<?xml version='1.0' encoding='UTF-8'?><rss xmlns:atom='http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom' xmlns:openSearch='http://a9.com/-/spec/opensearchrss/1.0/' version='2.0'><channel><atom:id>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full</atom:id><lastBuildDate>Mon, 03 Jul 2006 11:44:36 +0000</lastBuildDate><title>The "O" Zone</title><description></description><link>http://spafixer.com/blogger.html</link><managingEditor>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</managingEditor><openSearch:itemsPerPage>15</openSearch:itemsPerPage><item><guid isPermaLink='false'>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full/115264650203766247</guid><pubDate>Tue, 11 Jul 2006 18:52:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2006-07-11T15:44:00.605-04:00</atom:updated><title>So you want to be a middle-man...</title><description>&lt;div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On Nov. 3rd 2005 I installed a Balboa pc board on my favorite commercial customer's hot tubs. 24 weeks later, it went bad while still under it's one year warranty. He has 5 hot tubs between his different rentals, and this one was about 5 years old one the original board went out the exact same way. So I called my parts distributor in Arizona and ordered another one based on the board’s 'eprom chip' numbers. With Balboa, this is the only way you can order an exact replacement. Three days later, the part comes, (I know have to pay for the replacement, ship the defective one back at my cost, and wait until they send it to Balboa. Balboa tests the board and makes the judgment whether its warrant able or not. Then they reimburse distributor X, then distributor X reimburses me, then I reimburse the end user) Anyways, I opened the factory labeled Balboa Parts box, only to discover a remote control!!!!!! A flippin' remote control!! So I called distributor X from my customers house and explain the mix-up. The assure me that I will have the right part I ordered the next morning. Okay, cool. A second trip but hey it happens. So the next morning the UPS driver shows up wanting another check including COD charges!!! Long story short, I had to pay once again for the part. Also, I had to pay to ship the defective pc board and the remote control back to distributor X. They rec'd the parts about a week later, and immediately they called me stating that the pc board would not be covered because it appears that the heater screws were loose and arched out. I would not be reimbursed for this part that went defective after 24 weeks of trouble free use. I call that shirking responsibility!!!! As of this blog’s publication, I still have not been reimbursed for the remote control I paid for. back on 5/4/06!!!!!! 9 weeks to get reimbursed for a blatantly wrong, unused part that has probably already been shipped out to a service company that needed one!!!!!! One of these days I will tell you the story about how a local pool supply company that dabbles in spa parts sent me a used spa pack, and how they "handled" it....so stay tuned.&lt;/div></description><link>http://spafixer.com/2006/07/so-you-want-to-be-middle-man.html</link><author>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink='false'>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full/115232085845395000</guid><pubDate>Sat, 08 Jul 2006 01:00:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2006-07-11T14:51:48.296-04:00</atom:updated><title>Weirdest 6 months in 6 years...part 1</title><description>&lt;div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Real quick on this one. It could easily get long, but I am just going to state the facts as briefly as possible. All of these have happened in the last 6-8 months.
1. A competitor that blatantly bad mouthed me has: been arrested, convicted and jailed. Lost the competitive business and another one. Has been divorced.
2. Five years ago, a commercial business that uses hot tubs that got me to diagnose his HT, then fixes it himself, stiffs me for the service call, then brags to fellow cabin rentals about how he took advantage of me. He calls me (what balls!) and asks if I have the heater in stock that fits his hot tub. I do, but I tell him that I do not. Then he tells me that he has ordered one from the manufacturer just in case I didn't have it. Then asks if he can call me if he needs any help with installation. I said, you're a cabin rental business right? He says yes, I said that I no longer accept cabin rental customers.
3. The only bad check I get in over 6 years is from (another cabin rental). over $499.99 so it's a 5th degree felony. Because I didn't write her ssn, driver's lic # &amp; d.o.b. on the check, the PA won't pursue it. I can prosecute her myself though. 
