[johnyxr]

So how is your spa Working so far? anything good? or bad? to let the rest of us newbie's know? Would like to start this for people like me who have purchased a Spa from Costco. I am expecting mine next week. CSXi 80 Evolution.

[hottublady]

So how is your spa Working so far? anything good? or bad? to let the rest of us newbie's know? Would like to start this for people like me who have purchased a Spa from Costco. I am expecting mine next week. CSXi 80 Evolution.

Hi,
there is a huge post on this spa already on the forum. It's usually within the first 10 topics. You should check it out.

[DK117]

So how is your spa Working so far? anything good? or bad? to let the rest of us newbie's know? Would like to start this for people like me who have purchased a Spa from Costco. I am expecting mine next week. CSXi 80 Evolution.

Hi,
there is a huge post on this spa already on the forum. It's usually within the first 10 topics. You should check it out.

Yes there is a huge thread on Costco Spa's, but I'd like to keep this one going for real owners to post their real experiences. Will it be statistically relevant and prove Strong's success or failure? NO. Will it prove the longevity and quality of Strong? NO. But I for one would like as much data, however limited, from real owners about their real experiences.

Johnyxr, My CSXI 80 is due in about a month. So for this thread, it's too late to argue the relative merits of big box vs dealer spas. It's simply talking about the owner experience of Strong Spas ... the good and the bad.

DK117

[johnyxr]

So how is your spa Working so far? anything good? or bad? to let the rest of us newbie's know? Would like to start this for people like me who have purchased a Spa from Costco. I am expecting mine next week. CSXi 80 Evolution.

Hi,
there is a huge post on this spa already on the forum. It's usually within the first 10 topics. You should check it out.

Yes there is a huge thread on Costco Spa's, but I'd like to keep this one going for real owners to post their real experiences. Will it be statistically relevant and prove Strong's success or failure? NO. Will it prove the longevity and quality of Strong? NO. But I for one would like as much data, however limited, from real owners about their real experiences.

Johnyxr, My CSXI 80 is due in about a month. So for this thread, it's too late to argue the relative merits of big box vs dealer spas. It's simply talking about the owner experience of Strong Spas ... the good and the bad.

DK117

Thanks for the reply and yes Lets keep this thread for the people who have purchased The Evolution (Strong Spa). Mine is coming this week(CSXi80 Evolution)

[bob81]

I have posted a bunch of impressions in the big evolution thread, from delivery through setup. As well as a bunch of pictures of the spa after it was unloaded and set up.

I know there is a lot of Costco vs dealer stuff to wade through, but there are plenty of owners impressions mixed in as well as technical details.

[Reiner]

Bob 81, you mentioned in the other thread certain filtration functions...

"It has a twice a day filtration cycle at either 2, 4, or 8 hour intervals. It also has a continous filtration option.

Is the continuous filtration the Standard mode? Would you know if, while filtering, 100% of all water running through the pump is going through the filter or does it suck from other points as well? Just curious.

Thanks for the help.

[DK117]

johnyxr, do you have your tub yet? I ordered mine on September 28th (after canceling a CL50 order when the price reduction for the CXSI80 came out.) So I'm barely into week three and I received notification that my tub has shipped!!! But the tracking mechanism leaves a bit to be desired. The tub is in NJ, I'm in Washington state. How long should it take? The tracking site says BY 11/06. Another three weeks UGH! That's certainly within the 4 to 6 week window, but I'm not a patient guy.

So my question for you Costco spa owners ... once you received notification that the tub has shipped, how long did it actually take? Three weeks sounds like a long time to get across country, I must assume they aren't using rail.

Thanks for any feedback.

DK117

[bob81]

Bob 81, you mentioned in the other thread certain filtration functions...

"It has a twice a day filtration cycle at either 2, 4, or 8 hour intervals. It also has a continous filtration option.

Is the continuous filtration the Standard mode? Would you know if, while filtering, 100% of all water running through the pump is going through the filter or does it suck from other points as well? Just curious.

Thanks for the help.

There are 3 modes, standard, sleep, and economy.
There are 4 filtration cycles 2, 4, 8, continuous.

They are all mutually exclusive. You can set it on standard with 8 hour filtration, economy with continuous filtration, or whatever floats your boat that day.

I use the 2 hour filtration cycle majority of the time. This means that for 2 hours of every 12 hour period my spa is filtering and running chemicals through the water. This is the bare minimum and some would argue towards more filtration. You can change as needed or run continuous filtration if you need to "shock" the spa.

The modes simply pertain to the heater. Sleep means filter only no heater. Economy will only use the heater if its more then 10 degrees below the set temp i believe. i.e. if you have it set on 95 and the actual temp is 80, it will run the heater during filter cycles until water reaches 85. Standard means it will maintain water temp during filter cycles, i.e. if water is set at 95 if will run the heater during filter cycles till the water reached 95.

I put it in standard more when in use, economy when not in use, and sleep if i am not going to use it within the next 24-48 hours. For example its the weekend, so i will be in it a lot more so I currently have it set on economy to keep the water around 90. That way i can pop it in to standard about 30-45 minutes before we get in and it will be ready to go.




One other point to consider is the filtration cycles are determined by when you turn the power to the spa on. Once electricity runs to the spa it does its checks and then goes in to a filter cycle. 12 hours from this time it will run a filter cycle again. I current have it set to enter filter cycles at 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. If you lose power during a storm, the filter cycles will reset to the time when power is restored and you have to adjust them again.

[Reiner]

Bob 81, you mentioned in the other thread certain filtration functions...

