hot tubs

I'm close to purchasing a hot tub but can't make up my mind on a brand. Would like to hear any opinions on which brand and why.I'm finding it really hard to find a nonbiased opinion.

 

We've had a Master Spa for about 4 years and have been very happy with it.

 

I have a Bullfrog spa and love it. The customizable jet packs are a great feature.

 

I've been looking at bullfrog and arctic but I really do like the bullfrog jet pack idea.What model bullfrog do you have? I haven't looked at any master spas the dealers I've been to don't have that brand what model do you have I'll have to check them out. Does the bullfrog seem to be very energy efficent.

 

Ignore all the stupid lights, fancy moving jets, radio options, waterfalls and all the rest of the crap. You'll either use the tub or not. Those pricey options are only to sell to people who don't quite know if they want one. They probably don't.

I spend at least half the time in mine with everything off, just soaking.

 

Yes!!!! I can finally see this thread!

Ok. So Hot Spring Spas is the gold standard in the hot tub world. I've been doing hit tubs in Montana winters for over a decade and I can tell you they are THE best option out there. Energy efficiency wise. Reliability wise. Support wise. And the manufacturer has the best reputation in the industry.

If you have any questions let me know.

You will get what you pay for in the hot tub world.

 

Mine is a "Hot Spot", which is the Hot Springs budget brand. However, it uses the same pumps, lights, jets, etc. All I get is about half the warranty. Not a single problem in 3+ years of use.

 

"Hot Spot" is what you should compare to these others brands. Great quality at mainstream pricing and made by the same folks that make Hot Spring.

I see all three other brands up here in Montana but I'd personally avoid each of them based on my experiences over the last decade in the business - one in particular.

Another alternative, aside from Hot Spring, would be the Sundance/Jacuzzi brands. Reputable company and decent brands.

 

Thanks for all the feedback, I'll check into hot springs.

 

Our house came with one. After a month ofvys not using it, I tried to give it away for free. No takers. It was too big for most to move...

Including me. So I took the Sawzall and angle grinder to it. Quartered it and hauled it to the dump.

 

Coast Spas

 

But the real question is - Why didn't you use it?

 

Honestly, were too busy. In a good way. We're at Yosemite. Between day hiking, backpacking, paddling, camping, traveling... there's no time. The upkeep/chemicals cost way more than feasible for little to no use.

Also, it was 7' x 7'. It. Was. Huge! And it was on our deck. It blocked out a major portion of the view. The second it was gone, it became abundantly clear how much of an eyesore it was.

Before and after. (The wet deck spot was its former location and the 'after' photo was taken literally right after it was gone.

 

First off... Gorgeous views!

I'm in the hot tub industry and have been for more than a decade now. So I was curious why you'd get rid of a hot tub. It's not very common up here. lol I will say though, if you're that busy you need to relax and hot tub more than anybody (it truly feels amazing post hike, etc). There just isn't a more effective way to relax the mind and body in my experience. As for water care - that's the biggest reason most people get rid of hot tubs or not buy them to begin with. There are right ways to do it, and wrong ways. And doing it the wrong way ends up being frustrating, sometimes expensive, etc. One of the things I do is teach classes on how to care for hot tubs. Our clients ask all the time when I'm doing my next class (which I need to schedule very, very soon). But anything is expensive if you're spending money on it and not using it.

Thanks for sharing photos of your view! Beautiful place you're in.

 

When I feel 'desperate', I have a tub to use. Local day spa owned by dear friends. I crash their place for a craft beer and soak if it's been a strenuous hike. I kind of dig the view from their tub too.

 

Sweet! That's cool that they let you crash the place.

I know too much about water, pools, and spas to feel comfortable in a 'public' tub. lol It's common for hot tub folks to carry test strips with them on trips and check out the water chemistry before they use a public pool/spa.

 

Would you believe they have a cup of them at the refreshment bar just for that?!? (It's also a spring fed h2O2 tank.)

 

They supply test strips for guests? That's pretty cool. Haven't heard that one before.

We have some natural "hot spring" places here in Montana. Still not my thing. I'm not a "social soaker". I want a private place away from the rest of the world.