Hot Tub Forum
Brand Specific Forums => Hot Spring Spas => Topic started by: dronning on September 02, 2010, 01:03:40 am
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Ok this may seem extreme.
We got a 1997 Grandee for free** (see below). We spent less than $300 replacing the the pillows and several of the jets, then we sprung for a new cover another $400. Pretty darn cheap for a tub that looks and runs like new. We love our tub and wouldn't consider getting a new one.
BUT
I was looking at the ACE water care system and really liked it but I can't justify buying a new hot tub just the get the ACE system. So I began to wonder what would it take to upgrade all the electronics in my 1997 tub to be able to install it.
I think it could be done for about $2,500. My spa had the latest 2010 heater installed just before we got it.
Breakdown - no labor I'll do it
IQ 2020 approx. $475
Control head approx $240
Control panel approx $75
Misc. cable $100
ACE system $1200 - if I can even buy it seperately
Are there other ACE like options out there? Are they as good?
**Ok free is a relative term I had to upgrade our electrical service to 200 amps and install the spa sub panel. Bid was $2,600 I did it myself for < $1,000
Backyard didn't pass the WAF (wife acceptance factor) bid on work was $5,800. I pulled the permits rented a bobcat did all the excavation plus I put in 2 retaining walls for just over $1,300. Still needs sod (not in original bid) but I am waiting until it cools off.
So far I have spent about $3,100 on this free spa. I'd do it again in a heartbeat because I really needed it after all that work.
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You seem to be getting a lot of satisfaction out of your DIY project, excellent job.
As far as retrofitting for the ACE system, if your controller goes out and you need a new one I could see you retrofitting with a new one and going the extra step to retro the entire system to add the ACE but I'd personally have a tough time removing a perfecting well operating controller and putting in a new $475 one for that reason, but that's me - Mr. Practical. If you can afford replacing parts that are operating fine to get the auto-sanitizing system that's up to you but I'd probably enjoy the spa the way it is for a few years until ready to upgrade to a new spa (or until the controller goes out and I can justify the new controls).
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You seem to be getting a lot of satisfaction out of your DIY project, excellent job.
I think you hit the nail on the head, I am running out of projects and looking for another "FIX". There is no reason to do this other than to prove it could be done and I was starting to look for another challenge - it's time to relax and I sure don't want to mess up a perfectly running tub.
Dave
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I don't think your tub would have the port from the filter compartment to the equipment compartment.