Need some hot tub recommendations

[CigarStone]

We are looking at getting a hot tub for the house and I would like some help. It will be two of us most of the time but we will need to "entertain" occasionally.

I am open to buying a used unit but don't know what to look for.

Thanks

 

[punk_lawyer]

I've got the Tiger River 'Bengal' hot tub...it has been fantastic. Seats 8 crowdedly but easily holds 4 or 6.

 

[Jack Straw]

Having owned a couple, the best advice I can offer is buy one larger than you think you will need. I firmly believe that all hot tub manufacturers base their capacity numbers using small children, not the average American adult!

Manufacturer's speak -
"Holds 4 adults", translation - "You and your wife may fit comfortably!".
"Holds 6 adults", translation - "You and your wife and one small child may fit comfortably!".
"Holds 8 adults", translation - "You and your wife and one other couple may fit comfortably, as long as you don't mind getting to "know" the other couple!".

But I must admit, I thoroughly enjoy ours, especially when the weather cools down. I can only think of one other activity that is better at removing the stress of a bad day at work!

Good luck with your purchase, and lay in a stock of petite coronas to smoke while soaking!

 

[N2Advnture]

Hot Springs! Awesome tubs and customer service. Compare their insulation (ie heat retention) and you end up saving a ton monthly on heating it.

I hope this helps

~Mark

 

[jorel]

I have one and frankly have huge regrets. Not that the tub has any problems - but even with a family of five it doesn't get used all that often. Translation: the hassle of cleaning/keeping water at right balance/mixture of chemicals, etc. often outweighs the few times we enjoy it. Don't get me wrong - when we use it (and I actually get in) it's great, relaxing, fun.

That said - am a frequent whiner so take comments with grain of salt.

John

PS - have snuck in by myself (maybe 2 times in the four years we've owned it) with a cigar carefully smoked so not to get it wet - now that's a great combination (probably too much information)).

 

[heffror]

We've got a Hot Springs which we love, and our previous model was a Tiger River Bengal. Can't go wrong with either (same manufacturer).

 

[LilBastage]

Before I bought used I'd like to know how much and what kind of "entertaining" the previous owner did in it. That would probably steer me toward new. :laugh:

As said, buy bigger than you think you need. If you're larger than an "average" person (10 year old) you'll need the extra room.

Also, be absolutely positive that the place you are putting it can support the weight. My sister in law bought one and put it on her deck after being assured by the bumpkin that built her deck that it would support it. She got it half filled with water and the deck collapsed. Not good.

 

[MoeCizlak]

Before I bought used I'd like to know how much and what kind of "entertaining" the previous owner did in it. That would probably steer me toward new. :laugh:

As said, buy bigger than you think you need. If you're larger than an "average" person (10 year old) you'll need the extra room.

Also, be absolutely positive that the place you are putting it can support the weight. My sister in law bought one and put it on her deck after being assured by the bumpkin that built her deck that it would support it. She got it half filled with water and the deck collapsed. Not good.

I heard Mark Chmura has one for sale.