What is a Swim Spa?
Imagine having a refreshing pool for exercise and a soothing hot tub for unwinding, all in one compact, self-contained unit. That’s the magic of a swim spa! This versatile addition to your garden (or home) offers a multitude of benefits, making it a popular choice for homeowners seeking a healthy and luxurious lifestyle. Thinking about getting a swim spa, but not sure whether to take the plunge? Here we answer some of the most commonly asked questions.
How Does a Swim Spa Work?
A swim spa operates through a system of powerful jets that generates a continuous stream of water, creating a current against which you can swim. This current is adjustable, allowing you to set the intensity based on your swimming skills – whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete – and workout needs.
Swim spas also feature a filtration system to keep the water clean and a heating system to maintain a comfortable water temperature. Many models come with built-in seats and hydrotherapy jets, allowing for relaxation and massage. With a swim spa, you can create a fully customised experience for you and your guests.
Can You Actually Swim in a Swim Spa?
That’s right! It works in the same way a treadmill does – you can run as fast as you like, but you’re not actually going anywhere. The jets create a strong enough current to allow for continuous swimming, and is perfect for laps, aquatic exercises, or simply enjoying a refreshing dip. Unlike a traditional pool, you won’t have to worry about turning around every few metres.
Can a Swim Spa Be Used as a Hot Tub?
The beauty of a swim spa is its dual functionality. While one end provides the perfect environment for swimming, the other end offers a relaxing hot tub experience. This allows you to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of a warm water massage after your workout – or skip the workout altogether and unwind in soothing bubbles.
Whether you can use both ends at the same time depends on the type of swim spa you have. A dual-zone swim spa has separate heating systems and controls for each zone. This means swimmers and hot tub soakers can be in the swim spa at the same time, both enjoying the unique benefits of the individual areas.
- Space-saver: swim spas require less space than traditional pools, making them suitable for smaller back gardens or indoor spaces
- Versatility: you can swim, exercise, relax or enjoy hydrotherapy – all in one unit
- Year-round use: many outdoor public swimming pools close during the colder months, but a private swim spa in your own back garden can be used all year thanks to its heating capabilities and compact design
- Privacy and convenience: having a swim spa at home provides privacy that public pools cannot. You can enjoy a swim or a soak at any time without the need to travel, deal with crowded facilities, or adhere to public pool schedules
- Customisable: you can choose features like lighting, water temperature, and jet intensity to suit your preferences
- Cost-effective alternative: the initial investment of a swim spa is generally lower, compared to a traditional pool, with the ongoing maintenance and operational costs also reduced
- Energy efficient: modern swim spas are designed with energy efficiency in mind, with features such as insulated walls and covers, heating systems and pumps
- Family-friendly: this versatile addition to the family home can benefit everyone, from children learning to swim to adults seeking relaxation
- Increased home value: a well-maintained swim spa can enhance your home’s value, appealing to buyers who are interested in fitness amenities or hydrotherapy
- Unique selling point: a swim spa is a distinctive feature that sets your property apart from others on the market
- Luxury factor: a swim spa may be perceived as a luxury item, potentially positioning the home in a higher price bracket
- Appeal to health-conscious buyers: with an increased focus on health and fitness these days, a swim spa can be attractive to those looking for home fitness options
- A compact alternative to a pool: many buyers would love a property that comes with a pool. But what if it comes with a compact option that provides the same functionality, while being more energy efficient and easier to maintain?
- Multi-functional use: the ability to use the amenity for exercise, relaxation, and entertainment can appeal to a wide range of buyers
What Are The Benefits of a Swim Spa?
Swim spas offer a unique combination of fitness, fun and well-being! Some of their benefits include:
How Long and Deep is a Swim Spa?
Swim spas come in a variety of sizes to suit different needs and spaces. They typically range from 10 to 20 feet in length to 4 to 5 feet in depth. This provides enough room for comfortable swimming while remaining compact. In addition, we offer swim spas with 2, 4, 5 or 6 seats.
How Much Does a Swim Spa Cost to Run?
Operating costs depend on factors like energy efficiency, insulation, utility rates, and usage frequency. On average, they can cost around £30 to £60 a month, taking into account expenses including chemicals and regular water maintenance. Filter replacements and potential repairs should also be a consideration. At Palm Spas, we offer annual services to keep your amenity in tip top condition.
Can You Put a Swim Spa In The Ground?
Yes, swim spas can be installed in-ground, similar to traditional pools. This installation method is often favoured due to increased accessibility and privacy.
An in-ground swim spa can also blend seamlessly with your landscape design, creating a more polished and integrated look.
It’s important to bear in mind that in-ground installation requires more planning and excavation work, which need to be factored into the overall cost.
Can You Put a Swim Spa Indoors?
Absolutely! Swim spas are versatile and can be placed either outdoors or indoors. If placed indoors, it’s important to take into account space, ventilation (to control humidity and prevent mould), flooring (for structural support) and drainage. It is always advised to speak to a professional during the planning stage to ensure all technical and safety aspects are addressed.
Do You Need Planning Permission For a Swim Spa?
In most cases, planning permission is not required for the addition of a swim spa. However, there are exceptions and considerations to keep in mind – such as if you live in a listed building, or will need significant excavation or structural changes to aid the installation. If you’re unsure, contact your local planning authority.
Does a Swim Spa Add Value to Your Home?
Yes, it can, though the extent of the increased value can vary depending on several factors. Some reasons a swim spa may be advantageous when it comes to selling include:
Before installing a swim spa with the goal of increasing your home’s value, it’s advisable to consult with a property professional to understand how the addition might impact your property in your local market.
What If I Want to Upgrade My Hot Tub to a Swim Spa?
Not a problem! We offer a nationwide hot tub disposal service at a competitive price. See here for more details, and to get a quote.
