Swim Spa Buyers Questions and Answers

The 13FFP comes with:

• Pumps: 
• A 4 hp motor, pumping water through 2” pipes wrapped around the swim spa
• Jets: 
• Two jets, to create a non-adjustable swim

The jet openings are oval, which flattens the water, making the swim less turbulent

• Controls: 
• An on/off switch controls the swim jets. 
• For controllability, you can adjust the amount of air in the swim 
• Shell:
• The shell design features built-in hips, which eliminate any reflective way created by the swim jets. In many swim spas, a wave is created when the jets come on, as the water is sent down the spa before hitting a flat wall. That design simply creates a reflective wave coming back at the swimmer. Hydropool engineered the “hips” on the Play shell to stop that wave from ever occurring, creating an eddy effect instead, and creating a better overall swim.

The Hydropool Play model is a hit among families and fun-seekers who are basically looking for a jumbo-sized hot tub with a splash of swim space. It’s your go-to for laid-back vibes and leisurely lounging. Meanwhile, the Aquatic model is our crowd-pleaser, beloved for its do-it-all attitude. Whether you’re up for a fitness challenge, keen on serene swims, or itching for a bubbly party with friends and family, this model has you covered. It’s the Swiss Army knife of swim spas and is perfect for those who want it all!

Yes, one of the great benefits of a swim spa is its year-round usability, regardless of your local climate. Whether you’re in the middle of a scorching summer or a snowy winter, the swim spa’s temperature control features allow you to enjoy a refreshing swim or a warm soak. Its insulation capabilities also make it energy-efficient, even when the weather turns chilly. This makes a swim spa a versatile option for those who want to engage in water activities throughout the year, without the limitations often associated with traditional swimming pools or hot tubs.

To maintain optimal water quality in your swim spa, you should clean the cartridge filter every two to four weeks, depending on how frequently you use the spa. Make it a habit to test the water daily and add a shock treatment as needed. Additionally, it’s important to check the pH and alkalinity levels on a weekly basis and adjust them as required. Aim to give your filter cartridge a thorough cleaning at least once a month. As for the spa’s acrylic shell, it should be drained and cleaned with a specialized, non-abrasive cleaner for acrylic surfaces at least once every quarter. Lastly, for the longevity and cleanliness of your swim spa, it’s highly recommended to drain and refill the water at least once a year.

There are various financing options available for swim spas, some can even cover construction costs. During various promotions, there are sometimes promotional financing deals available.

In the New England area, a self-contained, portable swim spa doesn’t fall under the traditional classification of a swimming pool. This offers some advantages when it comes to local regulations. Each unit comes with a locking safety cover that meets all child safety requirements. In most towns, the only paperwork you’ll need is a construction permit for the pad or patio where the swim spa will sit. Typically, no additional permits are required for the actual placement of the swim spa itself. This makes the whole process much easier for homeowners looking to add this amenity to their property.

You’ll want to ensure that your Hydropool Swim Spa is properly supported by either a level concrete pad, or a properly constructed deck capable of supporting 1220 kg/m2 (250 lbs./ft2). If there is a possibility that the pad could shift by freezing/thawing ground movement (such as in clay regions, and/or areas with high water tables) concrete footings extending below the frost line are recommended.

For a straightforward installation of a swim spa, you can anticipate costs ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. However, if you’re aiming for a seamless, built-in appearance, the investment could range between $20,000 and $50,000. Electrical setup costs are generally in the ballpark of $1,000 to $2,000, provided that your home has adequate space and power capabilities. As for ongoing upkeep, you can expect to spend between $200 and $500 annually on chemicals, filters, and other routine maintenance. These estimates give you a comprehensive idea of the financial commitment involved in owning a swim spa.

Yes, Hydropool’s warranty covers the major components of a hot tub or a swim spa, including the shell, acrylic, equipment, and plumbing. Hydropool has a three-year limited warranty on all of its equipment and plumbing and a 10-year limited warranty on the shell.

Hydropool’s swim spas are engineered with exceptional quality, featuring a commercial-grade acrylic shell that is thicker than the industry standard. This robust shell not only enhances durability but also allows for a more expansive open swim area. A thinner shell would necessitate different reinforcement methods, potentially compromising the available swimming space. The frame of the swim spa is crafted from galvanized metal, ensuring it won’t rot over time. Additionally, the base is made from durable ABS plastic, and the spa’s exterior cabinetry is composed of composite materials that resist rotting. These design choices make Hydropool swim spas a long-lasting and low-maintenance option for homeowners.

Hydropool’s swim spas come loaded with a range of luxurious features that elevate your aquatic experience. One such highlight is the Bellagio falls, which not only adds a visually captivating water feature but can also serve as a therapeutic shoulder massage. For those who enjoy setting the mood, the extra lighting options allow you to create the perfect ambiance for relaxation or exercise. Additional waterfalls enhance the aesthetic appeal and contribute to a more serene environment. The air therapy system circulates millions of air bubbles, offering a gentle full-body massage. And if you’re looking for a more robust water current to swim against, the white water option delivers a challenging and invigorating swim experience. These features collectively make Hydropool’s swim spas a versatile and luxurious choice.

