UPDATE 9/26/14:
It's been one month since I posted my initial below review and I'm still loving this hot tub! I probably use it about 3 - 4 times per week and it has even inspired me to update my back patio! I added lots of potted plants and a shade over the back area. A few tiki torches add the perfect amount of mood lighting. I look forward to relaxing and soaking after a long day at work and I already can't imagine being without this hot tub!
My boyfriend brought up a good point about the extremely reasonable price on this tub - even if for some crazy reason you had to replace it with a brand new one once a year, you could do that for over 10 years without even coming close to what you would spend on a new "real" hot tub. Plus, the portability of this is what makes it even more valuable. If you end up moving, pack it up and take it with you for no cost. Can't do that with a "real" tub!
One thing I will add to the review is the draining issue. The guide says that you can use this inside. I would caution against that unless you decide to siphon it from the top with a hose. When I had to drain mine from the bottom using the hose attachment, there was a lot of water that continuously leaked out at the attachment area as it drained. Thankfully I have mine outside, so it was not an issue, but I had considered at one point putting it in my garage. Glad I didn't!
Also, if you have a hose you can attach to your water heater, you will be able to set this up and have it warm enough to use the same day. Super easy and since I have a gas water heater, was able to fill it relatively quickly.
Here are some of the products I've purchased here on Amazon to enhance the use of my tub.
- After a couple of weeks of use, the spa turned slimy and I had to drain and refill it. The chemical I was using (Leisure Time Renew - recommended to me by my local spa shop) didn't cut it. I came back on Amazon and found this spa chemical kit that is working great and has everything you will need in it. The best part is that it comes with a very easy to read, thorough guide that tells you exactly how to care for your spa.
Spa Choice Standard Bromine Kit
- AquaTray Spa Side Table - Great addition and totally fits on the spa. I set a couple of beers on it, my phone (in a waterproof case, of course), and it all sits perfectly stable in one easy to reach spot.
AquaTray Spa Side Table Gray
- Filters - Don't buy the 12 pack from here:
Intex Replacement Filter Cartridge 29001E for Intex Purespa Bubble Therapy Inflatable Portable Hot Tub Spa, Twin Pack
. Their shipping department only sent me two filters, not the 12 that were promised, and based on my review of the filters, others are having the same issue as well. You can purchase the six pack here and actually get six of them in the box:
Intex PureSpa Type S1 Replacement Filter Cartridges (6 Pack) | 29001E
- Spa Vacuum - I realized this was a "must" after a couple of uses with the spa and realizing how much dirt will accumulate just getting in and out. This was a great purchase (although a little pricey), because you don't have to hook it up to anything. It works great and stores in a corner nicely!
Paradise Spa Vacuum
- Spazazz Honey Mango Crystals - Smells great, but as many of the reviewers mentioned, the smell doesn't last too long. Plus I worry about whether the ingredients had anything to do with my spa chemical levels being thrown off and the spa turning slimy. On top of that, they're really expensive and this bottle only lasted about three hot tub soaks. Probably won't buy again, but it was fun while it lasted.
Spazazz Honey Mango Crystals
_____________________________________________________
ORIGINAL REVIEW:
I've been itching to get a hot tub for some time now but financially, $5000+ just wasn't going to work for my tight budget. This hot tub has definitely exceeded my expectations in the short time I've had it! I am more than happy with my purchase.
SET-UP
- Super easy if you consider yourself a little handy (i.e. you can put together your own Ikea furniture). I'm a single 35 year old female and I was able to get the whole thing set-up by myself in less than 2-1/2 hours. The DVD that came with the instructions is really helpful especially if you're a visual learner like me. I watched it and then headed out to the yard with the written instructions and didn't have any hesitations about how to set it up.
- The whole package was pretty heavy (100+ pounds). UPS left it on my front porch, so I opened the box and hauled individual pieces to the backyard rather than trying to drag the whole package back there.
- I was impressed that you could use the actual spa pump unit to inflate the tub and cover - I thought I was going to need my own air pump. Both pieces inflated pretty quickly and I was even more impressed that the supplies that came with the spa included a PSI gauge to insure the tub wasn't over or under inflated.
