PFamily
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Posts posted by PFamily
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Well the news is that my heater and circuit board are intermittently fouled and need to be replaced. The good news is that with nominal discussion I heard directly from Nordic today that they are standing behind the unit, have already sent the parts to a local service technician whom I've previously met and know is reliable. Not so true for the dealer... and thus the factory is taking matters into their own hands. Score one (1+) plus for Nordic company! When I went to purchase my XL I made contact with Nordic and felt comfortable in those I spoke with. They remembered and made good. Nice to also see reliable and loyal company staff too, Bravo to the Nordic staff! Knowing this level of parts as I do, I know these issues happen and all one can ever hope for is a reliable company to stand behind their product. Thus far, it appears that Nordic is the real deal.
Stay tuned and I'll let you know when I have a successful repair.
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When my Nordic DLX had GFCI troubles it turned out to be a very small leak near the heater. The collar used to screw the pipe to the heater wasn't maintaining a tight enough connection. The dripping water must've caused a brief short and that would trip the breaker. Good to see it work but it was a small hassle to find the leak. Replacing the collar was easy as it's a two piece assembly that fits around the pipe. Two screws to split the halves of the collar and a new one, with new seal, slipped right into place. Since that was fixed I've had no more mysterious GFCI tripping problems.
Can't speak to the LEDs as my tub's too old to have that option. I've been considering adding something though.
As for not reaching a high enough temp, mine just has that trouble. I fixed it by slightly moving the screw on the pressure switch. It was thinking the pressure wasn't high enough and wouldn't run the heater while in low-speed mode. Check yours, see if the heater light is coming on when the pump is in low speed. Then kick on the jets and see if the heater light comes on. If so then it's likely the pressure switch. Either adjust to replace.
On the heater (it's a silver pipe of likley stainless with 2 electrodes and 2 sensors) I do not see any light, don't know if those are the pressure switches and if so, how to adjust other than to remove. The voltage on the two electrodes is 87 and it should be 220v+ so the switch(s) or the board may be bad. It's under warrantee, at least for parts, so I may leave it to the tech, if they end up letting him come out on Nordic's dime. It's a 2008 and if you can help identify anything further, that would be appreciated. I see no leaking.
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Were you able to resolve the light issue and if so how?
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Purchased the Nordic XL 1.5 years ago. GFI breaker just shut off and found tub at 95 degrees. We are upstate NY. Turned on electric, measures 230v at tub circuit board (each leg 115v) pump is running and tub is only holding temperature so long as we keep it covered. I'm thinking sensor, board or element. Waiting for a tech sometime this week. Anyone have similar issues and if so, what did you find?
Same tub... throughout life of tub, LED's at top not quite functioning perfectly with the first bank rarely the same as other three banks. Experiences or thoughts?
Any chance these are related issues?
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Ourr Nordic Crown XL is 2 months in use and terrific. We pushed insulation through the side wall (standard house 4") mostly getting it around the sides, we think, to help trim down pump noise at night. It somewhat helps dull the noise it but it certainly has reduced the heating usage. Good tub, good value - we're happy.
PFamily
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Its really good to hear from some Nordic owners, most seem to be sharing the same feedback that they are Happy and like their tubs and felt their money was well spent. I think they are a good choice if you are not looking for a lot of frills but want a solid product.
I have been looking for other tubs in the 5000 range. There are some nice tubs but im not sure if a top companys lower end tub would be worth it in the long run. i think its better to stay with a middle of the road manufactur's top of the line tub. the company is a great company to do buisness with, the people are very helpfull.
I was told that the new crown Xl will have the water line lights and stainless steel jets. one other improvement is on there square tub and its a lounger
it will have the water line lights and stainless steel jets too.I hope they put a neck massager in the crown like great lakes has in there round tub
it would make the deep seat great to be in.104 degrees
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I just got quotes for a new Nordic Crown II and a Hydropool model 4000 Gold for about 4000.00 with everything (steps, chem, warranty, cover). What do you guys and gals know about these? Are they worth it or do they have issues? I have a 97 Tiger River Bengal that needs about 1000.00 worth of work and was considering a trade as they will take 700.00 not working towards a new spa. I need all the advice I can get. Thanks
We recently purchased the Nordic Crown XL and we like it alot. We have the ozonator. Only issue is that even at low speed is not perfectly quiet if under a bedroom window, but it's fine for any other window area. We love the style of tub - simple and effective.
