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Which Therapy Combinations Fit Which Tub: Hydro, Air, Microbubble, and Foot Massage by Model

Updated September 2026

▶Glossary7
  1. The Space Rule
  2. By Model
  3. Electrical Lines
  4. What Cannot Change Later
  5. Therapy Choices on Video
  6. Related Guides
  7. Common Questions

Which therapy combinations fit which walk-in tub comes down to space under the seat. Ella tubs are ordered with one of six therapy packages: Soaking, Hydro, Air + Hydro, Hydro + Microbubble, Hydro + Independent Foot Massage, or Air + Hydro + Microbubble. Any package with two systems is a dual massage package and includes the LED chromatherapy light. Every system has its own pump under the seat, so the bigger the tub, the more therapies it can carry: compact 52 inch tubs take two, the Royal, Monaco, Transfer32, and Transfer60 take three, and the large single-seat and two-seat frames take all four.

Underwater view of a bather's feet resting over the chrome foot massage jets in an Ella walk-in tub
Foot and calf jets: part of the hydro system, or on their own pump with the independent foot package.

The Space Rule

Back hydro, independent foot hydro, air, and microbubble each get a separate pump; Ella does not use a diverter to split one pump, so all systems run together. The trade-off is space: a 52 inch frame is limited to two systems on most models while a 66 or 72 inch frame takes all four. What each therapy feels like is covered in hydro massage vs air massage, microbubble Infusion therapy, and independent foot massage.

By Model

  • Petite, Capri, Transfer26: maximum two therapies.
  • Elite: Air + Hydro, Hydro + Foot, Hydro + Micro, Hydro, Soaking. The published Air + Hydro + Foot schematic lists the Elite and Capri among its models, but space is tight on 52 inch tubs, so confirm any three-system build with the team first.
  • Ultra: Air + Hydro, Hydro + Foot, Hydro + Micro, or Hydro (no soaker).
  • Deluxe: fixed Air + Hydro; Foot can be added; microbubble by special order.
  • Royal, Monaco, Transfer32: add the triple Air + Hydro + Microbubble.
  • Transfer60: three systems (Air + Hydro + Foot or Air + Hydro + Micro), not four. TransferXXL: the same triple packages on its spec sheet; the team has confirmed an all-four build on the TransferXXL as a special order, so ask before planning electrical.
  • Ultimate: Hydro + Foot + Air standard, microbubble by special order. Lounger: two standard, Air + Hydro + Foot by special order.
  • Big4One, ShaK, and all two-seat tubs: all four possible (the TransferXXL by special order, as above).
  • LayDown 30x60 and 32x72: one therapy only (air, hydro, or microbubble).
  • Front Entry: Air + Hydro, Hydro + Micro, Hydro, Soaking; no Hydro + Foot and no LED.
  • Standard, Zen, Flow: hydro only. Hydrogen (H2) is offered only on the Standard60 and cannot be combined with microbubbles.

A one-page summary of what ships with each package is in the therapy package inclusions cheat sheet, and jet counts per package are in jet counts by model and package.

Electrical Lines

Hydro, Air + Hydro, or single systems use one dedicated 20A 120V GFCI line. Hydro + Micro, Air + Hydro + Foot, or adding microbubbles or a heated seat on a single-seat tub use two. The ShaK and Big4One with microbubbles and fully loaded two-seat tubs use three; the Flow is the exception at 15A. The full table is in electrical requirements by model.

What Cannot Change Later

Packages are built into the shell, so therapies cannot be added after purchase and jet counts cannot be customized; the intensity dial softens a massage. Choose the full package you may want at order time.

Underwater close-up of microbubbles and jets flowing in an Ella walk-in tub
Microbubble therapy is delivered through a single port and turns the water milky white.

