How to Choose a Walk-In Bathtub

3 Main Factors
TO DETERMINE SOAKING DEPTH

Measure ideal seat length by sitting with feet against a wall and measuring from chair back to wall. Seat length and height affect upper body soaking depth. While standard walk-in tubs are
for sitting, full-body soaking may need a longer model (like Ella’s Lounger, Big4One, ShaK) or a lay-down walk-in tub without a seat. Find drawings at ellasbubbles.com. Choose based on preference and space.

Walk-in tubs are specifically engineered for comfortable sitting while bathing. However, finding the perfect walk-in tub for full-body soaking requires extra bathroom space and an elongated tub. For example, Ella’s Bubbles offers longer walk-in tub models like the Lounger, Big4One, or ShaK that can comfortably accommodate bathers up to 7 feet tall.

In some circumstances, lay-down walk-in tubs without a seat and with a door may be a more suitable option. These types of tubs offer the bather the ability to lie down comfortably while still enjoying the convenience and safety features of a walk-in tub. It’s essential to consider individual needs and preferences when choosing between seated and lay-down walk-in tubs.

Footwell
THE FLOOR SPACE

To size a bathtub seat, measure your relaxed hip and shoulder width (across pelvis/shoulders and chest, keeping tape straight). The seat should be larger than these measurements.

Walk-in tubs are designed for seated bathing; lying down is typically impractical. Soaking depth is determined by interior length, seat length, and seat-to-overflow distance. Ella’s offers over 25 models for various body types, including options for taller individuals like the Big4One and ShaK. For those wanting to lay down, Ella’s provides dedicated lay-down walk-in tubs with doors and optional shower screen

Experience the finest and safest Walk-In Tub with Ella’s proprietary Dual Drain Technology, the fastest gravity-driven drain system available. Featuring two dual drains and four large 2″ ports (compared to standard 1.5″), this system drains your tub quickly and reliably while providing an essential safety backup.

The vented design speeds drainage by eliminating air pockets, and the flexible 2″ ports offer multiple connection options to your house drain (2″ or 3″ recommended for fastest results), ideally using a Y-connection for optimal flow.

The choice of your walk-in tub’s door and drain position is largely aesthetic and flexible to suit your needs and bathroom layout. Most of our walk-in tubs come standard with a left or right drain option, allowing water to be directed towards the front or rear of the tub.

Measure carefully before ordering! Check all doorway and hallway widths from your front door to the bathroom (including turns) to ensure your tub fits inside your home. Also, make sure the tub door won’t block bathroom fixtures. Read specifications or call us with questions.

6. Understanding the Function of the Extension L Panel, Front Apron and Access End Panels for Ella Walk-in Tubs

Ella Walk-in Tub Reversible Extension Panel

Here’s the deal with panels: If your tub is under 60 inches long, it includes reversible extension panels to help fill a standard 60-inch space (Front Entry models use different side panels). Tubs 60 inches or longer don’t need extension panels. Plus, every Ella walk-in tub comes with one reversible end panel. Mounting hardware is included for all panels

Ella Walk-in Tub Reversible End Panels

Every Ella walk-in tub includes one reversible end panel. It’s used to cover an exposed end, like in a corner installation. If your tub is against a back wall and both ends are visible, you can purchase a second end panel separately. These panels are also easily removed for service access to the plumbing. Mounting hardware is included.

Ella Walk-in Tub Removable Front Apron and Access Panels.

The front apron on your Ella walk-in tub is removable for easy service access. Most tubs have access panels within the apron; otherwise, the whole apron comes off. Attachment varies by model.

WARNING:

All removable panels, including the front apron with access panels, end panel, and extension panels, must be removed before moving the walk-in tub into the house and bathroom. These panels are not designed to bear the weight of the tub during transportation and may break if not removed.
Replacement or additional acrylic panels can be purchased at an additional cost; however, please note that the white matching color tones may slightly vary.

Electrical work for your walk-in tub requires a dedicated line with a GFCI-protected breaker, installed by a licensed electrician following local codes. They will size the breaker based on your tub’s power needs. Always consult your local licensed electrician.

For a much faster fill time and less waiting, we strongly recommend using 3/4″ water supply lines instead of 1/2″ for your walk-in tub. Larger lines also help maintainbetter water pressure. Make sure they include easily accessible shut-off valves. Our fast-fill faucets come with supply lines, and upgrading to 3/4″ is key for quicker fills.

When choosing an instant water heater for your walk-in tub, getting hot water quickly is crucial, and this primarily depends on the flow rate (GPM – gallons per minute).

1. Flow Rate: Gas water heaters typically have a higher flow rate compared to electric heaters. They can heat water more quickly, making them suitable for larger households or simultaneous hot water demands. Electric water heaters may struggle to maintain the desired temperature at high flow rates, particularly in colder climates.

2. Energy Efficiency: Although electric heaters are more energy-efficient, the higher flow rate advantage of gas heaters is a crucial factor when considering performance.

3. Operating Cost: Gas heaters usually have lower operating costs due to the lower cost of natural gas, despite their lower energy efficiency.

4. Installation Cost: Electric water heaters are easier and cheaper to install but may require an electrical service upgrade to handle the high flow rates.

5. Recovery Rate: The faster flow rate of gas water heaters translates to a quicker recovery rate, providing more hot water per hour.

6. Space Requirements: Gas water heaters require more space for venting and gas line installations, while electric heaters are more compact.

7. Availability of Energy Source: The availability of natural gas in your area will determine whether a gas heater is a viable option for you.

We strongly suggest choosing a water heater with a capacity of 75 gallons or higher for tank-style heaters, or a minimum flow rate of 11 GPM for instant heaters, to ensure sufficient hot water supply for your household needs.

In summary, gas water heaters typically offer a faster flow rate (GPM) than electric water heaters, making them more suitable for households with high hot water demands. However, factors such as energy costs, available space, and environmental concerns should also be considered when choosing between the two types of heaters.

Before making a decision on the best water heater for your home, it’s essential to consult with a licensed and experienced contractor. They can assess your specific needs, recommend the most suitable option, and ensure proper installation and compliance with local regulations.

For installation, please use a licensed and experienced local contractor. They’re familiar with local codes and can install the tub correctly using our guides. Ella’s tech support is also available for them, offering live video assistance if needed. 

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Bathers may benefit from air and hydrotherapy jetted walk-in tubs if they suffer from these health concerns:

To help keep your jetted walk-in tub clean and lasting longer, Ella tubs with air or hydro massage come with self-cleansing features. Hydrotherapy systems use Ozone Sterilization to disinfect the water eco-friendly. Air massage systems have Auto-purge that automatically clears moisture and bacteria from the air lines after your bath, preventing mold.

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15. Choosing Accessories

Make your Ella walk-in tub experience even better! We offer lots of optional accessories to enhance your bath. Explore extra options you can add, and they can all ship conveniently with
your tub.

Find additional information in our

Walk-In Tub Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)