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

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?" This guide breaks down the process so you know exactly what to expect.

Roughing the Space

Start with your flooring. All products are designed to be installed on finished flooring — in the event you need to slide the unit out for future servicing, a continuous, level floor is important. The only current exception is the Oasis model, which mounts in an alcove and includes a built-in access panel.

For steam shower installations, ventilation is straightforward. Because our units are fully enclosed, they do not emit steam into the bathroom until the doors are opened. All that's required is a good bathroom exhaust fan. If you'll have less than 3 inches of clearance above the unit, consider adding ventilation to that overhead pocket to prevent moisture buildup.

Electrical requirements: Steam showers require a 240V hardwired circuit. Whirlpool tubs use a standard 120V connection. If you purchased the optional inline water heater, you'll need a second 120V source. Combo units (steam and tub or sauna) need two separate power sources. Leave approximately 6 feet of wire for flexibility during installation. All 240V setups are two-wire (no neutral required).

Water supply: All units use 1/2" threaded hose connections. A washing machine hookup box is highly recommended for integrating shutoffs and keeping the install clean.

Drain: Most units include a factory-installed flexible drain. Models that do not include this are the Santorini, Monterey, and Zephyr. We recommend creating a tub box or floor cutout around the rough-in location for easier access.

Steam Shower Assembly

Assembly doesn't require a licensed specialist — a handy homeowner, local handyman, or someone comfortable with tools can do it. We recommend two people. 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 hookups are attached. The Oasis model is the exception — being alcove-mounted, it's built directly in place.

Key assembly tips: Start with leveling the base pan using the adjustable feet. Silicone seal all joints between panels and floor from the inside. Clean 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. You can test the unit for leaks and electrical function before sliding it into place.

Steam showers are modular, self-contained systems that do not require traditional tiling or framing. Most installs take one full day. Whirlpool tubs require no structural assembly — they simply need to be moved into place and connected to power, water, and drainage.

Common questions: Yes, units can go on the second floor with proper support. They do not require tile or custom waterproofing. Maintenance access is typically through sliding the unit away from the walls, though access panels in walls are also a great idea if space allows.

Our support team is available to walk you or your installer through any step. Call us at (800) 290-6812.