Hi Jeanessa,
I'm in Canada!! I can't imagine the tub having a huge impact on your hydro. I've had a spa for 14 years, having just upgraded to the J470. Certainly the insulation is much better now so I don't expect a significant change in my bills, even though this is a much larger tub. Up here, the dealer guarantees that it will not cost any 400 Series Jacuzzi more than $240 per year ($20 per month averaged) to operate in our climate. We're in freezing temperatures from November to mid April at least. Right now its right around 32F. Anyway, I wouldn't be afraid of it, in my opinion it's well worth the investment, you're worth it!!
I spent almost a year looking around, partly because I already had a tub so I wasn't in a super rush. My choices locally were Jacuzzi, Sundance, Master, Arctic, Artesian, Beachcomber and a few other smaller brands. What did it for me was the dealer. My Jacuzzi dealer is awesome. When I bought, I actually preferred the Sundance Optima but went with the 470 because of the great dealer. (Price was slightly better too). But, now that I've had the Jacuzzi, I think I made a better decision on the tub too. I'm liking (ok loving it!!) more everyday. At first, the foot jets seemed a bit on the weak side, but now I realized I can increase the pressure with the diverter, etc. So I'm still learning something with every soak. It's fun! The Jacuzzi, in my opinion is "prettier". I didn't think the raised back on the tub was a big deal either, but having now had it, it's really great! It's great sitting there with just the waterfall on, great sounds of running water without the pump noise. My only disappointment I'd have to say is the stereo. Don't get me wrong, quality of the sound is great. But I think the Sundance has better speaker locations. They have two small speakers in each corner seat. Jacuzzi has 1 speaker in each corner seat. So to get stereo sound, sitting in one of the middle seats is best (like under the waterfall). But it's not a deal breaker for sure. It's not a bad system, just a slight edge to Sundance on that.
For pricing, if you're looking for a great deal (and who isn't!) ask your dealer if they buy "red tags" from Jacuzzi. A red tag is a discounted tub because of minor cosmetic blemishes. Mine apparently has a small imperfection in the acrylic behind the tub (behind the waterfall) I haven't been able to find it. I asked the dealer, and he couldn't find it either. It still comes with full warranty, no exceptions. I saved $2600 on it. The only thing you loose is the ability to pick your color choices.
As for references, you're on the right track...make sure to check into the dealer itself. When you're at the dealer, if people come in for water testing, talk to them. Ask them how the service has been. Check the BBB too. The dealer shouldn't have a problem giving you references.
