Factor #1: Cost

Cost is often the biggest deal-breaker or deal-maker when deciding between a pool and a swim spa. Remember to look at the cost of the pool itself, installation, energy cost, and supplies.

As for total purchase cost, swim spas are priced between above-ground and in-ground pools, selling for between $20,000-$40,000 on average. Above grounds are generally in the $3,000 to $5,000 range, and in-grounds typically price at $40,000+. Remember to also look for package deals, what’s included, and any additional supplies you may need for maintenance. At Spa Hearth & Home, every swim spa and above-ground comes with a package deal with most packages, including delivery and placement, startup chemicals, steps, new cover, cover lifter, etc. We also service every product sold, which is essential to have available for the life of your pool or swim spa!

As for installation costs, in-ground pools are much more expensive than above-ground pools and swim spas. They generally require permits, landscaping, and fencing that comply with local regulations. Installing a swim spa requires a simple electrical hook-up with a dedicated GFCI and a leveled concrete pad.

As for energy costs, traditional pools require larger pumps, which means more cost of operation. And if your above-ground or inground is heated, prices can easily reach several hundred dollars per month out of season. Due to the smaller swim tank and built-in insulation, swim spas can run their pumps and heater for between $1-$3 per day depending on the time of year; less than half of what it costs to run an average in-ground pool!

Factor #2: Size

With our backyard spaces limited by property lines, patio furniture, sheds, gardens, play structures, room for pets to run, etc., finding a compact pool becomes even more critical. A full-size pool may not always fit, but size won’t always be a factor if you have enough space. Swim spas, however, might be the only kind of pool that fits in a small backyard, besides maybe a kiddy pool!

Factor #3: Delivery and Installation

Before we dive in, we first have to factor in the time it takes to install and fill our at-home pools. On the one hand, above-ground pools can take anywhere from 1-3 days to get running. Not too shabby! On the other hand, in-ground pools take roughly 7-21 days, depending on size and finish. That’s not to mention unforeseen delays by weather, zoning permits, and final inspections. Swim spas, however, can be installed in about a few hours and are generally ready to use in under 24 hours. You can even move them easily if you plan on relocating to another home! So if you’re eager to get swimming, swim spas tend to have the quickest turnaround for installation. And unless a crane is needed, Spa Hearth & Home includes delivery and placement with your new swim spa purchase! We also provide free site inspections to deduce what is required to deliver your spa correctly.

Factor #4: Swim Season

The length of the swim season is another essential factor to consider. Non-heated pool swim seasons are short, usually no more than three months. Swim spa swim seasons, on the other hand, are year-round! Swim spas are self-insulated like a thermos and have a dedicated built-in heater. This insulated heat allows for year-round use, which brings incredible value to your swim spa from Spa Hearth & Home.

Factor #5: Maintenance

Pools require a good amount of maintenance week-to-week. Adding chemicals, brushing off algae growth, skimming surfaces for debris, and vacuuming heavier debris off the pool bottom are just a few things that go into maintaining a pool. Swim spas, in comparison, do not require as much maintenance. Since they have a much smaller surface area, the filtration system can easily filter out any floating debris that lands on the water. The acrylic surface of a swim spa shell is also anti-microbial, meaning surfaces require less brushing! Spa Hearth & Home’s lineup of swim spas on sale includes a supply of startup chemicals with easy-to-follow instructions. And with expert instruction from our representatives, you’ll feel even more comfortable maintaining your swim spa at home.

Factor #6: Fitness & Fun

Another main reason people buy pools is for the fun, fitness, and entertainment aspect. Simply put, the larger your pool is, the more people can use it comfortably and simultaneously. If you’re planning on having many people over to use the pool regularly, purchasing a larger pool makes sense. If you’re buying a pool for you and your family, overall size typically becomes less critical. And if that is the case, even smaller-sized above-grounds and swim spas can accommodate at minimum 3-6 people, with larger models able to fit up to 12 or more people.

As for the fitness over leisure aspect, swim spas, in particular, offer a unique advantage. Their built-in swim jet systems provide a continuous current to swim against that can be adjusted to match your skill level, just like treadmill resistance. And speaking of treadmills, swim spas can be outfitted with secondary equipment like an underwater treadmill or bicycle, rowing bars, and tether poles to aid in exercise. Besides swim spas, aquatic fitness options in traditional pools are few and far between. If you have a long rectangular pool, you can swim good laps, but if your pool is too small, it is hard to get in a good swim.

What’s the Verdict?

More and more people in the Maple Shade area buy swim spas instead of traditional pools. After considering the above factors, it is clear that swim spas hold several advantages over traditional pools. But at the end of the day, your final decision should make sense for your individual needs, budget, and lifestyle. If you would like to discuss your options in more detail, please contact our Maple Shade showroom at (856) 219-6625. Our expert representatives will be more than happy to assist you. . Thanks for listening, and happy swimming!