Medical reasons have led me on the path to buy a spa. I have severe neck, shoulder and back problems. The biggest problem is that Im not averaged sized. 6'5" and 285. This makes it difficult to fit in some of the different seats and loungers.

We first went to the dealers in our town. Hotsprings, Calspa and Sundance. First impressions were "oh my god, is there really $8k worth of stuff here?". Total sticker shock. We quickly realised that we dont need waterfalls, built in audio system, fiber optic lights....all the little gizmos. I just want a theraputic spa that I can fit into that doesnt take up the whole back yard.

So, then we looked in the paper and saw a few obscure adds for heavily discounted new spas. No mention of brand. Both were wholesalers operating out of a warehouse. One sold Gulf Coast Spas and the other was United Manufacturing. Prices were great but sales service was lacking but that is expected. In the Gulf Coast line I only fit in the Boca Grande model and its their biggest spa at 95x95x35...too big.

Tomorow I will check out this United Mfg spa warehouse but the whole setup sounded odd to me. She told me they didnt sell to the public and to ask for "Jim" when I got there. Sounded like a "code word". Crazy.

Sorry for the long first post but I am just looking for a little guidance. Are either of these "warehouse" brands any good? The lady at United Mfg told me her spas compare to Sundance or Calspa??

Am I missing something here? Anything that I should watch out for? I want to save a buck but dont want to get taken. I will say that both companies have been placing add in our paper for years....

Help.

Hi there, we too experienced the same "crazy secret-code" type of conversation/visit with United Mfg. Be very nervous and very cautious.

They have a lower quality product which they will sell for a fantastic price but they will not give you any estimated operating costs because they are nor fully insulated! Do your homework and pay the extra for a quality tub with a good warranty, happy customers and good service records.

The tubs look pretty and all, but everything is very hush-hush and there is no information to be found on the company background and they will not stand behind the product the way other more reputable manufacturers will.

We are still looking and doing our research and very thankful that we were so suspicious of this dealer.

Remember, you always get what you pay for! AND Pay now, or pay later...!!

Best of luck!
Kendra