About Ella Walk-In Tubs
Welcome to Ella’s Bubbles!
We know that with so many walk-in tubs choices, it can be a bit overwhelming. That’s why we made this page, packing it with lot’s of great content to keep you well-informed about our tubs so you can make an educated decision.
List of Ella Walk-In Tub Topics
Why Choose Ella’s Bubbles?
We are true experts when it comes to walk-in tubs. At Ella’s, we always make sure our customers get the perfect walk-in tub that would be best suited for them and their bathroom. We know that with so many various walk-in tubs choices, it can be a bit overwhelming at times.
Our walk-in tubs are truly unique and stand out from our competitors. To start, our tubs are made from acrylic as opposed to gel coat. With the customer in mind, we have created unique designs for our walk-in tub doors that would fit the customer and their bathroom space. We also equipped our tubs with the industry best Dual Drain Technology which provides fast and efficient draining and reliable and fast exit from the tub. Lastly, we offer features and accessories that include a patented 360 degree swivel tray, a unique 4-fold shower screen, various therapeutic jetting options and so much more to enhance your bathing experience!
In the index below, we will break down walk-in tub topics and talk about each one in detail. We will be educating you about Ella walk-in tub categories, door types, style and size of the tubs, various jetting options and packages, walk-in tub fixtures, features and accessories, and lastly about our cultured marble shower wall surrounds. Continue to read below for the ultimate walk-in tub guide!
Why Choose An Acrylic Walk-In Tub Over A Gelcoat Tub
Ella’s Bubbles is a Chicago-based manufacturer of acrylic walk-in tubs and a nationally distributed manufacturer of private label accessible shower stalls and gel coat walk-in tubs. Our focus has always been on acrylic walk-in tub development, production, and distribution. Considering that acrylic is the better material option, It is important to understand the benefits of acrylic tubs over gel coat tubs.
About Acrylic Walk-In Tubs
Acrylic tubs are formed from a solid sheet of material providing you with a consistent and quality product every time. They have a brilliant non-porous finish that is impermeable to mold and mildew, long lasting, and easy to maintain.
Acrylic’s non-porous surface ensures that mold and mildew cannot seep into the material and build up over time causing several issues. Whereas gel coat tubs are created using several layers of gel coat which causes a rougher porous surface that is susceptible to mold and mildew.
About Gel Coat Walk-In Tubs
These walk-in tubs consist of a gel coat layer that is sprayed on a mold and a layer of fiberglass over that to reinforce it. Then, it is backed with wood and more fiberglass for extra versatility and durability. Gel coat is a porous material, however, it is very important to understand that the quality of the gel coat walk-in baths depends on craftsmanship, experience, and the quality of materials used.
Be cautious about cheaper gel coat walk-in bathtubs available on the market, as they may not have plenty of layers of gel coat sprayed on and polished to perfection in order to achieve the long lasting, easy to clean surface. Gel coat does have more versatile options and sizes that cannot be achieved with acrylic because of the nature of the material and the process of making it.
Stainless Steel Frame, Adjustable Level Legs & A Fiberglass Reinforced Shell
Ella acrylic walk-in tubs are constructed of the highest quality grade white acrylic, with an easy to clean gloss finish that is reinforced with fiberglass. The acrylic shell is supported by a rust proof stainless steel frame for durability and adjustable leveling legs for easier installation.
The acrylic shell is supported by a rust proof stainless steel frame for durability and multiple adjustable leveling legs for an easier installation and stronger support. Most Ella walk-in tub supporting frames are raised by adjustable frame legs to allow the drainpipe to be installed above the floor for easier an drain connection to the existing house drain. For some walk-in tub models, you can also lower the threshold with leveling legs when access to the crawl spaces or basements are available and drains can be recessed below the floor level. Please refer to specific model manuals for more details, talk to our customer support specialists, your contractor or an Ella’s Bubbles authorized reseller.
Selecting the Right Walk-In Tub For You & Your Bathroom Space
The big decision you’ll have to make is the size of your walk-in bathtub. We offer a variety of sizes to tailor to your specific needs. When picking a size, you’ll need to take into account your body type, the water usage of that walk-in bathtub, and whether or not you can fit it through your house and into your bathroom. Ella’s Bubbles takes into account that our customers come in all shapes and sizes. That’s why we offer walk-in tubs in multiple different sizes to accommodate every body type.
Below, we will showcase our 8 walk-in tub categories. Most of these categories are created based on the door types or walk-in tub unique styles and features such as: 2 seat walk-in tubs, a hoist operated walk-in tub, the largest (36×72) single seat walk-in tub in the market, or our uniquely designed lay-down walk-in tubs without a seat.