Therapy Choices on Video

Customize Your Walk-In Tub: Jetting Options and Accessories
Chapters in this video
  1. 0:00 Designing Your Walk-In Tub The video introduces the customization options available for Ella's Bubbles walk-in tubs, emphasizing the detailed website for choices.
  2. 0:16 Jetting Packages and Features Different jetting packages are offered based on tub style and size, including air massage, hydro massage, and MicroBubble therapy.
  3. 1:07 Exclusive Features and Therapies Many tubs offer an independent foot massage feature, LED chromotherapy, and various ways to configure jetting packages.
  4. 1:31 Additional Accessories and Comforts Customers can add heated seats, different control buttons, headrests, seat cushions, and a four-fold glass screen.
  5. 1:54 Shower and Aroma Therapy Options The video shows how to add a rain head shower column and the luxury of aroma therapy to the walk-in tub.

The video walks through choosing air and hydro packages, microbubble therapy, Auto Purge and ozone, independent foot massage, chromatherapy, and the accessories added at order time. Watch: Customize Your Walk-In Tub: Jetting Options & Accessories with chapters and a full transcript.

Independent Foot Massage Pumps for Walk-In Tubs
Chapters in this video
  1. 0:00 Independent Pumps For Each System Ella's Bubbles installs a separate pump for each individual system, including back jets, foot jets, air jets, and MicroBubble.
  2. 0:23 Diverter Valve Limitations Some bathtubs use a small plastic diverter to direct flow between foot jets and back jets, reducing volume from one when the other is active.
  3. 0:52 Ella's Bubbles Independent Pumps Ella's Bubbles walk-in tubs provide independent pumps and motors for increased pressure and easier control, allowing all systems to operate simultaneously.

A dealer explains that Ella installs a separate pump for each system instead of a plastic diverter, so pressure stays strong and every system runs together. Watch: Experience True Relaxation with Independent Foot Massage Pumps for Walk-In Tubs with chapters and a full transcript.

Independent Foot Massage In A Walk In Tub
Chapters in this video
  1. 0:00 Independent Foot Massage Option The video introduces the new independent foot massage option on Ella's Bubbles walk-in tubs.
  2. 0:17 Enjoy Hydro Foot Massage Customers can enjoy a luxurious hydro foot massage without filling the entire tub.
  3. 0:39 Powerful Hydro Massage Jets Four dedicated foot jets and two calf jets deliver a powerful hydro massage.
  4. 1:03 Therapeutic Foot Massage Benefits This feature is a must-have for anyone who enjoys the therapeutic benefits of a warm, relaxing foot massage.

This clip shows the independent foot package in use: fill only the foot well with the fast-fill faucet, press the foot button, and adjust the separate dial while the four foot jets and two calf jets run from their own pump. Watch: Independent Foot Massage In A Walk In Tub - Safe & Comfortable Bathing Ella's Bubbles with chapters and a full transcript.

