Hot Tub Forum
Original => Hot Tub Forum => Topic started by: Rayman on July 06, 2005, 11:20:37 am
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I have been posting for about a month and have had some major problems with my tub purchase, sorry Lori I have not found "SPATOPIA". Looks like after all the fixing the dealer has done and the factory has done the tub will be going back to it's maker. I have some decisions to make now on what to do. Steve on this board has been very helpful to this point and now I am all alone to make the painfull decision of cutting my loses. Lori what is the opposite of "SPATOPIA"????
Ray
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Hi Rayman- refresh my memory - didn't you have the Beachcomber 750 that leaked in the first week? I was under the impression that the dealer had found the leak(s) and made the necessary repairs.
What else has occurred? (Sorry if you had posted this already elsewhere - I didn't see it)
Jc
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They did fix the leaks but when it came back the jets were not seated correctly and couldn't turn them to pop them off and it was very difficult to turn them on and off. Black scuff marks on the acrylic that won't come off, Motherboard problems and a few other minor problems. I know all these can be fixed but I am fed up and can't even look at the thing in my yard anymore. I have been offered a new tub splitting the difference in value as I bought mine as a floor model. I have said yes already but I am starting to change my mind, any dealers in Brampton got a deal for me I have the electical done??
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Did the problems with jets, the scuffing and motherboard all come after the servicing?
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When they retutned the tub before there was water in it I noticed the scuff marks and had the tech note it, the jets as well and I was told when the get heated up with the water they will turn easier, they didn't and you can't get them off either. The Motherboard was a problem from day one and i was told it would be fixed, they tested it and said it was ok but the problem is still present, also the RFM jets in the floor lose power I was told a valve had to be put in place.
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That would be enough for me to say enough. Beachcomber tubs are considered by many in the know to be a quality tub with a strong support network, yet this does little to make you feel better I'm sure. Unlike others who might encourage you to persue the necessary repairs and allow your dealer to make good on their product, I personally feel that you since you bought a product that has proven itself defective, you should not be have to endure these options if you so choose.
I once bought a broken camera. It was junk. It really annoyed me that I had to jump through all kinds of hoops to rectify the situation. As a consumer, I expect to get what I pay for - that would include a tub that works - especially a brand new tub that cost so much $$.
Good luck on your decision - hope it works out for you.
Jc
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Thanks for the support
Ray
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Gabe & Shane are good guys committed to customer service.
If they say they cant get you a new tub (it wont be because they don't want to) go straight to the owner of Beachcomber, Keith Scott:
KScott@beachcomberhottubs.com
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Please don't get me wrong I have given everyone I have spoken to my opinion on Gabe and Shane. My opinion is they have done an excellent job, they have treated me with respect, compasion and understanding. The people at Beachcombers as well have tried their best to keep me happy. I truly believe that Beachcomber is one of the best tubs out there even after the trouble I have had, I just got one of the .5% of tubs that are a problem but to me as the consumer that is 100% of the tubs I have bought. When I purchased a floor model my expectation was a quality built tub that would last as long as a fresh one out of the crate, would any of you expect any less. When the dealers on this board sell floor models do you say it is less of a tub or just discounted cause it's out of the package and will perform the same as out of the crate??
I as a consumer am embarrassed that I have to go through this, I am ashamed that I have to ask for things like instore credits to "make it right". I feel guilty that I want a new tub to replace the one I purchased at no extra charge because I was under the impression that the tub was as good as new when I plunked down $11, 268.
So forget about the emotions, I bought a tub so i can come on boards like this to tell all that I too am in "spatopia" not trapped in "hot water purgatory".
I want my tub in my yard and never have to have my tub drained unless i am doing it myself fow quarterly maintenaince.
AM I ASKING TOO MUCH?
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Well, a floor model tub does have some hours on the motors and electronics and such. Enough to make a significant difference? Maybe, maybe not. I would hope that the biggest issues with a floor model is it might have a few scuffs on it.