Walk-In Tub Categories & Models
Inward swing doors are great for the common bather who doesn’t need the extra room to get into and out of the walk-in bathtub. They also are great space savers and perform well in smaller bathrooms as some bathrooms don’t offer the space needed to accommodate an outward swinging door in walk-in bathtub. These sort of tubs are also are self-sealing. As the water pressure pushes on the door it further seals it to prevent any leaks. This door type is also one of the most common options for walk-in tubs and comes in stainless steel with a tempered frosted glass.
This line of walk-in tub models feature a unique outward swing door which allows for an easy in and out exit. This kind of door requires additional space in the bathroom, and it allows the most room to maneuver inside the tub. These doors also feature tempered glass giving you a tub with a unique high-end look. We have a total of seven U-shape door walk-in tubs and most of those models include the best in industry unique Ella gravity driven Dual Drain Technology (four 2” Outlets/Ports). Two of our models, the Front Entry and Mobile, include two 2″ ports with an emergency pull up chain.
Life is hectic and filled with all sorts of monotonous tasks, so most people tend to consider bathing a chore. However, such an ordinary task can easily be turned into a pleasurable experience when a loved one is included. Ella’s Bubbles offer three 2-seat walk-in tubs so that couples can enjoy a relaxing bath together. Not only will washing those hard-to-reach places be easier, the partner bond will also feel renewed and refreshed. It will be very challenging to find these types of walk-in tubs for two anywhere else. To make it even better, all of our 2-seat tubs come with a center door and drain to create more seating space for you and your loved one.
These outward swing Door walk-in tubs were engineered to suit people who use a wheelchair and those with limited mobility. The large entry through the wide, L-shaped outward swing door allows the bather to hold on to the deck, and wall-mounted pre-installed grab bars, as they slide in or out of the walk-in tub bathtub. For example, customers in a wheelchair can easily slide in and out of the seat without having to stand up.
The Ella Laydown walk-in tub, provides you with all the accessibility and safety of a traditional walk-in tub, while giving you the feel and comfort of a regular bathtub. Engineered straight and narrow side walls offer unparalleled safety while offering you extra room and comfort. This tub features a wider flat floor space side to side so that you can stand closer to the wall of the tub greatly reducing the chances of slipping when standing in, showering, and entering or exiting the tub. Available with an optional stainless steel and tempered glass inward swing door with an added glass shower screen.
Just like the stainless steel inward swing U-shape doors, the S-Class walk-in tubs also have an inward swinging door, but the main difference is the she shape of it and that it’s made from acrylic as opposed to stainless steel.
The Ella Transfer3060HL is a hoist transfer bathtub that is sized for the average bather. This is a great option for customers who have little to no mobility. The tub features a hoist that can be pulled out and moved to assist the user. Once the person is on the hoist, they can easily be pushed straight into the tub in a matter of minutes. As soon as the bath is over, you can store the hoist right behind the tub rolling the bottom underneath to decrease the space being used.
This model includes a brushed aluminum inward swinging door with frosted tempered glass, a stainless-steel towel bar for your convenience, and even wall and deck mounted grab bars to work in unison allowing for easy and safe entry/exit of the tub.
Different Types of Doors & Door Selection Options
Picking the correct door type is an important detail that you don’t want to overlook. There are ‘U’ shaped doors that sport a modern design, and they’re perfect for the common bather. ‘L’ shaped doors are great for those with mobility issues as they allow for easy transfer from wheelchair to the walk-in bathtub and back. Outward swing doors allow for more room inside the tub, but may require more space in the bathroom to accommodate the door. Ella’s outward swing door tubs have either a 2 or 3-latch locking system to keep the door securely closed and free from leaks, but still easy to operate. Lastly, inward swing doors are are great space savers and perform well in smaller bathrooms as some bathrooms don’t offer the space needed to accommodate an outward swinging door in walk-in bathtub.
Below, you will see the 4 different Ella walk-in tub door styles including our unique 2 & 3-latch gear and shaft mechanism vs. a simple lever lock system.
Ella door types and styles
A 2-latch door system provides a more secure and watertight door seal than the conventional single latch system. This provides you with a leak-free bathing experience unlike our competitors who typically use a single latch/lever system.
The unique 3-latch door lock system allows for equal pressure to the door gasket throughout its entirety and guarantees a leakproof door seal. This locking mechanism truly differentiates Ella’s Bubbles from its competitors.