4. A repeat residential customer that builds custom high-end homes calls me 5 times one Friday while I was out of town at my Wife's Grandma's funeral. On the way home I returned his urgent calls, and agreed to take a look at his hot tub the following day (Saturday). Upon fixing his hot tub using parts on my truck, and with his prior knowledge of their cost, I hand him an invoice expecting to be paid as promptly as I fixed him up. He gives me a song and dance about his wife having the checkbook, and that he would mail me a check Monday morning. Over a year later, and two days after I  got the greatest phone call of all. I was taking a walk around my neighborhood. I see a sign advertising "This custom home being build by:..." So I walk up the still dirt driveway, and guess who spots me first! He immediately says, he finishes up at 4:30, won't you stop over and I'll write you a check, and BTW, something else has happened to my hot tub and it's not working again. I tell him that I start my new job in a week and I won't have time to get the parts in. I also told him he should call someone else. LOL
more later.&lt;/div></description><link>http://spafixer.com/2006/07/weirdest-6-months-in-6-yearspart-1.html</link><author>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink='false'>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full/115215234567141499</guid><pubDate>Thu, 06 Jul 2006 02:06:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2006-07-05T22:19:05.686-04:00</atom:updated><title>TV Repairman</title><description>&lt;div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In my opinion, there are two forces in the repair of hot tubs. What was the same back when the electronics were relays and air latching switches is still true with pc boards. Meanwhile, there are three tiers of manufactured hot tubs being sold. Tier 1 is typified by brands such as Sundance, Hot Spring and to a certain degree Dimension One. The first two build their own electronics and have total control as to what the end product does, and its distribution through the products life cycle (Proprietary, and protecting their dealer's interests and needs). The second tier comprises the largest group of portable spas seen these days. Companies such as Seven Seas, Master Spas and Nordic hot tubs make up this category. More often than not, the make their own shells and shell molds, but most likely they farm out the cabinetry. The biggest difference that separates them is that they buy off-the-shelf electronics to run their hot tubs. Now, believe me, any brand of hot tub can be retrofitted with one of these after market 'packs' when they fail out of warranty. However, tier 2s are easiest because of the generic 15" heater manifolds used by both of the only two companies that make these 'packs'. The third tier is disposable 'hot tubs'. I hesitate to even call them hot tubs because they usually do not have a heater, but rather draw heat from a coiled tube wrapped around the jet's motor.
&lt;p> Out of warranty repairs usually require a fellow with expertise in plumbing, electronics, mechanics, hydraulics carpentry and on and on. Any dealership that has a fellow that can do all that is VERY lucky!! Because if he is smart enough to do all that, he's smart enough to go into business for himself. &lt;p> On the other hand, dealerships can easily man a service department to make repairs of newer hot tubs. All the dealer has to do is stock a truck with the factories recommended spare parts, and hand the guy a cell phone preprogrammed with the factory tech support phone number. The factory guys will talk him through the troubleshooting procedure, tell him what to replace and how to replace it.&lt;p> I said all that to say this, hot tub repairmen most likely will not see the same fate as TV repairmen. -Gary&lt;/div></description><link>http://spafixer.com/2006/07/tv-repairman.html</link><author>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink='false'>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full/115202305607119897</guid><pubDate>Tue, 04 Jul 2006 13:56:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2006-07-04T10:24:16.110-04:00</atom:updated><title>Happy Independence Day!</title><description>&lt;div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This year's installment of "Taxation with representation is so much better!" should be a crowd pleaser.&lt;p> So how are the Brits doing? Here's a quote from a Jan. 2006 newspaper article. "The average family is 10 per cent worse off than it was five years ago, according to a new analysis of income and outgoings before and after tax.
&lt;p>
Tax Freedom Day in England was three weeks earlier than the UK average, while Tax Freedom Day in England was three weeks later. The burden was even higher in Wales (six weeks more) and Northern Ireland (ten weeks more).
&lt;p>Tax Freedom Day for American workers as a group will be April 26, three days later than last year and 10 days later than in 2003 and 2004.&lt;p> Happy Independence Day, and let freedom ring. Last but not least, Happy 41st anniversary Mom &amp; Dad!!!!&lt;/div></description><link>http://spafixer.com/2006/07/happy-independence-day.html</link><author>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink='false'>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full/115188773915015947</guid><pubDate>Mon, 03 Jul 2006 00:31:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2006-07-03T07:50:59.153-04:00</atom:updated><title>Coming soon... Some good reading.</title><description>&lt;div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">I have had some great feedback from my customers about my blog. Of all the things I have tried, this seems to stir the most reaction. I think it is because of my Dennis Miller approach. When I know what I am talking about, I tend to express what my opinion is. When I don't, I defer.&lt;P>

For example, I am often asked if it's okay using baking soda to adjust pH in hot tubs. My first thought is why ask if you aren't willing to accept my answer which is based on elementary facts? If it was the best way to do it, Arm &amp; Hammer would add it to their vast line up of products. As a matter of fact, I have it in my 'fridge and in my toothpaste. When my pH is a low, I just squeeze a tube of toothpaste in. 
&lt;img src="http://www.spafixer.com/blog images/Baking_soda_toothpaste.jpg" />Plus it whitens my shell 3 shades in two weeks!!! &lt;img src="http://www.spafixer.com/blog images/oht.jpg" />
Just because it is a mild abrasive used to scrub off stains from tooth enamel doesn't mean it will effect my pump's seals. &lt;img src="http://www.spafixer.com/blog images/p_seal.jpg" /> How could it prematurly wear down pencil lead graphite or ceramic??? Shucks, I only brush my teeth for 2 minutes to get these results,running a 6 hour filter cycle only means my seals will be "whiter" and "brighter"!!!!&lt;P>

This is just an example of what the flavor of my new blog will be.
You see, I have given my boss a three weeks notice that I am quitting!!! LOL. After a six year run at running a hot tub sales &amp; service company, I have decided to get out.
to be continued...
Gary&lt;/div></description><link>http://spafixer.com/2006/07/coming-soon-some-good-reading.html</link><author>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink='false'>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full/114511060354737691</guid><pubDate>Sat, 15 Apr 2006 14:15:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2006-04-15T10:34:17.680-04:00</atom:updated><title>Some stats on hot tubs</title><description>&lt;div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Here are some stats on hot tubs.

