We bought a Sovereign spa in August 2002. We enjoy the spa and its features, it is well cared for on a solid foundation, and it receives no abuse. However, I have, and am, experiencing some of the problems described in the above messages which has created some disappointment with the product, the company and our purchase.

In August 2004 the cover inserts were replaced under warranty because one of them became waterlogged. The company was great and responded quickly. Unfortunately, following this replacement, the lift mechanism was not adjusted properly and the cover no longer sits flush or centered on the spa and there are air gaps. In October I contacted our dealer to report the cover issue and two additional problems I noticed. I saw that the siding on the front of the spa has come unglued and is pulling away from the cabinet. The gap is large enough for mice and the like. Of a more serious concern is the fact that two cracks approx. 3” long have developed in the spa surface. One is obviously through the surface and continues to grow towards the edge of the endurol surface edge.

I have called, e-mailed and sent pictures to Hot Springs representatives and have yet to get these items repaired. Following another inquiry a few days ago after not hearing from anyone in over a month, I was told they are waiting for materials and procedures on how to repair the crack and would make an appointment to fix everything at once. It sounds they intend to perform a cosmetic repair, in fact, the Service Manager specifically related that the repair will be visible because the color (repair material) might not quite match. That’s disturbing since the crack is near the front of the spa and if it’s simply cosmetic, I’m apprehensive that this will not correct the problem.
Q: Is this how crack repairs are handled and am I getting correct information?

As for other issues posted regarding Hot Spring spa problems, here’s my feedback... The siding has retained its color and looks good. The tile has not been a problem and with care, the pillows are in good shape. The jets that are held with the small prongs have in fact come out on their own but are easily returned to there mount. No problems with the system or performance.

Bottom line… I’m sure every spa company has its good and bad points. I try and buy quality produces and take company background into consideration. Unfortunately, while I like our spa as a whole, the totality of our experiences wouldn’t serve as a very good reference and gives me a flashback to the indifference we experience from the salesman following our purchase. We were told by our salesman that he would come to our home and educate us on the spas operation and maintenance if we were his customer. I swallowed that hook, made an appointment, and he didn’t show. Any industry insight regarding the pending repairs and the manor in which they should be performed would be appreciated particularly the cracks.