Ella 2 & 3 latch door lock system vs. the industry 1 latch standard doors
Selecting the Correct Style & Size of the Walk-In Tub
The house drain positioning will determine where the walk-in tub can be placed. If it is new a construction, the positioning of the drain and walk-in tub placement can be planned. Your contractor must make sure the house drain can be connected to the drain of your selected walk-in tub.
For example in many cases you have to choose the left drain/door walk-in tub to connect to the existing right side drain of the bath-tub or shower you are replacing. Please consult to your licensed contractor to assure the correct selection.
In many remodeling cases, it may not be feasible to change the drain positioning, so please pay attention to the images and information shown below prior to purchasing.
Left and Right corner installation:
Most of Ella walk-in tubs come with one reversible end L panel and an extension panel/filler (for tubs shorter than 60”) is included so if your tub needs to be installed in left or right corners, the reversible end panel will cover the end of the tub.
60″ Alcove installation:
Most Ella walk-in tubs shorter than 60” will include the filler L panel. For example, the Elite is 30”x52” so it will come with L panel filler in the width of 8”. Please refer to specifications of your selected walk-in tub found on every product page under the “Downloads” section.
Against the wall installation:
In this case, both ends will be open and you will need to purchase one more end panel to cover the other open end.
Check out our installation videos here:
Additional Access Panels For Walk-In Tubs
It is important to be aware of the Ella end access panels. Ella walk-in tubs include one reversible end panel which can be installed to either side. The additional end panel can be ordered in case if your tub is installed to the back wall as free standing.
Above the floor drain installation (default on most Ella walk-in tubs)
Below the floor drain installation (refer to specifications for specific tub if this option is available)
Getting Your Walk-In Tub Into The Bathroom
Another important aspect of size is whether or not the walk-in bathtub will fit in your house or bathroom. If the walk-in tub is too large, the walls may need to be cut to get the walk-in bathtub inside of your bathroom. This can be another costly expense so it is vital to pay attention to the walk-in bathtub dimensions as well as your own bathroom and hallway dimensions.
*The size B must be less than the size A
Walk-In Tub Jetting Options
It is important to understand that the fixtures and pumps (parts) for each massage or therapeutic option requires substantial space. These parts are normally installed below the seat on your walk-in tub. The bigger the tub is, the more parts can be fit below and that determines what package can be installed on your tub. For example, our Big4Two can have as many massage or therapeutic options as you wish since this tub is 36×80 and has 2 seats with plenty of space for parts to fit below. Selecting the packages can be confusing to non professionals, so it is important to revise the jetting options/packages we offer for each tub.
Please note that we can add the whirlpool massage or therapeutic option to your tub even if there is not a lot of space below. This can be done on a case by case base and only if there is a closet next to your tub, and enough space in your closet to place these additional parts. Ella authorized reseller or customers must submit a request to Ella’s Bubbles office to determine if that can be done case by case bases.
There are multiple whirlpool and air combinations of massage or therapeutic options available in Ella walk-in baths: hydro + independent foot massage, air + hydro = dual massage, air + microbubble, hydro + microbubble, and air + hydro + microbubble. Please view the videos of these packages below.
Package selection
After you pick the correct size and the side of the door and the drain of your walk-in tub, you can proceed with the jetting package selection. These options include the following: Air Massage, Hydro Massage, Microbubble Therapy, and the brand new Hydro + Hydro Independent foot massage. However, the possibility of installing every package will depend on the available space below the seat. The bigger the tub, the more jetting options you can get. For example, you can get dual massage (air + hydro) and microbubble therapy installed on our XXXL or on 36×55 tubs, as well as on all 2 seat tubs because there is enough place to install all pumps, heater and parts. Ella Elite can fit only dual massage options: hydro + air, Hydro + microbubble therapy or hydro + hydro foot massage. There is a possibility to add more jetting options, however, that would be a complex custom job and ordered only as a special order. This would not be a standard package. Most models can be installed with dual massage (see list below) and some in all options below. Experience an unmatched, all natural bathing experience proven to exfoliate and hydrate your skin with our rejuvenating jetting options.
1) Soaking option (no jets)
2) Air + Hydro massage (dual massage)
3) Hydro + Hydro independent foot massage (dual massage)
4) Hydro + Microbubble therapy (dual therapy option)
5) Dual + Microbubble therapy
6) Dual + Hydro foot massage + Microbubble therapy
What is Infusion™ MicroBubble Therapy?