Year       U.S.       Canada    Export 

1997       231,000    16,000     5,000
1998       265,000    18,500    11,000
1999       302,000    20,000    16,000
2000       337,000    21,000    18,000
2001       288,000    20,600    19,000
2002       345,000    24,300    20,000

Annual Unit Sales ............... 345,000 units
Retail Dollar Sales ............ $2.1 billion US
Existing Units in use ....... 6.0 million (est.)

&lt;a href="http://www.spafixer.com">spafixer.com&lt;/a>
-Gary&lt;/div></description><link>http://spafixer.com/2006/04/some-stats-on-hot-tubs.html</link><author>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink='false'>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full/114235819471086867</guid><pubDate>Tue, 14 Mar 2006 17:36:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2006-04-15T10:12:24.536-04:00</atom:updated><title>Hot tub appeal</title><description>&lt;div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Hot-tub makers have been able to turn the spa shell into the speaker so that not only is the music heard, but the audio vibrations are felt in the water.
    Other features in hot tubs include special lighting effects, miniwaterfalls, reclining chairs with various seating configurations, drink trays and head rests.
    Some models even come with refrigerators, and new entertainment options are popular among buyers.
    Buyers look to hot tubs for relaxation, recreation or therapy.
    As far as features in hot tubs go, It's all about the jets. The differences in hot tubs now from those 15 [to] 20 years ago are that they offer more jets and have more durable cabinets.
    Industry experts say buyers have the choice of many types of jets and jet placements, with varying degrees of massaging action to soothe, relax and stimulate muscles and joints.
    The number and location depends on whether someone wants to target a specific area of the body or prefers a general massage. If the tub will be used primarily for entertainment, professionals advise homeowners to consider a jetting system that produces a more even flow of water to the entire tub.
    Statistics from the APSP suggest that the typical hot-tub consumer makes an average of $75,000 or more per year and has a college degree. Purchasers of in-ground pools make an average of $50,000 and have a minimum of some college experience, statistics show.
    Statistics also show that California is the top state for hot-tub purchases. However, homeowners in America's Northeast spend more time in their hot tubs, using them about 11.8 days per month as compared to those on the West Coast, who show usage of about 8.5 days per month.
    Before making a purchase, consider the size. Hot tubs can come in a variety of sizes, and though smaller, two-person tubs exist, experts say the most common type of tub offers comfortable seating for six adults.
    Statistics also show that most purchasers put their hot tubs on a back deck.
    However, I have seen them placed in sunrooms, which is nice because the hot tub can be used at any time regardless of the weather or season.
    Those considering buying a home with a hot tub should check with the seller to make sure it conveys. If so, a buyer should determine whether the tub is under warranty and whether the warranty is transferable. They also should make sure the hot tub's placement is in accordance with local regulations. Also, a potential buyer can ask for maintenance records.
    Proper maintenance is essential for hot tubs, and experts say many people mistakenly believe that if the water looks good, everything must be under control.
    Homeowners should test the water weekly and drain the tub every three to six months depending on the size and how often the tub is used.
    To prevent bacteria, clean the filters according to the manufacturer's requirements and use chemicals in the right amounts to maintain a suitable level of disinfecting chemicals and pH.
    Today's hot tubs include programmable filtering functions for homeowners who don't have time to keep up with their system. 
    When it comes to selling a house with a hot tub, real estate agents say to make sure the tub has been well maintained and looks good.
    The hot tub won't sell the house, but is a nice extra that many buyers would not add themselves but are delighted to have.
    &lt;a href="http://www.spafixer.com">www.spafixer.com&lt;/a>
-Gary&lt;/div></description><link>http://spafixer.com/2006/03/hot-tub-appeal.html</link><author>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink='false'>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full/113572700134499029</guid><pubDate>Tue, 27 Dec 2005 23:40:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2006-03-28T10:19:13.903-05:00</atom:updated><title>Weir Gate vs. Pressure Filter</title><description>&lt;div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);">Yesterday a hot tub manufacturer called me soliciting me to sell their brand of hot tub. I had received a call the day before by one of the owners of this company asking the same question, and did not expect to hear from them for awhile at best. Anyway, the first question I asked her to was this: Does your hot tub use a weir gate (pic coming soon) or pressure filter (pic &lt;/span>&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);">coming soon&lt;/span>&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);">)? After her response and quick justification, I rattled off the top 5 hot tub manufacturers and explained that non of these companies use pressure filters. Here is why: &lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);">Pressure filters still require a separate skimmer to be plumbed in to deal with floating stuff like body oil, leaves etc. Even still, the small hole (1.5 diameter max) does not really do as effective job as a wide mouth weir gate or weir basket. &lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);">Next, filter media size. There is a pressure canister that holds a 1oo square foot cartridge, however, while I was doing some 3rd party warranty work (whole other blog material) on a brand that used them, I found them to be VERY problematic and susceptible to cracking. The typical canister is 25/50 sq Ft and does not have those types of problems, however that is pretty small. &lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);">Next, pressure canisters require an o-ringed lid and locking ring in order to pressurize. These lids are VERY susceptible to hair line cracking resulting in a depressurized system. Systems that also use a pressure switch for the heater, there will be a "flo" error and no heat. ((pressure switch vs. Flow switch is a whole other blog episode)) Also, the o-ring requires lube in order to seal properly, guess what happens to this lube when water washes it away, a very hard to remove lid!!
