manwgoldengun

Have you tried a Caldera spa? The foot ridge in my Geneva keeps my 5'3" wife nice and comfy. It's her favorite seat!!

I was in a similar situation and almost mis-ordered! Factory Direct Spa Covers helped me tremendously. Make sure you order the HEAVY DUTY option. There's no insulation issue if it covers the opening enough. I am extra careful to just open and remove vs. dragging the cover. Hope this helps!

How old is the spa? Mouse will come back. I'd seriously consider a new one or a refurbished one.

Floor model?? Hmm..

Jacuzzi. They are built by Sundance. The Clear Ray seems to be very effective. I've posted here about how my previous Coleman spa was eaten alive by ozone. My cover, pillows, etc. I've seen the Jacuzzi model you are looking at. Dimension One as well. Did I see the dealer carried both? I'd seriously make sure I was comfortable in the spa dry and push for some sort of a wet test. I crossed Caldera off my list after feeling the jet (or lack thereof) power compared to the Sundance.

I have the HP formula if you want it. It was pointed out to me by an honest salesperson after I was so impressed by the Costco (3) 5 hp spa!! The Sundance 2.5 pump is very strong. I am looking at the Optima there--$10=11k. and Chelsee--$8k Waiting to wet test Caldera Niagra.

A 2012 Cameo 880 for only $8900?? I'll buy it if you don't!! They are $11k here in CA!! That spa is LOADED. WET TEST it to see if it fits you.

Did you sit in it?? I find it must fit myself and my wife comfortably. Also, the ability to divert and dial down the jets as I won't always want a hard massage. Which brands do you have to choose from? I will give you my 2 cents!!

I agree with the horsepower diversion. I also agree with going with a recognized brand. Think "devil's advocate" and factor in post-sale. Jacuzzi, Hot Springs, Sundance. When a salesman from an off-brand at the Fair told me HIS spas had all 10 horsepower I laughed. "And they are the most energy efficient as well, correct?" Am I driving it or relaxing in it? Steer clear if it's not recognizable. Have you seen it run or wet tested it? let us know.

According to my research, you are comparing Sundance's top of the line vs. Jacuzzi's midline. Correct? Anything in the 400 Series you like? The Optima is an amazing tub and my first choice. I do admit the price tag hurts it!!! Have you looked at the Chelsee? That's more of an even comparison. The Clear Ray is a standard feature on all Sundance tubs--not Jacuzzi? I thought it was. I agree--forget Beachcomber. Absolutely NO comparison. Good to know about Arctic. Can you not get the Sundance dealer to include the lifter? Have you asked the Sundance dealer to justify the difference? If you do, please share!! I'm in California and here they wheel and deal. Thanks!!

AVOID Master Spas and Ross Erickson!!!!

Awesome choice. Enjoy!!

Have you purchased yet? I compared the exact same tub and purchased elsewhere......If not, let me know.

Jacuzzi makes a great tub. There are a few others I would recommend ahead of them, but I will abstain. I will say that I am glad you didn't bite into the Costco spas hype!!! What a nightmare! These spas are usually manufactured by off brand companies desperate for cash flow. The products are overhyped full of glitz and glamour, but lack very little in terms of structural integrity, energy efficiency, and insulation. To top it off, Costco seems to use a new "flavor-of-the-month" as their spa manufacturer. NO dealer network, a very weak warranty, curbside delivery AFTER bouncing around in a truck for a week.....Seriously? Costco is great for TVs, 10# of grated cheese, and chicken wings---NOT portable spas. Do your research people. Plan on spending $5000-$6000 for a quality spa that is therapeutic, won't cost you too much to run, is comfortable, and will last. 115 jets and 15 hp is great------FOR A RIDING MOWER!!!

PS--You haven't mentioned Sundance? My Sundance is 13 years old---One pump replaced--that's it!