- The cover is super awesome. It isn't just a piece of plastic that goes over the tub - it has a huge inflatable bladder that is incased in really strong durable material. The cover snaps onto the sides of the tub to prevent it from blowing off, and to keep children (or curious animals) from falling into the spa. And although I'm sure the manufacture wouldn't recommend it, it is actually REALLY comfortable to lay on top of - it's like laying on a waterbed!
- It comes with a nice padded ground cover that extends a couple of inches beyond the edge of the spa. This worked great because I really didn't want to put a big, ugly, blue tarp down under it. Plus, it made it really easy to determine how much space it would take up and I was easily able to decide exactly where I wanted to place it on my patio.
SET-UP TIPS
- The instructions say that you need to set the spa up within 6' of an electrical GFCI outlet (the cord only extends that far). I had to use an extension cord because I only have one outlet outside in my back yard which was about 15' away.
- The spa comes with black caps on the outside that you remove when you attach the pump to the spa. When you take these caps off, make sure to leave the black rubber rings on the spa/pump connection outlets. I didn't realize this, and so the first day I had a very slow drip coming off of one of the outlets. I simply removed the filters from the inside of the spa, used the three black rubber caps that came with the kit and placed them over the outlets (to keep the water from dumping out), disconnected the pump, replaced the black rubber rings, and then reattached the pump. Problem solved!
- The spa instructions noted that there may be a strong plastic smell and suggested after inflating to let the spa sit for a day or so to air out. I really wish I wasn't so impatient and would have done this. But my excitement got the best of me and I filled it with water as soon as I had it set up. There is still a mild plastic smell that I'm pretty sure has infused itself into the water. I've had it set up for three days and have used it twice at this point, so if it doesn't dissipate soon, I may need to drain and refill. It's not too bad, but I definitely feel like I need to shower after using the tub.
USAGE:
- I'm 5'9" and I was really impressed with how much room I had in the spa. When I sit down, the water covers my shoulders, and my legs can fully extend across the spa without touching the other side.
- Although it does heat slowly as other reviewers have mentioned, it will heat up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. It stayed at that temp for at least 20 minutes, and because I had the bubbles going, slowly dropped in temperature to about 102 degrees within 40 minutes.
- I stopped at a local spa store to get the chemicals I would need, and when I expressed my concerns about chlorine and wanting to use the least amount of chemicals as possible, the guy recommended Leisure Time Renew. I just add 1-1/2 teaspoons after I use the spa (leave the bubbles running for a bit and then the pump running to ensure good mixture/distribution). I used the test strips that were included and checked the levels the day after I used the spa, and everything was good, but the chlorine was a little on the low side (which I prefer).
- The material used for the spa is exceptionally durable! I have a 100 lb. German Shepherd who of course had to come over and jump up on the spa to make sure I wasn't drowning. I immediately snapped at her to get down, but quickly realized that more than likely, she wasn't going to be able to damage it. And, it's so strong, you can easily sit on the side wall of the tub. My boyfriend who's 6'7" and 260 lbs. was even able to sit on the edge.
- I was pleasantly surprised at the power of the bubbles. Before I bought the spa, I didn't think that I would really even use them. But I actually really like them! I would have loved jets, but for this tub, the bubbles make a nice alternative. There is an air channel all the way around the bottom seam of the spa where the bubbles come from and they actually do provide the whole "massage" feeling that you get from jets (but obviously not as strong). The bubbles on this spa are much stronger and massaging than the typical bubbles on a "real" spa. I think Intex designers hit the nail on the head when they decided to make the forced air for the bubbles heated (it's like a hair dryer). This definitely helps reduce the cooling of the water while the bubbles are running.
PROS
- Heated bubbles helps to keep the temp from dropping too quickly
- Lots of room to stretch out
- Padded bottom for comfort
- Easy set-up (did it myself)
- Durable material resistant to German Shepherd protective nature
- Everything you need is included, except the chemicals
- Great spa cover that doubles as a waterbed
CONS
- Heats slowly, but not slower than the manufacturer notes in the guide (about 2-3 degrees per hour)
- Strong plastic odor if you are impatient like me and don't let it air out
- Shipping issues (guessing because it's so big/heavy and not because Amazon hates me) - I paid $25 to have this shipped overnight delivery through my Prime account, so it should have been delivered on a Friday, but there was a shipping delay and I ended up not getting it until Monday, so didn't get to enjoy it over the weekend as I had hoped. Amazon did refund my shipping costs though and gave me a month extension on my Prime account for the inconvenience.
