If you’ve ever thought you might like a swimming pool but dismissed it as too expensive, or considered getting a hot tub but thought they were too small, a swim spa may be the answer. Swim spas have all of the best features of a pool and a hot tub combined and they are much cheaper than a full-sized swimming pool.
There are many different types of swim spas. Some even come with separate hot tubs in one end. Here are some tips to help you choose the type of swim spa that’s right for you.
Types of Swim Spas
Most types of swim spas are molded out of acrylic and usually about 12 to 24 feet in length.
- Molded shells – You can buy a molded shell separately, install it into a deck and landscape around it. With this type of installation, the pumps, heater, filter and other equipment can be remotely located.
- Self-Contained Portable Swim Spa – Some swim spas are available pre-built and are referred to as self-contained or portable. They are big and bulky but don’t necessary have to be permanently installed. They are popular for their ease of installation and for the fact that they can be taken with you if you move.
- Component/Modular Design – Modular design allows the swim spa to be installed indoors, as well as outdoors. It also allows for pools of varying sizes from 7 by 12 feet to 10 by 16 feet, with water depths up to six feet deep. You can also have custom copings and sidings and multiple water depths, if you prefer.
- Split-Models – A split-model has a hot tub in one end and a swimming area in the other end and you can regulate water temperatures in each of these areas separately.
The Versatility of a Swim Spa
Almost any type of swim spa will allow you to exercise, relax by just soaking in warm water or spend time with family and friends in the comfort of your own home. Swim spas allow you to swim continuously against water currents and provide you with a great way to work out using the least amount of space, either inside your home or in the backyard. They also act as smaller swimming pools in the sense that you can play around in them.
If you have the room, you might consider buying a larger swim spa, which can be up to 24 feet long by 10 feet wide and four feet deep. This will give you plenty of room for family recreation and entertaining friends.
If you don’t think you have the space or the budget for a full-sized swimming pool, a swim spa may be the perfect solution.