"It has a twice a day filtration cycle at either 2, 4, or 8 hour intervals. It also has a continous filtration option.

Is the continuous filtration the Standard mode? Would you know if, while filtering, 100% of all water running through the pump is going through the filter or does it suck from other points as well? Just curious.

Thanks for the help.

There are 3 modes, standard, sleep, and economy.
There are 4 filtration cycles 2, 4, 8, continuous.

They are all mutually exclusive. You can set it on standard with 8 hour filtration, economy with continuous filtration, or whatever floats your boat that day.

I use the 2 hour filtration cycle majority of the time. This means that for 2 hours of every 12 hour period my spa is filtering and running chemicals through the water. This is the bare minimum and some would argue towards more filtration. You can change as needed or run continuous filtration if you need to "shock" the spa.

The modes simply pertain to the heater. Sleep means filter only no heater. Economy will only use the heater if its more then 10 degrees below the set temp i believe. i.e. if you have it set on 95 and the actual temp is 80, it will run the heater during filter cycles until water reaches 85. Standard means it will maintain water temp during filter cycles, i.e. if water is set at 95 if will run the heater during filter cycles till the water reached 95.

I put it in standard more when in use, economy when not in use, and sleep if i am not going to use it within the next 24-48 hours. For example its the weekend, so i will be in it a lot more so I currently have it set on economy to keep the water around 90. That way i can pop it in to standard about 30-45 minutes before we get in and it will be ready to go.




One other point to consider is the filtration cycles are determined by when you turn the power to the spa on. Once electricity runs to the spa it does its checks and then goes in to a filter cycle. 12 hours from this time it will run a filter cycle again. I current have it set to enter filter cycles at 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. If you lose power during a storm, the filter cycles will reset to the time when power is restored and you have to adjust them again.

Thank you!

[johnyxr]

johnyxr, do you have your tub yet? I ordered mine on September 28th (after canceling a CL50 order when the price reduction for the CXSI80 came out.) So I'm barely into week three and I received notification that my tub has shipped!!! But the tracking mechanism leaves a bit to be desired. The tub is in NJ, I'm in Washington state. How long should it take? The tracking site says BY 11/06. Another three weeks UGH! That's certainly within the 4 to 6 week window, but I'm not a patient guy.

So my question for you Costco spa owners ... once you received notification that the tub has shipped, how long did it actually take? Three weeks sounds like a long time to get across country, I must assume they aren't using rail.

Thanks for any feedback.

DK117

Well I placed the order Sept 8/09 and received my shipped notice and tracking # on Oct 6/09. I sent a email on the Oct 7/09 including tracking # and they said my tub would be in next week and that driver would call 24 to 48hrs in advance for delivery time. As of today no call or tub on the curb??? I sent email to shipping co. last night I'll see what they say, probably won't get back to me till Monday. I Finally poured my pad yesterday (+3C) for the spa to sit on after messing around with it for like a month. Was like -10C here last week and snowing so couldn't get it done. I'm going to have it all cleaned up and ready for tub for next week this will give concrete chance to cure as well. But if it arrives today I'll be calling sparky and be in that tub tonight I'll be wet testing the concrete!

[johnyxr]

Buddy bought the evo i80 about three months ago said he is having trouble with the panels falling off as they shrink a little in the cold and when wind gets going panels fell off. he said he is going to have to do something to keep them in place. Anyone else with this problem? What did you do to fix?

[spatech (the unreal one)]

Buddy bought the evo i80 about three months ago said he is having trouble with the panels falling off as they shrink a little in the cold and when wind gets going panels fell off. he said he is going to have to do something to keep them in place. Anyone else with this problem? What did you do to fix?

If you do a search u will find that has been a VERY common problem with these based on the reports I've seen. I gotta beleive they've come up with some type of attempted fix so he should call them.

[johnyxr]

johnyxr, do you have your tub yet? I ordered mine on September 28th (after canceling a CL50 order when the price reduction for the CXSI80 came out.) So I'm barely into week three and I received notification that my tub has shipped!!! But the tracking mechanism leaves a bit to be desired. The tub is in NJ, I'm in Washington state. How long should it take? The tracking site says BY 11/06. Another three weeks UGH! That's certainly within the 4 to 6 week window, but I'm not a patient guy.

So my question for you Costco spa owners ... once you received notification that the tub has shipped, how long did it actually take? Three weeks sounds like a long time to get across country, I must assume they aren't using rail.

Thanks for any feedback.

DK117

Well I placed the order Sept 8/09 and received my shipped notice and tracking # on Oct 6/09. I sent a email on the Oct 7/09 including tracking # and they said my tub would be in next week and that driver would call 24 to 48hrs in advance for delivery time. As of today no call or tub on the curb??? I sent email to shipping co. last night I'll see what they say, probably won't get back to me till Monday. I Finally poured my pad yesterday (+3C) for the spa to sit on after messing around with it for like a month. Was like -10C here last week and snowing so couldn't get it done. I'm going to have it all cleaned up and ready for tub for next week this will give concrete chance to cure as well. But if it arrives today I'll be calling sparky and be in that tub tonight I'll be wet testing the concrete!

