As more people desire to stay in their homes and age in place, walk-in bathtubs are becoming more popular. Walk-in tubs with a jacuzzi feature, in particular, offer soothing and healing benefits plus a safer way to bathe for those with mobility challenges. They are also one of several universal design features that allow seniors to live independently in their homes for longer. From how they work and their benefits to pricing and warranty information, here is everything you need to know about jacuzzi walk-in tubs to decide if one is right for you.
What is a Jacuzzi Walk-in Tub?
A jacuzzi walk-in tub, also known as a whirlpool walk-in tub, is a type of walk-in bathtub, or a bathtub designed for the elderly or those with mobility challenges. Jacuzzi walk-in tubs have a whirlpool feature that shoots jets of water as a form of hydrotherapy. Not to be confused with an air tub that creates bubbles with shoots of air, a whirlpool tub uses water pressure and temperature to create a relaxing and spa-like experience at home. The tub’s walk-in design features a lower-threshold and watertight entry, grab bars and wide seat for a more secure bathing experience that can be enjoyed by people of most ages and abilities.
Together, with safety features plus relaxing hydrotherapy features, a jacuzzi walk-in tub is the perfect bathroom solution for aging in place comfortably at home. In fact, walk-in tubs with jacuzzi features are some of the most popular models offered by top walk-in tub brands today.
Pros and Cons of Jacuzzi Walk-in Tubs
Whether you are just starting your research or already have an idea of what you want in a new walk-in tub, there are specific advantages and disadvantages to jacuzzi walk-in tubs. We recommend that you evaluate each based on your desired bathing experience, keeping comfort, convenience and cost in mind.
Whirlpool Walk-in Tub Pros
- Improve bathroom safety. Falls are an unfortunate yet common type of injury among people aged 65 and over. The bath’s lower entry, non-slip surface, seat, and grab bars reduce the risk of slipping and falling in wet areas.
- Live longer in your home. A whirlpool walk-in tub can be part of your fall prevention plan so you can enjoy living longer in your home independently.
- Create a spa-like experience. Instead of paying for a monthly spa membership, you can create a similar experience at home.
- Relieve pain. The benefits of warm jets of water over the body are similar to those of a deep tissue massage. Whirlpool treatment is often used in physical therapy to help in healing injuries. Consistent water pressure helps reduce muscle tension and soreness.
- Improve circulation. Water’s heat and movement in a whirlpool tub have been shown to dilate blood vessels and improve a body’s circulation.
- Allow for full-body immersion. A walk-in whirlpool tub is deeper than a standard bathtub so more of your body can soak in the water and experience the massage from the jets.
Whirlpool Walk-in Tub Cons
- Higher cost. Walk-in bathtubs with a whirlpool feature are typically more expensive than soaking walk-in tubs. And if your home does not have at least a 50-gallon capacity water heater, the minimally recommended size, you may need to factor in the cost to upgrade.
- More susceptible to bacteria growth. Whirlpools recirculate bath water and after operation, small amounts remain in the jets. This stagnant water can be prone to mold and bacteria growth. Infections linked to whirlpool baths include urinary tract infections, pneumonia and skin infections.
- Requires more cleaning. Because a whirlpool bath is a breeding ground for bacteria, it requires more rigorous and regular cleaning. In addition to normal weekly cleaning, bath jets should be flushed out monthly to remove dirt and debris and for optimal function.
- Not covered under Medicare. Most whirlpool walk-in tubs (or any type of bathtub) are not considered medically necessary equipment and are not covered by Medicare. There may be exceptions under Medicare Part B, however consult with your doctor to determine your eligibility.
- Longer fill and drain times. Jacuzzi walk-in tubs accommodate more water, approximately 40 to 100 gallons. As such, they take longer than standard tubs to fill and drain. Some models can take up to 15 minutes to drain. Others offer a quick-draining feature that cuts the time to two minutes. You must also remain in the tub while it is filling and until it is completely drained, which may be an inconvenience.
Jacuzzi Walk-in Tub Features
Jacuzzi walk-in bathtub manufacturers offer a number of standard and optional features that allow you to control and enhance your experience. If you have done any shopping for a whirlpool walk-in bathtub, you know there is a huge selection of options available. Some are included in the manufacturer’s base models, while others are available for an additional charge. Read the fine print or ask your bathtub installer so you understand what is included in each model prior to purchase.
