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dpz

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  1. The tub is fullfoamed, Just wondering why wouldn't the 40amp breaker trip if the tub needs more amps? I'm not sure how the Venture electrical panel is set up. However, on my Chairman II, there is a jumper that you select to match your breaker amperage. This controls the amount maximum amount of current draw that the spa will pull from the circuit. So, if you choose a lower amperage (40 vs 50 vs 60), this controls whether the heater works at full capacity, when the pumps are running. According to the D1 site, the Venture supposedly can be set up on either 30 or 40 amps....so you may want to make sure the jumper is in the correct position, otherwise, the spa won't even try to pull the full amperage, regardless of the breaker that you put in the fuse panel.
  2. D1 posts their manuals on their website under customer care - downloads. D1 downloads page it looks like they have an all in one manual for 2002 models, plus some set up guides
  3. Hi poolrookie and lanbie, We bought a Viking Laguna (14x30) pool earlier this year, and are very happy with it. I ldid a lot of web research and liked the information that I found on Viking, Trilogy, and Leisure Pools USA a little better than the San Juans and others. My research seemed to indicate that the dealer/installer was just as important as the pool builder. In our case (near San Francisco), only Viking and San Juan had local dealers. When I checked out the dealers with the various state boards and BBB, the Viking dealer had no issues, while the San Juan dealers weren't even listed as pool contractors... Our builder puts in over 50 pools a year, used to sell both Viking and San Juan, but now only sells Viking (they thought the Viking pool has become higher quality). Even though they are across the Bay from us, they had 8 local references, each with pools of various ages. We started May 1 and were swiming by June 6. It would have been done two weeks earlier, except that we chose to have a sandstone deck put in, instead of just the normal concrete deck, and that took the extra time. Question #1. Do the walls ever need refinished? If so, approx. what might this job cost? (I see viking warranties the finish for 7 years. I didn't find anything on San Juan) The walls should not need refinishing (unless you have an extreme chemical problem that damages the gelcoat) #2. I've narrowed down my fiberglass choices to either a Viking or San Juan, please share ur experience/knowledge on these two brands? We've had a good experience so far. The pool was delivered on time, and we've had no issues (nor had the references which included one customer with a 14 year old pool). The regional Viking Rep even stopped by the other day with the our dealer to see the install. I also felt that the design (number and types of layers and the bond beam at the top) of the Viking and the Leisure was stronger (at least it looked superior to my non engineering eyes) #3. Does anyone know how much mark up is on the fiberglass pools? (how much negotiation room is there) I'm sure its high and there is some room to negotiate. In our case the Viking deal had fixed package prices, and they were so much lower than the concrete option (labor is ridiculously high in the SF Bay Area), that there was not an option to negotiate. However, I also tend to think that, if you have found a good contractor, it's a good idea to give them a reasonable profit on the job. That way they are focused on working on your job and not trying to cut corners or delaying so the subs can work on better paying jobs. Now, if you have two different competing dealers in the area...I would let them know that you are shopping both so that you get a good price from them. #4. Heat Pump or Gas heater? Also, can I add the heater at a later date? can't help you here...energy is ridiculously expensive in California....so we only went with solar. However, you should know that Fiberglass pools do seem to run warmer than concrete. Our pool gets all day sun and has generally been at least at 85 all summer with out the solar and without the solar cover on. (And, this is Northern California - we havent had a day over 95 yet and most days have only been in the 80's, and most nights drop into the 50's) #5. How big of a heater is needed for a 12 x 24 or 12 1/2 x 27 pool? no idea but wouldn't expect it to need to be too large since those are smaller pools #6 What type of Filter should I get? I think cartridge filters are the easiest to deal with and seem to keep our pool crystal clear. Just make sure you get a big filter, as more filter area leads to more efficiency and less frequent cleaning #7 Can lighting be added at a later date after instalation? I don't think it would be easy. We have an LED light, and the fiber optic line had to be run under the decking and up through the concrete pad for the pool shed. We only got one light....its OK, but I would recommend two lights, either at opposite long ends of the pool, or on the long side of the pool and facing away from the place you are most likely to be looking at the pool. (they can be a bit bright if you are looking right into them #8 Should I buy an auto Chloriantor? Our builder was against a Salt Water Generator, but I think he's kind of an old school, keep it simple, type of guy. He also didn't like the idea of salt in the water, since he felt it added to the potential for corrosion of the metal parts of the pool equipment. I'm not sure it would be a problem, and a friend of mine who owns a pool maintenance company does have a problem with them. That said...we really only have to add a little bit of clorine every few days in the summer, so I think it would only help if you have a very high chlorine consumption requirement (lots of users) or travel for extended periods. I have considered a liquid chlorine chlorinator, but it just hasn't been worth the effort to bother yet. Generally the chemical maintenance of fiberglass pools is pretty easy. We do a full check every week. Typically, I have very little to do. Our water has very high alkalinity and we have to add a couple of inches every week because of evaporation. so I have to add about a cup of acid every week to bring it down. That and a little chlorine every 2-3 days is it. We're very happy with our pool and love the feel of the fiberglass vs concrete (not as smooth) or vinyl (not as solid). My friend's kids came over and said they liked our pool bether than theirs (concrete). Bottomline - make sure you have a good installer with a good rep and a lot of local references. Ask the references what they'd do differently if they did it again (I'd add a second light, get a bigger pool - the 16 x 35 version, and get more decking space (we had been worried about making our back yard just a pool, so were a little to conservative on the size of the pool and deck) Good Luck and Enjoy!