Ok got the phone call from driver Monday Oct 12, and said Spa would be at my house Tuesday Oct 13. He called Tuesday morn at 8:10am and said he would be 10 minutes. He had the big rig with like 45' trailer. I have a long driveway like 100' from side walk with a slight uphill grade. Now this is in your everyday residential area normal street width etc, My driveway is adjacent to my neighbors though. Driver lines up to drop it on edge of road/ side walk, I stopped him asked him if he thought he could back into my driveway. he sad he could not and that it was curb side delivery only! I said I got $20 bucks says you can do it. He said ill give it a try, he backed it up used his deck and pallet jack to drop and unload tub then he wheeled it over to my new pad and dropped it exactly where it need to be closed his doors and was gone.
Sweet!
My electrician was there and my bro they help unwrap it and to lay it flat. I can't express enough how heavy this thing was. I am 6'1 and my bro is big as well Sparky smaller but good shape. We needed two more people to lower this thing, one more would have been great but lots of help is needed to lay this spa down or someone will get hurt. Anyway we got it done my back is a little sore.
Sparky had it all hooked up by 11:30am and I had tub filled. We fired it up and it worked perfectly no leaks at all.
By 5:00pm tub was heated to 101F with outside temp of 37F.
One thing we noticed when sparky drilling hole in outside lower cabinet below inside steps "no insulation around bottom at least in that spot. I will drill a few more holes and update how much is missing and will post some pics when I figure where kids put camera. Tub works great I maybe a bit to tall for chairs with shoulder jets and it needs extra water for them to be submerged. If they are not submerged they are really noisy and very disturbing with jets turned up they just shoot water all over the place and are really loud. Pressure on all jets is good some seats better than others which is good. Cabinet is tough for sure and I don't know if i have upgrade on access panels or not but I had to kick them hard to get them back into place.
Overall I am happy but concerned about insulation after I drill holes all over it and see where the insulation is and is not i will take steps to make improvements looks like it will be easy enough.

[Roger]

Overall I am happy but concerned about insulation after I drill holes all over it and see where the insulation is and is not i will take steps to make improvements looks like it will be easy enough.

Don't drill holes. Just take the panels off and look.

[Trigger]

Overall I am happy but concerned about insulation after I drill holes all over it and see where the insulation is and is not i will take steps to make improvements looks like it will be easy enough.

That would be equivlent to drilling holes in the side of your pool to make sure there's water in there.

[johnyxr]

Overall I am happy but concerned about insulation after I drill holes all over it and see where the insulation is and is not i will take steps to make improvements looks like it will be easy enough.

That would be equivlent to drilling holes in the side of your pool to make sure there's water in there.

LOL, This cabinet is all but bullet proof! Had to drill hole for electrical If i where to drill small holes and check for insulation and then seal them up after there will be no problem. I can shoot expandable foam where they missed. It may be just a small area that they missed getting insulation in. I would drill inside of cabinet frame Not on the outside where you can see and obviously not through the tub itself. When I get a picture up you will see what I mean.

[bob81]

Overall I am happy but concerned about insulation after I drill holes all over it and see where the insulation is and is not i will take steps to make improvements looks like it will be easy enough.

That would be equivlent to drilling holes in the side of your pool to make sure there's water in there.

LOL, This cabinet is all but bullet proof! Had to drill hole for electrical If i where to drill small holes and check for insulation and then seal them up after there will be no problem. I can shoot expandable foam where they missed. It may be just a small area that they missed getting insulation in. I would drill inside of cabinet frame Not on the outside where you can see and obviously not through the tub itself. When I get a picture up you will see what I mean.

There are pre existing round groves on the bottom that are not insulated. We just drilled though on of them and ran pvc up in to the spa. I am going to get some foam and fill in around this area to help with insulation, but it looked to me the rest of the bottom was insulated.

I agree on the shoulder jets, they feel great, but are noisy. I use them for short periods of time when i want hydrotherapy, but we leave them off when we have people over and are enterainting. You can also turn them off individually , but still use the remaining jets by rotating them.

[nieder]

After ordering the CSXi80 on 10/6 I received it yesterday in southern California. Pretty quick delivery for having to be trucked from PA. The driver placed the pallet onto 2 four wheel furniture dollies that i bought and me and my buddy wheeled it to the back yard (had to lay down some plywood and roll over top of some rocks but overall it wasn't too hard to maneuver). We enlisted the help of 2 other friends to tip it over and move to its final spot. We wired the electrical from the bottom by drilling a hole and running the conduit inside the cabinet. After filling it took about 3 hours to come up to 102F. So far i'm really impressed with the quality and the first wet test was good. Jets are powerful and the lights and waterfall are nice touches. I'm a big guy (6'4") and fit well into the 2 corner seats with my shoulders under the shoulder jets. They are loud though so I only used them for a short time then twisted them to turn them down. The other seats are nice when you don't want your whole body submerged to cool off a bit.

As far as the side panels, I don't think they're going anywhere. There are 2 metal retainers on the bottom of each one and 2 plastic pieces drilled into the tops of each. They were a snug fit. I can tell the plastic pieces were an addition to the original design (they are obviously cut by hand) but i can see where they will be effective at keeping the tops of the panels from moving.

Anyways, I'm very happy with the spa so far. Let me know if anyone wants any other specific feedback or pics. Here is a quick one from my phone as we were filling it.

[DK117]

After ordering the CSXi80 on 10/6 I received it yesterday in southern California. Pretty quick delivery for having to be trucked from PA. The driver placed the pallet onto 2 four wheel furniture dollies that i bought and me and my buddy wheeled it to the back yard (had to lay down some plywood and roll over top of some rocks but overall it wasn't too hard to maneuver). We enlisted the help of 2 other friends to tip it over and move to its final spot. We wired the electrical from the bottom by drilling a hole and running the conduit inside the cabinet. After filling it took about 3 hours to come up to 102F. So far i'm really impressed with the quality and the first wet test was good. Jets are powerful and the lights and waterfall are nice touches. I'm a big guy (6'4") and fit well into the 2 corner seats with my shoulders under the shoulder jets. They are loud though so I only used them for a short time then twisted them to turn them down. The other seats are nice when you don't want your whole body submerged to cool off a bit.