As for skimmer filtration canisters (middle picture) they are difficult to get the filters into, and require small and or stacking filters.
&lt;/span>&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);">In conclusion, top manufacturers do not build hot tubs that used pressure filters, and I will not sell ones that do. I could not look my clients in the eyes as I remove the filter lid that they can not remove themselves. -Gary
&lt;/span>&lt;a href="http://www.spafixer.com">www.spafixer.com&lt;/a>&lt;/div></description><link>http://spafixer.com/2005/12/weir-gate-vs-pressure-filter.html</link><author>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink='false'>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full/113572711981288189</guid><pubDate>Tue, 27 Dec 2005 23:44:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2006-03-28T10:18:35.463-05:00</atom:updated><title>Used Hot Tubs vs. Refurbished</title><description>&lt;div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);"> I thought I better sit for a spell and talk about the ends and outs of used hot tubs.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">Used Hot Tubs&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">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.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">2.) Unlike cars, people trade in used hot tubs for a reason.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">       #1 Reason:  Cover is so heavy that it can't even be  lifted in order to get in.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">        #2 Reason:  Something electronic or mechanical fails that costs more than they want to put into an old hot tub.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">So...&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">3.) New covers cost $350.00.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">4.) New motors start at $400.00 or new electronics packs start at $850.00&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">This makes a $100.00 used hot tub is unlikely.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">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.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">Refurbished Hot Tubs&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">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.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">2.) Cabinetry that has been restained periodically can still look great even when outdoors for decades.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">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.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">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.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">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.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 204);">-Gary&lt;/span>&lt;a href="http://www.spafixer.com">www.spafixer.com&lt;/a>&lt;/div></description><link>http://spafixer.com/2005/12/used-hot-tubs-vs-refurbished.html</link><author>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink='false'>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full/113572733933564150</guid><pubDate>Tue, 27 Dec 2005 23:47:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2006-03-28T10:17:59.660-05:00</atom:updated><title>Prologue - Full Foam Insulation vs. Other Insulation</title><description>&lt;div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">I am going to open up this blog for discussion. I will site first hand experience, and not canned anecdotal blabbering. As both a hot tub owner, avid user and a paid professional that has worked on thousands of various hot tubs, I bring expertise; not salesmanship to this table.
As is the case for all of my blogs so far, they are open for you to add your comments. I will delete comments left that are inappropriate.
Having set the stage, tune in for the next installment.
Gary
&lt;a href="http://www.spafixer.com">www.spafixer.com&lt;/a>&lt;/div></description><link>http://spafixer.com/2005/12/prologue-full-foam-insulation-vs-other.html</link><author>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink='false'>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full/113572748269373007</guid><pubDate>Tue, 27 Dec 2005 23:49:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2006-03-28T10:16:44.120-05:00</atom:updated><title>My electric is out...what do I do?</title><description>&lt;div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);">&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Republished from last December....&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Here in Ohio tens of thousands are without electricity due to ice laden trees and power lines. If you are one of those unfortunate folks, there are some things you can do to protect your hot tub from freezing. First a disclaimer. This is a generic explanation on how to winterize a basic hot tub. Plumbing varies by make and model and some have quirks that you will have to work around. Hiring a professional hot tub repairman to do this sort of job is you safest bet.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Lets get on with it:&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">First, you will have to drain all the water out of the shell area. Using a shop vac hose will be the fastest way to siphon it empty. Opening up the pump couplings is another method, but can be messy.&lt;/span>

&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Second, squeegee the seats out and bucket out the foot well and towel dry any reaming water. Getting the reaming water in the foot well is explained in step four.&lt;/span>

&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Third, if possible, open the lowest plumbing coupling to drain remaining water from the equipment.&lt;/span>

&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Four, remove the filter and put it away. Using a flexible neck funnel, start pouring RV antifreeze in until you see antifreeze (not just water) coming out of the suction intake(s). Stop once you see the antifreeze.&lt;/span>

&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Five, proceed to furthest and uppermost jet (In terms of the plumbing, not necessarily the opposite corner), and pour antifreeze into the jet nozzle until you see antifreeze. Work you way around from highest to lowest. You will notice that the closer you get to the filter, the less antifreeze you need. The reason you want to start out with as little water as possible in the foot well is simple. RV anti freeze gets its claim from being nontoxic. It is at maximum freeze protection at full strength. Automotive antifreeze needs to be mixed with water to reach max. protection.&lt;/span>

&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">**Should your hot tub have an air blower, you will need to take extra care and towel dry everything. You may need to adapt the funnel to fit the smaller jets used in air blowers. Air blowers use a check valve to prevent water backing into the blower motor when it is off. Therefore, the manifold that is plumbed in-between that check valve and the actual jets are highly susceptible to freeze damage.&lt;/span>

&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">To complete this project you will need: A hose (the larger the diameter, the faster the siphon) 2-4 gallons of RV antifreeze, a pail, towels and a flexible neck funnel.&lt;/span>

&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Print now for future use.&lt;/span>

&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Gary&lt;/span>