Long and short of it, definitely recommended to anyone looking for an affordable way to relax!
There is a newer model of this item:
INTEX 28427E PureSpa Bubble Massage, Inflatable Spa Set, Tan, 6-Person
$599.99
(889)
Only 3 left in stock - order soon.
$599.99
(889)
Only 3 left in stock - order soon.
Customers also search
Page 1 of 1Page 1 of 1
From the manufacturer
Easy Maintenance
Each PureSpa includes a Floating Chemical Dispenser and a Replaceable S1 Spa Filter Cartridge for simple maintenance to keep your spa clean and refreshing.
- Built-in hard water system softens the water, making it more refreshing on your skin
- Insulated ground cloth provides enhanced thermal retention
- Insulated cover for improved heating and safety
Intex PureSpa Portable 6-Person Bubble Spa
Catch up with a couple friends while relaxing in heated water, surrounded by soothing bubble jets. The PureSpa becomes a relaxing outlet for up to six people at the touch of a button. Made with an innovative Fiber-Tech Construction, this PureSpa will bring the feel of luxury to any space for years to come.
Fiber-Tech Construction, which is comprised of thousands of high-strength polyester fibers, provides enhanced comfort, stability, and support. Unlike traditional vinyl inner-beam construction, high-strength polyester fibers do not stretch over time, resulting in superior and long-lasting durability.
Plus, the easy-to-use control panel activates the 140 high-powered bubble jets surrounding the interior of the spa for a refreshing massage. The heating system adjusts to fit your personal temperature preference allowing a stress-free spa experience. And all of our PureSpa models feature a built-in hard water treatment system that works to soften the water in your spa which makes water gentler on skin, providing a more refreshing experience.
The PureSpa provides simple maintenance with two easy-to-replace filter cartridges for clean refreshing spa water. The Fiber-Tech Construction and the puncture-resistant 3-ply laminated material provide the ultimate comfort, support, and durability. An insulated cover and lock is included to minimize heat loss, and provides an added safety feature. A carry bag is provided for easy storage and transportation.
- Seating Capacity: 6 People
- Water Capacity: 290 Gallons
- Water Temperature Range: 68-104 degrees Fahrenheit - to reach maximum water temperature, outdoor temperature must be a minimum of 50 degrees Fahrenheit
- Approximate Inflated Size: Inner/Outer Diameter: 65"/85" Height: 28"
- Model Number: 28407E
|
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|---|---|---|---|
Built-In Hard Water Treatment SystemThe built-in Hard Water Treatment System makes water gentler on skin, clothes and the entire spa system. |
Prevent Hard Water Build UpWithout our hard water treatment system, hard water build up limits water flow and reduces the life of your spa. |
Advanced Technology Creates Suspended CrystalsThe system generates an electro-magnetic field that agitates calcium and other minerals in the water, causing them to create suspended crystals. |
The Included Filter Cartridge Does the RestThe suspended crystals are then retained in the filter cartridge, leaving soft water in the spa. |
|
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|---|---|---|
| PureSpa 6-Person Bubble Massage Spa | PureSpa Bubble Massage Spa | |
| Seating Capacity | 6 | 4 |
| Water Capacity | 290 gallons | 210 gallons |
| Shape | Round | Round |
| Jets | 140 Bubble Jets | 120 Bubble Jets |
| Jet Pump | - | - |
| Heater | 1,300W ~ 1°-2°F/hr | 1,300W ~ 2°-3°F/hr |
| Flow Rate | 460 gal/hour | 460 gal/hour |
| Bubble Air Blower | 1.1 hp ~ 110-120V | 1.1 hp ~ 110-120V |
| Built-In Hard Water Treatment System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Chlorine System | Floating chlorine dispenser included | Floating chlorine dispenser included |
Compare with similar items
 | Intex Greywood Deluxe 4 Person Outdoor Portable Inflatable Hot Tub Spa with Multi-Color LED Light, Foam Headrests, and 140 Soothing Bubble Jets, Gray | Coleman 90454 Atlantis SaluSpa 71" x 26" 4-6 Person Outdoor Portable Inflatable Square Hot Tub Spa with 140 Air Jets, Cover, and 2 Cartridges, Blue | Intex 28409E PureSpa 6 Person Home Outdoor Inflatable Portable Heated Round Hot Tub Spa 85-inch x 28-inch with 170 Bubble Jets, Built in Heat Pump, and Drink Cup Holder Refreshment Tray (2 Pack) | INTEX 28427E PureSpa Bubble Massage, Inflatable Spa Set, Tan, 6-Person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Customer Rating | (3533) | (2006) | (794) | (148) | (889) |
