What Does a Swim Spa Cost?

If you’re considering investing in a swim spa, one of the first questions that probably comes to mind is, “what does a swim spa cost?” After all, swim spas are not exactly cheap, but they do offer a range of benefits that make them an attractive option for many homeowners.

 

In this blog post, I’ll dive into the cost of a swim spa and explore what factors influence the price. Whether you’re looking for a compact swim spa to fit in a small backyard or a large swim spa for your entire family to enjoy, understanding the costs involved can help you make an informed decision.

 

I’ll also discuss the ongoing expenses associated with owning a swim spa, such as maintenance, energy usage, and repairs. By the end of this post, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect when it comes to the total cost of owning a swim spa, as well as some tips for minimizing expenses and getting the most value for your investment.

So if you’re ready to take the plunge and learn more about the cost of a swim spa, keep reading! At the end of this article I am going to give you a money saving alternative – not for everyone of course but certainly worth considering.

 

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What Are Swim Spas?

 

Swim spas are a type of home spa that combine the benefits of a swimming pool with the relaxation and therapeutic features of a hot tub. They are essentially small, heated pools that use powerful jets to create a current that simulates swimming in open water. Swim spas are typically designed for year-round use and can be used for swimming, aquatic exercise, relaxation, and hydrotherapy.

 

Swim spas come in a variety of sizes and shapes, ranging from compact models that can fit in a small backyard to larger units that can accommodate multiple swimmers at once. They also offer a range of features, such as adjustable jet speeds, temperature controls, lighting, and sound systems, to create a customized spa experience.

 

Swim spas are often favoured by homeowners who want the benefits of a swimming pool but have limited space or want a more versatile and cost-effective alternative. They can also be used for a variety of purposes, including fitness training, relaxation, and family fun, making them a popular choice for those who value both health and wellness.

What are the benefits of a swim spa?

Swim spas offer a wide range of benefits, including:

• Improved cardiovascular health: Swimming is a great form of aerobic exercise that can help to improve heart health, reduce cholesterol, and lower blood pressure.

• Increased muscle strength and tone: The resistance created by the swim jets can help to build muscle strength and tone, especially in the legs and core.

• Reduced pain and inflammation: The heat and massage jets can help to reduce pain and inflammation from arthritis, muscle injuries, and other conditions.

• Improved sleep quality: The warm water and relaxation effects of a swim spa can help to promote better sleep.

• Stress relief: Swim spas can provide a great way to relax and de-stress after a long day.

What are the factors that influence swim spa cost?

Several factors can influence the cost of a swim spa, including its size, features, brand, and installation costs. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors that affect swim spa pricing:

Size: Swim spa size is a significant determinant of its cost. Larger swim spas, with more space for swimmers and more powerful jets, generally cost more than smaller models. Size options typically range from 5 feet to 21 feet in length and 5 feet to 10 feet in width.

Features: The array of features offered by swim spas can significantly impact their price. More advanced features, such as multiple jet settings, integrated sound systems, aromatherapy options, and Bluetooth connectivity, tend to drive up the cost.

Brand: Renowned swim spa brands often command higher prices due to their reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation. Established brands may invest heavily in research and development, leading to more sophisticated features and higher production costs.

Installation: Installation costs can vary depending on the complexity of the installation process and the location of the swim spa. Factors like site preparation, electrical work, and plumbing connections can influence the overall installation expense.

Additional factors that may affect the cost of a swim spa include:

• Material quality: Higher-grade materials, such as durable acrylic shells and stainless steel components, can add to the price.

• Energy efficiency: Swim spas with energy-efficient features, such as insulation and variable-speed pumps, may cost more upfront but can save money on energy bills in the long run.

• Warranty coverage: Extended warranties and comprehensive coverage plans can add to the purchase price but provide peace of mind and protection against potential repairs.

When considering the cost of a swim spa, it’s important to evaluate your needs and preferences carefully. Prioritize the features that are most important to you and consider the long-term value of the investment. Consulting with experienced swim spa dealers can help you make an informed decision based on your budget and requirements.