&lt;/span>&lt;a href="http://www.spafixer.com">www.spafixer.com&lt;/a>&lt;/div></description><link>http://spafixer.com/2005/12/my-electric-is-outwhat-do-i-do.html</link><author>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink='false'>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full/113623040440541289</guid><pubDate>Mon, 02 Jan 2006 19:30:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2006-03-28T10:15:46.293-05:00</atom:updated><title>Spa vs. Hot tub</title><description>&lt;div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">&lt;table width="77%" border="1" bordercolor="#00CCFF" bgcolor="#00FFFF">
                &lt;tr> 
                  &lt;td>&lt;font size="+1">&lt;strong>&lt;b>&lt;span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 85%; color: navy;">&lt;font size="+2">&amp;quot;&lt;/font>&lt;/span>&lt;font size="+2">&lt;span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;span style="color:navy;">Spa&amp;quot; 
                    vs. &amp;quot;Hot Tub&amp;quot;&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/font>&lt;/b>&lt;/strong>&lt;br>
                    &lt;span style="font-size:85%;">&lt;span style="">&lt;font color="#FF8000" size="+2" face="Courier New, Courier, mono">&lt;strong>Knowing 
                    how consumers categorically refer to your product is vital 
                    to the communication process.&lt;span style=""> &lt;/span> Consumers 
                    have been polled on this issue and the preference for &amp;quot;hot 
                    tub&amp;quot; continues to increase.&lt;span style=""> &lt;/span>In 
                    a recent survey, the following syntactic leanings were found:&lt;/strong>&lt;/font>&lt;strong>&lt;font size="+2" face="Courier New, Courier, mono">&lt;img src="HT-Chart.gif" width="210" height="166">&lt;/font>&lt;/strong>&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/font> 
                    &lt;strong>&lt;font size="+2" face="Courier New, Courier, mono">&lt;span style="font-size:85%;">&lt;span style="">&lt;font color="#FF8000"> 
                    &amp;nbsp; Yet it's interesting to note regional differences.&lt;span style=""> 
                    &lt;/span>While 80% of the rest of the country calls them hot 
                    tubs, only 62% of owners in the West refer to them as such. 
                    This is noteworthy because states like Washington, Oregon 
                    and California are the cradle of civilization for this category 
                    and there is a greater tradition there.&lt;span style=""> &lt;/span>(Western 
                    owners are significantly more likely to refer to them as spas 
                    or even as Jacuzzis.)&lt;/font>&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/font>&lt;/strong>&lt;font size="+2" face="Courier New, Courier, mono">&lt;br>
                    &lt;/font>&lt;/td>
                &lt;/tr>
              &lt;/table>&lt;a href="http://www.spafixer.com">www.spafixer.com&lt;/a>&lt;/div></description><link>http://spafixer.com/2006/01/spa-vs-hot-tub_02.html</link><author>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink='false'>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full/113632419076536506</guid><pubDate>Tue, 03 Jan 2006 21:24:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2006-03-28T10:14:59.576-05:00</atom:updated><title>Hot Tub Survey #1</title><description>&lt;div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">&lt;p>&lt;font color="#999999" size="+2">Would you get into a hot tub full of complete 
  strangers?&lt;/font>&lt;/p>
&lt;table width="47%" border="1" bordercolor="#000066">
  &lt;tr> 
    &lt;td>&lt;font color="#999999" size="+2">Votes&lt;/font>&lt;/td>
    &lt;td>&lt;font color="#999999" size="+2">Answer&lt;/font>&lt;/td>
  &lt;/tr>
  &lt;tr> 
    &lt;td>&lt;font color="#999999" size="+2">22&lt;/font>&lt;/td>
    &lt;td>&lt;font color="#999999" size="+2">Yes&lt;/font>&lt;/td>
  &lt;/tr>
  &lt;tr> 
    &lt;td>&lt;font color="#999999" size="+2">17&lt;/font>&lt;/td>
    &lt;td>&lt;font color="#999999" size="+2">Maybe so&lt;/font>&lt;/td>
  &lt;/tr>
  &lt;tr> 
    &lt;td>&lt;font color="#999999" size="+2">15&lt;/font>&lt;/td>
    &lt;td>&lt;font color="#999999" size="+2">No&lt;/font>&lt;/td>
  &lt;/tr>
&lt;/table>&lt;a href="http://www.spafixer.com">www.spafixer.com&lt;/a>&lt;/div></description><link>http://spafixer.com/2006/01/hot-tub-survey-1.html</link><author>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink='false'>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full/113641721602499707</guid><pubDate>Wed, 04 Jan 2006 22:35:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2006-03-28T10:11:57.776-05:00</atom:updated><title>Leaking Hot Tubs</title><description>&lt;div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);"> Where did all the water go? Wasn’t the hot tub filled up yesterday ? Could we have splashed all that water out of the tub? These are all the common thoughts that can run through your mind when you open up your hot tub cover and notice that you are missing some water.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);"> What should you do? Well, unfortunately many hot tub leaks should be handled by a professional serviceman, but there are some things that you can check for before you make that call.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);"> Hot tubs can leak from a few different places. For example, an ill fitting spa cover, the equipment, the jets and fittings, the plumbing or the hot tub shell itself. In order to determine how bad your leak is, you should try to narrow down where you think the leak is coming from. Do a 'walk-around inspection, walk around the outside of the unit to see if you can see any obvious water and or mold growth on the floor, deck, cement or grass near the tub. Check for "steam-outs" all around the cover especially at the fold. During cold weather, icicles are your sign. If you can, try to follow the water back to the tub and determine what area it is coming from. Unfortunately, just because you see the water on the back-right-side, that does not necessarily mean that is where the leak is, but it may help.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);"> If you cannot see an obvious amount of water outside the tub, the next place to check is the equipment compartment. This is where 90% of all leaks occur. People do not realize that a small dripping leak out of a fitting in your equipment compartment can account for an 1/8  - 1 inch per day leak. Drip, drip, drip adds up to a lot of water over 24 hours! If you can see the leak by the equipment, try to determine exactly where it is coming from and why. Look for white hard water deposits, especially in the area beneath the pumps wet-end. Dry off all suspect fittings and/or equipment with a paper towel. Then, turn on the hot tub and see if you can see water drips under pressure. If you can, use common sense to decide if it is fixable by you. A loose fitting can be tightened or re-gasketed. A small seepage at a jet back can be siliconed. But a cracked pump housing or a split or corroded heater may require the assistance of a trained hot tub repairman.&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);"> If your leak does not appear to be in the equipment area, then you have to move towards the most dreaded possibilities. You either you have an internal plumbing leak or your actual spa shell is cracked. On a positive note, spa shells rarely crack. Less than 1% of all spa leaks are in the shell itself. And if your shell is cracked, you can drain the tub out and usually see where the crack is. At that point you should definitely call a hot tub repairman, do not attempt that repair yourself!&lt;/span>
&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);"> Assuming that it is not your hot tub shell, that only leaves one place; your jets or jet plumbing. If you can get under and around your tub, this will be easy to locate and repair. Simply replace the jet or cracked fitting and glue it back together. If you have a full-foam, or one that has densely been coated with foam over the plumbing, then this repair is a nightmare!! Very hard to find the leak. Definitely call a pro for that repair and have your checkbook ready, and brace yourself for the all-to-real fact that you will have to pay the service company even though numerous attempts, and hours have been spent to locate the leak come up empty!! (no pun intended)