As far as the side panels, I don't think they're going anywhere. There are 2 metal retainers on the bottom of each one and 2 plastic pieces drilled into the tops of each. They were a snug fit. I can tell the plastic pieces were an addition to the original design (they are obviously cut by hand) but i can see where they will be effective at keeping the tops of the panels from moving.

Anyways, I'm very happy with the spa so far. Let me know if anyone wants any other specific feedback or pics. Here is a quick one from my phone as we were filling it.

Thanks for the post, I'm getting really antsy up here in Washington State. Ordered 9/28, tub was in Boise yesterday, it's not due here until 11/06 per the tracking website, but I really have my hopes up for this weekend. Ahh who am I kidding I"m *%&$^#@!! jealous you got your tub faster than me, I need a soak!

How about a night time picture with the LED's on? That might hold me over for another day.

DK117

[nieder]

an even crappier cell phone pic, i'll take a few more tonight.

[DK117]

STI is driving me CRAZY! Note they still have over two weeks to deliver to still be within the 4 to 6 week window on the Costco website. However, I checked the tracking website for probably the 6th time today, only to find that a little over 3 hours ago the tub checked into a remote suburb of Portland Oregon. They basically drove 45 minutes past my house in the wrong direction. They could have easily delivered today. But such is the nature of less-than-truckload freight.

I really hope I get a call tonight or tomorrow. It is tough knowing my tub is about 20 miles away just sitting there. And I'm just sitting here on this stooopid board. LOL

DK117

[bob81]

Congrats on the new CXI. I hope you'll enjoy yours as much as I have been enjoying mine. We are having a movie night tomorrow, followed by a hot tub night with some wineritas!

[DK117]

My hot tub is here and it's 12 days ahead of the BY date from STI! However, it's sitting in my neighbors driveway (I asked the delivery guys to put it there given their driveway is closer to my back yard and my driveway is in the front of the house.) So now we've got a problem. City lot, 10 feet between houses. I just removed the gate to my fence and pushed back some plantings (hopefully they won't need to be removed.) Basically a very tight squeeze. So now I play the waiting game. The delivery guys said if it was perfectly level straight line from the truck, they would have taken it to the back yard with two guys for $150. They have promised to come back later this afternoon, somewhere north of $300 with another guy or two. Even if they get it to the back yard I'm still concerned about lowering it into position. But I guess that's why I'm paying professionals and not doing it myself. I sincerely hope my next post will be after my first soak.

DK117

[DK117]

My hot tub is here and it's 12 days ahead of the BY date from STI! However, it's sitting in my neighbors driveway (I asked the delivery guys to put it there given their driveway is closer to my back yard and my driveway is in the front of the house.) So now we've got a problem. City lot, 10 feet between houses. I just removed the gate to my fence and pushed back some plantings (hopefully they won't need to be removed.) Basically a very tight squeeze. So now I play the waiting game. The delivery guys said if it was perfectly level straight line from the truck, they would have taken it to the back yard with two guys for $150. They have promised to come back later this afternoon, somewhere north of $300 with another guy or two. Even if they get it to the back yard I'm still concerned about lowering it into position. But I guess that's why I'm paying professionals and not doing it myself. I sincerely hope my next post will be after my first soak.

DK117

Nothing like responding to yourself in a thread Anyhoo , I suppose this thread is to help set expectations for prospective owners, and share experiences with existing owners. The movers aren't coming back until tomorrow. Again, I'm way ahead of my BY date, but the tub will have been within 25 miles of my home for nearly 6 days prior to install. Be prepared for the agonizing wait. Agonizing because the movers really think they can do this with three guys, I had to verify with the dispatcher that they could really lay it down and position the tub with just three guys. Agonizing because they want me to cut down a trellis that "might" be in the way (I'm not cutting it until they prove to me it's in the way tomorrow morning, I just measured again and there is at least 4 inches to spare.

Good news is they are coming over first thing tomorrow. I should be able to get the cover lifter and electrical done within an hour (every thing is set except for the connection to the tub itself.) And there should be enough time to warm up for a soak tomorrow night.

I must however concede to all those Costco bashers ... the "free install" from a local dealer would have been nice at this point. I'm out $240 for the movers (driveway to back yard) and out 6 days of my tubing life.

DK117

[johnyxr]

My hot tub is here and it's 12 days ahead of the BY date from STI! However, it's sitting in my neighbors driveway (I asked the delivery guys to put it there given their driveway is closer to my back yard and my driveway is in the front of the house.) So now we've got a problem. City lot, 10 feet between houses. I just removed the gate to my fence and pushed back some plantings (hopefully they won't need to be removed.) Basically a very tight squeeze. So now I play the waiting game. The delivery guys said if it was perfectly level straight line from the truck, they would have taken it to the back yard with two guys for $150. They have promised to come back later this afternoon, somewhere north of $300 with another guy or two. Even if they get it to the back yard I'm still concerned about lowering it into position. But I guess that's why I'm paying professionals and not doing it myself. I sincerely hope my next post will be after my first soak.

