Finding a walk in tub with an effective heater helps maintain water temperature for longer, support therapeutic benefits, and improve comfort during bathing. Below is a quick comparison of top options selected for built-in heaters, heated seats, or in-line water heating systems.
| Product | Key Heating Feature | Notable Therapy |
|---|---|---|
| Ella Tub4Two 32″x60″ | In-Line Water Heater | Hydro + Air, Independent Foot Massage |
| Ella Wheelchair Transfer 30″x60″ | In-Line Water Heater | Air + Hydro Massage, Fast Dual Drain |
| Ella Ultimate 30″x60″ | In-Line Water Heater | Air & Hydro + Foot Massage |
| Ella Royal 32″x52″ | In-Line Water Heater | Hydro Massage, Dual Drain |
| American Standard Value Whirlpool 32″x52″ | In-Line Heater For Whirlpool | Air Spa With Heated Blower, Whirlpool Jets |
Content Navigation
Ella Tub4Two 32″x60″ Hydro + Air Walk In Tub
This walk in tub includes a built-in in-line water heater designed to maintain warm water during longer therapeutic sessions. The product pairs hydro massage and air massage systems for combined therapy and a dedicated independent foot massage system that works at seat level to conserve water.
- Hydro Massage: 9 fixed jets per seat with intensity dial control and ozone sterilization for system cleaning.
- Air Massage: 18 air jets with 3-speed control and auto purge for hygiene.
- Independent Foot Massage: 8 adjustable jets and dedicated pump/control allowing calf/foot therapy without filling full tub.
- Materials: Acrylic shell suitable for residential installations.
The combination of an in-line heater and multiple massage zones offers focused thermal retention and targeted therapy for users seeking sustained warmth and foot-specific relief.
Ella Wheelchair Transfer 30″x60″ Air + Hydro Massage
Designed for accessibility, this Ella model offers a heated in-line system combined with air and hydro massage. It includes features tailored for transfers and efficient draining to reduce wait times between uses.
Call 888-896-7031 for Free Local HVAC Quotes – Compare and Save Today!
- Dual Drain Technology: Two independently controlled 2″ drains and four 2″ outlets for fast gravity-driven drainage.
- Hydro Massage: 7 fixed and 6 adjustable jets with intensity control, in-line heater, and ozone sterilization.
- Air Massage: 17 air jets with a 3-speed blower and auto purge to keep the system clean.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair transfer compatible layout and outward or inward door options depending on configuration.
The fast dual drain and in-line heater are practical for caregivers and facilities where turnover and consistent water temperature are priorities.
Ella Ultimate 30″x60″ Air & Hydro With Foot Massage
The Ella Ultimate combines an in-line water heater with both hydro and air systems plus an independent foot massage. The configuration supports therapeutic soaking while keeping seat-level warmth consistent.
- Hydro Massage: 5 adjustable and 6 fixed jets, intensity control, in-line heater, and ozone sterilization.
- Independent Foot Massage: 4 foot and 2 calf adjustable jets with a separate pump and controls.
- Air Massage: 17 air jets with a 3-speed blower and auto purge.
- Drain: 2″ dual drain for faster emptying compared to single-drain designs.
This model emphasizes targeted lower-extremity therapy with an efficient heating system to preserve water temperature during extended sessions.
Ella Royal 32″x52″ Hydro Massage Walk-In Tub
The Ella Royal provides an in-line water heater paired with a strong hydro massage arrangement and dual-drain technology. It focuses on rapid draining and sustained warmth during therapeutic use.
Call 888-896-7031 for Free Local HVAC Quotes – Compare and Save Today!
- Hydro Massage: 10 fixed and 4 adjustable jets with intensity control and ozone sterilization.
- Dual Drain Technology: Two individually controlled 2″ drains with fast gravity-driven outlets for efficient emptying.
- Fast-Fill Faucet: 5-piece fast-fill faucet system with high flow to reduce fill time.
- Construction: Acrylic shell designed for residential durability and maintenance.
The dual drain system complements the heater to provide shorter downtime between uses while maintaining warm bath temperatures during therapy sessions.
