Deciding between a swim spa and a pool can be difficult. To make the best decision, it’s important to know all the facts about the pros and cons of each option. Different users will have different needs, but in many cases a swim spa can be a more affordable, versatile, and useful choice. Below you will find some of the key factors to consider.
How many days of use you can get out of your pool or swim spa is a top consideration. The best swimming pool seasons last around six months at most, while a swim spa can be used every day of the year. Even better, choosing a swim spa can cut your usage costs in half.
Cost is another important thing to consider when deciding whether to install a pool or a swim spa. Typically, it takes between seven and 14 days to install a pool and costs, on average, £50,000. For comparison, a swim spa can be installed in three days and costs around £25,000.
The cost of accessories can add up when purchasing a pool or swim spa. One of these costs is a safety cover. A swimming pool safety cover costs an average of £5,000 to £10,000. If you purchase a swim spa, the safety cover is included at no cost.
Heating costs are one of the top things to think about before choosing a swimming pool or swim spa. The cost to heat a swimming pool to a temperature of 32 degrees is around £300 per month in summer and up to £450 per month in spring and fall. A swim spa can be heated for around $£20 per month in summer, £30 per month in spring and autumn, and £50 per month in winter.
There is a large difference between the cost of maintenance for a pool and the cost for a swim spa. On average, chemicals, equipment, and other maintenance costs for a pool total around £1,200 per year. Swim spa maintenance costs only around £300 per year.
A durable liner and shell are essential for a high-functioning pool or swim spa. A pool liner and shell must be replaced every 10 to 15 years and costs between £3,000 to £5,000. Swim spa shells never need to be replaced.
The swim experience of a swimming pool versus a swim spa is vastly different. While swimming in a pool, you have to turn in order to do laps. Swimming one mile, or 66 laps, in a 40′ pool requires 130 turns end to end. The experience in a swim spa requires no turns, only one continuous swim.
A swimming pool can be used in essentially one way. Swim spas offer multiple options for use, including swimming, a hot tub, aqua gym, and even as a fitness facility where you can install a bike. Even knee boarding is possible with the wave pool feature. Overall, a swim spa offers a more diverse experience.
Since all of the costs can quickly add up, seeing a comparison between the cost of operating a swimming pool versus a swim spa can be helpful. Below is a quick comparison chart.
Swimming Pool Cost
Heating for 6 months – £2,250
Installation – £50,000
Liner Replacement – £4,000
Pool Safety Cover – £10,000
Maintenance – £1,200
Initial Cost: $60,000
Annual Maintenance: £4,450
Annual Maintenance: £4,450
Swim Spa Cost
Heating for 6 months – £150
Installation – £25,000
Liner Replacement – £0
Swim Spa Safety Cover – £0
Maintenance – £300
Initial Cost: £25,000
Annual Maintenance: £450
