faucet Side?

If the extension panel does not attach on the faucet side, it is almost always because the panel and its shelf brackets were built for the other end of the tub. Tubs shorter than 60 inches include one extension panel, left or right as specified on your order, mounted on stainless steel shelf brackets built into the frame at that end. On a Capri or Elite, brackets can be fitted to both ends only when that is requested before the tub is built, so a panel that only fits the headrest end is behaving as ordered. Check your order paperwork for the panel side first, then which end of the frame carries the brackets. The extension panels and filler kits guide shows the kit for every model.

Likely Causes

• The panel was ordered for the opposite end, and the frame only has shelf brackets at that end.
• The model does not include an extension panel: Front Entry, Mobile, Ultimate, Big4One, Shak, Transfer60 and the two seat models fill their space without one.
• The exposed end needs an end panel, not an extension panel.

What to Check, in Order

1. Read your order paperwork for the extension panel side, which was chosen with the door and drain side when the tub was configured.
2. Inspect both ends of the frame for the adjustable shelf brackets. If only one end has them, that is the end the panel fits; a second set is a factory option requested before the tub is built.
3. Measure the alcove. The extension panel takes a 52 or 55 inch tub to a standard 60 inch opening. Use the alcove fit guide to confirm the gap you are closing.
4. If the alcove is out of square or slightly under 60 inches, trim the panel on site; it is designed to be cut.
5. If the gap is at a freestanding end rather than a wall, you need the reversible end panel instead. One is included and a second can be purchased through where you purchased the tub; see end panel and extension panel replacements and freestanding and exposed side installations.
6. If the gap is wider than the panel covers, your installer frames and finishes the remaining space.

When to Open a Ticket

If the panel side on your paperwork does not match the brackets on your frame, or you need brackets or a panel for the other end, open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support with your model, serial number, door side, a photo of each end of the frame and a sketch of the alcove with measurements in inches. Your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 will confirm what was built and what can be added.

The video explains that every tub ships with one reversible end panel placed opposite the corner, a second can be bought when both ends are exposed, tubs under 60 inches include a left or right extension panel for a 60 inch alcove, and all panels come off before the tub moves into the house. Watch: Ella's Bubbles: Understanding Extension and End Panels with chapters and a full transcript.

Related Guides

• Which Ella Walk-In Tubs Are 60 Inches Long?
• Replacement Extension Panels Come With Their Mounting Arms, and Why the Panel Must Never Be Glued On
• The Extension Panel: What Ships With Your Tub, Where It Installs, and When to Set It Aside
• Getting an Extension Panel When Your Alcove Is Wider Than Your Tub
• Which end does the Ella Elite extension panel go on in a 60 inch alcove?
• How do you fill the alcove gap when installing the 45 inch Ella Mobile?

Common Questions