Where Is the Drain on My Walk-In Tub So I Can Rough In the Plumbing?
Updated September 2026
Ella does not publish a single fixed rough-in point for the walk-in tub drain, because the drain end is set by the door side you order and the exact drain position can vary slightly from tub to tub. The drains always sit on the side opposite the door: a right-side door puts the drains on the left, and a left-side door puts them on the right, as you face the tub. The team recommends waiting until the tub is on site to finalize the drain connection, and can give approximate drain-to-edge distances for your model on request.
Why There Is No Fixed Rough-In Dimension
The spec sheet for each model gives the exterior dimensions and the seat and deck layout, but the drain is not dimensioned to a wall the way a shower drain is. The drain end depends on the door side ordered, and the drain position itself can vary slightly from one tub to the next. Rather than pour or cut to a number that may be off, plumbers set the trap after the tub arrives, when they can measure the actual drain outlet with the tub sitting level in its final spot. Choosing the drain side for an alcove or slab and prebuilding the drain line covers how to plan around this.
Planning a Slab or a Closed Floor
If you are pouring a slab or cannot open the floor later, ask the team for the spec sheet and the approximate drain measurements for your model before you pour. The figures are given as distances from the drain to the front, to the back and to each side of the tub, and they are approximate, so leave room in the rough-in to adjust. Prebuilding a drain line with some flexibility, then making the final connection after delivery, is the safest approach. Steps that work well:
- Confirm the door side on your order, which fixes the drain end.
- Request the spec sheet and the approximate drain distances for your model.
- Rough in the trap with a slight allowance in both directions rather than a rigid stub.
- Set the tub level in place, measure the actual drain outlet, and make the final connection.
If your existing floor drain is at the wrong end for the door side you need, see should my door be on the left or right side before you order.
Two-Seat Tubs and Drain Size
On the two-seat models the drain is in the center of the tub rather than at one end. On every model the gravity drain outlet is 2 inches, and this article explains connecting it to 1.5 inch house plumbing. Have your plumber confirm the house drain is sized and vented correctly.
Where the Electrical Connections Are
All electrical connections are located on the seat side of the tub, underneath the seat. Plan the dedicated outlets there and keep the drain end clear for plumbing access. Ask the team for the spec sheet and electrical details for your model and give them to your electrician.
Related Guides
- Left-Hand or Right-Hand? Choosing Door, Drain, and Faucet Side
- How Fast Does a Walk-In Tub Drain? Dual Drain Technology Explained
- Electrical requirements by model: dedicated GFCI circuits for your walk-in tub
Related Videos
Chapters in this video
- 0:00 Dual Drain Technology Overview The video introduces Ella's Bubbles dual 2-inch, four-port drain system and its connection to a house drain.
- 0:20 Live Drain Demonstration A live demonstration shows water flowing through the dual 2-inch, four-port drains.
- 0:39 Drain Setup Images Actual images display a drain setup before and after the installation of the dual drain system.
- 1:01 House Drain Connection Options The video explains recommended house drain connections and how installers determine the best setup.
- 1:27 Easy Turn Drain Handles The easy turn drain handles are shown, which also function as dual air vents to maximize water outflow.
- 1:40 Single Drain and Gravity Driven System Some tubs feature an oversized single drain with emergency pull chain, and the gravity-driven system is highlighted.
Chapters in this video
- 0:00 Preparing for Your Walk-In Tub The video shows the removal of an old tub and the preparation of the space for a new Ella's Bubbles walk-in tub.
- 0:31 Unboxing and Leveling the Tub The installer removes the tub's panels to prevent damage and then levels the tub using its adjustable leveling legs.
- 1:00 Ella's Dual Drain Technology The video explains Ella's dual drain system and shows different drain configurations for efficient water removal.
- 2:03 Water Supply and Electrical Connections The video highlights the importance of shutoff valves, proper supply lines, and dedicated GFCI circuits for the tub.
- 2:31 Designing for Easy Access The video recommends incorporating access panels into the bathroom remodel for convenient future servicing of the tub.
Chapters in this video
- 0:00 Ella Standard Walk-In Tub Overview The video introduces the Ella Standard walk-in tub, highlighting its size and design for average bathers.
- 0:27 Fitting Tub Into Alcove Tips are provided for fitting the tub into a 60-inch alcove, including trimming the apron or using the standard end piece.
- 0:49 Hydro Massage System Features The tub's 18-jet hydro massage system is described, including its intensity control dial and inline water heater.
- 1:14 Drainage And Adjustable Frame The oversized two-inch drain and adjustable frame with access points for door adjustments are showcased.
Common Questions
Which end of the walk-in tub has the drain?
Can I get exact drain measurements before the tub arrives?
Should I wait for the tub before finishing the rough-in?
Where do the electrical connections come out of the tub?
Where is the drain on a two-seat walk-in tub?
Still Need Help?
Open a ticket at ellasbubbles.com/support or call (800) 480-6850 and have your model and serial number ready.
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