Donna216

I had one dealer show me a yellow tag stating that the hot tub was energy star compliant and it's rating on use of electricity --kinda like the ones you see on washers and dryers, hot water heaters, dishwashers, furnaces and the like here in the states. Don't know if this type of a system in Nationwide or not but they have it here in Illinois. That's why I asked.

Wow, thanks everyone for your insight! Yes, I did end up wet testing and I do like the Grand Bahama. Actually, one of my friend's own that model tub. This weekend we also checked out Jacuzzi and Sundance. We definately loved the foot well design in the Maxxius (I think that's what it's called). I really appreciatte everyone's help! "Tiny Bubbles" do you know the energy efficiency rating of the Grand Bahama? I was just wondering, I forgot to ask that one to the dealer... I don't think it's energy star compliant. Usually, they'll try to make an issue of it if it is. Thanks...

Hi all, After running around for 8 hours looking at hot tubs with 4 children under 8, I definately need to be soaking in a hot tub already. We had only planned on visiting 3 dealers today but ended up coming across 2 roadside tent sales and one expo. The only good side to this was the fact we did see more manufacturers (more confusion). It also gave me time to reflect on what I wanted to spend on a hot tub. With Christmas coming, I can definately afford to save some extra $ --who wouldn't right. Well, a local dealer has the Artesian Grand Bahama with 52 jets and stereo/waterfall upgrades for $5800 originally $9,900. Although, I keep leaning towards the Hot Springs Grandee for some reason, I noticed that Artesian makes the Grand Bahama in a 62 jet version.... with the upgrades (stereo/waterfall) what would be a good price? I was given a price of $9000 for the Grandee, $8200 for a Marquis Epic and I'm getting more and more confused. Overall, I think I will "settle" on the Artesian. Any thoughts?

It will all depend on how much you use the spa and what you use to sanitize. Filters will vary by manufacturers but a normal pleated filter should last about 18 months of continuous use. Some spas have multiple filters and some have "special" filters which if used will determine the cost of filters. As far as chems, a daily soaker sanitizing with chlorine or bromine can probably maintain the spa with about $70 - $100 per year. All you really need is either chlorine or bromine, non chlorine shock, filter cleaner and metal sequesterer, stain and scale and clarifier to use if and when needed. You will also need a test kit or test strips to analyze your water and some pH up or baking soda, ph down and possibly calcium increaser. If you add silver cartridges, enzymes, "specialty" products, etc the cost can easily double or more. Every five years or so you will have to replace your cover, cover lifter and headrests if you have them (maybe sooner if you use ozone). Replacement covers cost about $400, lifters about $200 and headrests about $200 depending on manufacturer and quality. Great, thanks!!! I'm learning a lot here. I'll have to look into the Grandee and Vista as to the type of system it uses to calculate the cost of the filters, ect.

Thanks for the replies. The tubs are both filled and on display. But the sales guy has said a couple different things about the financing that was contridictory to their add. I already have that area covered on my own.

A neighbor of mine mentioned a Great Lakes hot tub and has never had a problem with it. He's had it for 7 years. Any info on them would be appreciatted. I couldn't find anything. Thanks!

Thanks Parrothead, I sent you a pm. I'm in the Chicagoland area as well.

Hi all, just a question concerning hot tub maintenance. Approx. how much does it cost to keep-up a hot tub? Filters, chemicals, general maintenance? I know operating costs but not upkeep. Thanks!!

The msrp is not for a used floor model spa that the dealer can't unload! I would offer him two thousand less then what he offerd. Wow, really? I would have never thought $2000 less. That's a lot more than I expected. Does a floor model still usually carry a warranty too? If I go with a new '07 model in either the Vista or Grandee how much lower can I offer on that? Thanks!!

Okay, I've been researching this forum for some time now and have a question on price. My husband and I have been looking into the Hot Springs Vista and Grandee models. A local dealer said that the Vista is $11,700 new and the Grandee is $11,400 but he would give me the floor model for Vista $9,699 and Grandee $9,499. There are slight differences even though the sales guy told me there were none --number of jets for one. The MSRP on hottubquotes.com for Hot Springs is $5,795 - $10,595. Do these offers seem high for the floor model? Another thing, there are 2 adults and soon to be 5 children in my family and I'm not sure if I should skip the lounger or not. I've read about people floating in it. I guess I need to wet test. My husband kinda likes it. We need this for theraputic purposes as well. My husband has been in several motorcycle accidents and an accident at work. I on the other hand am a nurse and suffer from back problems. Any advice is greatly appreciatted. Thanks much!!!! ~Donna