Original > Hot Tub Forum
Brand research not going well
MKEhottub:
Thanks for the feedback!
I’m now down to the Artesian Island Series Grand Bahama.
Still need to look into Bullfrog but when configuring it appears none the therapy charts have jet packs for your neck/upper shoulders. Is that correct?
cranbiz:
https://www.bullfrogspas.com/jetpak-selection/
Go here and select neck massage in the pack type.
From what I see, there are 3 packs for neck, shoulder and back massage. How good they work, I can't help you with that. I would be concerned about the upper jet positioning. Seat depth will affect the positioning and because of that, you may not get the full benefit in every seat. They all appear to have small jets though. Small jets feel good but won't provide deep tissue massage.
Ideally, you should see if you can schedule a wet test and hopefully with one of those jet packs. If wet testing can't be arranged, then at least sit in one. See what seats will work with the neck pack for jet positioning.
MKEhottub:
Thanks for that info. For some reason their configurator didn't have those available on the mobile version.
Bullfrog A8L = $16.5 which includes 2 pumps no circ pump, ozone, frog@ease and then includes the free stereo. Has a nicer cover than the typical vinyl then a lifetime on composite structure. It was recommended to had circ pump.
Sundance Cameo = $18K. This one is now in the mix as it has battery pack with cellular connectivity vs wifi, jets that are potentially more powerful, bigger heater, recirc pump, UV bulb and air blower control. Seems to offer more value than the Bullfrog even though the jetpacks are tempting. I don't like the treated wood with the 10 year warranty.
Artesian Grand Bahama = $14.3K which include ozone, frog@ease, 3 pumps and circ pumps. Has 3 year part & labor vs 5 years for the others.
Wish I could merge the value prop of these hot tubs! Still a tough choice at this point.
Any thoughts on the Sundance? They said they have a few Cameo in stock so may be able to get a lower price yet.
cranbiz:
You can get an extended warranty on the Grand Bahama to 5 years if you wish.
Sundance is a good tub, fits right in with the others. However UV is unnecessary and expensive to obtain and maintain. What size is the heater? Just about all of these tubs have a 6kW heater.
IMHO, you want a circ pump instead of running one of the main pumps in low speed. So add in the circ pump if you go with the Bullfrog.
frog@ease. Named appropriately, it is easy but easy comes at a price. It is more expensive to run than a dichlor/chlorine regiment. It is also more forgiving in that you don't have to monitor it daily. The Bullfrog @ease system is proprietary, uses triangle shaped cartridges where all the others use the cylindrical cartridges. The cost is about the same, availability could be an issue.
MKEhottub:
I had Bullfrog quote the recirc - added $450
Now that you brought up frog @ ease I discussed with the Bullfrog dealer and they said you need to replace the chlorine cartridge every 3 weekse and 3-4 months for mineral.
Most reviews are claiming 2 weeks with the Bullfrog frog ease chlorine cartridges. In additon they complain about the excessive plastic waste, can bulk buy mineral in the 3 pack and can only buy from dealer or Bullfrog site.
Artesian uses the Frog @ Ease as well. Seems to use a different cartridge that really lasts 3 weeks and seems to be readily available if I have the right product below.
https://www.amazon.com/Caldera-Tahitian-SmartChlor-Cartridge-3-Pack/dp/B07BLL2RFL/ref=sr_1_3?gclid=Cj0KCQjw08aYBhDlARIsAA_gb0cMp5MYuZvIiBAxiMG4tJnwvB0pijjwlXARhqaXTqnZz0mOQb_99y8aAtfxEALw_wcB&hvadid=418686779655&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9018750&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=15836274768082412194&hvtargid=kwd-624579994928&hydadcr=23688_11324034&keywords=frog+ease+smartchlor+cartridges&qid=1662168611&sr=8-3
If I eliminate the Frog @ ease on Artesian or Bullfrog what is the best alternative to use in concert with the standard filters and ozone?
When I talked more to the Artesian dealer they slammed Bullfrog
Stated the following:
*
* Composite structure isn't as strong as the pressure treated wood on the Artesian.
Water behind the jet packs goes stagnant
New jet packs cost $800 vs swapping all the individual jets on Artesian costs $100
Said their effeciency claims are BS unless they put in writing they'll cover the difference in the savings you don't get in reality
LED ligts in the unit are weak and barely light it up
*
*
Bullfrog dealer said they are unfamilar with Artesian and can't comment on their product.
They did state Bullfrog changed the jetpack design to add to jets on the back inside to circulate the water but said you should sprinkle product in this area or inspect occasionally if you're not swapping the jets regularly.
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