Join me in the hot tub for some pinch and roll
 

I'm considering getting one. Wife is sorta ambivalent. She's not adverse to using the public ones at the resorts we visit, but will absolutely not consider a used one. I've searched all over the web, and read many reviews, mostly conflicting. Whereas someone likes their tub, others rip it apart saying it's junk.

Placement would be outside. I'm considering an open sided porch roof or awning, but that it not finalized. Whatever the situation, I'd like to be able to use it year round. Size required is small, as it would be just me and the wife using it. Sorry, we're too old and stodgy to be swingers.

So, questions:

Maintenance, is it a pain in the ass? How much does it cost per month?

What brands to avoid or seek out? Features that are must haves?

Soft tubs, worth it or a pale imitation of a real one?

Anything else I might not realize. Feel free to mock, ridicule and flame as desired.

In my experience, you get one thinking it will be awesome, and then eventually you just stop using it. I have never bought one, but a few of my family members have done so. Ive heard the same story from them, it just loses its appeal eventually.

Thats all Ive got.

I pretty much had a hot tub at every place I lived growing up. Including where I live now (you can see pics of the monstrosity in my build thread. Seats around 15 people :party: )

No. It's not gay if you touch dicks, as long as it's under water.
No, not at all. Modern units are usually very reliable as long as you take the proper steps for maintenance and make sure your water is balanced. Heating elements are what usually go out the most frequently, and we're talking like 1 every few years. Pump motors can seize depending on what style you have. My current one is a two pump system that has a dominate pump for Jets 1 and the cleaning cycle. So, it is not surprising that the pump for Jets 1 dies first seeing as it gets twice the usage.There are a lot of wear items on hot tubs. Make sure you have a complete list of items for the unit you're interested in so that you can quickly figure out what went wrong when your tub stops working.
A lot less than you would think. Most modern tubs have very efficient eco/efficiency modes. Mine is fucking gigantic but because we have it in eco-mode cycle, perfect water balance and use a quality top, it's a small impact.
That really depends on the size. Certain brands only cater to specific types and sizes and, unfortunately, I've been out of the loop for small/personal tubs. So, I can't help much on that. There are plenty of hot tub and spa forums. Just look for the MT of them :party:
Can't really get too crazy with features. Avoid any tubs that advertise tons of super spinny jets (they WILL break) or non-detachable headrests (they WILL fall off). You sound like you want something simple that works with the least amount of problems, so get something with standard jets with the least amount of movement (or make sure the jet heads are recessed, the ones that stick out WILL be caught on someone's shorts and broken) and detachable headrests because they are designed to be ripped off by your idiot friend.

Also, 4-5 filter cleaning system is a MUST. The more, the better. Make sure you keep a chart/calender of your water balance dates and your filter cleaning dates. Stick too it. It's just like car maintenance.

The last time I had a small spa UV cleaning systems were very new. So, I'm not sure on how well the new ones work using a dominate UV system over filters. My giant spa has a small UV system and it's been fine for the last 6 years. But that's all I can say on them.
FUCK NO. EFR > great-wall-of-turbo.
Buy a banana hammock.

Hot tubs are absolutely great. Make sure it is NOT an impulse buy and make sure you are ready for the monthly tasks of water balance and system cleaning. It's rewarding work as having a hot tub is wonderful. I get off work in downtown Key West at 1am, drive 25 miles home and sit in the hot tub looking at the stars. If it wasn't for that every night I would probably be dead, or worse, N/A.

I have no real helpful information, other than to do it! We had a hot tub when I was growing up, and I miss the shit out of that thing. If I had one today, I'd probably spend an hour in there nightly to relieve aches and pains.

Well... I didn't have to research for my tub as it came with the house, but it's amazing. It's a Sundance Maxxus Hot Tub Spa - Experience the Maxxus Difference
and had I known how much it was, I personally wouldn't have bought it ($12500).

Keeping clean is simple - just check Bromine and pH levels once a week, throw in some tablets or soda if needed and on't let the kids piss in it.

I love the wireless remote to control everything, including the sound system. However, mine is an '06 model - so I'm sure there's some cool wireless/bluetooth upgrades on their current lines.