Just a few questions that crossed my mind as I read your entry:
Was the discount on the floor model big enough to justify the problems you've had? Did the dealer set any expactions? (I guranentee this tub is just as good, if not better than new one out of the box"?)
Strange it's leaking. It was a floor model. Suggests maybe a problem in delivery to you? Was this a floor model that was filled?
Was the warentey pro-rated in anyway?
Regardelss, I would fully expect Beachcomber and the dealer to fully stand behind thier product, and yes, go the extra mile for you.
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It was a floor model that ws never filled it still had the stickers on the inside of the tub, there were some minor scuff marks on the outside skirt and yes they told me it was as good as new it was a custom make that had all the options of there BLE model minus the Hush pump but plus the garden lights. No price discount is worth the aggravation I have been put through, the original price was $11,300 and I got it for $9500. When I bought it if I was told the price difference would amount to total dissatisfaction I wouldn't have bought. I looked and waited 1 1/2 years before i bought, I thought I made an educated decision. I was wrong and since then I have been wronged.
Ray
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The 750 looks like a beautiful tub.
It is unfortunate that you are in the situation that you are in.
Maybe a dealer can answer this question, but it seems if the tub was never filled, is it really used? Yea, a few people dry tested it, but it's got 0 hours on the plumbing and components. Shouldn't the manufacturer treat this as a new tub and swap it out for new?
IF not, I'd think the dealer would be all over this to make sure you are happy.
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*I* would (also) think a tub that was never fired up and that has given all this grief should (have been) (be) swapped out for a new one, just to give customer satisfaction.
As was recently said, do you want one of the three outcomes: the customer that's unsatisfied, and tells everyone, the one that's satisfied, and tells a few people, or one that gets completely satisfied in a case like this and tells everyone?
I'd take the third one, if I were a dealer with advertising savvy. :)
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Huh. where are all the dealers?
Geez, when someone asks what tub they should buy, they are all over the thread. But on a touchy subject like this, it's like a ghost town.
::)
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Huh. where are all the dealers?
Geez, when someone asks what tub they should buy, they are all over the thread. But on a touchy subject like this, it's like a ghost town.
::)
I spoke on this subject in the begginning. It is the policy of Watkins Mfg. to replace any spa with an in foam leak on a new spa within 90 days of the delivery date. This is at no cost to the customer. In 18 years, we have needed to proceed with this policy twice. Not working directly with Beachcomber, I am unaware of any such policies they may have ;)
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*I* would (also) think a tub that was never fired up and that has given all this grief should (have been) (be) swapped out for a new one, just to give customer satisfaction.
I agree with leesweet. For the sake of good public relations, Beachcomber should bite the bullet and swap out rayman's tub.
Why should rayman be left holding the bag?
Phil
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so ray is the manufacture or the dealer replacing the tub?? are they giving you a new tub? are they going to make it right??? cause I would, and this is just me, be demanding an answer to those questions. Are they going to give you your money back so you can find a new tub?
BP
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Beachcomber offers a guarrantee not a warranty - as far as your concerned it's a NEW tub even if it is a floor model - did you get any less of that guarantee. Remember that a dealer sells that floor model tub as new except for the blemishes that may be there at time of sale which is why you got a discount on the price.
I certainly would let Beachcomber's owner know how you feel. If he's the stand up person that he claims to be then he will most certainly do the right thing. As long as you address this tackfully, I'm sure it will work out and you will be in SPATOPIA shortly. Remember, Presidents of companies can do more than anybody else.
Good luck!
Vinny
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Actually, the wifes of Presidents can do more! ;D
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Actually, the wifes of Presidents can do more! ;D
Don't ya mean mistresses of Presidents can do more. :o
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Don't ya mean mistresses of Presidents can do more. :o
They usually do "DO MORE" which is why their the mistress and not the wive! ::)
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You should be refunded the purchase price of the tub and pay the difference for a new one. If thats what you want as a customer.
A floor model is expected to operate as a new tub will. They come with full warranty. If after servicing a new tub for all those problems I would demand a new one.
If the dealer wanted to be nice for your hassels than they should throw in some chemicals.