Gary
&lt;a href="http://www.spafixer.com">www.spafixer.com&lt;/a>
&lt;/span>&lt;/div></description><link>http://spafixer.com/2006/01/leaking-hot-tubs.html</link><author>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</author></item><item><guid isPermaLink='false'>http://www.blogger.com/feeds/20244659/posts/full/113649017958605679</guid><pubDate>Thu, 05 Jan 2006 19:36:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2006-03-28T10:11:18.050-05:00</atom:updated><title>Top 10 Hot Tubs Compared</title><description>&lt;div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">&lt;table border="1" width="51%">
                  &lt;br />&lt;tbody>
                  &lt;table border="0" cellspacing="1" width="100%">
                    &lt;br />
                    &lt;tbody>
                    &lt;br />
                    &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                      &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;strong>&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/tseek.cgi?id=373&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Artesian_Spas&amp;amp;ln=">Artesian 
                        Spas&lt;/a>&lt;/strong>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                      &lt;br />
                    &lt;/tr>
                    &lt;br />
                    &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                      &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Artesian 
                        Spas. Platinum Class Spa with Direct Flow Technology to 
                        rustic magic tubs. &lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                      &lt;br />
                    &lt;/tr>
                    &lt;br />
                    &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                      &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 128, 0);font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >Date: 
                        2003-5-16 | http://www.artesianspas.com/&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                      &lt;br />
                    &lt;/tr>
                    &lt;br />
                    &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                      &lt;td width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Votes: 
                        44 | Rating: 8.89&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                      &lt;br />
                      &lt;td width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;img src="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/search/r9.gif" />&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                      &lt;br />
                    &lt;/tr>
                    &lt;br />
                    &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                      &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/rate_it.cgi?id=373&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Artesian_Spas&amp;amp;blt=">Rate 
                        it&lt;/a> | &lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/review_it.cgi?id=373&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Artesian_Spas&amp;amp;blt=">Comments&lt;/a> 
                        (12)&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                      &lt;br />
                    &lt;/tr>
                    &lt;br />
                    &lt;br />
                    &lt;br />
                  &lt;/table>
                  &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                    &lt;td> 
                      &lt;table border="0" cellspacing="1" width="100%">
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tbody>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;strong>&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/tseek.cgi?id=175&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Dimension_One&amp;amp;ln=">Dimension 
                            One Hot Tubs and Spas&lt;/a>&lt;/strong>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Dimension 
                            One spas and hot tubs.&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 128, 0);font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >Date: 
                            2002-12-20 | http://www.d1spas.com/&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td width="24%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Votes: 
                            29 | Rating: 6.24&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                          &lt;td width="76%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;img src="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/search/r6.gif" />&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/rate_it.cgi?id=175&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Dimension_One&amp;amp;blt=">Rate 
                            it&lt;/a> | &lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/review_it.cgi?id=175&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Dimension_One&amp;amp;blt=">Comments&lt;/a> 
                            (2)&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;br />
                      &lt;/table>
                    &lt;/td>
                    &lt;br />
                  &lt;/tr>
                  &lt;br />
                  &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                    &lt;td> 
                      &lt;table border="0" cellspacing="1" width="100%">
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tbody>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;strong>&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/tseek.cgi?id=180&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-LA_Spas&amp;amp;ln=">LA 
                            Spas Hot Tubs&lt;/a>&lt;/strong>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">LA 
                            Spas is a manufacturer of top quality award winning 
                            hot tubs and spas since 1976.&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 128, 0);font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >Date: 
                            2002-12-20 | http://www.LAspas.com&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td width="24%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Votes: 
                            14 | Rating: 6.00&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                          &lt;td width="76%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;img src="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/search/r6.gif" />&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/rate_it.cgi?id=180&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-LA_Spas&amp;amp;blt=">Rate 
                            it&lt;/a> | &lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/review_it.cgi?id=180&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-LA_Spas&amp;amp;blt=">Comments&lt;/a> 
                            (5)&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;br />
                      &lt;/table>
                    &lt;/td>
                    &lt;br />
                  &lt;/tr>
                  &lt;br />
                  &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                    &lt;td> 
                      &lt;table border="0" cellspacing="1" width="100%">