| Price | $1,877.00 | $719.99 | $549.99 | $1,199.95 | $599.99 |
| Sold By | FAMILY WHOLESALE | Spreetail | Spreetail | SYNERGY SALES GROUP | Starship Toys |
| Item Dimensions | 85 x 85 x 28 inches | 0 x 0 x 0 inches | 0 x 0 x 0 inches | 0 x 0 x 0 inches | 85 x 85 x 28 inches |
| Item Weight | 95.70 lbs | 102.21 lbs | 0.00 ounces | — | 108.59 lbs |
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Intex PureSpa 4-Person Deluxe Spa- 1 YEAR REVIEW!
The Shopping Game
So I purchased this tub after reading several reviews, planning on frankentubing it :) I wanted to describe my trials and tribulations, and what I found worked best (for me). I'll say in preface, even though I purchased the tub on sale for 300, I would have just purchased the tub (minus control unit, heater, etc) direct as a 'replacement' from Intex and saved some money if planning to do this from the beginning...For one, I initially purchased an L7 Eccotemp thinking I'd get better heating performance than the L5. I live in Michigan, and it gets cold in the winter...figured I'd need the extra BTU. However, as the reviews state quite a bit on the L7, it has difficulties staying lit, lighting, and is just finicky in general... so I ended up getting an L5 (which worked ideally in the long run, see below).I see quite a few people getting a flojet pump as recommended by the manufacturer. I did initially, and it did push quite a bit of water, but it was quite noisy, and having to have a voltage converter, and box to protect everything, kind of made things messy... In the end I went with an Intex 1000 GPH pump. I figured based on the gph rating it'd push more water.. it pushes much less, but it does push enough to make the L5 happy. It also has filter built in to protect the L5 (and prevent needing to use filter\heater\pump that comes with the spa), runs off 120v, and has GFCI plug on it... and it's so quiet.. even more so than the pump that comes with the spa... most the time I have to lean over the deck to hear if it's still on.....So my setup is this... from the drain of the spa (which leaked a bit using the hose converter adapter that comes with, so replaced with beefier o-ring and caulked up), to the intex 1000gph, to the L5, then through hose back to the spa. I used it when it was 50-60 out, and raised temps a degree every 3-4 minutes. We'll see how it does when it really starts to get cold (in the next week here, I'll post an update), but that's still far better and cheaper than built in pump... I just leave it off now...Now here is the kicker... the L5 has an on off switch on the bottom (none of the other eccotemps do). This is handy when hitting the 20 minute auto shutoff on these units as you can turn it off\on quick and restart the time. HOWEVER.. I got creative... I cut the leads from the switch, and ran them to an insteon I\O link module to tie into my home automation system. I also have a temperature sensor tied in to monitor water temp. I keep the Intex pump running 24\7. This will prevent both pump and eccotemp from freezing during winter, and continuous filtering of the water, and will cost $10-$15 a month at most to run. Then it will just be propane costs which will be substantially less than electricity, but will update after a couple months on that as well. Then the home automation will turn the l5 on when the temp gets too low (currently set at 60 degrees) and if for some reason the system fails and it gets below 55, will email me and ring a siren alert in my house. I have a button on my wall (and phone) to enable 'hot tub time' which will run the eccotemp until it gets to 105-106 degrees (hotter than built in pump would get anyways). Also will cycle the heater off\on at the 19 minute mark for me to keep the eccotemp running past the autoshutoff. I put the i\o linc in a waterproof box, and may also put in the box a 3v power adapter ran to replace the batteries in the L5. then the only worry is enough propane. after I see how much I use this year, I may just get a bigger tank to run the whole winter on for next year. I also put pipe insulation on the pipes to help prevent heat loss with the pump pumping all the time... that is my only concern at this point. If