Beachcombers website states :
WE ARE FAMILY
Meet Keith and Judy Scott, Founders of Beachcomber, with their children. This photo is important to Beachcomber culture, because it personifies our corporate value system.
Everyone connected with Beachcomber we consider family – from our internal employees, our retail stores, even our suppliers. We have a long history of solid relationships, and we are proud of that, because we know that the front line determines the bottom line. When we look after our customers and make them part of our family, they in turn recommend us to their friends. The result? A company that grows, and gives opportunity to thousands, and relaxation to many more thousands. That’s why our motto is “Connecting Family, Friends and Loved Ones”.
Ownership of a Beachcomber Hot Tub is a joy. The pleasure it brings is not something one can measure; it’s a wonderful thing to be able to lay back in hot, pulsing water, right outside in your backyard. It’s a rich feeling – even hard to describe, a feeling that puts you in another place, letting you escape for those precious minutes in your own personal outdoor ‘spa’. We know the benefits a Beachcomber Hot Tub can bring you.
And like our own family, you are important to us. That’s why a dealership in your local area as your support system for you and your hot tub is a necessary part of hot tub ownership. They provide any service you may need to ensure that your hot tub gives you and your family years of enjoyment.
Join the Beachcomber family today, and discover that ‘rich’ feeling of soaking, relaxing, connecting - with those you love, the people most important to you, right in the comfort of your backyard, all year long.
Time to call your relative and tell him you’re pissed!
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I'm sorry to hear that this hasn't been a smooth transition into spatopia for you Ray. I'm wth HTM and I suggest contacting the big kahuna at Beachcomber.
Simply put, they should allow you to use this spa (assuming it's functional) until they order you a new one in to replace it. No cost, no hassle for you. PERIOD!
A mild threat of utilizing your 30 day guarantee won't hurt either... ;) Tell them they can come pick it up!
Steve
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I'm sorry to hear that this hasn't been a smooth transition into spatopia for you Ray. I'm wth HTM and I suggest contacting the big kahuna at Beachcomber.
Simply put, they should allow you to use this spa (assuming it's functional) until they order you a new one in to replace it. No cost, no hassle for you. PERIOD!
A mild threat of utilizing your 30 day guarantee won't hurt either... ;) Tell them they can come pick it up!
Steve
Ditto !
I just had my spa delivered today .........and after all that $$ I do expect things to be right....... there were 2 small dents/scratches in the tub around the outside the guy took note and said someone will be in touch.
I do expect them to be.
I would call the BIG KAHUNA asap and tell him the problems you have had , I would think he will make it right . Good luck
Gary
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I agree, that after working with the local dealer, and they haven't addressed the problem(s), I would escalate it to Beachcomber.
The problems you are experienceing don't seem to have any bearing on the fact that it's a floor model. This sounds like to me a QA problem that I think the manufactuer would want to have "go away" ASAP. If after a reasoable amount of time they cannot fix it, and probelms keep reoccuring, I call Uncle Keith Scott and see what they can do.
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I have been in contact with Keith directly and he has pushed it back on the dealer to resolve, I have also told them that I will be using my 30 day option and if the tub leaves my yard for repairs it will not be coming back. I will be getting my money back minus the initial delivery charge and the money I have paid directly to the electrician. Beachcomber feels that I am getting one hell of an offer to "upgrade" to a brand new model for "only" half the difference. I have some days to make my decision still and may exercise it to the 29th day.
Ray
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They are letting you get an actual working tub, similliar to what they originaly promised you for just a few bucks more? Wow. what great guys. :-/
They wont refund the money you paid to have this POS delivered to your home? Excuse me? Why should you pay to have thier mistakes delivered to your home?
Why are you out anything because of this? Get all your money back. Go to another Manufactuer.
Thats my opinion.
Sorry we sold you a peice of steaming garbage, but those are the breaks, don't expect us to take full responsibility for it. You should take some of the responsibility, after all you paid for it. Yea, right.