PFamily
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Hey All,
I'm posting this on behalf of a friend of mine who is running into issues with their neighbour.
The neighbour is complaining that the noise from the spa is keeping him up all night, etc. etc.
I've looked at the tub and there is nothing wrong with the pump, it is in perfect running condition making exactly the amount of noise that it should. We put down some extra padding and changed the filtration settings so it doesn't turn on too much at night, of course it still has to heat and there is no way we can unplug this thing at night (we live in canda and need the constant 101f).
The problem now is that he is threatening to take her to court over this - A HOTTUB for petes sake!!
You would figure that if he hates noise so much that he wouldn't live in a neighbourhood, but whatever.
Just wondering if anyone has run into anything similar to this, or if any "E-Lawyers" want to chime in here I would really appreciate any info.... There is no way this thing is over the dB levels for a noise issue, so does this guy actually have a leg to stand on or should we just ignore him???
Thanks
Rich
I have the same problem with my Nordic XL being under my bedroom window, and I didn't expect the subtle motor noise in my design. My walls do not come off but since it's a round tub I was able to mostly sneak in wall type insulation through the opening around most of the tub. It damped the noise somewhat plus is cutting the run time of the motor as it's keeping the heat in better. At the next water change I think I may put a pad underneath as it sits on an 8" concrete pad and I want to reduce any chance that vibration I'm not aware of might be causing residual noise. Knowing what i know now, the next time I would purchase a spa only with a slow secondary cirulating pump connected to the ozinator, but too difficult to install now. Hope this story helps a bit.
PFamily
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Pfamily:
Is it the pump itself that is making all the noise or the vibration from the walls when the pump is running? The 2" water supply hose in my tub came free of the blow-in insulation, just inside the removable panel and it made a heinous vibration noise, because it was leaning against the inside cabinet. I moved it off of the inside cabinet and it is much more quiet and I will attempt to re-adhere the hose with more blow-in insulation. (not that this is the same problem you are experiencing)
How about using one of those egg crate memory foam bed pads to line the inside and absorb some of the noise? I think you can buy different thickness so you could move the pad around inside the panel.
Just a suggestion...good luck.
Let us know what works best....if all else fails...turn up the tv volume or get ear plugs!
Good idea - I'm stuborn enough to get my headlight out and check the connections again before bed... but if not, definitely in the morning. Thanks for the suggestion. It's really not bad and I wouldn't want this little nuance to disuade anyone from the Nordic XL [great value and wonderful freedom in the style of tub], just that I'm such a difficult person to go to sleep. Doesn't seem to bother my wife however so perhaps I will get as use to this as the train a few miles away...
PFamily
The job didn't go as planned but I believe I was able to sneak wall insulation throughout the walls of the tub, most of way around the tub. The motor runs a lot less and somewhat quieter. I had to install a brace to keep the insulation off of the motor. The only concern is the ozonator. The insulation is loose near it and while the oz is mounted on the outside wall I wonder if it may be too cold in the winter because it no longer has the warmth from the motor, or if it needs more air between the insulation and itself. Any thoughts?
PFamily
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My opinion is different from most of the others I read here. I wouldn't place as much weight on the dealer as I would the product. Would you buy a Honda Accord, from a dealer (not the best) if the price was a lot cheaper than the dealer across town.....Who wouldn't? Your talking about a lot of $$$$ for the same thing. The warranty is the same no matter where you buy it. I would say get the most spa for your money, as long as it is the spa you want. Personal comfort is the most important thing when buying a spa, and price comes in second everytime. As I found in my search, price can vary a lot between dealers. If you have multiple dealers in your area, I'm certain you'll see that. Take your time and bargain as much as you can, remember your dealers 401K took a hit too last week, maybe he'll be willing to give you a better deal to keep a sale!
