Walk In Tub Cost
Depending on the brand, size, type, and any additional features you decide to add, the cost of a walk-in tub can vary dramatically. But, of course, you have to think of your walk-in tub as an investment.
The last thing you want to do is skimp out on your walk-in tub and end up with something unsafe or uncomfortable. So if you're unsure about the price of a walk-in tub, come with us as we explore the ins and outs of what to expect.
What Is the Average Cost Of A Walk-In Tub Installed
Generally, people end up spending anywhere between $2,000 and $10,000 on walk-in tubs. More often than not, these walk-in tubs only come with the most basic features. If you choose to add high-end hydrotherapy or comfort features, you can quickly end up spending a few thousand more.
More luxurious models can end up costing well over $10,000 or up to $20,000 or more.
How Much Does A Walk In Tub Cost
One of the first things to know when looking for the cost of a walk-in tub is the type of walk-in tub.
A standard walk-in tub with a single seat, a grab bar, and a leakproof door on the side will typically cost anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000. Unfortunately, these standard walk-in tubs don't come with any additional features.
A walk-in tub and shower combo will have a bit of a higher price tag, as you can typically expect to spend between $2,500 and $6,000.
These walk-in bathtub shower combos often come with a grab bar, leakproof door, and one seat.
Bariatric tubs are often more expensive, as they are wider and longer, perfect for a larger person. You will likely spend anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000. You can expect to pay the same for a wheelchair-accessible walk-in tub, which comes with all the standard features, though it has a much larger opening that is perfect for allowing people in chairs to get into the tub.
There are specialty air therapy walk-in tubs that come equipped with unique air jets to circulate water throughout the tub. These air jets are a luxury feature and increase the price of the walk-in tub. Expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $9,000 for a walk-in tub with air jets.
Walk-In Tub Installation Costs
Beyond the cost of the walk-in bathtub itself, you must also consider the cost of walk-in tub installation. Installing a standard tub shouldn't be a wildly overwhelming project with high installation costs.
The process typically includes removing your existing bathtub and any tile adhered to the surrounding wall. Once removed, the installer can put the new walk-in tub in place. The labor costs and installation costs of installing a walk-in tub are pretty similar to the labor costs and installation costs of installation a standard tub.
On average, the cost to install a standard walk-in tub is anywhere from $700 to $1,500. If you need to remove the original standard tub to create room for your new walk-in tub, the walk-in tub installation price could quickly go up to $2,000 or more. This cost can continue rising if the size of your walk-in tub is larger than your existing standard bathtub.
The walk-in tub installation and labor costs can vary based on a few variables, including the size of the walk-in tub, the complexity of the job, and whether or not your bathroom needs any extra plumbing or electrical work.
When inquiring about an estimate for walk-in tube installation, ask for a cost breakdown.
Does the walk-in tub installation cost include removing the existing bathtub?
Does the walk-in tub installation cost include new tile or plumbing work surrounding the tub?
If your walk-in tub comes with an electric motor to power the jets, you will likely need to hire an electrician to get the job done. Most licensed electricians charge anywhere between $65 and $85 per hour, though the cost can vary depending on your area.
Plumbing Costs
You may need to add plumbing costs to your overall walk-in tub installation costs, depending on how quickly you want your walk-in tub to fill. For example, many people choose to upgrade their pipes to 3/4" diameter when installing a walk-in tub.
You may also choose to install a new water heater depending on how large your walk-in tub is.
If you install a walk-in tub with new pipes, you can end up spending anywhere between $400 and $1,800, depending on how complex the job is. Likewise, for a new water heater that can supply around 50 gallons of water, you can expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $800.
Maintenance Costs
Very similar to your standard bathtub, your walk-in tub won't require much maintenance. However, if you have a walk-in tub with air jets, water jets, or hydrotherapy jets, you will want to clean them out every few months. Cleaning air and water jets requires a special cleaner, which typically costs around $12.
Factors To Consider Before Purchase
Additional Features
When you install a walk-in hot tub, you typically get access to a few standard tub features, including:
Of course, if you'd like to enhance your bathing experience beyond those standard tub safety features, and opt for additional walk-in tub features, you can expect an extra fee.
Here are some of the most popular luxury walk-in tub features that could impact your cost:
Electrical
Does the walk-in tub that you're purchasing need electrical work?
Some walk-in tubs cost more because they come with additional pumps, jets, motors, and lights.
In this case, your labor costs will go up because you'll need to hire a licensed electrician.
In addition, you may need to get a dedicated circuit for the walk-in tub, which could be an additional cost you incur right off the bat.
Warranty
Like we said before, a walk-in tub is a long-term investment. If you're not satisfied with your walk-in tub, you may want to return it. Of course, if your walk-in tub didn't come with a good warranty plan, that might be impossible. Be sure to check with the manufacturer before buying to see what your warranty agreement is.
Depending on the walk-in tub you choose to buy, you may need to register your warranty online, so it's a good idea to keep that in mind when purchasing your tub.
Final Thoughts - Finding the Right Walk-In tub For Your Needs
Whether yourself or a family member is aging, or has increasing mobility issues, it may be time to get a walk-in tub. Luckily, walk-in tubs cost much less than they used to, allowing you to obtain one that has high-end luxury and safety features.
Walk-in tubs cost a pretty penny. There is no doubt about that. However, there are unique ways in which you can mitigate your walk-in tub cost.
Take note. If you're a senior, you might be able to write off your walk-in tub installation costs as a medical expense, so make sure to check with your tax accountant. With a bit of research, you are sure to find the right walk in tub for you!
Now that you're well informed about the general costs associated with walk in tubs, head over to our Best Walk In Tubs article. We'll show you the brands and models that everyone's talking about!
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