Common Questions

Do I need hydro to get microbubbles?
On seated tubs, you need hydro massage to get microbubbles because microbubble therapy ships as the Hydro + Microbubble package. However, LayDown tubs are an exception and can be ordered with microbubble therapy alone. This is because microbubble therapy is designed to be therapeutic for the skin, not a massage, and on seated tubs it is paired with hydro massage for the actual massage action.
Can the Lounger have hydro, air and foot together?
The Lounger walk-in tub can have hydro plus air or hydro plus foot massage as standard therapy combinations. All three therapies, hydro, air, and independent foot massage, can be special ordered on the Lounger. You should ask the Ella's Bubbles team to confirm this three-system build for your order.
Can microbubble be added to the Deluxe?
The Deluxe walk-in tub ships with a fixed Air + Hydro massage package as its standard configuration. Microbubble therapy can be added to the Deluxe model as a special order. You should contact the Ella's Bubbles team to arrange this customization.
Can I get a Transfer30 or Transfer32 with air only?
No, you cannot get a Transfer30 or Transfer32 walk-in tub with air massage only. On the Transfer family of tubs and every other seated tub model, air massage is always paired with hydro massage. Air-only therapy is exclusively available on the LayDown series of tubs.
Can the Elite have all four therapies?
No, the Elite walk-in tub cannot have all four therapies. The Elite model is limited to carrying a maximum of two therapy systems due to space under the seat. For a tub that can accommodate all four therapies (hydro, air, microbubble, and independent foot massage), you should consider larger models such as the Big4One, ShaK, TransferXXL, or any of the two-seat tubs.
Can hydrogen and microbubble go in the same tub?
No, hydrogen (H2) therapy and Infusion microbubble therapy cannot be combined in the same tub. Hydrogen therapy is offered only on the Standard60 model with full hydro massage. This specific therapy cannot be paired with microbubbles.
Can I add air jets to my hydro tub later?
No, you cannot add air jets to your hydro tub later. Therapy systems are built into the tub's shell at the factory during manufacturing. This means a hydro tub cannot be converted to an air massage tub, and a soaker tub cannot have jets added after purchase.
Can I get independent foot massage in a narrow tub?
Yes, you can get independent foot massage in narrow tubs like the Petite, Elite, and Transfer26. These models can accommodate the Hydro + Independent Foot Massage package, which uses two pumps. This package counts as both of the two therapy systems that these compact tubs can hold.
Can I order fewer jets, or a gentler massage?
No, you cannot order fewer jets or customize jet counts, as they are fixed by the model and chosen therapy package. To achieve a gentler massage, you can use the intensity dial to soften the hydro massage. Alternatively, you might consider choosing the air massage system, which generally provides a gentler experience.
Can I get every therapy in one tub?
Only on the larger frames. The 30 by 52 class tubs (Elite, Capri, Petite, Royal, Transfer30, Transfer32) hold at most two pumps, so they take soaking, hydro, hydro plus air, hydro plus microbubble or hydro plus independent foot massage; the Royal alone in that class also offers hydro plus air plus microbubble. Three pump packages such as air plus hydro plus microbubble or air plus hydro plus independent foot are available on the Transfer60 and TransferXXL, and all four systems together fit the Big4One, Shak, TransferXXL and the two seat tubs.
Why can I not have hydro, microbubble and independent foot massage together on my 52 inch tub?
Independent foot massage is a second water pump, and a microbubble system is a third pump with its own pressure tank. A two pump frame has no room for all three. Full hydro still feeds the foot jets on any hydro package; independent foot simply adds a second motor so the lower jets can run on their own, and hydro plus air plus microbubble still massages the feet as long as the whole tub is filled.
What is the advantage of independent foot massage over the foot jets in a standard hydro package?
With the second pump you can fill only to just below the knee, about an inch or two above the lower jets, and run the foot jets alone for a foot spa without filling the tub. Two pumps also mean stronger pressure at the jets when both run together.
Can a LayDown have more than one therapy?
No. Each LayDown takes a single jetting system, air, hydro or microbubble, or comes as a soaker, because component space under a lay flat tub is limited. Pumps cannot be added to any Ella tub after it leaves the factory, so choose the package at order time.
Can I add a heated seat and backrest to my walk-in tub?
Yes, a heated seat and backrest is available as an add-on that runs independently of the jetted therapy systems, so you can pair it with a soaking, hydro, air, or microbubble package. Because it draws power like the other systems, some single-seat tubs need an additional dedicated GFCI line once a heated seat is added. Ask your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 to confirm what your chosen model needs.
What does the soaking package include on an Ella's Bubbles tub?
The soaking package is simply a plain tub with no massage jets at all. It is one of the six therapy packages offered at order time, so a soaking tub has no hydro, air, or microbubble jets by design rather than by omission. If you want massage therapy instead, ask your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 which packages fit your chosen model.
