How Much Does a Swim Spa Cost?

Swim spas combine the best of both a swimming pool and a hot tub to provide you and your family with years of fitness, fun, and relaxation. They have the added benefit of providing a challenging aquatic workout, so they can also serve as fitness instructors.

With that in mind, the price of fitness and relaxation can be priceless. However, when specifically asking, “How much does a swim spa cost?” you’ll want to understand exactly how much you’re getting for your financial investment.

Understanding these costs is essential for budgeting properly and planning for the long term. Below, we’ll break down what a swim spa is, how much the initial installation costs, the electricity costs, and how much it costs to maintain it.

What is a swim spa?

A swim spa is an all-in-one piece of equipment that combines the functions of swimming and hydrotherapy, capable of providing a professional-grade swim training and hydrotherapy massage experience in the home. Swim spas are sometimes considered all-season pools because they can be used year-round. Like a swimming pool, a swim spa is a rectangular shape that leaves enough space in the center area for you to swim in place with no turns while swimming a variety of strokes.

Swim spas consist of one or more powerful pumps and jet systems that simulate a swimming environment by creating a strong current of water while providing a full-body massage. They also feature powerful jets that create a counter-current to the water you swim against. When not being used for training, the center area of a swim spa can also be used as a play pool where family and friends can play and socialize.

Like a hot tub, a swim spa features jet seats on the interior walls, allowing you to enjoy a hydro massage when you are not training. Depending on the brand and model of the swim spa, the seats often have strategically placed jets with different types of hydrotherapy, such as targeting the neck, shoulders, and back to soothe joints, relieve muscle tension, or relieve pain.

If size is a factor in your decision-making process, a swim spa is a great alternative to a swimming pool. Swim spas are available in lengths between 12 and 20 feet, and some models come in a variety of depth options. Another option that offers deeper hydrotherapy, more comparable to a traditional hot tub, is a dual-zone hot tub.

How much does a swim spa cost?

The initial installation cost of a swim spa consists primarily of the cost of the equipment, installation fees, and associated accessories. Costs vary depending on the brand, model, and features.

Equipment Costs

The equipment costs of a swim spa are a major component of the total cost. Swim spas of different brands and models can cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.

Brands - Products from well-known brands such as Hydropool, Bullfrog Spas, and Sundance Spas are usually more expensive, but they come with quality and after-sales service.

Model and Size - Larger models with more features cost more. Small home swim spas can cost between $5,000 and $15,000, while large, high-end models can cost over $30,000.

Features - Advanced features such as multi-zone temperature control, more massage jets, and advanced countercurrent systems can add to the cost of the equipment.

Installation Fees

The installation fee includes the costs of shipping the equipment, on-site installation (including foundation preparation, electrical and plumbing connections, equipment installation), and commissioning. Depending on the complexity of the installation and site conditions, the installation fee can range from $2,000 to $5,000.

Related accessories costs

Some necessary accessories such as water treatment equipment, filters and waterproof covers also require additional budget. Depending on the type and brand of accessories, the cost may range from $500 to $2,000.

How much does a swim spa cost for electricity?

The electricity cost of a swim spa depends mainly on the power of the equipment, the frequency of use and the local electricity price. Electricity is an important part of daily operating costs.

Equipment power

Pump power - The pump power of countercurrent swimming systems and massage jets is relatively large, usually between 1.5kW and 3kW.

Heater power - The power of the heater is usually between 3kW and 6kW, which is used to keep the water temperature constant.

Lighting power - LED lighting systems have less power, but long-term use will also increase electricity costs.

Frequency of use

Frequent use - more than 2 hours of use per day, the electricity cost is higher.

Moderate use - 3-4 times a week, the electricity cost is relatively moderate.

Occasional use - 1-2 times a week, the electricity cost is lower.

Local electricity price

Different regions have different electricity prices, which directly affect the electricity cost of the swim spa. Generally speaking, the formula for calculating electricity costs is: power (kW) × usage time (hours) × electricity price (US dollars/kWh).

How much is the maintenance cost of a swim spa?

The maintenance cost of a swim spa includes water quality management, equipment maintenance, and replacement parts. Good maintenance not only prolongs the life of the equipment, but also ensures water quality safety and user experience.

Water Quality Management

Chemical costs - including chlorine, pH adjusters, fungicides, and algaecides. Depending on the frequency of use and water quality, monthly chemical costs may range from US$50 to US$100.

Water Quality Testing Tools - Water quality testing tools such as test strips and electronic testers need to be purchased and used, and the cost may range from US$20 to US$100.

Equipment Maintenance

Filter Cleaning and Replacement - Filters need to be cleaned and replaced regularly. The frequency of cleaning depends on the use, and the cost of each cleaning is between US$10 and US$50. The cost of replacing filters varies depending on the model, and each may range from US$50 to US$200.

Pump and heater maintenance - Regular inspection and maintenance are required to prevent pump and heater failure. Each maintenance cost may be between $100 and $300.

Sprinkler and pipe cleaning - Sprinklers and pipes need to be cleaned regularly to prevent clogging and bacterial growth. Cleaning costs may range from $50 to $150 each time, depending on the specific situation.

Replacement parts

Seals and gaskets - Regular inspection and replacement are required to prevent water leaks. Replacement costs are low, ranging from $5 to $20 each.

Electrical parts - Such as heaters, thermostats and water pumps, have a long service life, but the replacement cost is high, which may range from $200 to $1,000 each.