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It is my feeling that the manufacturer should be responsible and not the dealer, I cannot in clear conscience let the dealer lose money for a poorly manufactured product - I am "the sucker born every minute" all hail PT Barnum
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I also feel the maufactuer is responsible. But why should you incur any costs because they delivered a defective product? But between you, the dealer and the manufactuer, why do you get screwed with eating all the $$ ?
The manufactuer and dealer walk away saying "sorry" but you're stuck with delivery costs?
This tub wasn't used. It was taken out of the wraper for display and sold to you as in perfect working condition.
It wasn't. They tried to fix it. It's still doesn't work.
Tell me, what loss has the dealer experienced? What loss has the Manufactuer experienced? And you? Is thier money and time any more important than yours?
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It is my feeling that the manufacturer should be responsible and not the dealer, I cannot in clear conscience let the dealer lose money for a poorly manufactured product -
Too bad the dealer and manufactuer don't feel the same way towards you.
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I have been in contact with Keith directly and he has pushed it back on the dealer to resolve, I have also told them that I will be using my 30 day option and if the tub leaves my yard for repairs it will not be coming back. I will be getting my money back minus the initial delivery charge and the money I have paid directly to the electrician. Beachcomber feels that I am getting one hell of an offer to "upgrade" to a brand new model for "only" half the difference. I have some days to make my decision still and may exercise it to the 29th day.
Ray
If I bought a perfectly working tub, tried it out for 30 days and returned it because I did not like it, then I would pay the service fee.
But to charge me anything for a tub that was nothing but problems would not fly.
I would be and am so pissed on the crap he post on his website about customers being family and so important that I would get all my money back and buy a different brand tub. He should have personally got involved.
Also, be careful waiting to long. I would start the process now with a written letter; return receipt and cc to my attorney.
Last thing you want is the dealer to say you did not exercise your option in time. You need PROOF!
These guys may be nice now but that can change on a flip of the dime.
Remember you must always protect your own interest.
I hope they give you no trouble.
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It is my feeling that the manufacturer should be responsible and not the dealer, I cannot in clear conscience let the dealer lose money for a poorly manufactured product - I am "the sucker born every minute" all hail PT Barnum
Sorry... the dealer is the servicing agent. They take this responsibility on in return for what’s called "profit".
I could care less if they are nice guys. This has no bearing on a defective tub.
The dealer is a business too. If they are so nice, why don’t they eat the delivery fee?
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you know what? Pay for the tub with a check.
only have 75% of the money available in the account.
Tell them to take it or leave it. After all, it's not your fault that all the money isn't there, your checking accout is broken and that's how it goes. That couldn't possibly expect to have all your money for just because your account has a few problems? I mean come on, you;re a nice guy. They got to understand you've got other bills to pay and a familly. What;s the big deal? They got most of it. They'll eventually should get what you all agreed to, hey, that's how it goes sometimes....all the money, more or less, should be there eventually, in the next few weeks or months....it's tough to say exactly when, these things are difficult and take time.....but you will "try".
write them a gurantee for the money. Eventually,if you don't get around to paying them, just give them back 60% of the tub.
Yea, see where that gets you.
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Humph. I agree that (1) the 'happy family' stuff is a sack of crud, it appears, and (2), yeah, why should he be out anything if there's a 30-day money-back guarantee? Did the fine print say 'except for delivery fee, if we feel like it'?
As for the 'pay with a NSF check', I Am Not A Lawyer (but my father was.. :) ), and I don't think that works, along with the old one where you write on the check 'this is payment in full'. Those things are obsolete, as far as I know.
I'd take the refund, and unless the delivery charge is clearly stated as non-refundable in the 'money back guarantee', take them to small claims court.
In *no way* would I give the dealer or the company more of my money by purchasing another spa from them. I'd buy anything else anywhere else. (But that's just me.)