Why Purchase a Swim Spa Over a Pool?

 

While both swimming pools and swim spas offer the benefits of water-based exercise and relaxation, there are several reasons why you might consider purchasing a swim spa over a traditional swimming pool.

 

1. Space: One of the biggest advantages of a swim spa is its smaller size. Swim spas are typically much more compact than a traditional swimming pool, making them a great option for those with limited outdoor space.
2. Cost: Swim spas can be a more cost-effective option than a traditional swimming pool, both in terms of the initial purchase price and ongoing maintenance costs.

 

1. Year-round use: Swim spas can be used year-round, even in colder climates, due to their heating and insulation features. This means you can enjoy the benefits of a pool even when it’s too cold to swim outdoors.

 

1. Versatility: Swim spas offer more versatility than traditional swimming pools. In addition to swimming, you can also use a swim spa for aquatic exercise, relaxation, and hydrotherapy, making it a great all-in-one solution for your wellness needs.

 

 

1. Health benefits: Swim spas offer a range of health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, increased muscle strength and flexibility, and reduced stress and anxiety.

 

Overall, swim spas can be a great option for those who want the benefits of a swimming pool but have limited space or are looking for a more versatile and cost-effective alternative.

What are the ongoing costs for a swim spa?

The ongoing running costs for a swim spa can vary based on several factors, including the type of swim spa, its size, location, frequency of use, energy efficiency features, and local utility rates. Here are the main cost components to consider:

1. Energy Consumption: Heating the water in a swim spa is typically the largest ongoing cost. The more you use the swim spa and the higher you set the water temperature, the more energy it will consume. Energy-efficient swim spas with good insulation and advanced heating systems can help reduce this cost.

2. Water Filtration and Chemicals: Regular maintenance of water quality requires filtration, balancing chemicals (chlorine, bromine, etc.), and water testing. The cost of chemicals and water testing kits can add up over time. Using a good quality water treatment system can help minimize chemical usage.

3. Pump and Motor Maintenance: Swim spas have powerful pumps and motors that drive the swim current and jets. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and potential repairs, should be factored into the running costs.

4. Cover and Insulation: Properly maintaining the swim spa cover and insulation is crucial for energy efficiency. Replacing or repairing covers when needed can impact energy consumption.

5. Electricity Rates: The cost of electricity varies by location and can significantly impact running costs. Check with your local utility company for current rates.

6. Climate: If you live in a colder climate, the swim spa will need to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, potentially increasing energy costs.

7. Water Supply and Disposal: Filling the swim spa initially and occasional water changes will require water supply and disposal, which may have associated costs.

8. Repairs and Maintenance: Like any mechanical system, swim spas may require occasional repairs or maintenance services, which should be budgeted for.

9. Wear and Tear: Over time, components such as filters, jets, and pumps might need replacement due to wear and tear.

It’s important to note that while swim spas have ongoing costs, they also offer benefits like exercise, relaxation, and therapeutic value. To estimate your specific ongoing costs, consider factors such as your local utility rates, how often you plan to use the swim spa, and the features and efficiency of the swim spa model you’re considering. 

Swim Spa Purchase Price

 

The purchase price of a swim spa can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size, features, and brand. In general, swim spas can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $40,000 or more.

 

Smaller swim spas designed for one or two swimmers typically cost less than larger models that can accommodate multiple users. In addition to the size, the features of the swim spa can also impact the price. Swim spas with more advanced features, such as multiple speed options, LED lighting, and sound systems, will generally cost more than basic models.

 

The brand of the swim spa can also impact the price, with more well-known and established brands generally commanding a higher price tag. Keep in mind that while purchasing a lower-priced swim spa may save you money in the short term, it’s important to consider the long-term costs of ownership, such as energy usage, maintenance, and repairs.

 

Swim Spa Delivery Cost?

 

The delivery cost of a swim spa can vary depending on several factors, such as the distance of the delivery location from the manufacturer, the size and weight of the swim spa, and any additional services required.