*edit to add*
Access the playlists on your mobile device with the Bluetooth® audio
Auxiliary 3.5 mm input jack for MP3 players
USB power for your mobile device
FM Radio
Marine Grade Speakers
Sub-woofer for deep bass (select models)
6” speaker subwoofers powered by JBL® Adjacent to pillow for surround sound effect
Waterproof, JBL Quality

Full_Tilt_Boogie, rthat is what I'm afraid of. Hence, asking people that actually own them.

viperormiata, thanks for that. Lots of info to digest.

I just got off the phone with a friend who has one. Top of the line Thermospa, all the options, etc. He's had it for almost 15 years. Being a scientist, he researched the hell out of it, so was able to answer a lot of questions. Unfortunately for me, most was at the high end, so out of my price range.

So, more research. Requested a couple of brochures, some price sheets, etc. We'll see what the wife thinks.

Cant you just buy a nice shower tub with jets and shit and install it in ur shower? 2x on the hot tub getting old and eventually a year or two from now collecting bird shit.

Actually, that is also being considered. As the downstairs bath is in the middle of a major remodeling, it's certainly an option.

https://www.miataturbo.net/attachmen...ine=1379850417

https://www.miataturbo.net/attachmen...ine=1379850417

https://www.miataturbo.net/attachmen...ine=1379850417

https://www.miataturbo.net/attachmen...ine=1379850417

James brown celebrity hottub - Vidéo Dailymotion

I tried to imbed a video, but I failed.

poor ROI.

About 10 years ago, my parents picked up a large ~10 person used hot tub shell for free. We built a deck around it and did all the plumbing with external pump, filter, and heater. It was probably 10 years old when we got it.

They're on the lazy side in terms of proper maintenance. They've never tested the water, just made sure the bromine dispenser has tabs in it. In 10 years, they're on the third cover, second heater, and second pump motor. They use it once a week at minimum.

Just got back from 4 hours of talking to salesmen, sitting in empty tubs, comparing models and looking at every available option.

Holy shit, there are a lot of different models. This one has more jets, but that one has jets that spin. This one has a lighted waterfall, and that one has a foot massager. Bucket, bench or lounge seating. There's a bewildering array of different combinations (any of which make a different model) of jets, lights, seating, size, color and price. Many of the features are patently retarded. Neck pillows that are marginally softer then the surrounding acrylic. Can you really tell the difference between very hard and mostly hard with your neck? $1000 for a built in Sony stereo? I can get a better and cheaper boombox from BestBuy.

Soft tubs, while cool, offer not much better pricing that a "real" hot tub. And no seats, which was a real turnoff for both me and the wife. Added to limited jets (4-6 per tub), limited heating and shorter depths meant we weren't impressed. Maybe if they weren't 90% of the price of a full size one.

Found one we really liked at the first place. Acrylic, round, nice balance of size, features and price. Went to the next place and were blown away because prices were significantly lower. Poly liners instead of acrylic, but easily $1000 less across the board. Almost pulled the trigger, but there is at least one more place in town to check out.

More questions:
Heaters. Most are stainless. Some review mentioned titanium, but I couldn't find any mention of that. Maybe only on higher end models?

Ozone systems. First place it was built in. Second place said we can put one in, but why bother. Anyone know anything about them? Do they significantly reduce chemical usage? I'm not gonna drink the water, just soak my fat ass in it.

Almost all the tubs are dual voltage, meaning they can run on 110 or 220. 110V means heater or jets, not both. 220V means both at once. I have also heard that 220V is more efficient. Any truth to that? I can run the 110V line myself. 220V I need a building permit and inspection. Well, technically I do for the 110V line as well, but I can get away with not having it. Worth the hassle of getting it done?

Hmm that is weird. Maybe not in the same plug but i dont see what the problem would be for double 110s. Perhaps each pulls 20 some amps?

Doctors can write a prescription for a hot tub and you won't have to pay sales tax on it.

Really? Just how do you get that qualification?

Tell them Obama sent you.

:brain:

If you're in for a physical/checkup whatever, I'd say, "My back has been sore lately, it seems like it feels better if I put heat on it. Do you think perhaps a hot tub would make it feel better?" And you're doctor will say, "Yeah, sounds like it will and writes a script."

When I was auditing sales taxes I ran into it on several audits with hot tubs and mattresses. When you're spending several thousand it'll save you a few hundred in taxes.

huh... wonder if that's why my back isn't hurting today after moving all this flag stone.. it sure was when doing it.

Thanks for the hint. I'll try it, as I have a Dr. appt. coming up anyway.