  4. Hi CindyP, Happy to share my thoughts with you: Sundance a good company? I think so, they have been around for a long time and are now owned by Jacuzzi. Many will argue which spa is better/best/their favorite, but Sundance is usually recognized as a top tier brand. Installing in the bathroom? It's somewhat atypical to install a self contained portable spa in the bathroom. The portable spas are always on and heated, and therefore require an insulated top. These tops can be awkward to move. Therefore, they are usually not installed in smaller places. This can be mitigated with a hydraulic lifter, but you need room around the tub to manage the swing of the cover. These spas are typicaly heavy and they can also vibrate quite a bit, so you would need to make sure your floor can support them properly. More typically one installs a "spa" bathtub in a bathroom. These are not always on, they get their primary heat when filled with warm water from your hot water heater. Some have heaters that only come on when you are using them to preserve the heat until you drain the water. They don't generally offer the power levels, variety of jet options, or depth of water that the portable spas offer. So, the spa bathtubs don't generally have the same level of "therapy" available as the portable spas, but they might be easier to use. It is also much easier to install grab bars and other assists around them since you don't have to deal with the need for a snug fitting insulated top. One seater vs two seater? One of the most important things for you will probably be ease of entry/exit and mobility within the tub. This varies dramatically with the shape of the tub, the material of the tub (some are more slippery than others), the shape of the seats, the width of the sides, etc. A single seater may be easier for you to move in and around, since both sides would generally be in reach. On the other hand, a larger tub may have a step for entry. Also, a larger tub should offer more seating and jet options. Generally, it is the jets that determine the amount of "therapy" options. I find that larger spinning jets help my muscles the most, as they are most like an actual massage. However, I'm not sure what most impacts circulation. (You might try searching on MS forums/discussion groups and ask those users which type of spas/jets/maybe even air injection helps them them the most vs trying to determine from spa manufacturer's marketing material which will offer you the best therapy) (You may also need a larger or continuous water heater if you get a big bathtub spa) Also, it's generally recommended to wet test spas that you are considering, as each spa will feel different (and different to different individuals) because of their varying geometry, jet combinations/style/size, etc. The wet test options is usually limited the portable spa dealers. However, I have seen some bathroom spa tub stores (like this one http://tubz.com ) which do offer the ability to wet test some of the tubs, and at least dry test the others. Hope this helps. and hope I wasn't off base with the bathtub spa info.
  5. I think you may not be far off with 'vapor locked'. When you drain a spa, you can get air in the intake lines and the pumps can't prime. If you have your manual, there is probably something in it about bleeding the lines or priming the pumps. The Keys website is www.keysbackyard.com. I couldn't find a manual on line, but they have these contact numbers: Keys Backyard, L.P. 2901 W. Kingsley Rd. Garland, Texas 75041 General Assistance: 800-408-9000 Technical Service: 877-897-7493 If you can't wait until you can talk to them, you can often bleed the lines by slightly loosening the fittings at the pumps until the air bleeds out and the water can flow. Then retighten them. I'd do it with the power off...Also, make sure the water level is high enough in the tub to be filling the filter. Good luck
  6. Glad to hear you found one that you both like. I wasn't specifically looking at the Diplomat when I bought my Chairman, but I the Nautilus and Californian were $8k at the Memorial day sale when I bought the Chairman ($9k). They were all with the white interior, cover, lifter, chemicals, and steps, but not the LFX or stainless steel jet covers - neither of which I wanted. I'm pretty sure the Diplomat was the same price as the Nautilus and Californian. Since that was in Dublin, it might cost a bit more for delivery from them up your way. Also, I get the feeling that dealers can leverage extra discounts or volume discounts during common sales events or show related events...so $8500 doesnt sound out of line, given we're past Memorial Day and July 4th...of course Labor Day is coming soon enough... Beyond the bottomline price, consider the dealer's reputation for service and the long term relationship you want with them....with that context, you can decide who you want to buy from in the area, and how hard you want to grind for a deal. Good Luck and Good Tubbing!
