Welcome to our forum.
The HotSpring offers some things I'm afraid you would miss if you chose another brand:The MotoMassage jet is one of a kind. The new Sov has the DX version, which is a double. It is wonderful! It is the jet that started the whole moving/spinning jet thing, and I love how it covers your entire back with one jet. Now - the web site doesn't show this change yet, and if your dealer has a2007 model on display it will have the single still. Not bad, just not the new version.The jet variety: there are small, large, and extra large jets. The small and large jets have interchangeable nozzles which can make the jet an open jet, a straight jet, or a spin jet. And all have the ability to be adjusted as to the amount of air mixed in without changing other jets in the tub. Very unique.The tubs have an engineered system of foam insulation which is made up of layers of different density of foam. Firm where it needs to support things, soft and airy where it needs to be, and solid as a rock on the very bottom to seal the bottom of the spa.And - this tub is backed by the largest maker of Portable Hot Tubs on the planet. I know others lead you to believe they are the biggest, but they pale in comparison. Watkins is huge, and they are part of an even larger publicly traded company.Pump shrouds which capture the hot air from the pump motors and recycle it back into the tub for you, while quieting down the motors. Self-priming systems, bottom drains, outside drain connections, sound system options, great non-wood siding which is on it's fifth generation, outstanding reputation in the industry....I have to go to work now.... 8-)
Chas, or anyone tough question HS or Caldera? Can you answer that? I have 2 different dealers down where I live. Therapy and jet variety would be my top priorities... tall guy at 6'3" with wife and kids too.
Pay no mind to Spa-Tech he is just looking to find a reason to publicly pick on me.
I have great respect for my elders (wow 15 years in the spa industry) and those who have to overcome certain disabilities.
I was sad to hear about some recent store closures in their company though, but far and wide they are still the largest store front dealer in the industry.
How many dealers and stores do they have?
Well they have the entire states of Colorado, Minnesota and a 35,000 square ft showroom in Vegas. Also parts of Kansas.