American Standard Value Whirlpool And Air Spa 32″x52″
This American Standard model provides a whirlpool massage with an in-line heater and an air spa system with a heated blower. The door and shell are backed by warranties intended for long-term reliability.
- Air Spa System: 21 air jets delivered by a single-speed heated blower for effervescent bubble therapy; automatic purge cycle included.
- Whirlpool Massage: 6 water jets with an in-line heater and a legs-only massage option for targeted relief.
- Safety Features: Outward opening watertight door with a low threshold and lifetime warranty on the door seal; 10-year warranty on the tub shell.
- Therapeutic Design: Combination of air and whirlpool systems with heater support for prolonged warmth and circulation benefits.
For users prioritizing warranty-backed construction and a heated blower-driven air spa, this model integrates heating components with proven safety features.
Buying Guide: Choosing A Walk In Tub With Heater
Heating Options And Performance
In-Line Water Heaters are integrated into the circulation loop to actively warm incoming or circulating water. Look for units that specify an in-line heater and mention thermal retention or continuous heating during operation.
Heated Seats provide targeted warmth at the seating surface and can be preferable when users sit for extended therapy. Heated seats reduce heat loss through seat material and contact points.
Heated Air Blowers warm the airflow for air-jet systems and can produce a warm bubbling effect, improving perceived water warmth but not always raising bulk water temperature.
Therapy Combinations
Walk in tubs commonly combine hydro (water) jets and air jets. Hydro jets provide deeper tissue-targeted massage while air jets deliver effervescent circulation stimulation. Independent foot massage systems can allow foot/calf therapy without filling the entire tub.
Drain And Fill Efficiency
Dual Drain Systems accelerate emptying, useful for caregivers or frequent use. Fast-fill faucets and higher GPM ratings reduce the time to reach desired temperature and save waiting time.
Hygiene And Maintenance
Ozone sterilization and auto-purge systems help reduce microbial buildup. Consider systems with easy-access pumps and clear service points for routine maintenance.
Accessibility And Safety
Features like low thresholds, slip-resistant flooring, built-in seats, and outward or inward door options are critical. ADA-compliant designs and wide-door clearances assist transfers from wheelchairs or walkers.
Materials, Warranty, And Build
Acrylic shells are common, offering a balance of durability and repairability. Check warranty terms for the shell, door seal, and mechanical components to understand long-term protection.
Control Layout And Usability
Controls should be reachable from the seated position and easy to operate for users with limited mobility. Look for clearly labeled dials for jet intensity, blower speed, and heater controls.
Plumbing And Installation Considerations
Verify drain sizes, required clearances, and supply line compatibility. Dual drains may need additional plumbing planning. Professional installation is often recommended to ensure proper sealing and heater hookups.
Comparison Perspectives
- Thermal Retention: In-line heaters and heated seats best maintain water warmth during long soaks.
- Turnover Efficiency: Fast-fill faucets and dual drains speed bathing cycles for shared or assisted environments.
- Targeted Therapy: Models with independent foot massage systems deliver effective lower-leg therapy without full fills.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-transfer designs and outward-opening doors support caregiver and transfer needs.
- Hygiene: Ozone sterilization and auto-purge enhance cleanliness of air and hydro systems.
When selecting a walk in tub with a heater, prioritize the heating type that matches your routine (continuous water heating vs. heated seat), the therapeutic features you need, and the practical aspects like drainage speed and accessibility. Review warranty coverage and installation requirements before purchase for the best long-term value.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
- Prioritize Quality Over Cost
The most critical factor in any HVAC project is the quality of the installation. Don’t compromise on contractor expertise just to save money. - Check for Rebates
Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost. - Compare Multiple Quotes
Request at least three estimates before making your choice. You can click here to get three free quotes from local professionals. These quotes include available rebates and tax credits and automatically exclude unqualified contractors. - Negotiate Smartly
Once you've chosen a contractor, use the proven strategies from our guide — How Homeowners Can Negotiate with HVAC Dealers — to get the best possible final price.