DK117
-
Posts
239 -
Joined
-
Last visited
Posts posted by DK117
-
-
Wow my hot tub has never been above 100. For my taste 97 is the best temp. At 100f I will get lightheaded after 5 min.
101 in the winter, 100 in the summer. Perfect for my taste.
DK117
-
In almost every case where I go to a customer's house where they have used pavers, the center of the spa has sunk, putting all the weight on the perimeter/cabinet, leading to cabinet damage, shell damage, and a warped surface where the hot tub vover mates to the shell, causing heat leakage.
IMHO, ALL spas should go on Smartpads (or similar product), concrete, or a good solid deck.
I have a Strong Spa that sits in a corner on my 700 sq ft paver patio. This is just one data point, and for only two years, but so far so good. I will say that 1) The paver patio was professionally installed. I have hard clay naturally in my yard, with a few inches of compacted gravel and then a few inches of compacted sand, the base has to be done right prior to paver installation. Not saying you can't do it DIY, but prep of the base is most important. 2) I'm still really happy with the cabinet on the Strong Spa. It looks exactly like it did when it arrived two years ago. I think you'll hear from others with more experience, but the cabinet is a selling point and it's bullet proof. It's uniquely suited for a non concrete pad installation.
DK117
-
I was looking at purchasing a Evolution Spas™ Mediterranean 50-jet, 6-person Lounger Spa from Cosco. The spa and company that makes the spa "Strong Spa" both have good customer and BBB rating, BUT. Today I attempted to call Strong Spa several times to ask a question before I made my purchase and their is no answer on their 1-800 or local phone number. There is also no answering machine, the phone just rings. Has anyone dealt with Strong Spa in the past? Is this normal for them?
Robd
I dialed Phone number: 1.800.787.6649 and got no answer, no machine. Odd really. Then I remembered ... here are Chad's last two facebook posts, sorry Chad, but I think this is a worthy of a response:
yesterday
No power or water for 2 days
today
Still no electricity or water. Water not expected back on for at least 8 days.
I'm in telecommunications, every business should have a disaster recovery policy. However, I do understand the situation, assuming the hurricane/flood is the culprit. I for one can't condemn them for this oversight.
DK117
-
"You want to pay less for a spa? Something has to be omitted from the manufacturers costs." ...maybe, maybe not...it could be lower manufacturing costs or lower marketing costs or lower retail markup or shorter warranty or any combination of the above. Manufacturing costs is only one element that goes into a retail price.
It's not just about checking part numbers.
DK117
-
Maybe you are a repair guy and know spas inside out. I don't. So I'm not going to start messing with it. I thought there was a warranty in place so I didn't want to touch it in case it would void the warranty.
So after several other threads and two years of debating the Costco spa distribution model, I'm going to offer my opinion. The conclusion of my opinion is that going the Costco route requires a certain amount of DIY. Whether that's the electrical, chemicals, or 4 year old heaters, eventually you're going to have to mess with the tub and touch it. I mean that with utmost respect, I suggest you pay for the repair and enjoy your tub for another 4 years.
Good luck.
DK117
-
the main point still stands, a Costco customer, with multiple documented repair instances, can easily make a full return. That is a fact.
The OP says the return policy is either unreliable or unclear. Can I get a dealer or independent tech to respond to that? Again, the point being that Costco has a much broader interpretation of what merit's a return vs a dealer. Under what conditions would a dealer accept a returned spa? So of course Costco has a much, much, much higher % return rate. They actually accept returns in many situations.
Full disclosure as I think you guys already know, Spatech, my "vast experience" is some really creepy local dealers (Arctic, Hot Springs, and a traveling spa show) and a few friends who have tubs, one returned a tub to Costco and now owns an Arctic Cub. I've never pretended to be anything other than a jaded consumer.
DK117
-
"At 9 months the radio goes bad, Costco fixes, the dealer gets to it when they can, it's not that big of a deal, it's just the radio."
