Walk in Bath Tubs Consideration

Advertising for walk in bathtubs often depicts relacing home spas that provide relief from aging joints, back pains and athritis. Seniors planning to age in their own homes find this tubs particularly appealing. Comparing bathtub features helps evaluate claims and increases the potential of finding the best bathing option for each unique household.
Controls
Jet controls are easiest to use if they are uncomplicated to operate and have a highly visible, large contrasting numbers and settings. Controls should be located where they do not interfere with access to the door or bathing activities. They also need to be within reach of the seated bathers and from the outside of the tub.
Faucets controlled by a single lever are easier for people with reduced gripping strength or limited finger dexteriry to use than separate rotating controls for hhot and cold water. IF separate rotating controls are the only available option, long blade handles take less effort to grasp and twist. Recessed or low profile controls, faucets and retractable showerheads are less likely to stick out and snag clothing or contact body parts.
Maintenance
Walkin bathtubs require more maintenance than non-jetted bathtubs and about the same as jetted or whirlpool baths. A removable panel on the side of most tubs allows access for servicing mechanical parts, which are usually lcoated under the seat. This panel should be easy to remove and located within reach without bending and stooping. Pipes can harbor bacteria and pathogens that accumulate from standing water, soaps and oils that remain in the pipes hwne tub is not in use.
Some manufactureres recommend using diluted bleach solution to remove bacteria growth in the pipes, others have develop pipeless bathtubs. Manufacturers may also recommend cleaning tub surfaces with plain water and applying paste wax.
Warranties
Most walk-in bathtubs have one or more warranties. Some are lifetime warranties to the original owner. Others are for a specific time with extended warranties available for purchase.
Many companies advertising walk-in tubs for seniors are not the manufacturer, so it is important to determine the source, duration and coverage of the warranty. Statesment like, “we provide a lifetime warranty to the original owner. Parts warranted by others,” raise questions about hte manufacturer and warranty on each component.
Bathtubs manufactured outside of North America must be retrofitted to meet U.S. plumbing and electrical codes and manufacturing standards. Finding replacement parts for these tubs could be difficult.