Buying a car is not the same as buying a spa. You can purchase your Accord and have it serviced by any Honda dealer. Not so with a hot tub. IMO, the dealer is as important as the manufacturer. After the sale, the dealer is going to be the service agent. A bad dealer with a good manufacturer is as troublsome as a good dealer with a bad manufacturer. Your spa will someday need service. You've got water, chemicals, pumps and electronics...all can contribute to a break down. I agree that you should check out all the spas in your area, but I would pick a manufacturer with a good dealer. You are certain to find a combination that suits you.
Agreed. In many cases there is only one dealer in town for a certain brand of spa and if they stink, you'll be sorry. For most auto repairs, you have lots of choices unless it's a warranty repair, then you simply go to any dealer for that make.
I went through this and decided I wanted a particular style. Round with bench style, high water. That led me to look at local vendor options and internet. The final was a Nordic XL and thusfar quite happy with it.
PFamily
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Pfamily:
Is it the pump itself that is making all the noise or the vibration from the walls when the pump is running? The 2" water supply hose in my tub came free of the blow-in insulation, just inside the removable panel and it made a heinous vibration noise, because it was leaning against the inside cabinet. I moved it off of the inside cabinet and it is much more quiet and I will attempt to re-adhere the hose with more blow-in insulation. (not that this is the same problem you are experiencing)
How about using one of those egg crate memory foam bed pads to line the inside and absorb some of the noise? I think you can buy different thickness so you could move the pad around inside the panel.
Just a suggestion...good luck.
Let us know what works best....if all else fails...turn up the tv volume or get ear plugs!
Good idea - I'm stuborn enough to get my headlight out and check the connections again before bed... but if not, definitely in the morning. Thanks for the suggestion. It's really not bad and I wouldn't want this little nuance to disuade anyone from the Nordic XL [great value and wonderful freedom in the style of tub], just that I'm such a difficult person to go to sleep. Doesn't seem to bother my wife however so perhaps I will get as use to this as the train a few miles away...
PFamily
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I too, have a Nordic XL. I agree there is a dull humming noise when the recirculation pump or heater comes on, but I guess you get used to it. I can hear it kick on but then, I don't even hear the pump.
Have you tried to adjust the two large jets (the two that create the whirlpool effect)?
I place the two of them in a "middle-neutral" position so that minimal water comes out of any of the side jets, and about an equal amount of water comes out both the big jets. It makes it quiet enough that I can hear the bears or skunks sneak up on me!!
Try that, see if it works. I'd be curious if you can resolve the noise problem.
Good luck...
Thanks for all the ideas. Quick notations:
* Tub is 18" from side wall of house with pump pointing away from house
* Don't feel any vibration at the cement but I definely hear the noise from the cabinet, only a slight amount from the top making me believe the insulation is the solution
* Tried the jet idea - it certainly calms down the water but not pump unfortunately
* Pump is secure
* I ran a trace wire around the bottom of tub to see if it was clear - it passed all around so I can pull insulation through the wall without attempting to dissembling the sidewalls as I hear they are fixed in place and not removable - so says Nordic factor tech (nice people by the way)
* So, that leaves me with finding 3' high roll type encased thin insulation in something like aluminum about 21' long. Any ideas would be most appreciated!
* In the meantime I took 4 basement 4x8 flexible ceiling tiles and placed 2 to the 4' side inside the door long ways and two upper and lower on 4' side with overlap in the front of the door. It starts to dampen the noise slightly. I am thinking if I get a box of ceiling tiles, cut them to 3' high and bind them together [ ideas? snake wire through top and bottom? sailing thread? ] I can easily push them around the inside cabinet perimeter. Then if still an issue, at next water change put a rubber mat between the tub and the cement pad. I'm even thinking using a solar pool cover on the water thinking it may even help insulate more for the northeastern winters - silly?
PFamily
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I'd get the permits. If you go to sell later and plan to leave the tub it could cause headaches.
I agree. Get the permit then install. If you can't wait, install quietly but then get the permit and a few weeks later call for the inspection. It's not just an issue of resale but an issue of insurance liability.
