When the tub panel keeps popping off, the panel is rarely the problem. The removable front apron on an Ella walk-in tub carries two access panels held by clips, screws, velcro, tape or magnets depending on the model, so a magnetic panel that lifts away easily, or a panel with no screws at all, is normal on many models. What makes a panel refuse to stay put is a frame that is not sitting square, because the panel edges and the bottom brackets only line up when every leveling leg is bearing on the floor and the apron is at the right height. So the first thing to check is not the panel or its magnets but the leveling of the tub. The leveling guide walks through the paper slip test under each leg.

Likely Causes

• One or more leveling legs not carrying weight, so the frame is slightly twisted and the panel does not seat.
• The apron sitting too high or too low against the floor, so the bottom brackets miss the panel holes.
• Flex from the door being opened and closed on a frame that is not fully supported.
• Something built or stored behind the apron pushing the panel outward, including insulation, which should never be packed around the tub.

What to Check, in Order

1. Remove the panel fully and set it aside. On magnetic panels it pulls straight away from the frame; on screwed panels look for screw caps first.
2. Check level along the length and width of the deck, then slide a slip of paper under each leveling leg. If the paper slides under, adjust that leg until it bears firmly. On the Standard, Zen and Flow platform the front legs must also be screwed into the subfloor.
3. Verify the door closes smoothly into an even seal. Uneven gaps between door and frame point to a leg that still needs adjusting.
4. With the tub level, refit the apron and check that the bottom brackets line up with the panel holes without forcing. If the holes are still off, the apron height needs to be reset, not the panel.
5. Look behind the panel for anything pressing on it. Cords, tubes and the control box must sit clear of the panel, and there should be no insulation around the equipment. See planning service access.
6. If the panel itself is cracked, warped or missing a clip or magnet, it can be replaced as a part; see end panel and extension panel replacements.

When to Open a Ticket

If the panel still will not stay after leveling, or the brackets and holes cannot be made to line up, open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support with your model and serial number, a photo of the panel edge and the frame where it seats, a photo of the bottom brackets, and a level reading on the deck. Your Ella dealer or the team at (800) 480-6850 will confirm whether it is a leveling, apron height or replacement panel matter.

Common Questions