Hydropool swim spas are more than just a space for exercise and relaxation; they’re also designed for therapeutic benefits. Equipped with strategically placed jets, these spas provide targeted hydrotherapy and massage options. These jets can be adjusted to deliver varying pressures, allowing users to soothe sore muscles, relieve tension, and promote circulation. Whether you’re seeking relief from daily aches or simply indulging in a rejuvenating massage session, Hydropool’s swim spas offer a perfect blend of comfort and therapeutic care.

Hydropool swim spas feature a highly sophisticated water filtration and maintenance system that sets them apart from the competition. Starting with a pressurized filtration system, the setup includes a skimmer basket designed to catch larger debris like leaves and twigs before they enter the filtration unit. A secondary pre-filter works in tandem with the skimmer, adding another layer of filtration for smaller particles.

The circulation pump is equipped with an additional filter basket to catch any debris that might have slipped past the skimmer, ensuring that the water remains as clean as possible. Unlike many other brands that use suction filtration systems, Hydropool opts for swimming pool-grade filtration technology, enabling it to handle a significantly higher volume of water and debris without losing efficiency in water flow.

Moreover, Hydropool swim spas come with self-cleaning technology, including a floor vacuum that automatically removes sediment and debris from the bottom. This technology further contributes to maintaining high water quality and reduces the amount of manual cleaning required.

All of these features combine to make Hydropool’s system not only highly efficient but also exceptionally effective at maintaining water quality, offering both convenience and peace of mind to owners.

In a Hydropool swim spa, water quality is a top priority. These spas come equipped with advanced filtration and sanitization systems that work continuously to keep the water clean, clear, and safe for use. The built-in filtration captures and removes impurities, while the sanitization features work to neutralize bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. This dual-action system helps to maintain optimal water conditions with minimal effort, making it easier for owners to enjoy their swim spa without worrying about water quality.

Hydropool swim spas are designed with energy efficiency in mind, featuring full spray foam insulation, wraps, and insulating covers to lock in heat and minimize energy consumption. These features work together to create a highly insulated environment, making it more cost-effective to maintain a comfortable water temperature. Additionally, various energy-saving modes can be activated to further reduce electricity usage, offering both sustainability and cost savings for owners. All these elements contribute to making Hydropool swim spas an eco-friendly and wallet-friendly choice.

A swim spa isn’t just for swimming; it’s a multi-purpose space where you can engage in a variety of activities. Whether you’re into water aerobics, boxing, or even a bit of underwater running, the swim spa’s versatile design accommodates it all. And let’s not forget relaxation—many of our customers actually purchase a swim spa solely for the calming experience it offers. With its customizable current and optional workout accessories, a swim spa can be your all-in-one fitness center or your personal oasis for unwinding.

The maximum swim speed or resistance varies depending on the specific model and type of swim spa. Hydropool’s resistance swim spas can generate a current with speeds up to 10 km/h, outpacing the average 6.5 km/h offered by other brands. This makes them a great fit for even highly skilled swimmers looking for a challenge. The current is fully adjustable to match your skill level, and if you opt for the AquaPro model, you can even set up interval training programs. These programs automatically vary the current speed, adding a dynamic element to your workouts.

Yes, swim spas are easy to install. Installing a swim spa is a straightforward process, thanks to its self-contained and portable design. Unlike traditional pools that require extensive construction, swim spas simply need a sturdy, level surface for placement—this could be a concrete pad, a deck, or even a patio. To get things up and running, you only need to connect it to your home’s electrical system and have access to a water supply. Want to go the extra mile? You can even install the swim spa in-ground for a seamless, integrated look that blends perfectly with your outdoor space. All in all, the flexibility and ease of installation make swim spas a hassle-free option for enjoying a swim at home.

The most common types of swim spa propulsion systems are jet propulsion and propeller-driven systems. Jet propulsion uses high-powered jets to create the swim current, while propeller-driven systems use a propeller to generate the current.

The swim current or propulsion system in a swim spa is a highly engineered feature designed to simulate a swimming experience. It generates a current of water strong enough to swim against, effectively turning the spa into a lap pool. This is made possible by powerful pumps and adjustable jets, which produce a water flow tailored to provide just the right amount of resistance for your workout.

Another crucial component is the water collection system. As the pumps and jets create a strong current at one end, the water needs to be efficiently collected at the opposite end to maintain a consistent and steady flow. This ensures that the swim current is not only strong but also smooth, providing an optimal swimming experience. The ability to collect and recycle the water efficiently contributes to the overall performance of the swim spa, making your swim as effective and enjoyable as possible.

The seating capacity of a swim spa varies depending on the model, but it typically ranges from 2 to 9 people, with more if people are standing as well.