PFamily
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I very much like our new Nordic XL. It came with a single 2 stage motor and Ozinator. The pump noise even at low speed is a bit annoying because it's located under my bedroom window, installed on an 8" new cement pad. It appears much of the noise is from the side walls. I also live in upstate New York - it will be cold in the winter. Has anyone tried installing extra insulation in the side walls? I would think it would dampen the noise and cut electric costs. I think I may be able slip a thin aluminum coated insulation or equivalent using a straight pull wire pressing around the outside. Alternatively, I wonder if it may be possible to remove some of the side panel to glue or staple them. Is that possible? Ideas?
PFamily
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I just ordered a new spa (Emerald Spa M570) with an inline Spa Frog System and an ozonator.
Besides the Spa Frog bromine and mineral cartridges, what else do I need to do? I did some searching, but I haven't found a clear maintenance plan for those who use the Spa Frog system.
I assume I need a test kit...can you recommend one? How often should I test the water?
Do I need to add any other chemicals like shock?
You will need a good test kit, PH and ALK adjusters. Depending on the water you start the tub with, you may need calcium Hardness and you will need shock. Non chlorine(MPS) is usually best. If you search in the water chemistry section of this forum, you may find some helpful information. When you first get the tub, you will be testing frequently. After awhile you will learn what you tub and your use does to effect the water and it will become easier. When you get the tub it should come with some paperwork to help with the explantion of the frog system. If you purchased from a dealer they should be able to help you also. You can also go to the frogs website, they have manuals ect. Its kingstechnology.com I think. Just google spa frog and it comes up.
I am somewhat new to the spa, years with a pool and was given the Frog floating kit. I have an ozinator so is it really necessary or can I just add bromine or chlorine as needed and if so, how often might you suggest? I have the Nordic XL with 425 gallons.
PFamily
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Bookmark it.
So, starting this over to get clear, what makes for a simple chemical regime, assuming balance? I have the Floating Frog but it gets in the way and caught in the skimmer. It has bromine and minerals. Do i need both or can i merely toss in some bromine or chlorine manually say weekly? And is that necessary as I have an ozonator?
PFamily
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Dave
You dont like the drink holder on your crown?? If you have two people in it it will not work??
Thaks 104
Well, it works ok with two people but i just dont trust it, unless i am drinking water, one accident and i will be draining the tub. Too far away from my deep seat anyway. I like to keep my drink resting just outside the tub when not in use
Thanks Dave
I was about to order one.we are the only ones who use the spa and i keep my drink there by the filter.
I will look into it before i order one.
Hows the family and the crown doing??
104
Hard to believe i have had it more than a year already, getting ready for my favorite tubbing season. By the way how did your new cover work out?
I found a temporary solution to stop the drink holder from floating away. I took off the clip farthest from the skimmer opening and installed a stainless plate arm of about 2 inches screwing it to the holder as well. Awkward but you can lift it up and foward to get to the skimmer and the arm keeps it mostly in place from floating away.
PFamily
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Yes, good to hear, dealer support on your purchase is great to have. I highly recommend you get the 24hr circulation pump. I have mine set to 12 [on 12/no rest/12 again (24)]so the tub filters and ozones 24/7 (unless the temp rises to much). Otherwise your main pump will do all the filtration. Good Luck and enjoy your new Nordic.
Dave,
Is the 24/7 pump available for after purchase?
Is it slow and quiet for calm while in the tub?
Last, is it simple to install or must I leave that to Nordic?
PFamily
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So I just recently decided to get a spa for my backyard (Seattle area) and am having a tough time finding good information regarding what to buy. I am the type of person who likes to do some research, and there's just not a lot out there that I could find on the internet.
I stopped by Apollo Spas and Aqua Quip today, and they both had spas starting around $5K. I'm a new homeowner and wouldn't want to spend a whole lot more than that right now, and I don't need all the bells and whistles. Just looking for something that would provide some relaxation and jets to massage my back.
