Our recent hot tub purchase, a few comments...
After finishing our research on different models, the one that had the features, flexibility, warranty and other requirements for our family...was the Viking 2. Cost was $2700 and we have it placed just outside our back door area. Thus far, we couldn't be happier; comfortable and flexible seating (great for our 11yr old and youngest), powerful and adjustable jets and quiet operation. The homework paid off, we made the right choice for us.
Quick Specs: 72" round x 35" deep, 110/220 (we have it on 110 for now, likely 220 in a year or two when we do a house panel upgrade), 250 gal, 20 jets (with whirlpool jet), ozonator, 2hp and Balboa controls. Under 30 min. to fill if memory serves me right and about 25 min. to empty with a pump I bought (vs. using their drain tube). On 110, it took about 1/2 a day (just over 12 hours) to get the 69 degree water from the hose up to 101.
For a cover holder, I ordered online a Cover Caddy by Cover Valet. This thing is great; allows for the cover to be slid from the spa right into the open arms of the caddy. The caddy can be kept out horizontally the whole time while holding the cover, or you can fold it downward to hide nearly all of the cover from sight as well. Fantastic product, no drilling required so you can move it around after draining your tub if you ever wanted to re-position it. Below shot shows it in the closed position.
Chemicals (which I posted on a little bit ago), I went with EcoOne. So far, although early, working great. All levels came in line where they're suppose to, with the free chlorine coming in at the min. recommended amount. I added one bottle of their Spa Monthly natural cleaner, then one of their tiny packets of their OneShock. I hope it continues to go as easy as it has been with this product; so far, very impressed and working well; just chucked in another tiny packet after we used it yesterday.
We are thrilled with everything and I must say the guys at Viking (who I have bugged in the past with questions while we were looking around at different brands, etc. and even after getting our tub), have been fantastic. No, I'm not associated with them, nor do I sell hot tubs
, but their tech support guys and even their head sales guys have always called me back within an hour or so of any message I left them. Little ol' me looking at one of their cheaper spas mind you, and they gave me all the time in the world that I wanted and answered all my questions, A+ in my book. Same too of the owner at EcoGeeks (distr. of EcoOne), the gentleman chatted with me for a good 15-20 min. when I called him; again, answered all my questions at the time and talked about other misc. stuff too. Some good folks in this industry.
That's about it, a real life in-the-field quick review
- thanks to all on this forum for the feedback with previous questions I had asked, much appreciated. Oh, and great older articles and postings too that I spent a little time looking up and reading; so, anyone newer to the forum, don't forget to do a "search" - some great resources on this site!