Swim spas come in various sizes, typically ranging from 12 to 21 feet in length, 7 to 8 feet in width, and 4 to 6 feet in depth. At Great Bay, we offer Hydropool Swim Spas. They come in various sizes including  14’, 17’, and 19’. Most (if not all) units are 53” tall. Which offers just under 4 feet of water depth. All units are 7 foot 9 inches wide. Hydropool engineers their swim spas to have the largest open swim areas compared to other brands.

Simply put, a swim spa is a machine that utilizes a powerful current so that you are able to continuously swim in place without having to do laps and constantly have to turn around. They are compact and can be installed indoors or outdoors. They provide a fantastic swim workout for all ability levels. You can keep it at the perfect temperature and it’s always ready to use. 

A swim spa blends the features of a swimming pool and a hot tub into one versatile unit. It’s bigger than a typical hot tub but smaller than a standard pool, offering a space where you can swim against a current and also kick back and relax. Designed with insulation, it’s energy-efficient and well-suited for New England’s varying weather. Since it holds less water, it’s also easier to maintain than a full-sized pool. And because it’s not a permanent addition to your home, it usually won’t affect your property taxes, although this can vary by town.

Swim spas are incredibly versatile, offering more than just a space to swim. Depending on the model you choose, you can amp up your workout with a range of accessories. From rowing kits to exercise bikes and treadmills, there’s an option for just about every fitness routine. You can even get boxing kits to diversify your exercise regimen further. This adaptability means a swim spa can serve as a full-fledged home gym, making it a multipurpose investment for both relaxation and health.

Yes, a swim spa can be used in winter! One major perk of having a swim spa in New England is the top-notch insulation, which lets you use it all year round. In contrast, traditional pools have a more limited season of use. Plus, heating a regular swimming pool can really add up, but the cost to keep a swim spa warm is a lot more budget-friendly over time. So, if you’re looking for extended comfort and relaxation without the high heating costs, a swim spa is the way to go.

Unfortunately, Hyrdopool stopped making salt water spas. Hydropool made and sold salt water spas for years, but eventually ended up abandoning the method because a better way to reduce chemical usage was found. Most of the hot tub industry followed this trend, which is why today very few salt water hot tubs are sold and few hot tub companies offer them. That said, anyone looking for a more natural aquatic experience, salt water spas are worth considering. 

If you’re in New England and considering adding a water feature to your property, swim spas have a bunch of perks. One big plus is that they’re super easy to install. They’re self-contained and usually don’t need a special permit from the town. This cuts down on red tape and expenses. Plus, they won’t bump up your property taxes like a traditional pool might.

Thinking of selling your home down the line? A swim spa might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but the cool thing is you can take it with you when you move. It’s portable, so if the next owner isn’t into it, no problem—you can just relocate it to your new place.

Yes, swim spas can typically be installed both above ground and inground, but just like anything there are installation guidelines that must be followed. Just like any cement pad, it’s crucial to not be sloped and to ensure a level and stable foundation for the spa to be planted on before it is installed. It’s crucial to consult the manufacturer’s installation guide for specific instructions and requirements related to inground installation to ensure it’s done correctly and safely.

If you take good care of it, your swim spa will last more than 20 years. Hydropool swim spas are renowned for their durability because they are crafted with precision and high-quality materials. Their construction involves heavy-duty acrylic shells, corrosion-resistant frames, and advanced insulation (built to withstand a Canadian and New England winter), ensuring resilience against harsh weather conditions and extended longevity. Rigorous quality control measures and innovative engineering come together for a design that is built to withstand the test of time.

No, swim spas don’t use more energy than swimming pools. Hydropool swim spas are built to be energy-smart, so they’re generally easier on your utility bill than a traditional swimming pool. Regular pools need a lot of energy to keep all that water circulating and warm, but Hydropool swim spas are different. They’ve got top-notch insulation and hold less water, which means they don’t need as much energy to keep the temperature just right. So, if you’re worried about energy costs, a Hydropool swim spa is usually a more efficient choice compared to a full-sized pool.

With a swim spa, we generally estimate that cost to be about $60 a month or $2 a day.  

In short, yes a swim spa does use more energy than a hot tub mainly because it is larger. But there are some factors that will impact how much energy is used. These include how much you use your swim spa, where you live, how cold your winters are, the temperature, jets, and so on. 

In the summer, however, the energy usage of a swim spa is likely comparable to that of a hot tub.

Swim Spas provide a litany of benefits that make them well worth the purchase over a traditional hot tub or swimming pool. A swim spa can provide all the benefits of a hot tub as well as a swimming pool at the same time. Swim spas offer the perfect blend of relaxation and exercise, making them a worthwhile investment due to its versatile nature. Their compact size and dual functionality provide year-round access to a controlled swimming environment, therapeutic hydrotherapy, and a space-efficient solution for fitness and leisure, all within the convenience of your own home.