When you are in the process of trying to make a home more friendly and functional for someone who has physical impairments, a walk-in tub is definitely one of those upgrades that could come up. If it is your home that is being renovated and upgraded for accessibility purposes, you may claim that this is a change that you are not yet ready to make. There are a lot of misconceptions about walk-in tubs and their installation process and it is a good idea to get to know the facts before you make your final decision. 

Myth: Walk-in tubs use too much hot water and you will likely have to have a new hot water heater. 

Fact: Walk-in tubs do take a bit more water to fill than your average bathtub because of their vertical height. However, the hot water used should not be a lot different than what you would use in a regular bath. You have to take into consideration that even though the tub is taller than most, it is much narrower because of the seat inside. If you have a smaller hot water heater in your home that will barely give you enough heated water for a bath in a regular tub, then you may have to have a larger unit. You can invest in an upgrade that has a simple in-tub water heating system that keeps the water warmed while you are in it as well. 

Myth: Walk-in tubs are too expensive for the average homeowner. 

Fact: Walk-in tubs are actually much more affordable than what a lot of people expect. The most basic models usually start at around $2,500 and the price will go up according to the different features and upgrades you choose with your specific installation. For example, if you choose a tub that has jets inside, you may end up paying a bit more. A walk-in tub is a major selling point if you do ever decide to sell your home and will boost your home's value, which is another good point to keep in mind.

Myth: If you have to rely on a wheelchair, it is difficult to get into a walk-in tub on your own.

Fact: There are attachments available to help those who are confined to a wheelchair get in the tub. A lift actually helps raise you from your chair so you can get into the tub and then uses a swing arm to take you into the tub where you will be seated. So even if you do have to rely on a wheelchair, it is possible to use a walk-in tub on your own with the right accessories.

For more information about walk-in tubs, visit http://www.twincitystairlifts.com.