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This is horrible..., the dealer should stand up for HIS customer, demand a swap out from Beachcomber at no charge. Beachcomber needs to make good to the dealer and the dealer needs to be a stand up guy to his customer, PERIOD.
hottubber... ;D
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Humph. I agree that (1) the 'happy family' stuff is a sack of crud, it appears, and (2), yeah, why should he be out anything if there's a 30-day money-back guarantee? Did the fine print say 'except for delivery fee, if we feel like it'?
Unfortuntley, yes... :-/
In a case like this, it's left up to the dealer to incur the loss of funds for delivery. The 30 day period is only to exchange or get a refund on the tub itself. Wether or not the cost of delivery is refundable is up to the individual dealer.
I'm amazed that Keith put it back on the dealer. I guess things have changed a bit since I left... :-/ I'm sorry this has happened Ray as no one deserves this sort of BS with such a great purchase. I would have lost money on that bet as Beachcomber has always been a stand-up sort of company when it comes to these sort of issues.
I wish I could do more...
Steve
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Thanks to everyone, I will keep updating as events change. I am expecting a call soon.
Ray
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...not to mention that this kind of negative press can go a long way of influencing new-tub shoppers away from this product and towards others....
Beachcomber stands to lose more than Rayman's business.
Jc
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Sorry... the dealer is the servicing agent. They take this responsibility on in return for what’s called "profit".
I could care less if they are nice guys. This has no bearing on a defective tub.
The dealer is a business too. If they are so nice, why don’t they eat the delivery fee?
Lets not forget the "profit" Beachcomber made. They should supply the new tub.
As for the delivery, margins aren't that big. It would be great if they could "eat" the cost, I would be happy to split the R&R with them, but not the difference of the tub tubs.
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Lets not forget the "profit" Beachcomber made. They should supply the new tub.
As for the delivery, margins aren't that big. It would be great if they could "eat" the cost, I would be happy to split the R&R with them, but not the difference of the tub tubs.
This is what bugs me. The tub apparently is a lemon. A manufactuing problem. Beachcomber made this tub and is not out any money what-so-ever.
Even at this point, is the dealer out anything? I doubt it.
But the consumer who got stuck with the defective product is epexted to eat it because, well...I'm not sure why.
As a customer I would not stand for having to pay for the deliverly of a defective product.
By the way, how much was the delivery? How was the tub delivered?
At the very least, the tub should be returned, at no cost to you, and your full purchase price and any other costs (except electrical) should be fully refunded, this should include delivery as well as being able to return any accesories and chems they sold you in anticipation of your tub. I'd be adament about this and would be willing to pursue this by every avenue legally available to me. I would not rule out courts, the Better Business Buruea, The State Attorney General, and any other institution and or forum that applies.
Additionaly, I would like to think the dealer and the manufactuer would step up to the plate, and try to keep you as a customer by offering you a deal that really couldn't be beat.
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I AM GETTING A NEW TUB NO CHARGE TO ME STRAIGHT FROM THE FACTORY. Sorry for yelling I thought all you wonderful concerned people would like to know that Beachcomber and Beachcomber Brampton have come through and will replace my floor model with a brand new 750 BLE right from the factory. Before everyone starts saying they should have done this from the beginning i would like to say that everyone I have dealt with from the dealer right up to the President were very helpful. I am an extemely happy customer.
Thank you all for your support I would not have been able to go through this without you.
Special thanks to Shane and Gabe at Beachcomber Brampton.
Ray
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;D
Wow. That is going above and beyond. I am very happy for you . That's terrrific!
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Great !! Glad to hear the problem is solved
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Very good.
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We are all pleased with the outcome, but none of us are as relieved as much as you are. These situations can always take different twists and turns in how things are handled. You have been more than patient and understanding and deserve the final result. I think it is a good thing NOT to over react in these situations as everyone wants a GOOD outcome.
Well, maybe just about everyone. I know some people have been left short by some sellers who were not as consciously concerned about their customers. Obviously others who have given input recommending different courses of action have probably been left short before.
It is always helpful to maintain good relationships. ;)
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Well put, thanks for the nice thoughts.
