Small tubs

[Baghdadi]

I got a big basement but a little entrance (split level) so I am stuck with a smaller tub.   :'(I am looking at the Thermos Gemini and the Sundance Solo.  Any thoughts on these two or other companies that might have smaller spas.  I think the widest it can be is five foot.  Maybe five foot three.

[D.P. Roberts]

I got a big basement but a little entrance (split level) so I am stuck with a smaller tub.   :'(I am looking at the Thermos Gemini and the Sundance Solo.  Any thoughts on these two or other companies that might have smaller spas.  I think the widest it can be is five foot.  Maybe five foot three.

Avoid Thermospas. Cross them off your list entirely.

There's no such thing as a "Good Housekeeping" seal for hot tubs. Epionions and other online sites can be written by anyone. I think the most reliable indicator of how well a company treats its customers is the BBB.

Take, for example, Sundance - one of the larger manufacturers out there. They've had 32 complaints in the last 36 months. One per month, that's not too bad.
Hot Spring - the largest hot tub manufacturer. 10 complaints in 36 months. Excellent.
Hydro Spas - maker of the often-debated spas sold at Costco. 36 complaints in the last 36 months (but almost all of them came in the past year, when they started selling at Costco).
All of these companies have official "satisfactory" ratings, as they have addressed the complaints (regardless of number) in accordance with BBB standards.

Thermospas - a whopping 131 complaints in 36 months, with 60 in the last year alone! To top it off, they have an official Unsatisfactory rating.


Almost every major manufacturer sells a 5'x7' 2-3 person spa. You've checked out Sundance, so you might want to check out Hot Spring, Marquis, Artesian, Dimension One, Arctic, Beachcomber, and Jacuzzi, among others.

[Spiderman]

We love our Hot Spring Jetsetter.  225 gallons, Moto Massage DX jet, 100% no-pass filtration; it's a great tub for my wife and I.

[loosenupspas]

Coleman 351 is a good choice too, dimensions 64 x 81 x 31.  It is interior door compatible.  It is a high performance space saver spa, comfy and soothing.......do yourself a favor and go see one today......Tom

[Spatech_tuo]

I got a big basement but a little entrance (split level) so I am stuck with a smaller tub.   :'(I am looking at the Thermos Gemini and the Sundance Solo.  Any thoughts on these two or other companies that might have smaller spas.  I think the widest it can be is five foot.  Maybe five foot three.

I don't think you'll find many people who are fans of Thermospa. Sundance does have a good following and if you're looking for others here is a list of what many consider to be some of the top spa makers in the industry (there are other good options certainly). These links should put you at the dealer locator sections of their websites where you can enter your zip code to see who is local to you:

http://www.arcticspas.com
http://artesianspas.com/main/dealer_locator.asp
http://www.calderaspas.com/Locator/index.html
http://www.dimensiononespas.com/findadealer.asp
http://www.hotspring.com/index_spas_hot_spring.html
http://www.jacuzzi.com/products/
http://www.marquisspas.com/locator.asp

[East_TX_Spa]

The Classic Series Jetsetter by HotSpring Spas:



6' 10"  x  5' 2"

Terminator

[mjb]

If you are interested in the Sundance Solo you should get it this year.
This model is likely to be discontinued for next year.
Sundance Spas has been awarded the "Good Housekeeping Seal".
Remember to check your local dealer's BBB report.  As this is where
most consumer problems start.

[jfish63]

I am not sure a hot tub in the basement is a good idea.  There might be a problem with condensation if you don't install a good ventilation fan. What about head room climbing out of or into the tub.

[Richs100]

I am not sure a hot tub in the basement is a good idea.  There might be a problem with condensation if you don't install a good ventilation fan. What about head room climbing out of or into the tub.

I agree, plus you can't hear the birds, feel the breeze and look up at the stars at night.  But I understand if that is your only option.

If you go with an indoor basement tub, I would also check out a good dehumidifier for the house.

[East_TX_Spa]

Oh, I forgot to add, HotSpring Spas are the FIRST and ONLY brand of portable spa that meets the NSF P 181 Safety Requirement.



Good luck in your search!

Terminator

[Webini]

That ought to cause J*mmy to go on an epic rant.

[wmccall]

If you are interested in the Sundance Solo you should get it this year.
This model is likely to be discontinued for next year.
Sundance Spas has been awarded the "Good Housekeeping Seal".
Remember to check your local dealer's BBB report.  As this is where
most consumer problems start.

Well, look whose back online. Finally settled in out there?

[mjb]

Yes, we're settled in.  Beautiful weather and star-lit skies.
Not near the same volume of spas as at All Seasons.
But, with pools, patios and landscaping we keep busy.
Oh.... we don't seem to have that Saturday afternoon distraction
from sales like back there.

[Baghdadi]

Thanks everyone for your replies!  I'll have a lot more confidence looking around based on your experience!