DK117

Nothing like responding to yourself in a thread Anyhoo , I suppose this thread is to help set expectations for prospective owners, and share experiences with existing owners. The movers aren't coming back until tomorrow. Again, I'm way ahead of my BY date, but the tub will have been within 25 miles of my home for nearly 6 days prior to install. Be prepared for the agonizing wait. Agonizing because the movers really think they can do this with three guys, I had to verify with the dispatcher that they could really lay it down and position the tub with just three guys. Agonizing because they want me to cut down a trellis that "might" be in the way (I'm not cutting it until they prove to me it's in the way tomorrow morning, I just measured again and there is at least 4 inches to spare.

Good news is they are coming over first thing tomorrow. I should be able to get the cover lifter and electrical done within an hour (every thing is set except for the connection to the tub itself.) And there should be enough time to warm up for a soak tomorrow night.

I must however concede to all those Costco bashers ... the "free install" from a local dealer would have been nice at this point. I'm out $240 for the movers (driveway to back yard) and out 6 days of my tubing life.

DK117

Go rent a pallet jack call like three buddies and getr done tonight you'll be soaking about 10:30
tonight. Cost like 30 for pallet jack, which you can probably pick it up from the one end then it is narrower to get where you need it to go. Make sure you have some blocks to set it on the side you are letting down so as you don't crush your fingers. Three of us did mine four would have been better for sure! when moving with palet jack only lift high enough to get off ground and have help to stabilize side to side. Sure have been enjoying mine the last 6 days. Jets have lots and lots of power had to fill mine about a inch or two higher than the mark they say to but then the shoulder jets work better. let us know how you made out.

[nieder]

3 movers is enough. a pallet jack wouldn't work for me because of space available coming thru a gate (since you would have to fork the pallet widthwise). I picked up 2 four wheeled furniture dolly's from home depot and me and 1 other guy moved it from driveway to back yard, then had 2 others come to tip it. I think me and one other person could have tipped it, but we erred on the side of caution and got the 2 others.

[DK117]

3 movers is enough. a pallet jack wouldn't work for me because of space available coming thru a gate (since you would have to fork the pallet widthwise). I picked up 2 four wheeled furniture dolly's from home depot and me and 1 other guy moved it from driveway to back yard, then had 2 others come to tip it. I think me and one other person could have tipped it, but we erred on the side of caution and got the 2 others.

Any thoughts/suggestions on shimming? Paver patio is not 100% level, looks like a total of a 1 inch run over the width of the spa. Also minor 1/16th inch variations in the pavers. Do i just fill with water, or purchase wood shims? I'm thinking I just fill, but the movers suggested shims. I don't think those wood shims would last too long.

I hope to be filling within a few hours, any advise is much appreciated.

DK117

[nieder]

I have about a 0.75 inch slope from side to side on my tub and i don't mind. Mine is resting on about 60% pavers/40% cement slab and i knew the slab sloped away from the house so i just decided to install the pavers on the same plane. The only reason i notice is that with just me in the tub, the shoulder jets are slightly above the waterline on the "upward" side of the sloped tub and they splash when on. Once i get 2+ people in there its no longer an issue. I have been thinking of just adding some more water to makeup for it.

[johnyxr]

Any thoughts/suggestions on shimming? Paver patio is not 100% level, looks like a total of a 1 inch run over the width of the spa. Also minor 1/16th inch variations in the pavers. Do i just fill with water, or purchase wood shims? I'm thinking I just fill, but the movers suggested shims. I don't think those wood shims would last too long.

I hope to be filling within a few hours, any advise is much appreciated.


*******
1 inch is not to bad I would fill it and use it now and make a plan when you have to change water in a couple months. otherwise you just be looking at it all day. Good luck!

[InHotH20]

Most replies I've read in the past recommend avoiding shimming.

[Mikey_in_NY]

I agree shimming should be a last resort, however if you are forced to go down this route you can buy plastic shims from Home Depot, this will avoid the rot issue. An alternative might be to use a length of synthetic deck plank under the 'low' side, then use shims to support the 'sloping' sides? Guess the problem with all of this is you're only supporting the sides, with the center totally unsupported.

Dunno.

[DK117]

Most replies I've read in the past recommend avoiding shimming.

Thanks guys, I skipped the shimming this time around. Water is currently at 72 degrees and rising. I've got a couple of hours yet before the first soak. Electrical was a breeze. The brown faux rock cabinet looks fantastic. I haven't had a chance to finish installing the cover lifter (darn work and kids taking up all my project time.) Anyway, I'm a pretty happy camper here, just stuggling to find time to fit in tubbing time this week. I'll be back in a few, hopefully with some pictures and a little more experience under my belt so I can fill in the blanks for prospective owners as others have done before me. Only downside so far ... seems the cover latches have no place to latch, not good with little ones on the loose.

DK117

[johnyxr]

Most replies I've read in the past recommend avoiding shimming.

Thanks guys, I skipped the shimming this time around. Water is currently at 72 degrees and rising. I've got a couple of hours yet before the first soak. Electrical was a breeze. The brown faux rock cabinet looks fantastic. I haven't had a chance to finish installing the cover lifter (darn work and kids taking up all my project time.) Anyway, I'm a pretty happy camper here, just stuggling to find time to fit in tubbing time this week. I'll be back in a few, hopefully with some pictures and a little more experience under my belt so I can fill in the blanks for prospective owners as others have done before me. Only downside so far ... seems the cover latches have no place to latch, not good with little ones on the loose.

DK117

The hardware for cover latches is in middle of cover bottom side on outside edge in brown bag stuffed in cover fabric in center seam. I seen mine there and then forgot to take them out then bag got wet and when I pulled bag out it tore and screws fell in full tub. That was my first spa experience picking tinny screws off bottom of spa. LOL

[DK117]

Most replies I've read in the past recommend avoiding shimming.