Infusion™ MicroBubble Therapy uses a U.S. patented liquid thin film device to saturate the water with up to 50% more dissolved oxygen than regular water alone. These MicroBubbles clean out all of the dirt and waste products in your skin. There are no cleansing chemicals involved so it is a safe and soothing experience.
Infusion™ Microbubble Therapy
Infusion™ MicroBubble Therapy is a calming experience that offers many added benefits to your bathing experience. MicroBubble Therapy is a process of infusing the pressurized water with billions of micro sized, oxygen rich bubbles. These bubbles whirl around your body to help you rest and unwind. Feel your muscles release built up tension as billions of tiny bubbles burst to help clean and hydrate your skin. Sit back and relax as your bath will transform into a soothing cloud of tiny bubbles that help to moisturize, soften, restore and exfoliate your skin.
Walk-In Tub Fixtures
Now that you’ve picked out the most important qualities of your walk-in bathtub, you have an option to choose additional walk-in tub fixtures that can create an even better bathing experience and comfort overall.
Ella Rain Shower Column Kit
This modern and beautiful complete shower kit features a chrome column that holds a large overhead rain shower, as well as an adjustable slider that allows you to select the best height to place the handheld showerhead unit. We found a simple solution for you to upgrade your existing shower system, without having to go through a full bathroom renovation.
This shower kit replaces the need for a wall-mounted showerhead, allowing you to have a dual shower system that includes a luxurious overhead rain shower and a powerful handheld showerhead. Please note, the 2 showerheads cannot spray simultaneously and for added safety, the shower rail is anchored to the wall with screws. Immerse yourself in a truly relaxing shower experience and enjoy the modern style of this beautifully designed shower column.
Aegis 3mm Tempered Glass 4 Fold Bath Screen for Walk-In Tub
Moving one, this brand new four-fold shower screen door just launched by Ella’s Bubbles, is the most convenient alternative to regular shower curtains. Why? Because it is specifically designed and sized to fit on walk-in bathtubs in tight alcove openings or corner installs.
This Euro-style semi-frameless 4-fold shower screen gives an airy open feeling with the option to push the screen aside quickly and easily. Further, thus door has a sturdy construction of 1/8” thick lightweight glass secured in anodized aluminum frames enables smooth door operation with equipped high quality geared hinges strong enough to endure rigorous daily use.
Disclaimer: 4-Fold screen can be retrofitted to 3-Fold so it can fit in some cases like in this image. This Big4Two tub uses two 4-fold screens with one of them shortened (one section removed).
Ella Walk-In Tub Faucet Options
When fill times matters, our faucet options will get the job done. We offer 5 different options varying in style and finish: Huntington Brass 5-piece faucet, Ella 5-piece fast-sill faucet, Ella 2-piece fast-fill faucet, Jandon 5-piece faucet, and lastly the Ella standard 5-piece Faucet Set that comes with a deck mounted Thermostatic Control Valve.
Thermostatic Control Valve
The plumbing code requires you to have a thermostatic control valve in commercial applications like nursing homes, hospitals or for customer’s with safety concerns. The Ella standard 5 piece faucet set that comes with a deck mounted thermostatic control valve, is an anti-scald feature that keeps the water at a consistent temperature and prevents water from suddenly shifting to unsafe temperature levels.
In some states, local plumbing codes require a TCV in showers and bathtubs, also in any commercial application. When the code does not require the TCV, please consider the fill time. TCV fill time is 7-8 GPM (gallons per minute) while fast fill deck mount bathtub faucets fill time range from 12 up to 18GPM. The flow rate can be affected by size of supply lines or in-house water pressure. If possible install 3/4″ water lines vs 1/2″. When you choose TCV please consider your local water quality. The TCV cartridge’s is sensitive, and most likely will clog, and will need to removed and cleaned due to hard water with calcium and iron. Therefore the warranty for TCV is only 1 year. There are a variety of other TCV’s available in the market which can be installed into the hot water supply line. Please consult with experienced professional licensed plumber to avoid any issues down the road.
Read more about thermostatic control valve here.
Walk-In Tub Features
There are many features that we offer that can enhance your bathing experience but aren’t essential to your walk-in tub. One feature is the Heated Seat & Back Rest. Feel your muscle tension melt away as your heated seat warms you up to increase your relaxation. Chromatherapy, is the addition of an LED light that cycles through a spectrum of colors. Color adds a new dimension to your bath and can create a more calming atmosphere. Another optional feature you can include is Ozone Sterilization. Ozone Sterilization is a process that clears out all the water and air hoses/tubes to prevent mold or mildew from growing in them. It’s activated with a simple press of a button and can be run during your bath.