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tbody>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;strong>&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/tseek.cgi?id=185&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Sundance&amp;amp;ln=">Hot 
                            Tubs and spas by Sundance Spas&lt;/a>&lt;/strong>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Sundance 
                            Spas is recognized for advanced technology and superior 
                            design.&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 128, 0);font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >Date: 
                            2002-12-21 | http://www.sundancespas.com/&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td width="24%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Votes: 
                            65 | Rating: 5.87&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                          &lt;td width="76%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;img src="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/search/r6.gif" />&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/rate_it.cgi?id=185&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Sundance&amp;amp;blt=">Rate 
                            it&lt;/a> | &lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/review_it.cgi?id=185&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Sundance&amp;amp;blt=">Comments&lt;/a> 
                            (8)&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;br />
                      &lt;/table>
                    &lt;/td>
                    &lt;br />
                  &lt;/tr>
                  &lt;br />
                  &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                    &lt;td> 
                      &lt;table border="0" cellspacing="1" width="100%">
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tbody>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;strong>&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/tseek.cgi?id=179&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Jacuzzi&amp;amp;ln=">Jacuzzi 
                            Hot Tubs and Spas&lt;/a>&lt;/strong>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Jacuzzi 
                            Incorporated - worldwide manufacturer of hot tubs, 
                            whirlpool baths, non-jetted baths, luxury shower systems, 
                            steam baths, spas, swimming pool equipment and pumps.&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 128, 0);font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >Date: 
                            2002-12-20 | http://www.jacuzzipremium.com/&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td width="24%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Votes: 
                            51 | Rating: 5.66&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                          &lt;td width="76%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;img src="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/search/r6.gif" />&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/rate_it.cgi?id=179&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Jacuzzi&amp;amp;blt=">Rate 
                            it&lt;/a> | &lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/review_it.cgi?id=179&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Jacuzzi&amp;amp;blt=">Comments&lt;/a> 
                            (5)&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;br />
                      &lt;/table>
                    &lt;/td>
                    &lt;br />
                  &lt;/tr>
                  &lt;br />
                  &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                    &lt;td> 
                      &lt;table border="0" cellspacing="1" width="100%">
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tbody>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;strong>&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/tseek.cgi?id=177&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Great_Lakes&amp;amp;ln=">Great 
                            Lakes Spas and Hot Tubs&lt;/a>&lt;/strong>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Great 
                            Lakes Spas and hot tubs.&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 128, 0);font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >Date: 
                            2002-12-20 | http://www.greatlakesspa.com/&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td width="24%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Votes: 
                            16 | Rating: 5.58&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                          &lt;td width="76%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;img src="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/search/r6.gif" />&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/rate_it.cgi?id=177&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Great_Lakes&amp;amp;blt=">Rate 
                            it&lt;/a> | &lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/review_it.cgi?id=177&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Great_Lakes&amp;amp;blt=">Comments&lt;/a> 
                            &lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;br />
                      &lt;/table>
                    &lt;/td>
                    &lt;br />
                  &lt;/tr>
                  &lt;br />
                  &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                    &lt;td> 
                      &lt;table border="0" cellspacing="1" width="100%">
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tbody>
                        &lt;br />
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                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;strong>&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/tseek.cgi?id=178&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Hot_Spring&amp;amp;ln=">Hot 
                            Spring Hot Tubs &amp; Spas&lt;/a>&lt;/strong>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
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                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">A 
                            hot tub or spa by Hot Spring Spas provides year-round 
                            relaxation. Hot tubs help soothe aches and pains through 
                            hydromassage and hydrotherapy. Hot Spring Spas also 
                            specializes in hot tub accessories and spa supplies 
                            for your hot tub or spa needs. Find your local dealer 
                            and slip into relaxation with a Hot Spring Spas hot 
                            tub.&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
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                        &lt;br />
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                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 128, 0);font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >Date: 
                            2002-12-20 | http://www.hotspring.com/home.html&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
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                          &lt;td width="24%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Votes: 
                            57 | Rating: 5.28&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                          &lt;td width="76%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;img src="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/search/r5.gif" />&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
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                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/rate_it.cgi?id=178&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Hot_Spring&amp;amp;blt=">Rate 
