Swim spas are gaining popularity with homeowners for a good reason. They’re incredibly versatile, can save a lot of real estate in a backyard or side yard, and cost much less than installing an entire pool. 

But even though buying a swim spa is very much on trend, many people are still scratching their heads regarding how to go about their research. Here’s everything you need to know before you buy your swim spa to ensure you get exactly what you need.

Consider Size and Space Requirements

There’s no chance of getting the right swim spa if you aren’t taking some measurements first. You should go into your swim spa shopping trips with a clear idea of how much space you have to work with. Measure the area you’d like your swim spa to go and record it. 

Remember to account for the area surrounding the location of your swim spa; you’ll want to make sure people can comfortably move around the pool’s perimeter.

Since swim spas come in different sizes, you’ll also want to ask yourself if a larger spa would be more beneficial for your situation. Homeowners who wish to entertain or have multiple people join them in the swim spa fun should take that into account when deciding which size is best for them.

Know Why You’re Purchasing It

What’s the driving force behind buying a swim spa? Are you primarily using it for therapeutic reasons? Do you want to move your body more often and take advantage of the swimming features? 

It could be either reason or even a combination of both! Whatever your reason, it’s crucial to know why you want to buy a swim spa so you know which ones have the right features for you. 

Think About Energy Efficiency

If you’ve never owned a swim spa, you’re probably not familiar with its operating costs. Adding one to your home will undoubtedly impact your utility costs, but how big of a spike you see is ultimately up to which make and model you purchase.

Outdoor hydropool swim spa on a lit wooden deck with comfortable seating

Many energy-efficient models are the best option for homeowners who want to save money over time. It doesn’t necessarily have to make the model more expensive either; many options have built-in insulation features as a default. You can save even more by purchasing a cover that retains heat and keeps the pool warm more consistently.

Be Realistic About Upkeep and Maintenance Requirements

Many homeowners understandably don’t want to spend a great deal of time maintaining their swim spas. While buying any spa or pool will come with some unavoidable maintenance, it doesn’t necessarily condemn a homeowner to a lifetime of constant upkeep.

Before you buy your swim spa, determine whether the model you’re interested in aligns with the amount of work you expect to put into its maintenance. 

For example, some spas might have features that lower the need for regular water treatment. Homeowners who’d rather spend more time swimming and less time skimming will probably gravitate toward a model like this.

Take a Bird’s Eye View Approach With Pricing

Cost is an obvious and considerable factor when buying a swim spa. However, most people don’t consider the total cost beyond the initial ticket price. Installation costs, ongoing maintenance expenses, energy usage, and even chemicals will all be a reality for the new owner, and you’ll want to factor that into your decision.

Thinking about this ahead of time can help you determine a realistic budget for buying your swim spa. It prevents you from overcommitting to a model that’s too expensive to operate, leading you to either use it less or regret purchasing it.

Person relaxing in a sunlit backyard swimming spa

Buying a Swim Spa Is a Win With Great Bay Spa & Sauna

The swim spa is the ideal New England pool, and Great Bay Spa & Sauna carries models that could be the perfect pool for you! 

We’re proud to provide our customers with the illustrious Hydropool line, which is considered one of the best choices for those looking for that unique combination of affordability and versatility.Don’t forget to explore our Swim Spa Learning Center for expert insights to help you make the right choice. Contact us today to find the swim spa that’s perfect for you!