pmdepr

I am looking at getting the HS Envoy. I am trying to avoid getting a cement foundation if at all possible. I have been looking at the spa pads. Below my topsoil is sand. I am wondering two things: 1) How good are the pads? Are there other non cement solutions that are better? I considered patio blocks but wondered if they would shift more than the pads. 2) What is the best approach for the ground under the pads? My thought was to dig 4+ inches below and put a combo of sand/pea gravel. I am not sure which layer should be on bottom and which on top. Are both layers better than just one? Thanks very much for your help! Pat

I have been looking at the exact same tub. Two people I talked to that said they had them said they paid approx. $35/month but that is based upon New England weather and electric rates. Let me know what you hear back from others.

I am just a prospective buyer but here is my 2 cents. I love Costco and shop there at least once a month. For standard products (food, cleaning supplies, etc) they are the best. For something like a hot tub that requires knowledge, service, support and guidance I would not even think of buying it from there. Costco is designed to sell you something that needs little or no direct assistance, it is a wholesale club. Manufacturers are great at manufacturing. They are not geared towards hands on support. That would leave me in the middle with nowhere but this site for assistance. Although I might certainly ask questions on this board so I can be a knowledgeable consumer - I think it would be too much to expect this site to replace a good local dealer for support.

I looked at some Hot Spring and Caldera spas at a dealer here in CT. The Tahitian and Geneva seemed very nice. I was interested in the HS Envoy but he did not have one on hand. He mentioned that prices had dropped due to the economy and he was offering some special pricing - the usual approach. It is a family business that has been in business for 20+ years. The owner was very helpful and knowledgeable. It is not a better business registered company but it has no complaints against it either. He quoted me the following sale prices. I am wondering how reasonable they are. All prices include cover, lifter, steps, water care kit, orientation, delivery and ozonater if not part of the spa. I lam interested in the Tahitian but am wondering if there is reasonable wiggle room with these prices. I do want them to make a profit but wouldn't mind knocking some $$ off. Caldera Tahitian $8369 Caldera Geneva $8729 Hot Spring Envoy $8459 Thanks, Pat D