                            it&lt;/a> | &lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/review_it.cgi?id=178&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Hot_Spring&amp;amp;blt=">Comments&lt;/a> 
                            (8)&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
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                    &lt;td> 
                      &lt;table border="0" cellspacing="1" width="100%">
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                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;strong>&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/tseek.cgi?id=212&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Vita_Spa&amp;amp;ln=">Vita 
                            Spas and Hot Tubs&lt;/a>&lt;/strong>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
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                        &lt;br />
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                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Vita 
                            Spa produces high quality therapeutic spas and hot 
                            tubs, which provide health and relaxation for life.&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
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                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 128, 0);font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >Date: 
                            2002-12-26 | http://www.vitaspa.com/&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
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                          &lt;td width="24%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Votes: 
                            42 | Rating: 5.07&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                          &lt;td width="76%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;img src="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/search/r5.gif" />&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
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                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/rate_it.cgi?id=212&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Vita_Spa&amp;amp;blt=">Rate 
                            it&lt;/a> | &lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/review_it.cgi?id=212&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Vita_Spa&amp;amp;blt=">Comments&lt;/a> 
                            (18)&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
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                      &lt;table border="0" cellspacing="1" width="100%">
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                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;strong>&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/tseek.cgi?id=172&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Cal_Spas&amp;amp;ln=">Cal 
                            Spas and Hot Tubs&lt;/a>&lt;/strong>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
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                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Cal 
                            Spas, the world's leading home resort products manufacturer 
                            of hot tubs, portable spas,inground spas, spas, pool 
                            tables, barbecues, bbqs, billiard tables, saunas and 
                            gazebos.&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
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                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 128, 0);font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >Date: 
                            2002-12-20 | http://www.calspas.com&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
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                          &lt;td width="24%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Votes: 
                            40 | Rating: 3.78&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                          &lt;td width="76%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;img src="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/search/r4.gif" />&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
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                        &lt;/tr>
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                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/rate_it.cgi?id=172&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Cal_Spas&amp;amp;blt=">Rate 
                            it&lt;/a> | &lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/review_it.cgi?id=172&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Cal_Spas&amp;amp;blt=">Comments&lt;/a> 
                            (1)&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
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                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;strong>&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/tseek.cgi?id=206&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Master_Spas&amp;amp;ln=">Master 
                            Spas Portable Hot Tubs&lt;/a>&lt;/strong>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
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                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Manufacturer 
                            of portable spas and hot tubs. Includes portable spas 
                            showroom, buying guide for hot tubs, and CONTEST TO 
                            WIN A FREE portable spa. Luxury options include stereo, 
                            tv, aquatic exercise swim spa, and gazebos.&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
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                        &lt;br />
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                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style="color: rgb(255, 128, 0);font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >Date: 
                            2002-12-26 | http://www.masterspas.com/&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
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                        &lt;/tr>
                        &lt;br />
                        &lt;tr>&lt;br />
                          &lt;td width="24%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;span style="color:#999999;">Votes: 
                            29 | Rating: 3.66&lt;/span>&lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
                          &lt;br />
                          &lt;td width="76%">&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"  >&lt;img src="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/search/r4.gif" />&lt;/span>&lt;/td>
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                          &lt;td colspan="2" width="100%">&lt;strong>&lt;span style=";font-family:Verdana;font-size:78%;"  >&lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/rate_it.cgi?id=206&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Master_Spas&amp;amp;blt=">Rate 
                            it&lt;/a> | &lt;a href="http://www.hottubsdirectory.com/cgi-bin/tseek/review_it.cgi?id=206&amp;ct=Hot_Tubs-Master_Spas&amp;amp;blt=">Comments&lt;/a> 
                            &lt;/span>&lt;/strong>&lt;/td>
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                &lt;/table>&lt;a href="http://www.spafixer.com">www.spafixer.com&lt;/a>&lt;/div></description><link>http://spafixer.com/2006/01/top-10-hot-tubs-compared.html</link><author>spafixer@gmail.com (spafixer)</author></item></channel></rss>