  7. tcdckc, I've had very good luck with D1. My first one is still going strong (but for a friend now) after 13 years, and I recently installed a Chairman II. I agree with you...to my body...I think they have the best jet placement and water motion (I really like their spinning jets and I have put those in most of the seats, since their jets are easily swapable). I also agree that extra waterfalls, stereos, tv's, etc. are all one more thing to break down, and offer minimal enhancement to the spa therapy. I live in the Bay Area and have visiting most of the dealers right around the Bay during the two purchases. We have had very good luck with the D1 Dealer in Dublin. They've been around for 25 years, and they are a large volume dealer, so they tend to negotiate very good pricing. The dealer in Berkeley also seemed pretty good, and they have been around for a long time, too. I think you are right to focus on buying from a good dealer. After all, they will be the one to maintain your spa if it needs repairs. If you ever have a serious issue, they will be your best advocate to the factory. (That's where sales volume can help swing a decision in your favor). The other thing to focus on is serious wet testing. While his and her loungers sound nice, I'm guessing that you won't fit in hers. That really leaves you with two 'therapy' seats, since the one between the corners don't tend to have as much jetting. So, you'll want to make sure that you can get all the spots in your back and legs with the seats that you can get in. We had my sister-in-law and her husband over last night. They are both shorter (she's 5', he's 5'7'), as is my wife (5'2"), yet they fit fine in our lounger (except for the foot jets) which also fits me fine (6'). It really comes down to geometry. Since each tub has slightly different geometry, I'd recommend wet testing any you are considering. That said....if she really, really loves her lounger in the Diplomat...then I'd recommend that you go with that one... If you go the D1 route, I'd also suggest the white Ultralife surface. I find it softer and more comfortable than the acrylic/fiberglass surfaces. Also, since its a little flexible, its also less likely to get a crack,which is why it has a longer warranty.
  8. Hi. Yes, meant Aurora II. I'm not generally a fan of the circular style tubs. I think the Arena has very upright seating that is not too comfortable, and a general lack of jets in the right places/combinations. Dave
  9. 1. Does the hight make that much difference? I like the short spas better (Seville), you'll be submerged in water in all spas - I am thinking it's mostly a how-bent-are-your-knees issue - like sitting in a sedan vs. a SUV. The taller ones are comfier but not as big of a deal when you have a lounge chair position for that. Definitely follow Trigger's advice and wet test. I have had both a D1 Interlude (shallow) and now a Chairman(deep), and I prefer the deeper model, but it all comes down to how the geometry of the tub suits your body. The other thing to test is the jets. The smaller jets tend to be less "therapudic" or "massage-like", but you may find you prefer them. 2. It seems to me it might be a wise idea to NOT go with the high end of product line - all the major stuff (structural, heater) are the same anyways and you can get some other important stuff as add-ons and save some money. In this case, the D1 @ Home series The Cove rather than going with Seville which is very similar in size/design but it's from the top line Bay series. There is a case to be made for simpler is better. However, make sure there are enough features/jets/pressure to give you the spa experience that you want. Of the models you mention, I like the Arena II the best. It has nice powerful jet combinations, very good ingress/egress with the step, has a strong foot jet, and I don't think its that much more than the other models by the time you deal. The lounge was a little tight on my shoulder, so I went to the wider Chairman. I was very happy with my D1 Interlude - its 13 years old now and still running well for a friend. With the D1's I would recommend the Ultralife Alpine white material. It comes with a longer warranty than the fiberglass/acrylic interiors, and I think its a little softer and more comfortable to sit it. (Although...its not quite as cool looking as some of the acrylics...) Good luck and enjoy!
