Best walk-in bathtubs in Pennsylvania

To make the right choice for a walk-in tub in Pennsylvania, start by thinking about your mobility needs, the size and style of your current bathroom and your financial situation. Focus on tubs with accessible features and consider the age and layout of your home, especially given the prevalence of small, older bathrooms across the state. Here’s how to move forward:

1. Compare comfort and safety features

Focus on tubs with secure grab bars, slip-resistant floors and anti-scald technology to protect against burns. Make sure the threshold is low and the door is wide enough for easy entry, especially if you or your loved one has balance or mobility issues.

Fast-drain-and-fill systems can also make bathing more pleasant and reduce the risk of getting cold or uncomfortable. Given Pennsylvania’s cold winters, heated seats and inline heaters are particularly useful for year-round comfort.

Look for extras like heated seating or massage jets, especially if you have underlying issues that can benefit from them. Dan from West Grove loves the whirlpool and heated seat in his tub, saying “it gives a massage benefit at three different levels that really has helped us out or, at least, my needs for lower back sciatic as well as arthritis conditions.”

2. Consider tub design and materials

Choose a door direction and shape that matches your needs and the constraints of your bathroom. If your space is small, an inward-swinging door may be necessary, but outward-swinging doors are vital for anyone transferring from a wheelchair.

Material matters too. Gelcoat tubs resist fading and last longer, but can cost more. Acrylic tubs are lighter and often more affordable, but they may scratch more easily. For Pennsylvania's four-season climate, a durable acrylic tub is a reliable choice, but it must be properly insulated to maximize heat retention.

3. Think about tub size and capacity

Most walk-in tubs will measure about 30 inches wide, 50 inches long and 40 inches tall, but you can find larger, bariatric or double-seat models for those who need extra space or support. Smaller tubs use around 40 gallons of water, while the biggest tubs might need 100 to 120 gallons. Make sure your water heater can keep up, or you’ll be left with a lukewarm bath.

Julia from Sewickley was told by the installers that her new water heater was big enough to accommodate her tub, but she soon discovered it wasn’t quite up to the job. “I found out that although I got the tub with the heated coil, the water coming from the water heater didn't fill the tub as full as I hoped it would and the water coming in was cooler.”

» MORE: What size water heater do I need for a walk-in tub?

4. Read reviews

Before purchasing, read feedback from other Pennsylvania homeowners about their experiences with local installers and the tubs themselves. Look for reviews that mention how well the tub fits, how the jets perform and whether there have been any leaks or maintenance concerns over time.

Positive comments about installers and long-term reliability can help you make a more confident decision.

5. Compare total costs

Prices for walk-in tubs vary widely, and installation in an older home may require significant remodeling. When comparing companies, always ask lots of questions and request a full estimate, including installation, extra labor and any home modifications needed.

Pennsylvania's OPTIONS Program or the state's Medicaid waiver programs can be a source of funding for home modifications for eligible older residents.

6. Prepare for installation

Plan for one or two days for installation, but keep in mind that older homes may need extra work, like widening doorways or updating plumbing and electrical systems. Proper planning helps avoid delays and unexpected expenses.

Since Pennsylvania homes often date back to the mid-20th century or earlier, installers may need to deal with plaster walls, outdated plumbing or tight stairwells, which can affect installation time and cost.

How to hire a walk-in tub installer in Pennsylvania

To find the right installer in Pennsylvania, always confirm whether installation is included in your tub purchase. If not, search for a contractor with documented experience in accessibility remodels, positive reviews and current registration as a home improvement contractor. Request a detailed quote and timeline before proceeding.

Pennsylvania's housing stock is one of the oldest in the nation, with a median construction year in the late 1960s. Homes from this era, such as Cape Cod and Colonial styles, often have small bathrooms and outdated infrastructure that require a full remodel for a walk-in tub installation.

Given the age of the housing stock and the high probability of needing extensive remodeling, a realistic average labor cost for a full project in Pennsylvania would be in the $4,000 to $9,000 range.

Walk-in tub prices in Pennsylvania typically range from $2,000 to $30,000, depending on tub type, features and brand. Installation costs typically add $4,000 to $9,000.

» MORE: How much does it cost to remodel for aging in place?

Medicare typically does not pay for walk-in tubs, but some Medicare Advantage plans may offer limited help. Check directly with your provider to find out if you qualify. Some walk-in tub purchases may also be tax-deductible.

The ACCESS Home Modification Program provides deferred payment, no-interest loans of up to $10,000 to assist persons with disabilities in purchasing a home that needs accessibility modifications. The state's Community HealthChoices (CHC) waiver can also cover environmental adaptations.

If you’re a veteran, you might qualify for VA grants that cover the cost of a walk-in tub. Medicaid may also help cover the cost of a walk-in tub in some cases — check the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services website for more information.

» LEARN: How to get financial assistance for walk-in tubs