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Vanguard - Pre 2019

Product Reviews

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Highlife® Vanguard - Pre 2019

Overall rating:
4.627 / 5
4.6
 / 
5
208 out of 227(92%)reviewers recommend this product.
Customer reviews for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Review 261 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
5 / 5
5 / 5
Comfort:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Value:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Bob
fromFolsom, CA
Age:55-65
Gender:male
Absolutely the best spa on the market
PostedMarch 16, 2014
We shopped for months before purchasing out spa. I read every review and personally looked at least 50 spas!
This is my second spa and I am 100% happy with it. We also got the salt water upgrade and its worth every penny
Response from HotSpringBy MarianneCustomer ServiceMarch 19, 2014
Thank you for taking the time to send us your message. WOW! You really did your homework. The Vanguard is a great spa and glad to hear you upgraded to the ACE Salt Water System. Enjoy the ease of care for your spa water! Welcome to the Hot Spring Family and happy soaking!
Review 262 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
5 / 5
5 / 5
Comfort:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Value:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
mmadv
fromWest Springfield, MA
Age:55-65
Gender:male
My third Hot Tub
PostedMarch 14, 2014
User submitted photo
Very impressed with the quality. Not too sure I'd want to fit 6 people in the tub unless they are very CLOSE friends.
Compared to what I owned before, HotSprings seems to be a good choice after two months of ownership.
Response from HotSpringBy JaclynCustomer ServiceMarch 17, 2014
Thank you for the feedback and photo! You've created a lovely retreat on your deck! It appears you can take in the view, enjoy the stars and listen to the sounds of nature just steps away from your busy day-to-day life. May you enjoy your tub in this way for many years!

Welcome to the HotSpring Family!
Review 263 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
5 / 5
5 / 5
Comfort:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Value:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Tooch
fromAnsonia
Age:55-65
What took me so long ?
PostedMarch 8, 2014
I shopped and shopped and shopped, then I found Hot Springs!
Not one of the 6 other manufacturers I looked at compared to quality, finish and configuration. I purchased my Vanguard in October, and have been in it every day except 4 of them. Winter cold, snow, even sleet and rain, I ran out and enjoyed the relaxing massage. Especially the MotoMassage !! OMG, like having your own personal masseuse ! AND, if I sit across from it and place my feet against the double back massage, I get the most wonderful foot massage up and down my feet. This spa has been a great source of stress relief from my job. I'm divorced afet 32 years, live alone and truly enjoy my back yard pool and NOW HotSprings Spa.! The folks at Leisuretime in Southford, CT. have been wonderful to deal with and have now become friends of mine. Tom, Casey and Barb operate a wonderful facility, ensuring their customers get the best service and products. They have been selling HotSprings and only HotSprings - forever - a testament to how great a product it is! Thank you all at Hot Springs for producing such a high quality product, one that enhances and imporves our health !!
I have already referred 2 of my colleagues who are waiting for the spring models to arrive. I'm certain they too, will become part of the Hot Springs Family !
All my best,
Dan Tuccio
Connecticut.
Response from HotSpringBy The Hot Spring Team MarketingMarch 11, 2014
Dear Dan,
Thank you for taking the time to leave such a fantastic review! I am so thrilled you are enjoying your Vanguard, and that your spa has been such a positive purchase. We are fortunate to have such tremendous dealer partners who work with excellent customers like you every single day. I am also happy to hear you referred two of your colleagues to Hot Spring. Welcome to the Hot Spring family :)

If you haven't already, head over to our Facebook page for tips, photos, and hot tub inspiration: https://www.facebook.com/HotSpringSpas.

Happy Hot Tubbing!