Thanks guys, I skipped the shimming this time around. Water is currently at 72 degrees and rising. I've got a couple of hours yet before the first soak. Electrical was a breeze. The brown faux rock cabinet looks fantastic. I haven't had a chance to finish installing the cover lifter (darn work and kids taking up all my project time.) Anyway, I'm a pretty happy camper here, just stuggling to find time to fit in tubbing time this week. I'll be back in a few, hopefully with some pictures and a little more experience under my belt so I can fill in the blanks for prospective owners as others have done before me. Only downside so far ... seems the cover latches have no place to latch, not good with little ones on the loose.

DK117

The hardware for cover latches is in middle of cover bottom side on outside edge in brown bag stuffed in cover fabric in center seam. I seen mine there and then forgot to take them out then bag got wet and when I pulled bag out it tore and screws fell in full tub. That was my first spa experience picking tinny screws off bottom of spa. LOL

LOL, I found them ... thanks, and luckily they didn't fall into the tub. I was so excited yesterday I didn't even think to look for the hardware. I should probably open the manual today as well. And maybe get a pic or two up.

Edit: 1 hour 10 minutes in the tub with the wife last night for the first soak. Granted every hot tub owner is giddy on day one, but so far it's perfect!

DK117

[cardsoup]

My CL50 made it to my driveway at 8:00 this morning. The movers and crane will be here at 3:00 pm. It will be a little challenging. I put the patio cover up before buying the spa. Most of the models I looked at were not as big. This one is too tall to move in vertically. The patio cover, tiny Las Vegas yard and trees will make it interesting. It looks great and I can't wait to get this thing fired up.

[cardsoup]

My CL50 made it to my driveway at 8:00 this morning. The movers and crane will be here at 3:00 pm. It will be a little challenging. I put the patio cover up before buying the spa. Most of the models I looked at were not as big. This one is too tall to move in vertically. The patio cover, tiny Las Vegas yard and trees will make it interesting. It looks great and I can't wait to get this thing fired up.

Well, I've got it set up and the electrical is hooked up. Unfortunately, it does not seem to be working correctly. When I start it up and it goes into the "PR"/priming mode it doesn't seem to be doing anything. I hit the Jet button several times during the priming mode per the instructions. Nothing happens. After the priming mode the pump will kick on for a minute or two but the jets are extremely weak. It then cuts itself off. After a few minutes it will do the same thing again. Run for a minute or two and then quit. I tried to remove air per the instructions. No Luck. It is too later to call tech support and I am very sad...

Also, the pump seems to be making an odd noise. Possibly a loose impeller???

[cardsoup]

My CL50 made it to my driveway at 8:00 this morning. The movers and crane will be here at 3:00 pm. It will be a little challenging. I put the patio cover up before buying the spa. Most of the models I looked at were not as big. This one is too tall to move in vertically. The patio cover, tiny Las Vegas yard and trees will make it interesting. It looks great and I can't wait to get this thing fired up.

Well, I've got it set up and the electrical is hooked up. Unfortunately, it does not seem to be working correctly. When I start it up and it goes into the "PR"/priming mode it doesn't seem to be doing anything. I hit the Jet button several times during the priming mode per the instructions. Nothing happens. After the priming mode the pump will kick on for a minute or two but the jets are extremely weak. It then cuts itself off. After a few minutes it will do the same thing again. Run for a minute or two and then quit. I tried to remove air per the instructions. No Luck. It is too later to call tech support and I am very sad...

Also, the pump seems to be making an odd noise. Possibly a loose impeller???

Now, I am beginning to think that my electrician buddy has put in the wrong breaker. What I can find online seems to indicate that the Square D 60 amp breaker should not be used. I don't know enough to know if that means I just have no GFCI protection or if it would actually interfere with the operation of the spa..

Help

[Hotrod]

My CL50 made it to my driveway at 8:00 this morning. The movers and crane will be here at 3:00 pm. It will be a little challenging. I put the patio cover up before buying the spa. Most of the models I looked at were not as big. This one is too tall to move in vertically. The patio cover, tiny Las Vegas yard and trees will make it interesting. It looks great and I can't wait to get this thing fired up.

Well, I've got it set up and the electrical is hooked up. Unfortunately, it does not seem to be working correctly. When I start it up and it goes into the "PR"/priming mode it doesn't seem to be doing anything. I hit the Jet button several times during the priming mode per the instructions. Nothing happens. After the priming mode the pump will kick on for a minute or two but the jets are extremely weak. It then cuts itself off. After a few minutes it will do the same thing again. Run for a minute or two and then quit. I tried to remove air per the instructions. No Luck. It is too later to call tech support and I am very sad...

Also, the pump seems to be making an odd noise. Possibly a loose impeller???

Now, I am beginning to think that my electrician buddy has put in the wrong breaker. What I can find online seems to indicate that the Square D 60 amp breaker should not be used. I don't know enough to know if that means I just have no GFCI protection or if it would actually interfere with the operation of the spa..

Help

Did all you guys buy your tubs online? and how did you decide it was the one. Or are they in a store.

[Roger]

Did all you guys buy your tubs online? and how did you decide it was the one. Or are they in a store.

They based there decision on cost alone.

[Mikey_in_NY]

My CL50 made it to my driveway at 8:00 this morning. The movers and crane will be here at 3:00 pm. It will be a little challenging. I put the patio cover up before buying the spa. Most of the models I looked at were not as big. This one is too tall to move in vertically. The patio cover, tiny Las Vegas yard and trees will make it interesting. It looks great and I can't wait to get this thing fired up.