 

Delivery costs can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the above factors. It’s important to keep in mind that swim spas are generally larger and heavier than hot tubs, which can make delivery more complex and expensive.

If you live in a remote area, you may also incur additional delivery costs due to the difficulty of accessing your property. Some manufacturers may offer free delivery within a certain distance from their factory or showroom, so it’s worth checking with them to see if this is an option.

 

 

Swim Spa Installation Cost

 

The installation cost of a swim spa can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the swim spa, the type of foundation required, and the cost of labour in your area.

 

The cost of a foundation for a swim spa can range from a few hundred dollars for a basic gravel base to several thousand dollars for a reinforced concrete slab. The foundation must be level, sturdy, and able to support the weight of the swim spa, so it’s important to consult with a professional to ensure that the foundation is suitable for your specific swim spa model.

 

In addition to the foundation, you may also need to hire an electrician to install the necessary electrical wiring for the swim spa.

 

Swim Spa Cost of Ownership, Maintenance and Repairs

 

The cost of ownership of a swim spa includes not just the initial purchase price and delivery/installation costs but also the ongoing costs associated with maintenance and repairs.

 

Maintenance costs can vary depending on the brand and model of the swim spa, as well as how often you use it. Generally, you can expect to pay for chemicals to keep the water balanced, filters to keep the water clean, and energy costs to heat and run the swim spa.

 

The cost of chemicals and filters should be around a few hundred dollars per year, depending on the size of the swim spa and how often it is used. Energy costs can also vary depending on the efficiency of the swim spa and how often it is used.

 

Repairs can also add to the cost of ownership of a swim spa. Common repairs include fixing leaks, replacing worn-out parts, and repairing or replacing the heating or pump systems.

To minimize the cost of ownership, it’s important to properly maintain your swim spa and address any issues promptly before they become more serious and costly to repair. You can also consider purchasing a swim spa with a good warranty or extended warranty to help cover the cost of repairs in case of unexpected issues.

Cheaper Swim Spa Cost – Build your own for half the cost!

 

You may have not considered this, but building your own DIY swim spa can be a great way to actually save money! How can this be true I hear you ask?

 

If you’re handy and up for a challenge, building your own swim spa can be a fun and rewarding project it is not as difficult as you may think. I’ll cover the basics below, but building your own DIY Swim spa you should be able to do for under $20K USD comfortably!

 

A swim spa is really no different to a small cocktail pool or spool with the addition of a swim jet or counter current system.

 

Step 1: Planning and Design

The first step to building your own swim spa is to plan and design the spa to meet your specific needs. Consider the size, depth, and shape of the swim spa, as well as the materials and equipment required. You’ll also need to plan for electrical and plumbing systems, including pumps, heater, and filter. This is definitely something I can help you with!

 

Step 2: Construction

Once you have your plan and design, it’s time to start construction. You’ll need to build a sturdy foundation for your swim spa, such as a concrete slab or reinforced deck.

 

The type of walls are up to you, ICF blocks are a great way to construct the sides of your swim spa quickly and they have insulation in there too which will help keep the running costs down as they are more thermally efficient.

 

Next, install the plumbing and electrical systems, including the pump, heater, and filter. You’ll also need to install the swim current generator, which creates a current for swimming against.

 

Finish off with tiles – this is my recommendation although a painted surface can be a lot cheaper but just doesn’t look quite as good.

Again, I know I am simplifying things here and I do have guides with much more detail than this on the process.

 

Hopefully, this has given you some food for thought. Please do get in touch if you would like some more information or have any questions.

Can I Help You?

If I can help you in any way I would love to hear from you. You can get in touch using the form below.

Thanks - Andi

 

Hi, Andi here. I own Buildahottub.com and also write all of the articles and info pages on the site. Some years back now, I built my own hot tub but struggled to find the information I needed. So, once my tub was complete, I started this website to help others in their own pursuit of hot tub and plunge pools DIY building information.

Today, I've helped over 1000 DIY customers just like you all over the world build hot tubs and pools. Have a good look around the site, there are lots of resources here. Please do get in touch if I can help you. - Cheers, Andi