Erica
The Hot Spring Team
Review 264 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
1 / 5
1 / 5
Comfort:  
1 / 5
1 / 5
Quality:  
1 / 5
1 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
3 / 5
3 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
3 / 5
3 / 5
Value:  
1 / 5
1 / 5
akazippy
fromIllinois
Age:55-65
Gender:male
My First and Last Hot Springs
PostedFebruary 28, 2014
I've had 5 different heaters and can't get service when u them. Will NOT BUY ANOTHER HOT SPRINGS PRODUCT
3 of 3 found this review helpful.
Response from HotSpringBy Peggy W.Customer ServiceMarch 3, 2014
Thank you for your feedback and for speaking with me on the phone about your 13 yr old spa. Our service records show the heater was changed out in 2003 & 2004, most recently in 2006, all at no charge to you. Today, you advised that the heater installed in 2006 was just replaced last week after performing as intended for 8 years. I am sorry that you are not happy with this service history. If you have further concerns, please do contact either your local dealer or Watkins. We will be glad to assist where we can.
Review 265 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
4 / 5
4 / 5
Comfort:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Value:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
MaryPeter
fromNothern Virginia
Age:55-65
Gender:male
Vanguard review
PostedFebruary 18, 2014
We bought our hot tub 3 + months ago and we really like it. My wife finds it very relaxing and she enjoys the shifting colors in the settings.
The only negative we have to say about it is that the owners manual is a little confusing, since it covers several models.
1 of 1 found this review helpful.
Response from HotSpringBy Peggy W. Customer ServiceFebruary 19, 2014
Thanks for sharing feedback about your new spa experience. It IS a great place to unwind at the end of the day. Give us a call on our toll-free number if you have questions about the manual. We'll be glad to assist! 800-999-4688, ext. 8432.
Review 266 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
4 / 5
4 / 5
Comfort:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
3 / 5
3 / 5
Value:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Mac
fromCalgary, AB
Age:45-54
Gender:male
best of 3
PostedFebruary 18, 2014
This is my 3rd tub. The quality of this tub is excellent and the service people (Rocky Mountain Pools and Spas, in Calgary) are particularly remarkable. The ability to change out jets to produce a customized set-up would be an easy way to improve the experience.
1 of 1 found this review helpful.
Response from HotSpringBy Peggy W. Customer ServiceFebruary 26, 2014
Great review, Brian. We appreciate your purchase of a Vanguard spa. You had discovered what many spa owners in the Calgary area know already, RMPS is an outstanding dealer that provides first-class service to all of their customers. And you're right about the hydromassage jets. The rotary jets provide just the right massage to tired shoulder and lower back muscles. Enjoy!
Review 267 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
4 / 5
4 / 5
Comfort:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Quality:  
3 / 5
3 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
3 / 5
3 / 5
Value:  
3 / 5
3 / 5
waynearich
fromMoreno Valley CA
Age:55-65
Gender:male
Good Purchase
PostedFebruary 18, 2014
Overall, I would have given this product an excellent rating, however, it took almost three months for the problem with my stereo unit to be resolved because the servicing technician finally diagnosed that the prior two units were defective. Even given that, I had asked him to email me a list of compatible iPod devices for use with the spa and have never been provided that list. The dealership needs to work on their customer service and manage their employees performance. I shouldn't have to point that out.
Response from HotSpringBy Peggy W. Customer ServiceFebruary 26, 2014
Thanks for the honest feedback, Wayne. Sorry to hear that you've not had the service you would expect from the local dealer. I will write to you directly and copy the local dealer so that they will know they need to contact you promptly to hear of your concerns. Watkins' Customer service team is also available if you would like to give us a call on our toll-free line, 1-800-999-4688, ext. 8432.
Review 268 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
5 / 5
5 / 5
Comfort:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Value:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
jt
fromRaleigh, NC
Age:55-65
Gender:male
Salt of the Earth
PostedFebruary 17, 2014
My second Hot Spring tub, this time with the salt water system. Hands down a much easier way to manage water care. Love the product and the service from my local dealer- Atlantic Spa and Billiards!
Response from HotSpringBy Peggy W. Customer ServiceFebruary 26, 2014
Thanks for reviewing the Vanguard spa, JT. You have discovered what many spa owners know, Hot Springs is the best! And you're right about the dealer, Atlantic Spa & Billiards is an award-winning team, well-regarding in the spa industry. Happy Hot Tubbing in North Carolina!
Review 269 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
5 / 5
5 / 5
Comfort:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Value:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
7 Ranch
fromMontana
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Worth every penny!
PostedFebruary 17, 2014
We had wanted a hot tub for several years, and decided this was the year. Every time we use it (which is every day), we tell each other it was a wise decision. We are ranchers, and a warm soak with soothing jets at the end of a day spent riding and working cattle is the best relaxation ever!
Response from HotSpringBy The Hot Spring Team MarketingFebruary 24, 2014
What a wonderful way to end a busy day on the ranch. I'm thrilled to hear you selected a Hot Spring spa, and that you've found your purchase to be "worth every penny!" We wish you many happy years with your hot tub! Please let our team know if you need any assistance.