  10. MJP, Sounds like you're getting a good deal. The Nautilus was 8k during the Memorial Day sale and the Chairman II was 9k. Same features (ie no LFX - which I didn't want), but no haul away....my friend gladly did that for a free spa when we moved a couple of years ago...;-) Good luck. Dave
  11. MJP, I recently made a decision between the same three spas. In my opinion, all were very good and quality spa's. I chose the D1 (albeit the Chairman II at the last minute, and with the option to swap to the Nautilus if I really don't like the Chairman II) My reasons for choosing the D1 were: 1. Previous owner. That spa is now 13 years old and still being used frequently by a friend. 2. Most comfortable for my wife (short) and me (tall). Best feeling and most flexible jets. 3. Availability of Alpine white Ultralife surface. I had this in my last one and it wears like iron, is flexible and comes with a lifetime warranty. I also find it more comfortable than the acrylics. 4. Very good local dealer - 25 years in business. High volume D1 dealer 5. Slightly better overall build quality. This is why I ultimately chose the D1. That said but there are some features that I prefer on the Sundance/Jacuzzi - namely the sealed bottom and the look of the granite/walnut siding on the Sundance/Jacuzzi. All three have good ingress/egress which is important with a lot of people using it. All have nice jet/seat options. Mine will be installed next week, and I'm looking forward to getting back into a spa. I wouldn't just go for price. If you view all the spas as interchangeable for you...then go for the one with the best dealer. Spa's like this will last a long time, but will have problems over time, since they are somewhat complex electrical systems that are surrounded by water and vibrate a bit while in use...;-) Good Luck with your choice and enjoy Dave
  12. I just paid $9k with steps/cover/lifter/oak look siding/delivery for a Chairman II. No LFX kit
  13. Hi Mike - That seems like a reasonable price from what I've seen in the SF Bay Area. However, it usually doesn't hurt to counter offer at a lower price. I'd just figure out all the other things you want (chemicals, differnent jets, etc) and get the price for the total before you start renegotiating. The Aurora II has a really nice form factor. I had a similar form factor in a D1 Interlude for about 10 years and really liked it. Having a step into a spa makes for much easier entry and exit. We just moved up to a Chairman II for our new place. (sadly no step, but fantastic seating and adjustable neck jets that fit me and my significantly shorty wife) By the way. One of the realy nice options on the D1'is the White Ultralife surface. It comes with a lifetime warranty (my interlude is over 13 years old and still looks great - now at a friends place),and i think it just feels better to the touch - a little softer when you're in the spa. Have you sat in the spa? This is important, to make sure you have room and the seat angles are good for you. A wet test is the best way to really see, since you'll sit differently in the bouyancy of the water. Good luck.
  14. My wife and I just purchased a Chairman II last weekend. It will be our second D1. The first was a 94 Interlude that we gave to a friend when we sold our condo a couple of years ago. Its still working with no real problems after 13 years. As far as your decision goes, I would also recommend wet testing the spas you are considering as each one will feel slightly different to you. And, they will feel different wet than dry. We have a similiar situation to you and your wife. It will just be us the vast majority of the time. In our case, the adjustable head rests of the Chairman help to compensate for about a foot difference in our heights. I also found the lounger in the Chairman more comfortable than the lounger in the California. Ironically, I went in thinking that I would order the Nautilaus. I liked the ease of entry that it offered with the entry step (a feature that is getting rare in the total seating capacity spec hunt). I really liked the ease of entry that the step in my Interlude offered. The Nautilus also had nice open seating like the Interlude. But, in the end, even though the Chairman has a seat that only sort of gives you a step in, the geometry of each of the main seats is what worked best for us. If you decide to get a Dimension One (and I do recommend them), I would highly recommend that you get the Ultralife alpine white surface. It is not a attractive as some of the fancier colors, but it is flexible and a solid material without a multilayer substrate. This is why it comes with a lifetime warranty, and the other surfaces have lesser warrantees. I also think it feels better (less harsh/hard). Whatever spa you get, make sure you are comfortable with the dealer. Utlimately, a spa is a somewhat complex piece of equipment that could have problems. Your dealer is going to likely be the authorized repair person for your spa under warranty, and your best advocate with manufacturer, if there is a dispute. The price we paid, and the prices we were offered for the various models new, were less than the prices you were quoted. We live in the San Francisco area, and I was able to price shop a bit, as there are multiple D1 dealers here. The dealer I bought from also is a very high volume dealer, so I think he is able to leverage factory volume incentives. (Chairman was 9k, California and Nautilus were 8k with cover, lifter, step, delivery, but no LFX feature (didn't want one more thing to go wrong, even after letting myself get talked into the Dynamic Massage Sequencer). Good luck on your decision
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