Available on all Ella walk-in tubs, NuWhirls CozyHeat systems help keep you comfortable and warm while your walk-in tub fills. CozyHeat activates in minutes, keeping users cozy and relaxed from the moment they enter the tub. These surface heaters are safe and easy to operate controlled through a simple on/off button. With one of the fastest heating curves in the industry, CozyHeat dramatically enhances your bathing experience.
Ozone is a proven water disinfectant. It can eliminate a wide variety of inorganic, organic, microbiological bacteria, and odor. It is the most eco-friendly, chemical-free, and green technology there is. You no longer need to worry about bacteria building up in your tub. With a push of a button, you can easily turn on the ozone sterilization and take a nice, relaxing, and clean bath.
Don’t be left in the dark! Bring an extra dimension to your Ella bath experience with LED Chromatherapy lights. LED chromatherapy is activated by a simple push of the button. Watch the LED light cycle through the spectrum of color to add an extra dimension to your bathing experience. Or press the button again to pause it on your favorite color. Chromatherapy is another way to increase your relaxation during a bath.
Walk-In Tub Accessories
Some of our walk-in tubs allow for extra accessories. The most unique accessory we have is the Ella 360° patented swivel tray. The tray can hold your bathroom essentials such as a nice glass of wine or a good book and it doesn’t get in your way thanks to the rotating capabilities. One such accessory is the Seat Pillow Riser or the Bidet Seat Pillow Riser. These seat pillows add extra cushion and support to the walk-in bathtub seat to aid in your comfort. Another accessory you can add is the Headrest. The headrest adds extra cushion and support just like the seat pillows, but it can be wall mounted with suction cups so you won’t have to constantly adjust it. If you need extra support you can add the Fold Down Grab Bar. The Fold Down Grab Bar can also be wall mounted and helps to increase your stability just like the other grab bars. Adding accessories are just another way to create a rejuvenating bath.
Patented 360° Swivel Tray
The Ella 360° swivel tray is a patented product. Furthermore, that means you won’t be able to find the convenience of a swivel tray anywhere else! Other companies might try to recreate the capabilities that the tray offers, but their products won’t be able to offer the ease and comfort of the swivel tray by Ella’s Bubbles. The Ella 360° Swivel Tray is a tray that can easily be rotated so it doesn’t make it difficult to enter or exit the walk-in bathtub. It can hold your bathroom essentials such as a nice glass of wine or a good book and it doesn’t get in your way thanks to the rotating capabilities. The 360° Swivel Tray is available on the Elite, Petite, Royal, and Ultimate models. Lastly, it also provides a convenient, dry surface to place one’s belongings on. It even comes with a cap that can cover the screw when the tray is not in use for a more aesthetically pleasing look.
Bathtub Seat Pillow and Riser with Bidet Cutout
Perfect for home spas and walk in baths, this luxuriously thick pillow is incredibly comfortable. This bathtub seat pillow can be used as riser or additional seat support in all walk in bathtubs. The interior material is washable and can be removed. This model comes with a centered cutout for use with Ella Dual Massage Walk In Bathtubs.
Increase you comfort with the Ella Walk In Bathtub Headrest. The headrest can be mounted on the wall or on the deck. The included suction cups makes for fast placement so you can enjoy you bath even more without having to constantly adjust your headrest.
Ella Grab Bars for Bathroom Safety
The modern Ella grab bars feature a new innovative design! For maximum security and safety, it is recommended that bathrooms be equipped with grab bars in your walk-In tub, by the toilet, in the the shower, and in transition areas.
Ella 4 & 6-Piece Cultured Marble Walk-In Tub Wall Surrounds
Ella’s Bubbles offers 4 and 6-panel Cultured Marble wall surrounds designed specifically for walk-in tubs. They are available in a variety of colors, patterns, and finish options.
The 1/4″ thick cultured marble wall panels are durable and feel like stone to the touch, unlike acrylic wall liners or gelcoat showers. This unique shower panels make the installation process easier by offering multiple unique assembling options and fixture placement variations. The accessories or panels can be added and repositioned based on the customer’s choice and needs. Decorative tile can be added in between panels to increase the size of the wall or to add an accent to the wall design.
All panel edges are factory finished and joints are treated as regular tiles, finished with grout. The back-wall panels can be cut on their sides to fit into the opening. The side walls are installed over the back wall panel covering the cut edges. The side walls consist of two 36” wide and 30” high panels installed on bottom and two 36” wide 60” high panels stacked on top of each side. The back of the shower wall consists of two 30”x60” panels.