Whirlpool walk-in tub features may include:
- Air jet and whirlpool combination
- Hand shower wand
- Tub and shower combo unit
- Interior control panel
- Fast drain-feature
- Bariatic sizing
- Heated backrest
- Foot and calf massager
- Choice of L-shape or U-shape door
- Two seats
- Aromatherapy
- Chromatherapy
- Swivel tray, for a drink or book
How Much Does a Jacuzzi Walk-in Tub Cost?
A walk-in tub with jacuzzi jets is considered an upgrade from a basic soaking style walk-in tub and is one of the more expensive options. You can expect to pay between 30% to 50% more for a walk-in tub with spa-like features, compared to a walk-in tub with basic features.
The total cost for a walk-in bathtub with jacuzzi jets can vary among manufacturers, ranging in price from $4,400 to $12,000 or more for a more luxurious model. Labor and installation costs should also be factored into your walk-in tub budget and fall between $700 for simple installs to $1,500 or more for extensive projects.
Jacuzzi Walk-in Tub
Average Installation Cost $5,100 - $13,500
Cost Breakdown
- Materials 86.3%
- Labor 13.7%
There are several factors that affect your overall cost:
- Brand
- Tub size
- Upgraded features
- Addition of shower feature
- Demolition of existing tub or shower
- Any renovation work
- Plumbing and electrical work
- Bringing construction to code for older homes
Warranties
Similar to standard bathtubs, no two walk-in tub warranties are the same. Several manufacturers offer a limited lifetime warranty that covers parts and labor for the original purchaser, provided that they used an approved installer. Other brands offer a one-year limited warranty on parts only or different coverage times for the door, tub, pump, and motor. Reading the warranty is a must prior to purchase so you are clear on what is covered and what you can potentially be responsible for should anything malfunction. If you have any questions about the warranty or what it covers, it is important to speak with a walk-in tub professional for guidance before purchasing.
Is a Walk-in Jacuzzi Tub Right for Me?
Jacuzzi walk-in tubs, also known as whirlpool tubs, hydrotherapy walk-in tubs, or jetted walk-in tubs, can be a great choice for those with mobility challenges or chronic pain. They offer a healing and relaxing way to bathe with features that help prevent slips, falls, and other common bathroom injuries. If you are already renovating your home to include aging-in-place design elements, a whirlpool walk-in tub is a natural choice to improve bathroom safety.
Various upgrades and features allow you to increase your comfort and personalize your bathing experience, like air jets, a heated back rest, and hand shower. If you still desire to take a standing shower or if you will share the bathroom with others who prefer showers, a whirlpool walk-in tub and shower combination is also available with many models. Other types of walk-in tubs include soaker tubs, air tubs, two-person tubs, and wheelchair-accessible tubs.
Upfront Cost
Remember that a walk-in tub with jacuzzi does come with a higher price tag than standard bathtubs or soaking walk-in tubs (tubs with no air or water jets). Also, you may need to upsize your water heater or opt for a tankless model to accommodate the tub’s larger fill size. Many whirlpool walk-in tubs also require some remodeling, electrical, and plumbing work that will increase your total cost.
Return on investment
A walk-in whirlpool bathtub is still a good investment long-term if you plan to live in your home for many years. Adding universal design features can be more cost-effective than alternative living arrangements, and will allow your household to enjoy living comfortably, safely and independently.
Comparing brands
If you are ready to shop for your jacuzzi walk-in tub, there are several manufacturers that offer them in various styles and with select features. Kohler, American Standard, Ella’s Bubbles, and Ariel are a few popular brands that carry them and offer some customization. Comparing multiple brands also ensures you are getting the best price and value for your walk-in tub.
Find a Walk-in Tub Installer
Jacuzzi walk-in tub installation calls for a certain level of expertise due to its size and plumbing requirements. A precise fit is essential to maintain its watertight operation, so enlisting the help of a professional bathroom remodeler experienced with walk-in tub installation will provide the best results and protect your investment. Take advantage of Modernize’s network of local professional bathtub installers to research and select the best team for your project.
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