Ray
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We are all pleased with the outcome, but none of us are as relieved as much as you are. These situations can always take different twists and turns in how things are handled. You have been more than patient and understanding and deserve the final result. I think it is a good thing NOT to over react in these situations as everyone wants a GOOD outcome.
Well, maybe just about everyone. I know some people have been left short by some sellers who were not as consciously concerned about their customers. Obviously others who have given input recommending different courses of action have probably been left short before.
It is always helpful to maintain good relationships. ;)
I agree with you J_McD: Good Realtionships. You want to be able to shake hands, and look eachother in the eye and feel that everything is ok. I have no problem voicing concerns. I have no problem being a very loyal and well paying customer. I also have no problem confronting poor business practices.
When there is a problem, I feel it's important to bring it the appropriate peoples attention, and be wiliing to work it out. I simpley outlined what rayman could do, if he was left holding the bag because of a defective product.
I hope I don't leave you with the impression that I'm a real a-hole to deal with. I'm not. in this forum I am very open, in personal dealings, I show a bit more tact and proffesionims. ;)
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Drewstar I don't think anyone here thinks your a a**hole. Expressing opinions is what makes the free world free. Keep it up, I can find wisdom in all words. I think everyone posts the way they think, that doesn't mean those words would actually come out during a business transaction. We would all be ****ed then.
Ray
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Oh Drewstar, that a**hole again. ;D
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Glade it worked out!
When you’re soaking in your NEW tub you will forget about all the aggravation.
But tell us.... did you keep pushing or did the company read ths forum?
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Again I say... Good dealers are important and worth a few more dollars
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Glade it worked out!
When you’re soaking in your NEW tub you will forget about all the aggravation.
But tell us.... did you keep pushing or did the company read ths forum?
Good question. I was upfront with them on everything, told them about this board and even gave them my Post ID so they could find all my comments and any responses. I don't know if it helped but it can never hurt.
Ray
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Good question. I was upfront with them on everything, told them about this board and even gave them my Post ID so they could find all my comments and any responses. I don't know if it helped but it can never hurt.
Ray
Sounds like it got you a new tub, as it should of.
The Internet use to be a niche. Now companies can't ignore its power.
For every one person that comes on here and asks what a good tub is, there are probably 50 people that person talks with about their findings.
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Glad it worked out so well, but I have to wonder why it wasn't 'fixed right the first time'. :( Throwing it 'back on the dealer' isn't the mark of good customer service at all.
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I agree with you J_McD: Good Realtionships. You want to be able to shake hands, and look eachother in the eye and feel that everything is ok. I have no problem voicing concerns. I have no problem being a very loyal and well paying customer. I also have no problem confronting poor business practices.
When there is a problem, I feel it's important to bring it the appropriate peoples attention, and be wiliing to work it out. I simpley outlined what rayman could do, if he was left holding the bag because of a defective product.
I hope I don't leave you with the impression that I'm a real a-hole to deal with. I'm not. in this forum I am very open, in personal dealings, I show a bit more tact and proffesionims. ;)
I don’t care what people think of me, I always get it in writing. Having it in writing removes all confusion and allows for a good relationship.
If it was me I would want their promise of a new tub in writing before my 30 days was up unless they were going to deliver a tub before then.
If you don’t, you leave yourself no recourse what so ever.
If someone seems put out because I ask for it in writing than that is a good sign that I should have it in writing. Otherwise they say "sure"!
Just recently I purchased 4k worth of furniture from Art Van (a local furniture company here in Michigan). This company always has a sale where you don’t pay interest for a certain amount of time. Depending on the sale determines the time frame.
The short version is the sales person said we could get the deal the next day if we came back because it was the last day. We came back and bought the furniture.
At checkout she said she would have to manually input the terms later because officially the sale was over.
I asked her to write on our receipt the 3 year no interest terms she was promising us.
45 days later I get my statement and am being charged 21% interest. The manager at the store would not correct it even though I explained the whole deal.
I then called back to state on my receipt I had it in writing and the manager only then corrected it.
I always try to protect my own interest and this should never affect the quality of a business relationship unless they are dishonest from the start.
