Welcome to our forum.
A percieved deal, especialy on an overpriced brand to begin with may not be such a good deal, IMO.
I love the arctic brand, however, one flaw that bothers me is the jets. They do not lock into place, so they have a tendency of turning randomly to the off position. This has been corrected for 2006, and I believe that warranty may infact cover this.
That's ironic Bosco! Just yesterday I went to my dealer with a few more jets that were also causing me grief. Overall, in 18 months of tub ownership, I've had to change out quite a few (too many) jets. The catch here? Well, after talking with the guy at Arctic about my displeasure - he offered to come by and swap out ALL my old jets for the new and improved ones that don't weaken over time (plastic problem).This is why we continue to pleased with our tub. Our service continues to be professional and accountable.As for the sticker shock, I must chime in again - when we purchased our Arctic Summit Signiture it was the cheaper option of several comparable tubs in our area!Jc
Any Arctic or Caldera owners out there with good or bad comments about their spas? We have looked at, and will wet test tomorrow, the above spas. I know that a lot of it will come down to what we feel, but just wanted to get opinions.
The arctic model (Summit) is either the "legend" or "ultra" level (can't remember- will clarify tomorrow) and retails at $12,500. Floor model (2005) going for $7500. The Caldera Moorea is a 2006, and I think would end up being about the same price.
One last note: I really liked the Caldera dealer, and their store has been there for 20 years. The Arctic dealer mostly had pool tables, not spas, and was a fairly new business, but seemed knowledgeable. Decisions, decisions.....
Both are respected brands. Let us know how your wet tests go. That is key.Being comfortable that your dealer will be there for you and is capable definitely important. Do they each perform their own service?
Anne, does your dealer have an arctic avalanche in stock. This tub has one molded seat that has neck jets in them. Also, give the tundra a try. If you go in the one seat with the jets configured like an upside down triangal, you will get a neck message from the top four jets. Turn the diverters to that seat and you will not belive just how great it is on you neck and shoulders. I believe that StlRex has the same tub as me, and if he reads this he will comment on it as well.