Are you assuming costco (or some manufacturer WITHOUT local service representation) is going to get a service person out there quicker than the dealer???
I figured that would ruffle some feathers. Oh well ... how many independent techs are represented on this site? Costco Calls Strong, Strong either has a local independent tech or finds one. Sounds like a slow process, but how many instances of delayed service from dealers have we seen on this site? For a non urgent defect like a stereo, yeah, there are many dealers that don't respond in a timely manner.
While that comment in my post was kind of a low blow and meant partially in jest (It's been a long time since I've had the opportunity to fuel the Costco vs dealer flames
the main point still stands, a Costo customer, with multiple documented repair instances, can easily make a full return. That is a fact. Open to interpretation are the following:1) Response time of repairs.
2) Lenth of time full returns are accepted (I'd say closer to 18 months vs 4 years, coming up on 24 months for me and I've gotten enough out of it to know that I'm not due a full refund if something happens.)
DK117
-
I don't remember if it was specifically this forum but when I was researching hot tubs, people were touting Costco's warranty as one of the positives. If it's only for lemons then I'm not sure how that would differentiate them from other major spa sellers.
This is an interesting point, and the crux of the issue. I'll need to ask for feedback from all the dealers around, but here's the scenario. One customer purchases a tub from Costco, another from a dealer. At 6 months both have a failed heater, a production defect, both Costco and the dealer replace no questions asked. At 9 months the radio goes bad, Costco fixes, the dealer gets to it when they can, it's not that big of a deal, it's just the radio. Both customers are still happy. 13 months, the lights go out ... this is a "value line" spa, with a one year warranty. Dealer has customer pay for the fix. Costco, with a record of now three issues, acccepts the return as a lemon.
Hey, it's all a theory and my opinion, but we've seen these scenarios happen.
DK117
PS I know it's not Costco doing the actual repairs, but it works for this thread.
-
Here is the warranty on the current Costco offereing, Evolution Spas:
Warranty:
LIFETIME WARRANTY on cabinet system
5 years against cracking, blistering, fading, and delaminating of shell
2 years for all mechanical and solid state components
2 years on authorized labor
1 year on cover
Now prior to the Evolution there was some brand (can't remember) of spa that a friend had, and she did successfully return the spa after a year of ownership. However she did have a "record of contact regarding repairs of defects in the spa."
My interpretation of the Costco return policy is to protect against lemons. Again my personal opinion would be three strikes your out. A potential heater problem at 4 years wouldn't personally warrant a return.
Have you had a tech out to evaluate the problem? Hopefully you can get it fixed for a few hundred and go back to enjoying your spa!
DK117
-
And it was 96 topics
LOL, thanks, I gave up trying to count. If there is anything we as users can do to help, please let us know. I miss the knowledge and banter this site used to provide.
DK117
-
mod's, the first 30 or so topics are spam. Either let us help you delete the spam, or this forum dies.
DK117
-
could you add Captcha to the new member sign up screen--or maybe that's already a feature?
sadly, I don't visit much anymore, this forum has been destroyed by spam. It's been that way for a few months now and seems to be getting worse. Last time I commented in a thread like this, it was deleted.
Several of us have volunteered to be moderators, I can delete spam with the best of them, but those permissions are held tightly by a small few.
DK117
-
I have a TED that gives me instantaneous and accrued electrical usage. My version is pretty old, the newer versions are integrated with Google power monitor and other PC software. I think you can attach this to your subpanel feeds to track your spa electric usage only. Not sure though.
This looks pretty cool, not sure about the $200, but I'll put it on my list.
DK117
Arf, I'm in Vancouver Washington. Weather is mild like Seattle, no problems for me on wild fluctuations or shocking energy bills.
-
From personal experience I would not store measuring strips or testing tablets in anything that can have high variations in both temperature and humidity. A cool dark room or cupboard is much better suited and the same is most likely true for chemicals.
