Are Swim Spas Worth It?

Either you've come across swim spas in your hunt for the perfect hot tub, or you're looking for ways to elevate your current level of fitness.

While they offer many benefits, this cross between a pool and traditional hot tub tends to be quite pricey. So are swim spas really worth it?

We're here to explain swim spa pricing, popular brands, and situations where they really are worth the money.

Continue reading to learn more.

Should I Buy A Swim Spa?

There are a few aspects to consider before buying a swim spa. Let's take a closer look at these factors to help you decide whether or not they're a smart investment for you.

What Is A Swim Spa?

other water exercise in addition swimming, as they often come with exercise equipment. You can opt for models that include rowing oars, resistance bands, and swim tethers.

The higher priced swim spas feature powerfully jetted therapy seats where you can fully relax and enjoy a soothing massage after a hard swim, or just after a hard day at the office. These highest-end swim spa models feature two separate sections; a pool zone and a hot tub area.

In these dual-zone models, each section has independent temperature controls and they are divided by an acrylic wall. One user can enjoy warm water in the spa end, while the pool zone stays at a cooler temperature, allowing another user to simultaneously exercise.

Head over to our Swim Spa Hot Tub Combo review page to see the 3 models that we recommend in this category.

How Much Does A Swim Spa Cost?

You can pick up a basic swim spa for as little as $7,000 to $15,000. While the lower upfront cost can be enticing, these are typically not as efficient as higher-end models and can end up having a higher running cost in the long term.

A mid-range swim spa costs from about $16,000 to $25,000. This is the more energy-efficient category. These models typically have better warranties, higher quality components, and will not increase your electric bill quite as much as the more basic models.

The purchase price of a high-end swim spa can get quite staggering. Expect to pay from $26,000 to $40,000 plus. These models tend to be larger and have a higher swim current top speed, both major advantages for the exercise-minded consumer. Separate sections with independent temperature controls are a feature you'll be able to opt for in this price range, allowing you to have all the hydrotherapy benefits of a hot tub as well.

What Are The Alternatives To A Swim Spa?

swim spas, and are more ideal for a smaller gardens, decks, and backyards.

If you just like to wallow in the water or have a splash around with the kids in the summer months, we recommend considering a small pool in your backyard.

How Much Does A Swim Spa Alternative Cost?

Swim spas are usually much more expensive than regular hot tubs, but much cheaper than new swimming pools.

To give you a rough idea, hot tub prices range from about $4,000 to $18,000 plus depending on size, features, and brand.

A new swimming pool costs anywhere from $25,000 to $55,000 plus. The cost will vary widely depending on size. Construction and installation costs are much greater for in-ground pools.

There is more maintenance involved with a traditional swimming pool and the ongoing costs of running even a small pool ranges from $500 to $2,000 per year.

Of course, the cheapest swim spa alternatives is to utilize public pools, which only costs a few dollars per visit.

What Are The Advantages of A Swim Spa?

Small Backyard

If you have a small backyard, there may not be room for a traditional swimming pool. A swim spa provides all the benefits of a pool so you can exercise and keep up the fitness of the whole family.

Relaxation

Since some swim spas feature therapy seats or a separate hot tub section, they offer the same benefits as hot tubs. If you want the exercise benefits in addition to the hot tub features, then swim spas are worth the investment.

Year-Round Use

If you live in cooler climates, you might only be able to use a pool in the summer months. Since a smaller area of water needs to be heated in an endless pool or swim spa compared to a traditional pool, they're more cost effective for year-round use.

Exercise

While traditional swimming pools are also suitable for various types of water exercise, the current produced by a swim spa makes for greater resistance and increased intensity of strength training.

What Are The Most Popular Swim Spa Brands?

Endless Pools offer custom pool and swim spa builds with an excellent selection of features including their aquabike and underwater treadmill.

Final Thoughts

Is a swim spa worth the money? The answer to this question very much depends on your individual circumstances. We think that swim spas are excellent pool alternatives.

Swim spa owners have the convenience of year-round use whether is for a family fun splash around, fitness and exercise, or hydrotherapy and relaxation.

If you have limited space or funds but still want the benefits of a pool and spa, then a swim spa is a great idea. If you have a large backyard and aren't too concerned about how much you are spending, then making an investment in a swimming pool and separate hot tub should be no problem.

Whatever your situation, swim spas are a versatile piece of equipment. They can be enjoyed for various activities including relaxation, hydrotherapy from massaging water jets, exercise and fitness, family fun with the kids, and hot tub parties. They combine the best of both the hot tub and traditional pool worlds at a decreased price tag.

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