Happy Hot Tubbing!

Erica
The Hot Spring Team
Review 270 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
5 / 5
5 / 5
Comfort:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Value:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Elizabeth
fromCharleston, IL
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Fabulous Spa Experience
PostedFebruary 3, 2014
Our Vanguard was an excellent purchase! it's easy to take care of and we enjoy it all year long!
Response from HotSpringBy VanessaCustomer ServiceFebruary 6, 2014
Thank you for your review!

Happy to hear you are enjoying your new Vanguard hot tub. Welcome to the Hot Spring family.

Happy Hot Tubbing!
Review 271 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
4 / 5
4 / 5
Comfort:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Quality:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Value:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
KENCOKID
fromKEANSBURG, NJ
Age:45-54
Gender:male
VANGUARD
PostedFebruary 3, 2014
JUST RIGHT AFTER A LONG DAY AT THE OFFICE
HOLDS THE HEAT WELL
THUS VERY LITTLE ENERGY USED
Response from HotSpringBy Vanessa Customer ServiceFebruary 6, 2014
Thank you for your review!

Relaxing in your Vanguard hot tub is absolutely a great way to unwind from a long day after work. We are happy to provide you with an energy efficient hot tub experience.

Happy Hot Tubbing!
Review 272 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
5 / 5
5 / 5
Comfort:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Value:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Doug&Melissa
fromMerced, CA
Age:55-65
Gender:female
You Are Gonna Love It!
PostedJanuary 28, 2014
We have had our Vanguard for just over a year now and LOVE IT!! We have the salt water option and it's worth every penny. Care is easy but recommend cleaning the cell more frequently than the user manual recommends - we clean every 2-3 weeks after having an issue with performance.
The Spa Doctor, in Modesto, is awesome to work with - THANKS, RICHARD, and staff!! Onsite service was awesome and educational. We bought a floor model and saved $$$.
Our granddaughters love the weekend to come "spa" with Nana and Papa, and we love it too!
Doug and Melissa
Merced CA
Response from HotSpringBy The Hot Spring Hot Tub Team MarketingJanuary 31, 2014
Dear Hot Tubber,

I'm thrilled to hear you are enjoying your Vanguard. "LOVE IT" is exactly the feedback I love to hear. What a great opportunity to spend time with your granddaughters.

We also greatly appreciate your feedback for your spa dealer and ACE System. We will certainly keep that in mind for future updates. Please let our team know if you need any assistance.

Happy Hot Tubbing!

Erica
The Hot Spring Hot Tub Team
Review 273 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
5 / 5
5 / 5
Comfort:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Value:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
New retirees
fromMichigan
Age:55-65
Gender:male
Vacation at home!
PostedJanuary 17, 2014
Have a vacation at home everytime you enter your spa.....you can
certainly forget where you are and have your own paradise. The relaxation and the health benefits are priceless. No more tension in
the muscles morning or night. We would recommend a spa to anyone
who wants to pamper their lives.
Response from HotSpringBy The Hot Spring Team MarketingJanuary 23, 2014
Dear Hot Tubber,
What a wonderful vacation indeed :) It sounds like your backyard has transformed in to a true paradise. I am so happy to hear you are enjoying your spa, and that you have experienced relief and health benefits from regular hot tubbing. Thank you for joining the Hot Spring family. Please let our team know if you need any assistance in the future.