I have bleach, dichlor, MPS, and clarifier in my steps. While the steps are certainly not waterproof, the containers themselves are. Also we don't typically get extreme weather either way.
DK117
-
My spa will be on a large cement patio. Although it will be just a few feet away from my Bedroom. Should I be concerned about this?
My Strong Magnum 90 sits two feet away from my master bedroom wall (with two windows) on a concrete/rock patio. It is set to filter at 4:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m. and I never hear it. The low speed is very low.
I am extremely pleased with the spa and its functions!
My CSXi80 sits two feet from my house and a window (a litter closer than code recommends BTW ... and yes I do think code are recommendations LOL.) I did hear it for the first few days. I no longer do. It doesn't mean that it got quieter, it's just something you get used to. While I'm sure the decibel level could be measured, it's really the impact of that decibel level that is your concern, which is ultimately subjective. And just for another opinion, I get into work just after 6 and I'm on standard, but my filtration cycle starts at 11:00. At this time I'm at the office, or asleep. Reading hot_water's feedback I may have to rethink this as this puts me tubing a few hours before filtration cycles. Early morning on weekends, and early evening on the weekdays. But since I'm using standard, I guess the argument is filtration when not in use, and heating when needed. Just another scenario to consider.
DK117
-
Every one knows that Strong Hot Tubs make the Evolution Hot Tub sold by Costco. I read all kinds of posts about how Costco sucks, but I see nobody that has bought one say the tub sucks. I want to know for once if the tubs are decent or not. For 3-4K savings they have to REALLY suck. So far, most reviews I see are positive and most slams are from dealers competing. I never have owned a hot tub and am close to buying one. That is why I am asking questions looking for a honest answer. As of right now, dealer support, no circulation pump are the negatives I have learned. That does not add up to 3-4K (or more) In my opinion. Prove me wrong...please before I make a mistake. Is a Strong Hot Tub that bad?
Here is my take:
1) Costco has a VERY poor history with the hot tubs they have sold. Their emphasis has been on price, not quality and brand after brand has been junk. The only thing that saved past owners was teh return policy and they were returned all right.
2) Strong is a recent offering from Costco. There simply is not enough history to really decide if they are more of the same from Costco or if they're an upgrade from the past offerings. Those who support them say they are a good spa but more time is needed. Others will say "if you don't learn from history you're bound to repeat it". Time will tell.
3) There is no 3-4k savings on these spas. They wouldn't sell for that much more if sold by a dealer.
4) These spas are for real DIYers IMO. If all goes well then great but when issues arise you need to be able to troubleshoot them yourself.
If not having a dealer isn't a big issue for you and they really are better than Costco's previous mistakes and your budget is limited then maybe it'll be a decent option for you.
Spatech. You're a voice of reason, and these are honest questions/feeedback.
2) recent offering. It's been two years now. How long does one have to own a Strong Spa for it to not be a "recent" purchase? I think you'll answer 5 years, but I might be ready for a new tub at 5. My 20 months trouble free has to be worth something, or not?
3) tough one. at bare minimum it's half that. Some dealers the OP is right on. that would be true for any product purchased factory direct. Difference here, which is said by many dealers, is that pricing is different per region. It's totally consistent in the lower 48 for Costco/Strong.
DK117
-
In what state are did you make the purchase? Is his business in the same state? If you can determine what state, and what county, you can find a plethora of information via the county's tax collectors web site.
Thanks, I'll try that - tub was purchased in NJ and business is in PA. I will check it out
Michele
Can I ask what brand?
I assume we already know ...
-
OK, to make it simple. If I want a decent hot tub for under $4K, what is it? Is this is where Costco shines, providing a decent (not the best)product at a decent price? Obviously if I wanted to spend 6-10K there are better options. Tell me the best option for under $4K please.
Costcos history shows the return policy is where Costco shines, they've never shined in the quality department on thier hot tub offferings, just the opposite. The jury is still out on their latest offering so it would be unfair to assume its more of the same though its also unwise to assume its not, time will tell.
