Shopping for a Hot Tub/Spa - Need help/opinions.

[rock45154]

     Hi everyone, I am new to this forum.  My fiance and I have began looking at hot tubs and are amazed by the prices and options.  We are looking for a solid, dependable, base model that delivers adequate flow of water.  We do not need anything to fancy or luxurious or with excessive water power.

Minimum Needs:
1.  Full Foam Insulation - low energy consumption.
2.  Quietness (reasonable sound proofing/noise)
3.  Ozonator
4.  50 sq. ft. filtration  
5.  5.5 kw Heater or less if proven to be efficient
6.  78x78x36 dimensions (300 gallon minimum)
7.  Lounger and Shoulder/Neck therapy seat
8.  At least 25 Jets (assorted kinds preferrable but not absolutely necessary)
9.  Good dependable Acrylic Spa Shell
10.  Maintenance free exterior
11.  Efficient pump 4 or 5 hp? that will not be overstressed.
12.  Diverter Valve
13.  4 Adult Seats (minimum)
14.  Basic single color underwater lighting
15.  Comprehensive Warranty  (from proven manufacturer)
*Electronics (3), Shell (7), Surface (5), Heater (1), Cab (1), Parts & Plumbing (3).

We are currently considering:
1.  DownEast Spas  "Providence"  $4500
2.  Belize Spas   "Model 3000L"     $4350 w/ozo
3.  Dimension One  "Cove HP"       $4700??
4.  Several other Spas from the internet $3,500 to 4,500

Please Give Advice and Opinions

 

[Mendocino101]

Hi...

I would sugest looking at the Quest from Marquis spas...It specs are very close to all you mention....There warr are among the very best in the industry.....wet test beofre you buy no matter the tub....and remember it is more about gallons per minute than Hp of the pumps....most of the more reputable Manufactures....Sundance...Hotsprings....Marquis...Beachcomber....to name a few..list GPM or usablle HP instead of Brake Hp which is only at start up....

[chaz]

I would stay away from the internet.  You can't wet test and service from your local dealer is one of the most important parts of your buying decisions.  Otherwise the others you have chosen are all spoken of often on this forum.  You may want to look at rhtubs.com for info related to those brands.

Good luck and enjoy the ride!

[Brewman]

Find some spas that meet your price range, then wet test them.  Go with whatever one that feels good, don't get too hung up on jet count, horsepower, and other things that are relatively meaningless.  
You are at the low end of price, but should still get something basic but reliable if you stick with known companies.  
Some major spa makers have lower priced value brands in their lineup.  For instance, Sundance (Nothing close to your price range) also makes Sweetwater- less bells and whistles, but thousands cheaper.  
Hot Springs has the Tiger River Line.
I also suggest staying away from the internet here.
You can't tell anything about a spa looking at a picture.
Brewman

[spaguyohio]

The Providence is a good spa.  If you decide on that one and order it with full foam, do NOT also get the arctic master insulation as well. Friend of mine services for Master, and has seen where folks order both thinking more is better. It causes the spa to overheat. Stick with either artic master (which I have and is very efficient in my opinion) or go with full foam, just dont do both.

[Gary]

As Mendocino states the Marquis Quest sounds like a good fit for you. Also as he stated forget about HP and pay attention to GPM.

Horsepower has nothing to do with the perfromance of any spa!

I also like what Chaz said.

Gary