you live in a warmer climate, the insulation and keeping the pump running all the time would be less of a concern.rough parts list:Eccotemp L5Intex 1000GPH filter pump (since replaced with Intex 2500GPH filter)propane tankvarious adapters from hardware store to go from intex pump to l5, and pump to drain adapter. These consisted of 2 of each:1 1\4" barbed to 1" MIP plastic adapter1" FIP to 3\4" MIP brass adapter3\4" FIP to 3\4" female hose adapter(added pipe insulation, and 2" foam board for under the cover)Home automation parts list:Insteon I\O lincInsteon 2441th remote thermostatInsteon 2443A3 waterproof temperature sensorsomething to control all the above :)**update**I've since added a 100lb LP tank so I don't have to refill as often. I've also upgraded the pump to the Intex 2500.. the 1000 and 1500 didn't seem to appease the L5 on a consistent basis with pressure. This will put my electricity cost at about $25\month (though in warmer weather I won't be running it constant like in winter). I've also added a 2" round foam board under the cover for insulation, created a insulation 'box' for the pump, and insulated the hoses.... I added a 3v power adapter to replace the batteries so don't need batteries anymore. I added a foam board 'wind shield' around the L5 for windy weather, I'll probably make this look a bit better once we have warmer weather...In Michigan winter weather (22 degrees F), I lost about 10-15 degrees a day in the tub (I keep it between 60-75 when not in use). If I turn the system\L5 on for 10-15 minutes a day, it raises it the 10-15 degrees I lose. Better than running electric constantly (I tried it, it would be on constant heat to keep the tub up to temp, huge electricity bill). All in all, a bit of work and a about doubled my cost of the tub, but for 600 bones I now have an efficient, nice\cheap hot tub that works great. As a bonus, I'm not limited to the 104 degrees limit of the out of box system (I find I like it around 106). So $25 for electricity, and about $20 for gas a month in 22 degree F weather, $45 to keep tub going. not too shabby... Better than the $145\month + for electricity :)
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Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on August 28, 2014
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on December 4, 2016
So I purchased this tub after reading several reviews, planning on frankentubing it :) I wanted to describe my trials and tribulations, and what I found worked best (for me). I'll say in preface, even though I purchased the tub on sale for 300, I would have just purchased the tub (minus control unit, heater, etc) direct as a 'replacement' from Intex and saved some money if planning to do this from the beginning...
For one, I initially purchased an L7 Eccotemp thinking I'd get better heating performance than the L5. I live in Michigan, and it gets cold in the winter...figured I'd need the extra BTU. However, as the reviews state quite a bit on the L7, it has difficulties staying lit, lighting, and is just finicky in general... so I ended up getting an L5 (which worked ideally in the long run, see below).
I see quite a few people getting a flojet pump as recommended by the manufacturer. I did initially, and it did push quite a bit of water, but it was quite noisy, and having to have a voltage converter, and box to protect everything, kind of made things messy... In the end I went with an Intex 1000 GPH pump. I figured based on the gph rating it'd push more water.. it pushes much less, but it does push enough to make the L5 happy. It also has filter built in to protect the L5 (and prevent needing to use filter\heater\pump that comes with the spa), runs off 120v, and has GFCI plug on it... and it's so quiet.. even more so than the pump that comes with the spa... most the time I have to lean over the deck to hear if it's still on.....
So my setup is this... from the drain of the spa (which leaked a bit using the hose converter adapter that comes with, so replaced with beefier o-ring and caulked up), to the intex 1000gph, to the L5, then through hose back to the spa. I used it when it was 50-60 out, and raised temps a degree every 3-4 minutes. We'll see how it does when it really starts to get cold (in the next week here, I'll post an update), but that's still far better and cheaper than built in pump... I just leave it off now...
