| DaleB |
I looked up some old threads but they really strayed from the subject. Locally, there is a highly recommended dealer that sells Marquis Spas. I have my eye on the 'Wish' model.
It runs on either 120 or 240. Although it is my understanding the 240 conversion runs a little more efficiently which is said to offset the additional installation fee.
Here is a link to Marquis:
http://www.marquisspas.com/spa_wish.asp
Here is another to a overview website:
http://www.angelfire.com/mi2/hottubs/
I plan to put this on a cement pad so weight is not really an issue. |
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| R Stevens |
Dale,
I purchased a Caldera Spas Niagara Utopia two years ago and am very satisfied. Suggest you "test drive" any spa before purchase. The fit and comfort levels are important as is the location of jets. Be sure it has sufficient depth to get your neck muscles while in a comfortable seating position. The Caldera model uses an ozone generator which cuts down on the amount of chemicals needed. Good luck. |
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| SouthOCMDX |
I've had my eye on a softub for a while but I haven't been in one yet for a test drive. Check out their website at http://www.softub.com. I've owned the fiberglass hard-shell kind before but the softub has peeked my interest since they look like they might be more comfortable because they are soft. Softub is in CA so you might be able to pick it up yourself and save the delivery/install. Also, they run on 120.
BTW - I'm not affiliated with 'em... I just saw the tubs in action at a couple of home shows. |
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| XStatic |
| Any hot tubs with a gas heater? |
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| DanK |
Happy New Year!
Looks like a nice spa... We've had a Hot Springs spa for 6 years and are very happy with it. What sold us on the Hot Springs was there Warranty, and the materials they used allowed us to leave the spa outside in the eliments. Ours uses a dedicated 110 outlet.
The water is always nice and warm. In Fact... I think I will give it a go now... Make sure they fully support their warranty.
Enjoy! |
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| DaleB |
Wow, RStevens! You have not been around in a while. or I missed your posts...:4:
Anyway, the info is appreciated. As I age, I am trying to do it as fine wine vs. decaying fruit. Too much exercise results in soreness that takes longer to get rid of...plus just the overalll relaxation factor.
Some of the models are 120 but can convert to 240. I guess if you use the tub a lot, which means removing the cover constantly, they cool down faster. Then its recommended to use 240 because the jets and heater can be on at the same time. Which can offset the addtional installation costs.
Most all the larger ones need 240. I am looking at medium size, approx. 77"X77" . 300 gallons.
But the idea of having dual capability is a plus.
Yes, jet location and the modes available for changing flow are very important. as is seating comfort. I will definitely wet-test.
The Soft Tub is an interesting concept.... |
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| JimH |
I have been in a Hot Springs hot tub in the past and know folks who own Hot Springs models. We are also looking to purchase a hot tub in 2004/2005, and we have settled on getting a Hot Springs model. Everyone we know that has owned a Hot Springs model like them a lot. Here is a handy site for checking on various modesl by different manufacturers and for making comparisons.
http://www.americastophottubsandspa...anylistings.asp |
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| BlueStreak |
Dale - I've had a Hot Springs model since 1993 and would absolutely do it again. I have an ozonator installed and use very little chemicals to keep the water clean.
In terms of 120 or 240 - go 240. This way you can run the pump, heater, and all the goodies at the same time. Most 120- models I've seen when one thing kicks on (like the pump), the heater kicks off. I don't belive Hot Springs makes a gas-fired model.
My electric model doesn't cost much to operate as the Hot Springs models are well insulated and they use a smaller circulation pump to filter the water instead of using the large pump. Installation is very easy as well for either voltage.
Hot Springs units also have a great warranty (5 years).
Good luck with your decision. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by BlueStreak
Dale - I've had a Hot Springs model since 1993 and would absolutely do it again. I have an ozonator installed and use very little chemicals to keep the water clean.
In terms of 120 or 240 - go 240. This way you can run the pump, heater, and all the goodies at the same time. Most 120- models I've seen when one thing kicks on (like the pump), the heater kicks off. I don't belive Hot Springs makes a gas-fired model.
My electric model doesn't cost much to operate as the Hot Springs models are well insulated and they use a smaller circulation pump to filter the water instead of using the large pump. Installation is very easy as well for either voltage.
Hot Springs units also have a great warranty (5 years).
Good luck with your decision.
I know HotSprings are highly rated. One thing steering me towards the Marquis is the local dealer has a sterling reputation according to a local bldg. contractor I've talked to. Not that salespeople scare me off, Except for wet-tests, I don't plan to walk into a showroom until I know exactly what I want.
The info you folks are providing is priceless, and I thank you for it.
No better consumer than an informed one.
I agree on 240, I really think it is the way to go for most med. to large tubs. But I do like the heat exchanger system used on the soft tubs, and great ease of installation.
I plan to wet test those too on my next trip to SoCal. They have limited dealerships.
All the better tubs have excellent warranties. It's a very competitive field.
Well, I will be researching this for a while. I do not plan to purchase until about Spring time. And the older members here know I posted for quite some time before ordering my X. |
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| 4HICKSMDX |
| Dale B, I too purchased a Caldera Spas Niagara Utopia in September, replacing my 12 year old Cal Spa. The Caldera is great! The best way to make a decision on the one that is best for you is to go and wet test it. Take a soak in several then narrow your choice down to a few and go soak again. You will pick the one you like best! |
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| ByeByeChrysler |
I can use a hot tub today - - - too much gardening this weekend.
:( |
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| DaleB |
| With the temps approaching 100 this week, a cold tub would do nicely. :) |
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| mgtr |
| I have purchased two hot tubs from Recreational Factory Warehouse. I have been pleased with both the quality and the service (when needed). If I move again (likely) I will probably go back there. They come 110, but the conversion to 220 is simple, and I have done that. I am guessing that their estimate of $10/month electric cost is correct (on 220). I would see no reason to use gas heat at that price. |
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