Does Ella's Bubbles offer chromotherapy and aromatherapy on its tubs?
Chromotherapy LED lighting comes included automatically with any dual massage package, meaning any build with two therapy systems. Aromatherapy is also offered as an available option that can be added at order time. Ask your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 for details on adding either to your chosen model.
What therapy options are available on the Mobile 45 inch tub?
The Mobile 45 inch unit can include air bubble massage, foot massage, and a heat option such as a heated seat or backrest. As with other Ella models, these are chosen as part of the package at order time since therapies cannot be added afterward. Ask your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 for the full list of options on this model.
What are the benefits of choosing the hydro plus microbubble therapy package?
Hydro plus microbubble combines full hydro massage with Ella's Infusion microbubble system, which is designed to moisturize the skin and support healthy blood circulation. On seated tubs, microbubble is only offered together with hydro, so this pairing is the standard way to get that benefit. Ask your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 which models offer this combination.
Does the hydro massage system keep the water warm during use?
Yes, Ella's Bubbles hydro massage systems include an inline water heater that works alongside the pump to help maintain your bath water's temperature while the jets are running. This helps your soak stay comfortably warm rather than cooling down over time. Ask your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 for details on your chosen model.
What is the benefit of adding a heated seat and backrest?
A heated seat and backrest pre-warms the acrylic surface of the tub, which many owners find especially welcome in cold climates. It runs independently of the jetted therapy systems, so it can be paired with a soaking, hydro, air, or microbubble package. Ask your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 whether this add-on fits your chosen model.
Is microbubble therapy considered a type of massage?
No, microbubble therapy is designed to be therapeutic for the skin rather than a massage, using its own pump to infuse tiny bubbles into the bath water. On seated tubs it is always paired with hydro massage, which supplies the actual massage action. Ask your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 for more on how this pairing works on your chosen model.
Where are the air massage jets located in an Ella walk-in tub?
Air massage jets are located in the floor and seat of the tub, releasing gentle air bubbles rather than the stronger water flow used by hydro massage. This placement lets the air therapy reach you both while seated and while your feet rest on the tub floor. On most seated models air massage is paired with hydro massage, while LayDown tubs can have air massage on its own.
Where are the hydro massage jets located on an Ella walk-in tub?
Hydro massage uses water jets positioned at the back, hips, feet, and calves to push water into the tub for a full-body massage. This layout is designed to target joint and muscle discomfort across multiple areas at once. The number of hydro jets is fixed by your tub's model and cannot be changed after your order.
What skin benefits does microbubble therapy offer besides moisturizing?
Along with moisturizing the skin, Ella's Infusion microbubble therapy is designed to gently exfoliate as the pressurized air and water mixture passes over your skin. It is also intended to support healthy blood circulation, making it a skin-focused therapy rather than a deep-tissue massage.
Which areas of the body does air massage cover on an Ella walk-in tub?
Air massage provides body, back, hip, and foot massage. It is one of the four therapy options Ella's Bubbles offers for walk-in tubs. Ask your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 which models offer it.
Where is the microbubble jet located inside the tub?
Microbubble therapy uses one microbubble jet in the footwell area, fed by an extra water pump from a pressure tank. It is a skin exfoliation system rather than a muscle massage. The tiny, microscopic bubbles make the water appear milky white.
Can I get a heated seat and backrest on the Elite or the Transfer30?
Yes, a heated seat and back are available options on both the Elite and the Transfer30. Like the therapy packages, this is chosen at order time. Ask your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 to confirm what your chosen model and electrical setup need.
Does the Elite come with LED lighting on the Air + Hydro package?
Yes, the LED chromatherapy lights come standard with the Air + Hydro option on the Elite. This fits the general rule that any dual massage package includes the light. Ask your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 if you would like help choosing the right Elite package.

For anything model-specific, open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support or call (800) 480-6850.

About this guide. Answers in the Ella’s Bubbles Support Center are compiled from real conversations with tub owners, our technicians’ notes and the product documentation, then reviewed by our team. Tub models and options have evolved over the years, so a detail here may differ slightly from your exact tub. If something looks different on yours, send us your serial number and a specialist will confirm it for your model.

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