Now here is the kicker... the L5 has an on off switch on the bottom (none of the other eccotemps do). This is handy when hitting the 20 minute auto shutoff on these units as you can turn it off\on quick and restart the time. HOWEVER.. I got creative... I cut the leads from the switch, and ran them to an insteon I\O link module to tie into my home automation system. I also have a temperature sensor tied in to monitor water temp. I keep the Intex pump running 24\7. This will prevent both pump and eccotemp from freezing during winter, and continuous filtering of the water, and will cost $10-$15 a month at most to run. Then it will just be propane costs which will be substantially less than electricity, but will update after a couple months on that as well. Then the home automation will turn the l5 on when the temp gets too low (currently set at 60 degrees) and if for some reason the system fails and it gets below 55, will email me and ring a siren alert in my house. I have a button on my wall (and phone) to enable 'hot tub time' which will run the eccotemp until it gets to 105-106 degrees (hotter than built in pump would get anyways). Also will cycle the heater off\on at the 19 minute mark for me to keep the eccotemp running past the autoshutoff. I put the i\o linc in a waterproof box, and may also put in the box a 3v power adapter ran to replace the batteries in the L5. then the only worry is enough propane. after I see how much I use this year, I may just get a bigger tank to run the whole winter on for next year. I also put pipe insulation on the pipes to help prevent heat loss with the pump pumping all the time... that is my only concern at this point. If you live in a warmer climate, the insulation and keeping the pump running all the time would be less of a concern.
rough parts list:
Eccotemp L5
Intex 1000GPH filter pump (since replaced with Intex 2500GPH filter)
propane tank
various adapters from hardware store to go from intex pump to l5, and pump to drain adapter. These consisted of 2 of each:
1 1\4" barbed to 1" MIP plastic adapter
1" FIP to 3\4" MIP brass adapter
3\4" FIP to 3\4" female hose adapter
(added pipe insulation, and 2" foam board for under the cover)
Home automation parts list:
Insteon I\O linc
Insteon 2441th remote thermostat
Insteon 2443A3 waterproof temperature sensor
something to control all the above :)
**update**
I've since added a 100lb LP tank so I don't have to refill as often. I've also upgraded the pump to the Intex 2500.. the 1000 and 1500 didn't seem to appease the L5 on a consistent basis with pressure. This will put my electricity cost at about $25\month (though in warmer weather I won't be running it constant like in winter). I've also added a 2" round foam board under the cover for insulation, created a insulation 'box' for the pump, and insulated the hoses.... I added a 3v power adapter to replace the batteries so don't need batteries anymore. I added a foam board 'wind shield' around the L5 for windy weather, I'll probably make this look a bit better once we have warmer weather...
In Michigan winter weather (22 degrees F), I lost about 10-15 degrees a day in the tub (I keep it between 60-75 when not in use). If I turn the system\L5 on for 10-15 minutes a day, it raises it the 10-15 degrees I lose. Better than running electric constantly (I tried it, it would be on constant heat to keep the tub up to temp, huge electricity bill). All in all, a bit of work and a about doubled my cost of the tub, but for 600 bones I now have an efficient, nice\cheap hot tub that works great. As a bonus, I'm not limited to the 104 degrees limit of the out of box system (I find I like it around 106). So $25 for electricity, and about $20 for gas a month in 22 degree F weather, $45 to keep tub going. not too shabby... Better than the $145\month + for electricity :)
For one, I initially purchased an L7 Eccotemp thinking I'd get better heating performance than the L5. I live in Michigan, and it gets cold in the winter...figured I'd need the extra BTU. However, as the reviews state quite a bit on the L7, it has difficulties staying lit, lighting, and is just finicky in general... so I ended up getting an L5 (which worked ideally in the long run, see below).