Erica
The Hot Spring Team
Review 274 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
1 / 5
1 / 5
Comfort:  
3 / 5
3 / 5
Quality:  
1 / 5
1 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
3 / 5
3 / 5
Value:  
1 / 5
1 / 5
jetsslacker
fromflorida
Age:35-44
Gender:male
junk
PostedJanuary 8, 2014
We purchased less than a year ago. We have had nothing but
problems. Faulty electrical system, pump, heater, jets, & now leaks
Service tech has been here over 6 times. Still leaks. Neither dealer
or manufacturer will stand behind the product.
5 of 7 found this review helpful.
Response from HotSpringBy Peggy W. Customer ServiceJanuary 13, 2014
Thank you for feedback re: the 2011 model spa you purchased in 2013. It is unusual for a newly purchased spa to require service. Since you notified Watkins last month, we have actively worked with you and your dealer to resolve the issue. Though Watkins has offered to exceed our detailed warranty obligations, I understand you have refused to have the spa repaired at the dealership or at our factory, completely at our expense. We remain available to repair the spa and cover costs beyond the scope of the warranty. Our rep will give you a call again this week to review our offer and answer any questions you may have.
Review 275 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
5 / 5
5 / 5
Comfort:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Value:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Dee
fromOhio
Age:55-65
Gender:male
Energy efficiency
PostedDecember 29, 2013
The tub holds the temperature really well. We lower the temperature to 88 degrees after each use and the tub is still above 93 degrees 24 hours later, even on cold days. The massaging jets are really nice and work very well. We've had it about 3 months and it's performed flawlessly.
1 of 2 found this review helpful.
Response from HotSpringBy VanessaCustomer ServcieDecember 31, 2013
Congratulations on your new Vanguard!

Thank you for your feedback. We are happy to hear that you are enjoying your hot tub. Energy efficiency is important to us and we are glad to know you appreciate the value it adds to your spa experience. If our team can be of assistance please feel free to contact us at, 800-999-4688 X 8432.

We wish you many years of Happy Hot Tubbing!
Review 276 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
4 / 5
4 / 5
Comfort:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Value:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Arlanti
fromRio Rancho NM
Age:45-54
Gender:male
fantastic
PostedDecember 28, 2013
Real nice spa. The jets are powerful and wonderful. Ace salt system makes water care a breeze. Lighting really sets the mood. The only reason I gave it 4 stars is the heater return water is extremely hot. You have to be careful not to rest your feet on the return because the water is a bit uncomfortable there.
1 of 1 found this review helpful.
Response from HotSpringBy VanessaCustomer ServiceDecember 30, 2013
Thank you for your feedback. We are happy that you are enjoying your new spa and that you find ACE a breeze to use. We are fond of the ACE system too :)
You are correct that the water will be warmer at the point of entry into the spa. However, that return is usually placed in such a manner as not to disrupt your hot tub experience. Please let our team know if you should have any questions or concerns at, 800-999-4688 x8432.

Happy New Year and Happy Hot Tubbing!
Review 277 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
5 / 5
5 / 5
Comfort:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Value:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Skookums & Ninja
fromAnchorage, AK
Age:25-34
Gender:female
I want to kick myself for not buying this sooner!
PostedDecember 11, 2013
My husband and I had a 10 year old Costco tub that was "meh". It was on its last legs this past March and looked at a replacement from the local dealer- Waterworks (Kali and her team are beyond superb!)
So when it finally bit the dust at -5 last week, I decided enough was enough a new spa was all I wanted for Christmas.
After wet-testing about 38 different tubs (okay, okay so it was really 4, but it felt like 38!) We fell in L-O-V-E with the Vanguard. It's the perfect tub! My morning (pot) of coffee is now enjoyed with a moto-massage, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
ACE system makes maintenance a breeze, dual control panels are an added bonus. Simple and easy to use!
Love, love, love this tub! But be forewarned you might turn into a jet-hog...
The Vanguard is like stepping up to an Aston Martin after having Geo Metro.
1 of 1 found this review helpful.
Response from HotSpringBy The Hot Spring Team MarketingDecember 12, 2013
Dear Hot Tubber,

Thank you so much for your review! It truly made me smile :) Our entire team is so happy to hear you've experienced the Aston Martin of hot tubs, and that you L-O-V-E your Vanguard. I'm so thrilled you had a wonderful purchase experience, and that even after wet testing 38 tubs (or maybe 4), you selected a Hot Spring.

