You’ve Made Your Purchase—Now What? A 2025 Updated Guide to Installing Your Aquapeutics Steam Shower or Whirlpool Tub

B
Jun 13
5 min read

Whether you're still browsing or just finalized your order, one of the most common questions we hear is: “How exactly do I get this thing installed?” Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. This guide breaks down the process so you know exactly what to expect once your Aquapeutics product arrives.

Roughing the Space

The installation process for your Aquapeutics steam shower or whirlpool tub will vary depending on the scope of your bathroom project—whether it’s a complete remodel or a simple fixture replacement. However, there are key guidelines that apply in nearly every case.

Start with your flooring. All of our products are designed to be installed on finished flooring. This is not just for aesthetics—it’s functional. In the event that you need to slide the unit out for future servicing, or even just to reposition during installation, a continuous, level floor is important. The only current exception is our Oasis model, which mounts in an alcove and includes a built-in access panel. That said, even the Oasis benefits from level flooring beneath.

Next, ventilation. For steam shower installations, this is refreshingly straightforward. Because our units are fully enclosed, they do not emit steam into the bathroom until the doors are opened. That means no complicated in-cabin exhaust systems. In fact, we avoid ventilating from the unit itself to ensure you can exit immediately without waiting for a cycle to complete. All that’s required is a good bathroom exhaust fan, which most codes require anyway. If the room is large, placing the fan closer to the shower door can be a good idea, but isn’t necessary. If you will have less than 3 inches of clearance above the unit, consider adding ventilation to that overhead pocket to prevent moisture buildup.

With space prep done, it’s time to think about utility rough-ins:

Electric:

Steam showers require a 240V hardwired circuit. Always consult your manual to confirm the correct amperage.
Whirlpool tubs use a standard 120V connection.
- If you purchased the optional in-line water heater, you will need a second 120V source for it.
Combo units (e.g., steam & tub or sauna) will need two separate power sources.
- If you purchased the optional in-line water heater, you will need another 120V source for it. (Only applicable to steam and tub combos)
Leave ~6 feet of wire to ensure flexibility during installation. All 240V setups are two-wire (no neutral required). You can optionally add a plug.

Water Supply:

All units use 1/2" threaded hose connections.
A washing machine hookup box is highly recommended for integrating shutoffs and
making the install cleaner.
As with electric, a bit of flexibility in placement is fine—just stay close to the rough-in guide provided.
Example Washing Machine Box

Drain:

Most units include a factory-installed flexible drain. Models that currently do not include this are the Santorini, Monterey, and Zephyr.
Flex drains offer convenience but aren’t mandatory. You may use an alternate connection if your locality restricts flex systems. If this is desired, please contact us so we may assist in designing and keeping serviceability available.
We recommend creating a tub box or floor cutout around the rough-in location. This makes the hookup process smoother and allows better access later.
- *Recommended for both steam showers and tubs.

Always follow the rough-in diagrams supplied with your specific unit, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you or your contractor need help planning the layout.

At this point, you should have flooring throughout the space, your water and power supplies in the wall, and your drain system mapped out or in place.

Steam Shower Assembly: What to Expect

This section applies to our steam showers only—whirlpool tubs arrive preassembled and will be covered briefly later.

Assembly doesn’t require a licensed specialist. A handy homeowner, local handyman, or just someone comfortable with tools can absolutely do it. We recommend two people, as the extra set of hands will help hold panels in place and make the process smoother.

You'll need extra space to work. Units are assembled in the middle of the bathroom to give access to all sides, and only moved into final position once assembly is complete and water/power hookups are attached. Our Oasis model is the exception—being alcove-mounted, it’s built directly in place.

We won’t dive deep into the individual step-by-step instructions here because each model is slightly different. However, every unit includes a printed manual inside the crate and a digital version on the product page online. If questions come up, don’t hesitate to call our service department—we’re always happy to walk you through it.

Want to see the process visually? Search “Aquapeutics Assembly” on YouTube. Even if your exact model isn’t shown, watching a similar one can provide helpful context.

Key Assembly Tips:

Start with leveling the base pan using the adjustable feet. Do this in its final location.
Then pull it forward and begin building the unit from the ground up.
Once the cabin is fully assembled, use silicone to seal all joints between panels and floor from the inside.
- Clean the surfaces with alcohol and ensure everything is dry before applying.
- Allow silicone to fully cure before running the shower.

After curing, your electrician and plumber may need to return to complete connections. Thanks to flexible hookups, you can test the unit for leaks and electrical function before sliding it into place.

Once final tests are complete and everything is sealed and connected, the unit can be slid back into position and you’re done.

Steam Showers: These are modular, self-contained systems that do not require traditional tiling or framing. Assembly is straightforward, typically done by a contractor or a skilled DIYer. Most installs take 1 full day.
Whirlpool Tubs: These require no structural assembly—they simply need to be moved into place and connected to power, water, and drainage.
- However, if you purchased that in-line water heater this will need to be installed on-site. Fortunately, this item is very flexible in where exactly it goes so you may conform to your space best.

Common Questions & Mistakes to Avoid

Q: Can it go on the second floor?
- A: Yes, our units are designed to work on any level with proper support.
Q: Does it require tile or custom waterproofing?
- A: No. These units are fully enclosed and do not rely on surrounding walls.
Q: What about maintenance access?
- A: Generally, sliding away from the walls is the primary means of maintenance access. However, if your space allows, access panels in the walls are certainly a great idea as well.

Still Have Questions? We’re Here.

Our support team is available to walk you or your installer through any step. Whether you’re in the planning phase or getting ready for installation day, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Need help now? Contact Support