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I take it no one has actually heard of this problem? is my tech feeding me a line?
Asta, I drink the kool-aid, and always recommend Hot Spring without reservation, but let me tell you......If my new tub had a problem like you have, I would be on the war path. I have never heard of any other Hot Spring tub with that problem. One of the nice things about HS tubs is that their sides are strong, tight and don't bow or split like "Lil Tyke tubs" (ask Term for some pics)If this problem was due to improperly kiln dried wood, then I would say "GET ME A TUB WITH PROPERLY DRIED WOOD. I PAID A PREMIUM PRICE FOR THIS TUB AND EXPECT IT TO BE JUST AS GOOD AS EVERY OTHER HOT SPRING TUB COMING OFF THE LINE". This is a long term investment you have made. I, personally, would not allow a repair by adding screws and puddy where none has been used on any other similar tub. I don't think you bought a "Factory Second", did you? Given your description, and your dealer's explanation, it's a no brainer: -No thank you as to the repair. -Please replace my brand new tub with another.Just my opinion.
I'm not sure I understand completely what Vista is trying to describe but to me it sounds like it's just a defective skirt panel. Therefore I would not think that a whole spa replacement is needed. Just some new panels. Unless it has something to do with the actual structure/framing of the spa of course.As far as re-drilling new holes and applying putty in the old ones, no way. I would not be happy with any thing less than new panels or if the existing ones can be repaired w/o rendering their appearence as new.I'm sure no matter what this problem will be solved in a timely manner as there is a plethera(sp?) of HS people here that are capable of support if needed. Atleast you can still enjoy a soak. Chadps- Some pictures of this issue would be very helpful.
The skirt itself is fine. its the wood underneath that has bowed outward..causing the panel to pull away from the other panel... making an opening towards the bottom.I bought what the owner called a "DEMO" with full warranty... does that mean It is a second??? I am starting to feel a little screwed.. If I knew how to post pictures.. I would post a picture of the issue.
I have the exact same problem occuring on my tub on both sides for over a year now. My HS Vanguard is 2 years old. I haven't called the tech over yet because I'm waiting to see if this happens at the back of the spa. It's lifting on 4 corners so far (2 on each side). It's the wood frame of the side panel that is warping outwards about 1 inch so far. Also...to top things off...my inside touch panel has completely stopped working once again. This panel will be the 5th replacement in 2 years...under warranty of course.
Actually, now is a good time to tell them about the warping issue since I'll be making an appointment for them to replace the inside controller panel. Not only are the panel corners warped...one of the panels actually developed a crack/split right down the middle of it which progressively got worse over the last 8 months. The crack now runs from top to bottom for about 80% of the panel height. This spa was purchased new... but gave me nothing but problems since day one! They've been out to my house 7 or 8 times for repairs so far in just 2 years.