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What he said. ;D If they mean it, they will have no problem putting it in writing. Oral promises, while *technically* enforcable in some states, are really worth the paper they are written on.
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I don’t care what people think of me, I always get it in writing. Having it in writing removes all confusion and allows for a good relationship.
If it was me I would want their promise of a new tub in writing before my 30 days was up unless they were going to deliver a tub before then.
Some of us are from the "hand shake" days, while others of us don't know what I am referring to. If you don’t, you leave yourself no recourse what so ever.
If someone seems put out because I ask for it in writing than that is a good sign that I should have it in writing. Otherwise they say "sure"!
Just recently I purchased 4k worth of furniture from Art Van (a local furniture company here in Michigan). This company always has a sale where you don’t pay interest for a certain amount of time. Depending on the sale determines the time frame.
The short version is the sales person said we could get the deal the next day if we came back because it was the last day. We came back and bought the furniture.
At checkout she said she would have to manually input the terms later because officially the sale was over.
I asked her to write on our receipt the 3 year no interest terms she was promising us.
45 days later I get my statement and am being charged 21% interest. The manager at the store would not correct it even though I explained the whole deal.
I then called back to state on my receipt I had it in writing and the manager only then corrected it.
I always try to protect my own interest and this should never affect the quality of a business relationship unless they are dishonest from the start.
At first I disagreed with your apporach, but then I do realize dealing with a "corporate structure" like Art Vans, personalities and relationships are not considered and does enter into the "salesman said" category and could really turn into a really big squabble and you would problably lose. It is a good case scenario for "getting it in writting"
You know how I am about dealer relationships, and I suppose being from the "old school" where a hand shake or your word was always honored, there are situations that getting it in writting is good advice.
"Personal" relationships don't alway's exist anymore so a word of caution is a good. However, most dealerships do have that personal connection that does make a difference many times.
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Rayman, I'm sorry you weren't in SPATOPIA as soon as you were hoping or were supposed to! I just now got a chance to read this thread! I'm very happy to hear that things are being taken care of!
I'm sure I would call the opposite of Spatopia is Spah*ll. Glad you will be joining the rest of us in Spatopia!!!
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At first I disagreed with your apporach, but then I do realize dealing with a "corporate structure" like Art Vans, personalities and relationships are not considered and does enter into the "salesman said" category and could really turn into a really big squabble and you would problably lose. It is a good case scenario for "getting it in writting"
You know how I am about dealer relationships, and I suppose being from the "old school" where a hand shake or your word was always honored, there are situations that getting it in writting is good advice.
"Personal" relationships don't alway's exist anymore so a word of caution is a good. However, most dealerships do have that personal connection that does make a difference many times.
J McD,
I do know how you are about personal relationships and your customers are very fortunate! ;)
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J McD,
I do know how you are about personal relationships and your customers are very fortunate! ;)
I can only say thank you, and I am always looking for new customers. ;D ;D Next in line please ;D ;D
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Please don't get me wrong I have given everyone I have spoken to my opinion on Gabe and Shane. My opinion is they have done an excellent job, they have treated me with respect, compasion and understanding. The people at Beachcombers as well have tried their best to keep me happy. I truly believe that Beachcomber is one of the best tubs out there even after the trouble I have had, I just got one of the .5% of tubs that are a problem but to me as the consumer that is 100% of the tubs I have bought. When I purchased a floor model my expectation was a quality built tub that would last as long as a fresh one out of the crate, would any of you expect any less. When the dealers on this board sell floor models do you say it is less of a tub or just discounted cause it's out of the package and will perform the same as out of the crate??
I as a consumer am embarrassed that I have to go through this, I am ashamed that I have to ask for things like instore credits to "make it right". I feel guilty that I want a new tub to replace the one I purchased at no extra charge because I was under the impression that the tub was as good as new when I plunked down $11, 268.
So forget about the emotions, I bought a tub so i can come on boards like this to tell all that I too am in "spatopia" not trapped in "hot water purgatory".
I want my tub in my yard and never have to have my tub drained unless i am doing it myself fow quarterly maintenaince.