Well, I've got it set up and the electrical is hooked up. Unfortunately, it does not seem to be working correctly. When I start it up and it goes into the "PR"/priming mode it doesn't seem to be doing anything. I hit the Jet button several times during the priming mode per the instructions. Nothing happens. After the priming mode the pump will kick on for a minute or two but the jets are extremely weak. It then cuts itself off. After a few minutes it will do the same thing again. Run for a minute or two and then quit. I tried to remove air per the instructions. No Luck. It is too later to call tech support and I am very sad...

Also, the pump seems to be making an odd noise. Possibly a loose impeller???

The "odd noise" may be down to the fact the pump isn't primed, and it's simply spinning in air? I wouldn't come to any conclusions on that until you can get the thing primed and pumping.

Good luck!

[hot_water]

My CL50 made it to my driveway at 8:00 this morning. The movers and crane will be here at 3:00 pm. It will be a little challenging. I put the patio cover up before buying the spa. Most of the models I looked at were not as big. This one is too tall to move in vertically. The patio cover, tiny Las Vegas yard and trees will make it interesting. It looks great and I can't wait to get this thing fired up.

Well, I've got it set up and the electrical is hooked up. Unfortunately, it does not seem to be working correctly. When I start it up and it goes into the "PR"/priming mode it doesn't seem to be doing anything. I hit the Jet button several times during the priming mode per the instructions. Nothing happens. After the priming mode the pump will kick on for a minute or two but the jets are extremely weak. It then cuts itself off. After a few minutes it will do the same thing again. Run for a minute or two and then quit. I tried to remove air per the instructions. No Luck. It is too later to call tech support and I am very sad...

Also, the pump seems to be making an odd noise. Possibly a loose impeller???

Now, I am beginning to think that my electrician buddy has put in the wrong breaker. What I can find online seems to indicate that the Square D 60 amp breaker should not be used. I don't know enough to know if that means I just have no GFCI protection or if it would actually interfere with the operation of the spa..

Help

Can you provide link to the online words about the breaker?

Square D is good stuff. You need to have a GFI in either your main house panel OR the disconnect box Either can work, but putting the GFI in the disconnect box is usually a better plan as reduces the chances of nuisance trips. Whatever breakers you use have to be approved for use in the panels you have. Even if it plugs in and looks like it fits (some do, some don't).

Make sure your wire gage matches breaker size. For 60A, use #6 up to 100 feet and #4 if the run is longer.

If you don't have a GFI in either location.... have a beer with your electrician friend but call a real electrician. Water+incorrect electrical install = dead (not referring to the spa being dead, either).

Many localities require a permit for spa install. Do it! it's for your safety. Check with the inspector for detail requirements for the installation in your area.

[nieder]

My CL50 made it to my driveway at 8:00 this morning. The movers and crane will be here at 3:00 pm. It will be a little challenging. I put the patio cover up before buying the spa. Most of the models I looked at were not as big. This one is too tall to move in vertically. The patio cover, tiny Las Vegas yard and trees will make it interesting. It looks great and I can't wait to get this thing fired up.

Well, I've got it set up and the electrical is hooked up. Unfortunately, it does not seem to be working correctly. When I start it up and it goes into the "PR"/priming mode it doesn't seem to be doing anything. I hit the Jet button several times during the priming mode per the instructions. Nothing happens. After the priming mode the pump will kick on for a minute or two but the jets are extremely weak. It then cuts itself off. After a few minutes it will do the same thing again. Run for a minute or two and then quit. I tried to remove air per the instructions. No Luck. It is too later to call tech support and I am very sad...

Also, the pump seems to be making an odd noise. Possibly a loose impeller???

The "odd noise" may be down to the fact the pump isn't primed, and it's simply spinning in air? I wouldn't come to any conclusions on that until you can get the thing primed and pumping.

Good luck!

Also, make sure none of the gate valves are closed

[nieder]

Did all you guys buy your tubs online? and how did you decide it was the one. Or are they in a store.

They based there decision on cost alone.

We based our decision on value and dealer spas don't add up when you compare imho. After reading the 10 page thread here, this thread, and any reviews anywhere online, I've yet to find someone who owns a strong/evolution spa badmouthing it.

[Roger]

Did all you guys buy your tubs online? and how did you decide it was the one. Or are they in a store.

They based there decision on cost alone.

We based our decision on value and dealer spas don't add up when you compare imho. After reading the 10 page thread here, this thread, and any reviews anywhere online, I've yet to find someone who owns a strong/evolution spa badmouthing it.

No one can deny you opinion is important to you. Most people want to sit in and look at and try out there spa's before they buy. I see quality/value different than you and several others.

[DK117]

let's get back on topic. cardsoup, did you get your tub up and running? I did the wiring myself, but as I'm not an electrician, I don't feel I could add any value to the conversation.

Day 3 impressions:

80 jets and two pumps moves a LOT of water. I probably would have been happy with half the jets. Good luck to the CLX60's out there.
Someone pointed it out some time ago, the steps on the CSXI80 aren't waterproof. Bummer.
The lighting package is pretty cool.
I'm waiting for the hammer to fall on the water chemistry, so far it's been fairly easy.
Not too sure about the cover, but I am really happy with an undermount cover lifter I found on eBay for something like $117.
The cabinet ... wow, we can argue all day long about value and quality, but this is by far the best spa cabinet I've ever seen, period. I suppose I must now define best, so in this case I won't argue R value, but as far as aesthetics (opinion) it can't be beat, I'd also add the lifetime guarantee. I've seen way too many plastic and cedar cabinets not be maintained and look dated after only a few winters .. or completely fail/rot.
Shoulder jets can be a little annoying, but then again they are fantastic for 3 to 5 minute intervals.