Bought the GFCI & box online tonight. Will hit the electrical supply place later in the week. Wife says I need to get the electric in first, to avoid unfinished projects. I'll pretend it all has the proper inspections, too.

Oh, and nice title change. The first one was kinda lame.

We had (in the previous house, before teh childrens) a HotSpring Jetsetter 3-person. I liked it and would recommend it to anyone. In the 3 years we had it we did no maintenance other than a monthly chemical check and tossing in a small spoonful of the preventative stuff each time we used it. We did flush it out a couple of times as recommended.

It seats 2 people in lazy lounging comfort, 3 people require you to sit up.

Having the tub within 7 steps of the door is key. Having some sort of roof over it makes it much more useful in winter, and keeps the towels/robes dry as you live in the lifestyle you deserve to become accustomed to. Energy costs were negligible.

You will want to run a 220 line for the tub; most will not run both jets and the heater simultaneously on 110, and the warmup time from cold fill is much better with 220.

Well, I bought the 220V GFCI and box last night, online. Local box stores didn't have crap. It also includes a breaker for 110V, which is also required by code.

Gotta hit the electrical supply place up tonight for wires (6 gage) and ground, plus flexible conduit, fittings, etc. Wife said I couldn't buy until electric was in to avoid unfinished projects, so I'm getting started.

Checked out the third place in town last night as well. I really like the Jacuzzi brand tub he showed me, but that one was over 6 grand. Nope. Looked at several others, and found one I think we'll probably end up getting unless something else catches my eye. It was a Mira brand; I forgot the model number.

Well, it's done. Pulled the trigger on the Hot Spot one. Rhythm, it's called. Acrylic shell in opal, with espresso base. 35 Stainless jets. It also had the LED lighting. It really pops. Yes, I know it's all just eye candy. But to get the features I (meaning the wife) really wanted, which was dual jet pumps, I had to go to the bigger/glitzier tub.

The kicker was the dual jet pumps, which makes for a lot of circulation. Since it uses the same jets as a "real" Hot Springs tub, they are very effective. Better than the Ecco tubs, which supposedly have more power. Better than the Viking, which was only a couple hundred cheaper, because it has the built-in stereo, which I don't even want. Nearly as nice as the Jacuzzi 200 series, which were $500 more. The 300 series was over 2 grand more. Nice, but not that nice.

Hot Spot uses complete fill insulation. It's loose fill insulation blown in all around the tub, filling the base. Reusable if it needs taken out for repairs, recyclable if it gets tossed. Supposed to reduce operating cost significantly, which will be important in the winter. Tub includes ozone generator and titanium heater element. Warranty isn't quite as good as the Hot Springs line, but it uses the same pumps, motors and heaters. It's all just a numbers game.

So, out the door at a shade over $6k. HD cover with lifter and steps included. I got him to double the filters and throw in some more chemicals for the starter kit. Not much, but it helps. Got the check for my dad's annuity, which was nearly half of it recently, making the decision easier.

2-3 weeks for delivery.

Nice, enjoy! I really miss having a hot tub. That one sounds like win.

Well, I'm jealous. Good luck with it.

Pics of the wife in the tub or ban.

You've read Moby Dick? Same thing.

Delivery is scheduled for Tuesday the 22nd. Pics to follow.

Gazebos/shelters have proven to be way too expensive, so I'll build my own. In the meantime, temporary shelter (garage in a box) is due in tomorrow.

Just delivered. No sign of the electrician yet.


https://www.miataturbo.net/attachmen...ine=1382461069

Jealous.

Filled, hooked up and ready to rock. Just waiting for it to heat up.

I may have to be late to work tomorrow.

Who u kidding? Odds are ure gonna toss water in it and get yest infection.

Gotta get that PH right.

Tested it right after filling. Chlorine, shock, some other stuff added. Tested an hour later, right on the money. We're using the spa frog system, so less chlorine.

It's in the high 70's right now. Should be perfect tomorrow morning when I get up. 5:00 AM coffee in the spa.

Okay Kramer.

https://www.miataturbo.net/attachmen...ine=1382493936

Well, here it is, 6 months later; time to update the thread.

After getting it set up, I used it nearly every single night for the first 3 months. Sooooo relaxing. Then, we got a spell of nasty cold weather (February), with wind chills hitting the negative 20's and below. Screw that. So, other than a few missed nights, it was me every night, wife about 3/4 that, and the son averaging once or twice a week, at most. He finds it mostly boring. I'm down to about 4-5 nights a week, mostly because I don't think about it until time for bed.