I see quite a few people getting a flojet pump as recommended by the manufacturer. I did initially, and it did push quite a bit of water, but it was quite noisy, and having to have a voltage converter, and box to protect everything, kind of made things messy... In the end I went with an Intex 1000 GPH pump. I figured based on the gph rating it'd push more water.. it pushes much less, but it does push enough to make the L5 happy. It also has filter built in to protect the L5 (and prevent needing to use filter\heater\pump that comes with the spa), runs off 120v, and has GFCI plug on it... and it's so quiet.. even more so than the pump that comes with the spa... most the time I have to lean over the deck to hear if it's still on.....
So my setup is this... from the drain of the spa (which leaked a bit using the hose converter adapter that comes with, so replaced with beefier o-ring and caulked up), to the intex 1000gph, to the L5, then through hose back to the spa. I used it when it was 50-60 out, and raised temps a degree every 3-4 minutes. We'll see how it does when it really starts to get cold (in the next week here, I'll post an update), but that's still far better and cheaper than built in pump... I just leave it off now...
Now here is the kicker... the L5 has an on off switch on the bottom (none of the other eccotemps do). This is handy when hitting the 20 minute auto shutoff on these units as you can turn it off\on quick and restart the time. HOWEVER.. I got creative... I cut the leads from the switch, and ran them to an insteon I\O link module to tie into my home automation system. I also have a temperature sensor tied in to monitor water temp. I keep the Intex pump running 24\7. This will prevent both pump and eccotemp from freezing during winter, and continuous filtering of the water, and will cost $10-$15 a month at most to run. Then it will just be propane costs which will be substantially less than electricity, but will update after a couple months on that as well. Then the home automation will turn the l5 on when the temp gets too low (currently set at 60 degrees) and if for some reason the system fails and it gets below 55, will email me and ring a siren alert in my house. I have a button on my wall (and phone) to enable 'hot tub time' which will run the eccotemp until it gets to 105-106 degrees (hotter than built in pump would get anyways). Also will cycle the heater off\on at the 19 minute mark for me to keep the eccotemp running past the autoshutoff. I put the i\o linc in a waterproof box, and may also put in the box a 3v power adapter ran to replace the batteries in the L5. then the only worry is enough propane. after I see how much I use this year, I may just get a bigger tank to run the whole winter on for next year. I also put pipe insulation on the pipes to help prevent heat loss with the pump pumping all the time... that is my only concern at this point. If you live in a warmer climate, the insulation and keeping the pump running all the time would be less of a concern.
rough parts list:
Eccotemp L5
Intex 1000GPH filter pump (since replaced with Intex 2500GPH filter)
propane tank
various adapters from hardware store to go from intex pump to l5, and pump to drain adapter. These consisted of 2 of each:
1 1\4" barbed to 1" MIP plastic adapter
1" FIP to 3\4" MIP brass adapter
3\4" FIP to 3\4" female hose adapter
(added pipe insulation, and 2" foam board for under the cover)
Home automation parts list:
Insteon I\O linc
Insteon 2441th remote thermostat
Insteon 2443A3 waterproof temperature sensor
something to control all the above :)
**update**
I've since added a 100lb LP tank so I don't have to refill as often. I've also upgraded the pump to the Intex 2500.. the 1000 and 1500 didn't seem to appease the L5 on a consistent basis with pressure. This will put my electricity cost at about $25\month (though in warmer weather I won't be running it constant like in winter). I've also added a 2" round foam board under the cover for insulation, created a insulation 'box' for the pump, and insulated the hoses.... I added a 3v power adapter to replace the batteries so don't need batteries anymore. I added a foam board 'wind shield' around the L5 for windy weather, I'll probably make this look a bit better once we have warmer weather...
In Michigan winter weather (22 degrees F), I lost about 10-15 degrees a day in the tub (I keep it between 60-75 when not in use). If I turn the system\L5 on for 10-15 minutes a day, it raises it the 10-15 degrees I lose. Better than running electric constantly (I tried it, it would be on constant heat to keep the tub up to temp, huge electricity bill). All in all, a bit of work and a about doubled my cost of the tub, but for 600 bones I now have an efficient, nice\cheap hot tub that works great. As a bonus, I'm not limited to the 104 degrees limit of the out of box system (I find I like it around 106). So $25 for electricity, and about $20 for gas a month in 22 degree F weather, $45 to keep tub going. not too shabby... Better than the $145\month + for electricity :)
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