I read the thread on people who have been working with dealers and how the prices can fluctuate. I just bought my first new car, and hated that whole experience because I never knew if I was actually getting a good deal. I'd rather avoid the whole process. Does anyone have any experience purchasing a hot tub from Costco. They have the Infinity Sun Peak 6 person Spa on Costco.com for 3,600. Would this be a good deal? Looking at the specs. it seems comparable to the ones I saw in the showrooms, but a lot less expensive.
I'd be willing to buy a more expensive one from a dealer if I could finance it and knew I was getting a much better spa. I guess I'm just hoping that some people on here who have some experience in this would be willing to chime in with their opinion.
I've also seen hot tubs on craigslist that people are getting rid of that are fairly new and they just didn't get used enough or they're moving. These are much lower than retail price, though I'm hesitant considering I wouldn't have a warranty most likely. Do manufacturers typically honor more than one owner on a hot tub?
Thanks in advance,
Tad
We went through same back and forth for years resulting in no spa so we did sailing and more. Well, time to do the backyard and a spa. Ultimate decision favored round, no frills, deep, 220v for quick recovery and we selected the Nordic Crown XL. It's in a week and we have no regrets. We were skeptical because the price was some $1,500 less than a Hot Springs and others. No longer skeptical - it's perfect and so seems the dealer.
Best,
PFamily
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Installed our Nordic XL with Factory Balboa Ozone and we're up to 100 temperature. I have 3 questions:
1. The manual says we should see FC for "continuous filtration" but we only see F1-8. When the unit cycles down there is no water movement. I note in the manual a comment about a turn off for a 30 minute period during hot weather and we're at 82 in the sun today. But sees the same at night when we're at 45. How do we get CF or is something malfunctioning?
To set continuous filtration you need to set the time of hours to 12, hold down the light button until you see a number then up it to 12.
2. Once up to temperature are we best leaving it at Standard or Economy Mode?
My nordic crown xl does not have an economy mode, did you get a 24 hr circulation pump?
3. There is on LED that is out. Will that be an easy job for the dealer to fix?
Not sure what that involves, definately call your dealer and have them take care of it, and make sure you take advantage of there startup instructions or spa school if they offered it as part of your sale.
Good luck with your tub.
Beyond the questions, the tub is extremely comfortable including the cover lifter.
PFFamily
Thanks for reply. I have 4 buttons (Jets / Light / Cool / Warm).
My directions say press heat then light to set mode and it does show me 3 possible modes. I know I had to switch from economy to standard to heat the tub.
Pressing heat then jets, the directions say I can set filter cycles. My options in filter cycles on the pad offer F1..F8.
I tried pressing and holding the light button and I merely cycle through the lighting options, no matter how long I hold it. I do see in the directions that the cireculating pump with the ozone generator is supposed to run 24 hours. Thus I'm confused. I do notice however that in the Standard Mode, the unit periodically comes on to maintain heat, thus I guess filtering the water too?
One last question, the plastic drink holder floats off when too many people get in raising the level. Thoughts on how to best handle that welcome please...
PFamily
Issue resolved. I was looking at single pump 50mhz and in the US it's 60mhz. So the manual is correct that my cirulating pump will run every 12 hours for as long as I set it from 1-8 hours. Now I'm trying to figure out if I can get a quieter pump installed allowing for the ozone to run continuously but not have the jets while in tub or hearing it outside my bedroom. Any ideas?
The great news - it's really a great tub. One LED was out and the Poughkeepise, NY dealer came to fix it in 24 hours!
And I am amazed by the lights. I just figured that if I merely turn them on they automatically switch colors - very nice affect.
Anyone have a solution to the tray leaving port when you get many people in tub? I"m thinking of trying a stainless hinge in lieu of the clips, same holes of course.
Happy tubbing to all.
PFamily
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Dave NH,
You replied to me earlier and it appears you have the same tub as me. Do you have 1 or 2 pumps?
I my ealier posting back to you, trying to figure out how I get Continuous Filtering, my directions for 3 possible heat modes direct me to press Heat then Light to set mode and it does show me 3 possible Modes. I know I had to switch from Economy to Standard to heat the tub and I observed all three on the panel.
Pressing Heat then Jets, the directions say I can set filter cycles. My options in filter cycles on the pad offer F1..F8. Is your same or different?
