Rabbit Ears
Thanks for the update. It sounds like we're standing at the same threshold. My wife is also sharing in this research experience. It just so happens that she's from Canada and her family has two hot tubs. We're uncertain of brands because they're both recessed by brick. I've visited a couple of local dealerships (Jacuzzi, Sundance) and have not been impressed. One in particular really turned me off. However, my gut-intuition is leaning towards the Beachcomber. I'm going to schedule a wet test soon. It is a bit pricy considering that it's a first time purchase. However, after reading so many of the threads regarding some of the less expensive models and all of the improvising that many people had to do, it appears that Keith (Beachcomber Founder) has taken many of these issues into consideration via R&D.
One of the reasons I'm treading with caution is because this local company sells a completely different product and about a year ago decided to add spas (Beachcomber) to their list. So, the longevity isn't there even though this product can potentially sell itself. Warranty work would be covered by a spa service contractor and not the dealer who sells the units. Maybe this is typical. However, it's always to good to know who is going to show-up or pony-up if things aren't panning out! I'll continue to do my research on this one. Please keep me posted if you chose to buy one. Ironically, when you responded I was just looking at a Beachcomber dealer in Alberqer., NM. There website was pretty informative.
Regards
Hi Weanut. I'm in ABQ as well. I've had the same experience. Curious where you are at in the purchase. I've wet tested some marquis tubs on the west side (dealer is pleasant) but have not liked any thus far. He has the prices pretty low right now (marquis euphorias for 6 and 7k). I'm waiting to wet test a 360 at beachcomber and a J-325 at Jacuzzi once they get water. The same guy that owns hotsprings owns jacuzzi, sundance, and caldera in ABQ as well.... he has like four stores and dominates most of the good brands. I'm pretty excited about either marquis or beachcomber.
Hi Matt87109; I'm pretty much convinced that it's going to be a Beachcomber. My awareness has increased about this product since joining this forum.
I'm more convinced that the Costco route is not for me. I have had much success with other products from Costco but after reading the blogs on this forum and several other consumer reviews (US & CA) about their tubs I have surmised that, the work involved to have it delivered from the distribution center to my curb, transporting it from my curb to the back yard, purchasing additional installation to improve it's efficiency and a few other nuisances aren't that appealing. I don't mind paying a little more for quality.
I'll plan to make my purchase within the next few months. The prices are declining for obvious reasons and even if the spa market stabilizes I wouldn't be disappointed primarily, because it's going to be a buyer's market for awhile. I have a few friends and a neighbor who were also considering purchasing a tub but have either decided against it for economic reasons or have decided to postpone the adventure, temporarily.
BTW: I corresponded with a Beachcomber dealer in Nova Scotia who has sold this product for over 15 years. They mentioned that the distributor support (Vancouver, BC) was very responsive regarding guarantees and warranty related issues. They provided some pretty good information on how well the tubs endure the cold and in particular, how energy efficient they are. California (although broke) is turning greener by the hour....so, Beachcomber should fare well here!
Best wishes towards your wet test and towards your purchase!
Weanut