I bought a "Shed in a Box" (10'x10' size) and put that over it. Keeps the wind down, prying eyes out, and most importantly, the damned pine needles out of the tub. Made a base frame out of pressure treated deck boards to keep it square, since I didn't want to pound anchors into the driveway in back. Screwed the tent frame down with conduit clamps, and it's held up well. Got a cheap solar powered garage light for it (eBay), which is just enough to see so you don't trip. The tent steams up really fast, and it's not unusual to not be able to see the person sitting across from you in 15 minutes. In warmer weather (like today), it doesn't steam up so much. Temp is set at 101, which I have gotten used to. Wife still turns it up sometimes.

Salesman was absolutely right about all the glitzy stuff. We rarely turn on the waterfall, and I usually keep the lights off as well. Stainless jets are nice though, because they really sparkle when showing it off. Also, they're easy to keep clean. Acrylic shell looks as shiny as new, and is easy to keep clean, too.

Maintenance is pretty easy. You get the numbers right, and it seems to almost take care of itself. Add chlorine every time after use, and shock once a week. Test everything with one strip (I bought better ones than came with it), just to make sure it's okay. Got it really nasty/cloudy once, but remembered I had neglected to add shock. Shocked the hell out of it, super chlorinated and it came back crystal clear. I wash the filter out every 4-5 weeks with the hose. Changed the frog stick once so far. Mostly I just pour in a capful of chlorine after each time I use it, and it stays perfect.

Since it's been so clean, I decided not to dump it at 3 months, mostly because it was during that cold spell. It has been topped off (4 people means the water gets displaced) several times, but never completely drained. I plan on doing that tomorrow morning, and replacing the filter while I soak the old one in cleaner. Interior will get a quick wipe down and rinse, then it's back to filling it up and letting it heat.

Hot Springs salt system
 

We've owned a couple of hot tubs.

We ski a lot - about 40 days a year, so our tub gets used pretty heavily.

The current tub is a hot springs and it has their relatively new salt sanitizer system.

The salt system has made maintenance very, very low. I highly recommend that system.

Also, I agree that the bells and whistles are rarely used. I generally just soak without the jets on and watch the elk from the tub.

"high-five", got about 45 days on my pass this year myself. I see you mentioned a salt system. I really like the idea of salt vs. chlorine. I'm really sensitive to the chlorine and hate the way it smells and how it burns my eyes, so i avoid chlorine tubs/pools at all costs. The local spa has a saline pool that kicks ass though, how hard is the maintenance on that vs the chlorine ones?

You need to have a tub designed for it, or the heater and other parts will corrode, voiding the warranty. Heaters aren't cheap.

I use the spa frog system, which greatly decreases the chlorine used. It's an extra $100 a year, but it makes the wife happy, as she is also sensitive to chlorine.

Another update, in case anyone was wondering. Never thought I'd get so much simple enjoyment out of simply soaking in a tub of hot water.

Tub has only been dumped once, and that's over 15 months. It's probably due, but it's still clear and odor free, so it hasn't been high on the list. Filter gets washed out about once every 6 weeks or so. If was more often, but that seemed to be overkill. Spa Frog sticks are about $100 a year, but they make maintenance so easy, and you use a lot less chemicals. Well worth it, even to this cheapskate.

I installed 300 LED light strips, the kind you find on eBay for cheap. I put them along the upper horizontal poles that hold the shelter/tent up. They connect to a waterproof switch housing that is connected by conduit to a small 12V transformer (also eBay) that powers the strips. Something like 2 watts total for about 16 feet of LEDs. They don't shine directly into the space, but rather at the sides of the tent, reflecting in. Not blinding, but plenty bright, and waterproof, just in case. Lights up the tent nicely, so no fumbling in the dark to open or close it. I don't even use the tub lights much anymore.

I didn't use it for about 6-8 weeks when my back was bad, as the heat seemed to aggravate it. But, since a month or so after the operation, I've been back in nearly every night. Sub zero temps meant a lot of steam in the enclosure, but I still went out every night. I find it perfect for clearing my head and letting go of the stresses of the workday.

Bottom line: if I had to do it all over again, I'd buy the cheaper model I was considering before the wife got on board. I need neither the power nor the features of the higher priced one. But I am glad I made the purchase, and wish I had done it years ago.