HotSpring vs Beachcomber

[rolney]

Hello Everyone!

I'm an American living in the UK and really miss having a hot tub.  So, we've been saving our pennies (pence, actually) and are close to making a decision.

I have owned a HotSpring Sovereign (1996 - 2001) and thoroughly enjoyed it.  However, I am unsure of any technology changes since this time.

We have narrowed our choices down to the following:

HotSpring Sovereign
Beachcomber 350
Beachcomber 720X

We would like to hear opinions from folks who have considered any of these models, any comparisons you've made, etc.  I've done a search on this forum for such postings, but have come up empty.

Any, and all assistance will be greatly appreciated....  any my weary bones will thank you later once we're enjoying our new hot tub (which ever one we choose).


TIA,

Richard

[Chas]

I have toured several of the HotSpring stores there in the UK, and have met the dealer and his team. They truly seemed to have it all together.

HotSpring is the larger of the two companies, by far. Both have good features and benefits, and should give you years of hot water bliss.

I sell HS, so I have my bias, but I don't think you could go wrong with either.

One thing - Beachcomber does make the spa with the equipment tucked under the side of the spa, and that doesn't really make a big difference in 'all four walls' being insulated. The walls around the equipment still gets insulated in other spas AND Beachcomber, and the equipment creates heat anyway. So - if you can - try to get your dealer to set you up with a self-contained tub, not the Pro-Tech variety. They are loath to do so, mainly because the Pro-Tech sets them apart from other brands, but you pay more for shipping, it takes up room in your garden, the motors are out and a bit noisier, and there is no real benefit. Some dealers do it only one way, some will allow you to choose. Your distance from the Canadian plant may make this decision for you, but I thought I would mention it.

 8-)

[Spiderman]

The new '08 Sovereign has a dual moto massage in the lounger now, compared to the single you've had.  The new circ pump uses around 28 watts compared to around 68 watts in pre '08 models.  HS has also added lighting behind the spa pillows and the new Sovereign now has a stereo option.  

The photon torpedoes and transporter isn't quite ready yet......

[In_Too_Long]

I have sold both and been in both factories.

I have found the Beachcomber was much more comfortable.
and when you are buying a tub to enjoy, your comfort is important.

[BubbaGump]

Hello Everyone!
I'm an American living in the UK and really miss having a hot tub.  So, we've been saving our pennies (pence, actually) and are close to making a decision.

I have owned a HotSpring Sovereign (1996 - 2001) and thoroughly enjoyed it.  However, I am unsure of any technology changes since this time.

We have narrowed our choices down to the following:

HotSpring Sovereign
Beachcomber 350
Beachcomber 720X

We would like to hear opinions from folks who have considered any of these models, any comparisons you've made, etc.  I've done a search on this forum for such postings, but have come up empty.

Any, and all assistance will be greatly appreciated....  any my weary bones will thank you later once we're enjoying our new hot tub (which ever one we choose).

TIA,

Richard

We are looking as well, in the States, and we eliminated the Beachcomber as an option.  Probably part of the dealers fault, but we felt it was just not among the top tier of companies out there.  Just my opinoin...

[Tailhooker]

I would have to vote HS in this case from what I have seen so far.  Beachcomber doesn't normally get put on the top tier like HS, Sundance, Jacuzzi, Arctic, D1, Marquis...etc. (not trying to leave anyone out here).  Just my 2 cents!

[Gomboman]

The new '08 Sovereign has a dual moto massage in the lounger now, compared to the single you've had.  The new circ pump uses around 28 watts compared to around 68 watts in pre '08 models.  HS has also added lighting behind the spa pillows and the new Sovereign now has a stereo option.  

The photon torpedoes and transporter isn't quite ready yet......

Does the new circ pump perform the same as the old 68 watt version? Sounds like a good idea to minimize electrical costs. Can the new units be retrofitted to the pre 08 spas?

[hottubdan]

Does the new circ pump perform the same as the old 68 watt version? Sounds like a good idea to minimize electrical costs. Can the new units be retrofitted to the pre 08 spas?

Yes and yes.

[Chas]

To expand on Dan's succinct answer, the new pump is an improved design. We saw it at the dealer meeting just past. They had it hooked up on a display with the old style pump. The display was set up to pump water - and it was equipped with a flow meter and an ammeter.

I saw with my own eyes that the new pump moved the same amount of water while consuming less power. Also, the pump has an open-face impeller. Less chance of it getting plugged or catching something and going out of balance.

I have noticed that they do make just a slight bit more noise than the old design - you could only tell if you have either heard them side by side, or been around the old design for many many years...

 8-)

[The_real_Clown_Shoes]

Chas, do the new style have the same P/N as the old?  I need to put a new circ pump in my 98 Bengal but we have some of the old style in stock.  I did notice the new style in the Limelight- do they retrofit to older spas?

[Chas]

New part number - to confuse the innocent.

They will retrofit to all old spas, however they are just a tiny bit smaller so you may have to stretch the tubing a bit. If you can't pull it to reach, a length of 3/4" ID vinyl tubing is cheap and readily available.

 8-)

[wmccall]

Beachcomber is another brand not near me, but if I get back in the market, that Soverign might be my first wet test.   There is a new Coleman dealer here I haven't checked yet. How did I get so busy?  I need a vacation.

[Chas]

Three days - at the time of this posting.

Go Bill!!!

 8-)