I tried pressing and holding the Light button and I merely cycle through the lighting options, no matter how long I hold it. I do see in the directions that the circulating pump with the ozone generator is supposed to run 24 hours. Thus I'm confused. I do notice however that in the Standard Mode, the unit periodically comes on to maintain heat, thus I guess filtering the water too?
One last question, the plastic drink holder floats off when too many people get in raising the level. Thoughts on how to best...
Thanks,
PFamily
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Installed our Nordic XL with Factory Balboa Ozone and we're up to 100 temperature. I have 3 questions:
1. The manual says we should see FC for "continuous filtration" but we only see F1-8. When the unit cycles down there is no water movement. I note in the manual a comment about a turn off for a 30 minute period during hot weather and we're at 82 in the sun today. But sees the same at night when we're at 45. How do we get CF or is something malfunctioning?
To set continuous filtration you need to set the time of hours to 12, hold down the light button until you see a number then up it to 12.
2. Once up to temperature are we best leaving it at Standard or Economy Mode?
My nordic crown xl does not have an economy mode, did you get a 24 hr circulation pump?
3. There is on LED that is out. Will that be an easy job for the dealer to fix?
Not sure what that involves, definately call your dealer and have them take care of it, and make sure you take advantage of there startup instructions or spa school if they offered it as part of your sale.
Good luck with your tub.
Beyond the questions, the tub is extremely comfortable including the cover lifter.
PFFamily
Thanks for reply. I have 4 buttons (Jets / Light / Cool / Warm).
My directions say press heat then light to set mode and it does show me 3 possible modes. I know I had to switch from economy to standard to heat the tub.
Pressing heat then jets, the directions say I can set filter cycles. My options in filter cycles on the pad offer F1..F8.
I tried pressing and holding the light button and I merely cycle through the lighting options, no matter how long I hold it. I do see in the directions that the cireculating pump with the ozone generator is supposed to run 24 hours. Thus I'm confused. I do notice however that in the Standard Mode, the unit periodically comes on to maintain heat, thus I guess filtering the water too?
One last question, the plastic drink holder floats off when too many people get in raising the level. Thoughts on how to best handle that welcome please...
PFamily
-
Installed our Nordic XL with Factory Balboa Ozone and we're up to 100 temperature. I have 3 questions:
1. The manual says we should see FC for "continuous filtration" but we only see F1-8. When the unit cycles down there is no water movement. I note in the manual a comment about a turn off for a 30 minute period during hot weather and we're at 82 in the sun today. But sees the same at night when we're at 45. How do we get CF or is something malfunctioning?
2. Once up to temperature are we best leaving it at Standard or Economy Mode?
3. There is on LED that is out. Will that be an easy job for the dealer to fix?
Beyond the questions, the tub is extremely comfortable including the cover lifter.
PFFamily
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Beyond the depth point, is there much of a difference in electric usage between the Nordic Crown LX verus 11? Also, other spas we have been considering and wonder if anyone had reviewed deciding in favor of the Nordic versus Bullfrog, ThermoSpa, Hot Sring, Saratago or Dream Maker. We've been advised we can place a unit on 4" gravel/ground with surrounding walkway. Is that resonable? Thanks.
Nordic Xl Heat Failure & Lighting Issue
in Portable Hot Tubs & Spas
Posted
Final on the odyssey, Nordic engaged the technician I advised was likely superior in Dutchess County, NY and he did just fine. Nordic sent him the parts bypassing the dealership and the tech immediately installed the parts and the heat is back on. He did this with no delay. Nordic did not fool around, they swapped the board and heater and it appears they removed the dealership. I'm impressed with both Nordic and our Technician.
Lights... well they are still intermittent but I believe that now means the upper lights are a slight but tolerable problem and not the board. My tech if fearful of attempting to remove the tub from the case just to upgrade the upper lights and I agree with him. There is more that can go wrong that my caring about the lights being perfect. Why did this happen in the first place, I believe the dealership let their installers roll and bounce the tubs around versus a gentle placement. I questioned this during the install 1.5 years ago…
Final - Bravo Nordic and Ultra-Wire (the tech).