AM I ASKING TOO MUCH?
Asking too much? No, I do not think so. I have also had problems with my 750 Beachcomber and the dealer here in Kingston has been fantastic, but even he cannot believe the things that have been happening...so I am sure I have a lemon as well. I have only had it for 2.5 years and of course the warranty was done in Feb 2010 so now I am starting to pay to fix the problems and believe me they are not cheap. Anyways it started with the jets popping off like I have seen on the links...no problem, dealer replaced all with no cost but then one of the kids stepped on the grate cover for the intake of the water. It came off and I thought 'no problem, it looks like the part screws out so they can replace' but no....this seems to be an engineering mistake as the grate was only secured with a simple screw that when pressure from a foot stepped on it, it broke the plastic screw hole. The dealer stated he would have to cut the tub to replace to fix properly but the integrity of the tub would be compromised. Being a nice guy I said just glue it on and all should be fine but I have had to re-glue about 4 times since it keeps coming off....in hindsight I should have had it repaired properly (or replace the hot tub still under warranty at that time). Anyways the thing kept coming off and then parts of the jets would get sucked into the motor including my sons girlfriends bathing suit bottoms (which should not have been off...or floating in the bottom of the tub... ;) ). The dealer came and got those out with a smile and re-glued again. Now after about a year the one motor keeps turning off and will not come on due to overheating (I guess). After two 15 minute runs it shuts down. It starts again after it cools down for 30 minutes but shuts off again....I have just recently called him on this and hopefully not too costly to fix.
The stairs to the tub (also beachcomber) just rotted (after 2.5 years) and I will have to build a frame to re-enforce....not sure why this did not last. And one more thing, the hot tub cover is worn and ripped across where the bar goes for the lifter. I used gun tape to try to keep it working for at least another year but I will have to buy another one soon.
All of this bothers me because this is my second (actually third tub). The first one was a cheap $3000 tub which we had for 7 years (Montecarlo?) and my friend still has it (free...after I got a new one). His motors are still working fine after 10 years...? I bought another from Rona and this one fell apart in less than 6 months so the reason I went to Beachcomber (It was an emergency since I was home for 17 days from Afghanistan and my wife was really stressed about the Rona tub breaking constantly...not a relaxation tool at the time for sure....
Anyways the local dealer has been fantastic but I think now that problems keep happening he could be losing his patience and the price to fix things is not cheap....yikes....here is hoping he gives me good news this week
So I feel your pain with this long post....I hate lemons!!!
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Huh. where are all the dealers?
Geez, when someone asks what tub they should buy, they are all over the thread. But on a touchy subject like this, it's like a ghost town.
::)
I spoke on this subject in the begginning. It is the policy of Watkins Mfg. to replace any spa with an in foam leak on a new spa within 90 days of the delivery date. This is at no cost to the customer. In 18 years, we have needed to proceed with this policy twice. Not working directly with Beachcomber, I am unaware of any such policies they may have ;)
But I'm sure they do have new spas which could easily be swapped at this point.
If I, as a dealer, sell a floor model spa, it usually goes out the door at the normal price. That is because it costs me to wrap it back up, take it out of the showroom and then deliver it with less-than-factory wrappings. Also, if the tub was a wet demo, I scrub it up real good, polish the upper parts, put new pillows and filters (unless it was just filled once and they still look like new) and I always go over the equipment to be sure there isn't a drop anywhere or a noise or anything out of order. I mean, I have the thing sitting there, running, with hot water, why not do a little QA before I take it away? I have found a few little things along the way, and was so very glad to be able to swap out a part or whatever was needed before delivery. I call it, "extended wet testing," and in reality, those tubs should be the most trouble-free units ever produced!
The only time this is not so is at our year-end floor model clearance sale. Then, we drop our prices to move the units. At that point, you get the pillows and cover that were on the floor, and any scratches are not buffed out - customers got a deal on it, and they understand. I do put new filters in anyway. I keep the old ones for the next demo tub replacing it on the floor.