The best option under $4k is a well maintained used tub IMO. If you do go the Costco route just go in with the understanding that if things turn sour you plan to return it, not an easy chore for some though you can always hire someone to do that for you if that becomes the situation.
Also, Walleye is asking for $4k including wiring. I'm not sure the scope of the wiring, I think he said his breaker box was full. That could be $700 plus easily. Now you're in the $3K budget area, and that's certainly a used spa. Strong Spa's, electrical, movers, you're $5K plus.
DK117
-
For those that have already purchased tubs from Costco, did you have success negotiating for delivery to your backyard? If so, did you negotiate on the phone when coordinating the delivery time, or with the truck driver / helper directly? How much was the extra charge or "tip?"
thinging this route would be easier than bringing in a separate company to move tub to back yard...
definitely on the phone prior to delivery. Then again I suppose it depends on how hard it is to get to the back yard. I paid $300 (looking back that seems high.) But it was a difficult move. The main consideration in my mind is that there's typically just one driver. The fee I paid included having 4 guys come over the day after delivery to move to my back yard.
DK117
-
No, i assure you that it was posted and then deleted.
The rest of the post that was deleted said something like this (I can't remember exactly)
Last year two spas were distributed through Mr. G's / Toll Barn. At least one of these was 8-12 years old according to Hillbilly. Even if both of these were Costco spas, this means that Costco stands behind their warranty. I don't know why you are calling out Costco in the heading when you go on to say this:
"I know the tubs we sell do not take most of the tubs back if they are returns for issues - they try to sell them to dealers for pennies on the dollar and have us refurb and sell them."
I see those posts above????
i think we are way losing the point of the original post. I nor anybody else was slamming on costco at all. period, take the post what ever way makes you feel good.
I too see all the posts. And it's all in fun. A ) You've cautioned the consumer, thanks. B ) I don't think anyone would have read your post if it was titled "Image/Icon Returned Spas."
DK117
-
It you wire it wrong the electrical components are fried if you aren't along with it. In general I would say if you are asking the question you are not qualified to do the job. Sure the price sounds ridiculous to you because you know nothing of what goes into the job. The parts GFCI and wire alone will run more than a few hundred. If you want to DIY you might save a few hundred but you might not get the properly rated equipment and could do damage to you spa down the road. If anything I would be concerned that the price was too cheap. Are they cutting corners? Are they getting a permit? Is this a company that will stand by there work or will they be ling gone if you have problems.
Ran 200ft of 6 gauge from house panel to my dock with new box, GFCI etc so I know exactly what's involved with that. It's just my first tub and that end is the big unknown. The frying of the tub or me is what has me worried. Just some sticker shock.
I'm compelled to respond, but let me say I'm a DIY not an electrician and I don't know what I'm talking about. Be safe.
Now that being said, the hook up to the tub was relatively easy. When I had my house built I asked for a run to where I planned to have the hot tub. 8 years later, I went to my local plumbing/electrical supply place and they sold me the 12 ft run and hot tub disconnect/GFI. I flipped the switch and it worked. Sounds to me you have the hard part done connecting to the house.
take a look here Wiring a Hot Tub
Good luck.
DK117
-
I know costco does not make spas, this discount center (Mr. G's in walpole NH) purchases its products, at least many of them from Costco's returns. They do tell you this, and most of their products still have the costco return lables stuck to them describing why they were returned, such as missing parts, light out ect. This was an image/icon spa that had been returned after several years of use I am guessing since it was about 8-12 years old. my post was about people need to be careful what they purchase. This guy was more trusting in beleiving the the spa was ok since that is what they told him, and this was a store. They have purchased several tubs from costco, some have had no issues others have. i am guessing that manufactures do not want to waste the money to pay for the tub to be shipped back to them, put money into it to try to sell as a refurb. i know the tubs we sell do not take most of the tubs back if they are "returns' for issues. They try to sell them to dealers for pennies on the dollar and have us refurb and sell them. they only tubs i have seen go back are freight damaged tubs, where all the parts are new so it is worth it for them to have them shipped back, so I disagree with you DK. It costs way to much to ship stuff nowadays. Maybe this is why many tub manufactures that have delt with the big box stores have gone out of business, besides making their tubs to try to meet price points, they take a huge bite on a return policy like that.