That's it for now. I'll try to resist the urge to post while I mature a bit in my spa experience.

DK117

[cardsoup]

My electrician solved the problem. There was a faulty connection in the main box at the GFI. Everything seems to be working properly now. Now, I just have to wait for the water to heat up. Apparently, looking at the temperature every five minutes does not make it go any faster.

The tech support people were very helpful and actually diagnosed the problem (underpowered pump) but scheduled a tech to come out and find the exact cause. I will call them in the morning and cancel them.

The spa movers were quite impressed with the quality of the spa. They have had a bunch of experience with the Costco spas of the past and said that these were a vast improvement. They really liked the sturdiness of the cabinet and the fact that all the panels could be opened. On his way out the guy who hooked it up looked at it one last time and said "I would buy one of those"

[CHRONiCENT]

until now i haven't got any issues, it works like a charm

[bob81]

My electrician solved the problem. There was a faulty connection in the main box at the GFI. Everything seems to be working properly now. Now, I just have to wait for the water to heat up. Apparently, looking at the temperature every five minutes does not make it go any faster.

The tech support people were very helpful and actually diagnosed the problem (underpowered pump) but scheduled a tech to come out and find the exact cause. I will call them in the morning and cancel them.

The spa movers were quite impressed with the quality of the spa. They have had a bunch of experience with the Costco spas of the past and said that these were a vast improvement. They really liked the sturdiness of the cabinet and the fact that all the panels could be opened. On his way out the guy who hooked it up looked at it one last time and said "I would buy one of those"

Thats re assuring that you had a good experience with tech support. I haven't had a need for them at all, but I like hearing feedback that if I need them they will be there.



As far as the spa, I couldn't be happier entering the 4 month mark. No noticable increase in my electric usage, and plenty of hot tub parties and fun. I am getting to the point where I am thinking ti might be time to empty the water out and refill due to the heavy use we have.

My only possible complaint is the cover. I'd much rather have one of the sturdier single seal covers, versus one with the gaps and the little pillows on the side of the seal. It insulates well enough, but i am going to definitely get a lifter and a new cover in the next month or so.

[johnyxr]

let's get back on topic. cardsoup, did you get your tub up and running? I did the wiring myself, but as I'm not an electrician, I don't feel I could add any value to the conversation.

Day 3 impressions:

80 jets and two pumps moves a LOT of water. I probably would have been happy with half the jets. Good luck to the CLX60's out there.
Someone pointed it out some time ago, the steps on the CSXI80 aren't waterproof. Bummer.
The lighting package is pretty cool.
I'm waiting for the hammer to fall on the water chemistry, so far it's been fairly easy.
Not too sure about the cover, but I am really happy with an undermount cover lifter I found on eBay for something like $117.
The cabinet ... wow, we can argue all day long about value and quality, but this is by far the best spa cabinet I've ever seen, period. I suppose I must now define best, so in this case I won't argue R value, but as far as aesthetics (opinion) it can't be beat, I'd also add the lifetime guarantee. I've seen way too many plastic and cedar cabinets not be maintained and look dated after only a few winters .. or completely fail/rot.
Shoulder jets can be a little annoying, but then again they are fantastic for 3 to 5 minute intervals.

That's it for now. I'll try to resist the urge to post while I mature a bit in my spa experience.

DK117

You nailed it the first few times i used it I thought the same thing on the 80 jets. And same on Neck jets like them that they are there and work well but annoying after about 5 min. I have some sore shoulders so have been using them quit a bit and do like them but have to pick up some ear plugs when use them for extended period of time.
Need to pick up a cover lifter. any recommendations?

[nieder]

let's get back on topic. cardsoup, did you get your tub up and running? I did the wiring myself, but as I'm not an electrician, I don't feel I could add any value to the conversation.

Day 3 impressions:

80 jets and two pumps moves a LOT of water. I probably would have been happy with half the jets. Good luck to the CLX60's out there.
Someone pointed it out some time ago, the steps on the CSXI80 aren't waterproof. Bummer.
The lighting package is pretty cool.
I'm waiting for the hammer to fall on the water chemistry, so far it's been fairly easy.
Not too sure about the cover, but I am really happy with an undermount cover lifter I found on eBay for something like $117.
The cabinet ... wow, we can argue all day long about value and quality, but this is by far the best spa cabinet I've ever seen, period. I suppose I must now define best, so in this case I won't argue R value, but as far as aesthetics (opinion) it can't be beat, I'd also add the lifetime guarantee. I've seen way too many plastic and cedar cabinets not be maintained and look dated after only a few winters .. or completely fail/rot.
Shoulder jets can be a little annoying, but then again they are fantastic for 3 to 5 minute intervals.

That's it for now. I'll try to resist the urge to post while I mature a bit in my spa experience.

DK117

You nailed it the first few times i used it I thought the same thing on the 80 jets. And same on Neck jets like them that they are there and work well but annoying after about 5 min. I have some sore shoulders so have been using them quit a bit and do like them but have to pick up some ear plugs when use them for extended period of time.
Need to pick up a cover lifter. any recommendations?

If you don't need anything elaborate and want to save some cash, I made a simple fulcrum style lifter out of some leftover conduit i had from my wiring run. looks like this Link