The bigger the swim spa, the bigger the price tag (generally). Larger swim spas require more materials to build, and require more involved equipment packages. They also take up more space in delivery trucks and on showroom floors. What size swim spa you need depends on how you’re looking to use it. A larger swim area is definitely preferred for a serious swimmer. A separate hot tub area is great for concentrated hydrotherapy and for hot and cool water systems as well as for therapeutic uses. For family and recreational uses, a more spacious swim spa likely makes more sense.

A swim spa’s features will affect it’s price too. Swim spas can come with both functional and cosmetic features such as advanced powerful jet systems, circulation pumps, touchscreen controls, entertainment options, and premium water care systems that reduce the need for chemicals. In addition, top-tier swim spas often come standard with multicolored lighting and beautiful waterfalls. Simply put, more advanced quality features = higher price.

If you expect many guests, a state-of-the-art built-in audio entertainment system and colored lighting might be important. If you’re looking for single-person fitness system technology and hydrotherapy, powerful and varied jets or swim machine technology would be a better choice.

Value priced swim spas are often made of slightly less expensive materials. These swim spas are easier to transport and cost less to build, but there are trade-offs. Wood frames are not as strong as steel frames. Better swim spas may also have extra layers of insulation which adds structural strength and can keep down running electrical costs over the years of ownership. The exterior of the swim spa is also important with higher quality components weathering the elements better than less expensive options. In a nutshell, investing in quality materials protects your investment and can actually save you money over time.

Design is another element that affects price. In many value priced swim spas, the seating is not quite as spacious or comfortable as in a higher quality swim spas. Higher quality swim spas on the other hand are designed with ergonomic seats that keep users optimally located during hydromassage sessions. The aesthetic design is often more appealing and better serves as a backyard’s centerpiece with inviting colors, textures, shapes, lines, and interior and exterior lighting. A quality swim spa is more than just an amusement, it truly becomes a part of its owner’s lifestyle and daily exercise and recreational routine.

The jets in less expensive swim spas are usually softer and gentler in the way they massage. The best swim spas will have high powered jets or swim current technology and a more customizable and more powerful swim and massage experience. They will also include powerful circulation pumps, which move water through the filters and the heater. This makes the water cleaner with less maintenance and makes the swim spa more energy efficient and less costly over time. Performance ultimately affects how much you enjoy your swim spa over the many years you plan to own it.

Be careful to take note of a swim spa’s warranty as not all swim spas come with quality guarantees from their manufacturers. While up front costs may be less, a failure could see you paying for costly repairs, or even a new swim spa. A great warranty will protect the product for several years after purchase, ensuring worry-free ownership. You may also find more expensive swim spas come with comprehensive service agreements from your dealer, including delivery, installation, relocation, and water-care. Simply put, the easier, quicker, and more effective your swim spa is to use, the more likely you are to want to use it regularly. By keeping your water clean and safe with regular maintenance or a built in water care system, you’ll be making sure your swim spa continues to be a regular, invigorating and relaxing part of your everyday life.