Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Swim Spa

Some people have a hard time deciding between a hot tub, swimming pool, and swim spa. While most are familiar with hot tubs and swimming pools, unless you’ve owned a swim spa in the past, you may not be aware of the reasons why you may want to choose one over the other. That’s why, in today’s post from Spa Max in Corona, we’re going to review some of the questions we get asked most frequently about swim spas. Keep reading, and if you have additional questions or are in the market for a new swim spa or hot tub, stop by Spa Max for the largest selection.

Question #1. What is a swim spa?

A swim spa strikes the perfect balance between a hot tub and swimming pool because it has many of the same desirable features of each, blended into one. Swim spas are used by people looking for a low-impact way to exercise and get the benefits of hydrotherapy all year round. That’s because swim spas come equipped with hydrotherapy jets just like a hot tub, but they are much longer, allowing a person room to lay flat with outstretched arms so they can swim or perform other various exercises.

Question #2: How are swim spas and hot tubs different?

The main differences between a hot tub and a swim spa have to do with size and function. When trying to decide between the two, think about how you want to use it — are you primarily looking for something that can facilitate relaxation and ease tense muscles? Or, are you looking for something that can do this plus enhance your workout routine? Also, think about how many people will be using it. Do you want plenty of room for several people to enjoy water games? Or, will there only be a limited number of people that will primarily be relaxing in place?

If you’re looking for something that the entire family can enjoy, you might be leaning toward getting a swimming pool. But, just keep in mind there are several advantages that come with getting a swim spa instead. For instance, they take up less space, can be used year-round, and depending on the type you choose, a swim spa will likely cost far less.

Back to the question of how swim spas are different from hot tubs, the first, most obvious difference is that swim spas are much longer than a hot tub. This is to accommodate swimmers who want the room to be able to move freely. Second, swim spas generate a powerful current that can hold swimmers in place while they do “laps.”

 

Question #3: Can I actually swim in a swim spa?

Yes! Not only are swim spas designed to give you the space to spread out and swim, but the powerful current that they generate allows people to “swim in place.” It’s much like running on a treadmill, only you’re swimming instead.

Question #4: What kind of exercises can you do in a swim spa?

Swimming is the obvious answer, but there are actually many other types of aquatic exercises you can perform in a swim spa. For instance, you can do water aerobics, jog in place, bicycle kicks, or use water weights or resistance bands for virtually an unlimited number of other exercises.

Question #5: Can I swim in my swim spa during the winter?

Yes! In fact, this is one of the most popular reasons why people choose to get a swim spa. Unlike a standard swimming pool which only allows you to swim during the warmest months of the year, a swim spa can be used all year long.

Question #6: Do swim spas cost a lot more to maintain?

Heating and maintenance costs are something that everyone needs to consider before investing in a hot tub, pool, or swim spa. Most people wonder if a swim spa is going to be the most expensive, but they are often surprised to learn that a swimming pool has much higher costs. That’s because most pools are not energy efficient. You’re heating a much larger amount of water, and most pools are poorly insulated. The larger surface area also means they’ll lose heat quickly from the surface. All of these factors make it difficult, if not impossible, to keep your pool at a comfortable temperature during most months of the year.

As far as the cost of chemicals, a hot tub will use the least amount. But, just because a swim spa is four times the size, that doesn’t mean that it’s going to use four times the chemicals. If you want to know how much more you can expect to pay, contact one of our helpful team members at Spa Max, and we’ll be happy to explain what you can expect for the particular model you’re looking to purchase.

Question #7: Where is the best place to buy a swim spa?

Shopping for a hot tub, swim spa, or swimming pool is a big decision and you should be well-informed of your options as well as the pro and cons of each. The best place to start is by heading over to a store where you can find knowledgeable staff and a wide variety of name-brand items to choose from.

At Spa Max hot tub superstore in Corona, we have a large selection of hot tubs, swim spas, and pools, all under one roof. We’re open seven days a week for your convenience and offer multiple financing options. Happy customers are our number one goal — stop by today, or feel free to contact us with any questions.