as far as blowing the pole outside, the spa was never hooked to a GFCI dissconnect breaker,(he did have a licensed electrician do this, i would not hire him!) it did blow the house fuse and then kept going I guess. Probabley no different than a power surge coming the other way and blowing the fuses on your tub, this just went backwards to the line. you would have to speck to vermont public service about that. the tub did have a dead short, even with all the components unhooked. the tub had also been frozen at some point and had major plumbing issues.
I'm trying to get my head around this. So ok, manufacturers do not refurb spas, local dealers do. Got it. So don't buy refurb tubs from Mr G's Liquidation Center Route 12 North Walpole, NH 03609 603-445-2412? I think that and a caution towards professional liscensed electrical installation is your main message.
I do however have to ask, since many of them were from Costco, where were the not so many from, and what make and model and year?
I think you're trying to do a public service here and again I appreciate that. I don't know why you, at the same time, try to make it something bigger than it is. This one guy had a bad 8 year old "Costco" hot tub nearly nuke the neighborhood, therefore all Costco tubs today are inferior. It's not said but implied.
DK117
-
I'm a little lost on this one too, you know Costco doesn't make spas right? If a Strong, or other Costco spa supplier received a return from the customer via Costco, the manufacturer would certainly try to refurbish and resell the spa (I can't think of any Spa manufacturer or local dealer that wouldn't do the same.) I think you're trying to caution people on proper electrical set up, I applaud you for that. All of my local dealers sub out their electrical. So this has nothing to do with Costco, but maybe a lot to do with incompetent electricians? Possibly an error in the refurbish process? Your message ultimately confuses me.
DK117
PS the beta version of this site seems to have the login issue we had a few months ago, I just removed beta in the URL and was able to get back in.
-
Hi Dave here totally new here. So I'm ready folr a spa been shopping for a while. I'm from Ontario so a good spa to survive bad winters is important to me. I am currently interested in a spa on Costco.ca website called Evolution Spa Centurion 110. Its my understanding that its made by Strong Spa. The probelm with buying from Costco is I can't see the Spa before I buy it! The price is right but I just want to either see it in person or some pics from memebers or feedback. The warrenty is also much shorter than other brands. Hows realiabilty. Also if there is a warrenty issue who will they send? any info would be appreciated.
also I'm considering a spa called Apollo Rainier any info on that one?
thanks Dave
While neither of those are top teir or even middle teir spas, so their energy effeciency is suspect in cold climate. They are both inexpensive options to what would be considered high effeciency, high quality, long lasting hot tubs. Which will cost considerably more.
Are they full foam? partial?
Looks like an interesting choice. I didn't fully appreciate that Strong's Canada offerings via Costco are totally different than here in the US. Strong is not full foam, they are perimeter, think Arctic. No problems down here with mild winters, I can't speak for temps much below the mid 20's, normally 30's. For your specific spa, do you want a lounger? While I don't think those 110 jets are necessary (I think my 80 are overkill) I do think you'll enjoy the two pumps plus air pump.
I would suggest taking a look at the 16 page Strong thread. How's Your Evolution Spa (strong Spa) Working It's mostly about the CSXi80, but you'll get impressions on Costco and Strong in general. One thing that I am not understanding is your belief that this specific spa has an inferior warranty. In the US we are backed by the Costco return policy. In effect it provides the best warranty available in my opinion.
Good luck with your decision.
DK117
I Finally Bought A Spa!
in Portable Hot Tubs & Spas
Posted
Congrats walleye.
DK117