I wish you many mornings enjoying your morning coffee and moto-massage. If you have a photo of your Aston Martin/hot tub available we would love to see it! You can submit your photo here, or on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/HotSpringSpas.

Happy Holidays and Happy Hot Tubbing!

Erica
The Hot Spring Team
Review 278 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
5 / 5
5 / 5
Comfort:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Value:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Amy22
fromEndicott ny
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Love it
PostedDecember 9, 2013
We bought the vanguard for our 25 year anniversary . Do not regret it for one second . my husband And I sleep so well and have more energy since using the spa . The spa is great for relieving my back and knee pain. Would recommend the vanguard to anyone .
1 of 1 found this review helpful.
Response from HotSpringBy The Hot Spring Team MarketingDecember 12, 2013
Dear Amy,

What a fantastic way to celebrate 25 wonderful years together. Happy Anniversary from the entire Hot Spring team! Daily use is a fantastic way for you and your husband to enjoy time together, and experience the benefits of regular hot tubbing. Improved sleep and increased energy are just a few you've experienced first hand :)

Our team would love to see photos of your Vanguard! If you have some you can submit them here, or you can message them to our team on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HotSpringSpas. We would love to feature you and your spa.

Happy Hot Tubbing and Happy Holidays!

Erica
The Hot Spring Team
Review 279 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
4 / 5
4 / 5
Comfort:  
1 / 5
1 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Value:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Edna
fromManahawkin
Age:Over 65
Gender:female
New tubs are deeper and I cannot use this model.
PostedDecember 6, 2013
The Vanguard is a beautiful tub. Unfortunately, my last tub was a classic which was perfect for me. The Vanguard seats sit deeper in the water so I cannot sit comfortably without holding on. The jets are so strong even at the lowest setting are still too strong and make me float off of the seat. I purchased a seat cushion to raise me up higher but still cannot relax in the seat without holding on. I am 5'2" tall. I am trading in .my Vanguard at a loss for a Jetsetter which I hope will work better for me. My dealer has been very helpful and .tried everything he could to make the Vanguard work for me. It is too expensive to use the tub without the jets on.
4 of 5 found this review helpful.
Response from HotSpringBy Customer ServiceJanuary 13, 2014
I'm sorry to hear that the Vanguard model isn't working out for you. Yes, it is deeper than your original Classic model to allow hot tub users to be mostly submerged when used on a cold, winter night. I'm glad to hear that your dealer has been accommodating and will be getting you into a Jetsetter model that may better meet your needs. Thank you for selecting Hot Spring Spas! Keith / Watkins Customer Service
Review 280 for Vanguard - Pre 2019
Overall rating 
5 / 5
5 / 5
Comfort:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Quality:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Ease of Water Care:  
4 / 5
4 / 5
Energy Efficiency:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Value:  
5 / 5
5 / 5
Dersales
fromOrange, CA
Age:55-65
Gender:male
GREAT iNVESTMENT
PostedDecember 5, 2013
We bought our Vanguard Spa about 1 yr ago and my wife and I use it at least once a day or more. There is nothing more soothing than getting into the spa either very early in the morning or late at night with the cool air outside and sitting in the warm water with the jets massaging you.
This was the best investment I have made in a long time!
Response from HotSpringBy The Hot Spring Team MarketingDecember 9, 2013
Dear Hot Tubber,
Thank you for the outstanding feedback! I am so pleased to hear that you and your wife are using your hot tub regularly, and loving every minute of it. What a terrific way to start or end your day. I'm sure the warm water feels wonderful during the winter time :) Thank you for making an investment in Hot Spring. Welcome to the family!

Happy Holidays and Happy Hot Tubbing!

Erica
The Hot Spring Team