Used Hot Tubs vs. Refurbished

I thought I better sit for a spell and talk about the ends and outs of used hot tubs. Used Hot Tubs 1.) Most dealerships do not have the skilled staff to refurbish used spas / trade-ins to resale condition. Most dealerships do not want to drag a rodent infested, ant/termite laden hot tub into their showroom to mess with. 2.) Unlike cars, people trade in used hot tubs for a reason. #1 Reason: Cover is so heavy that it can't even be lifted in order to get in. #2 Reason: Something electronic or mechanical fails that costs more than they want to put into an old hot tub. So... 3.) New covers cost $350.00. 4.) New motors start at $400.00 or new electronics packs start at $850.00 This makes a $100.00 used hot tub is unlikely. 5.) A used 1995 Sundance Optima is worth more than a 2005 Blue Ridge model#45. Too bad there is not a 'Blue Book' for used hot tubs. Refurbished Hot Tubs 1.) The shells on modern acrylic spas last forever. Older spas made using different materials or methods develop 'blistering' that may or may not lead to leaks. 2.) Cabinetry that has been restained periodically can still look great even when outdoors for decades. 3.) Older, and or less sophisticated systems that used 'air buttons' and analog thermostats knobs can be modernized. New digital packs typically start out in the $800.00 range, and models with many years warranty, all the options and RAM memory that saves your settings when you power down for drain and cleans or power outages can go for $1,400.00. 4.) Hot tubs that are not full foam insulated can also have the jets and plumbing gutted and complete re-done. Modern jets can easily be retrofitted and additional jets can be added. A good Service Tech can even customize jet placement for you. Additional pumps and circulation systems are another option. As you can imagine, the sky is the limit when it comes to refurbishing that old hot tub into a better-than-new, enjoyable item. -Garywww.spafixer.com