Before we answer the question, “Are swim spas hot or cold?” we should go over the basics of what a swim spa is for people who aren’t familiar with the concept. A quick and easy way to describe a swim spa is that it’s a combination of a swimming pool and a hot tub. The swimming portion of the swim spa is basically a short swimming lane equipped with a current generator that allows a swimmer to perform their strokes without actually moving forward. This permits someone to perform the act of swimming, with all its attendant benefits, in an area much smaller than a traditional swimming pool. Attached to the swimming area, either at one end or off to the side, is the spa area that’s equipped with seats and massaging jets.
As for whether the swim spa water is hot or cold depends on what the tank is being used for at any one time. That said, most swim spas have variable temperature controls that allow for simultaneously different water temperatures in the swim area and the spa area. This allows the tank to be used for different purposes at the same time.
Swimming Temperatures
When using the swim spa as a space for swimming you’d typically want temperatures in the 70 to 80-degree Fahrenheit range. This allows you to swim against the motorized current, get a decent swimming workout and not end up overheating. Because the strength of the current is adjustable, you might also want to set the temperature depending on how much effort you’re putting into your swimming strokes. The more effort you’re expending the lower you’d want the temperature to be.
Soaking Temperatures
If you’re planning to use your swim spa to simply float around or soak in, you’ll probably want to increase the temperature. Hot tub temperatures usually run around 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The standard maximum temperature for a hot tub is typically 104 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have children under the age of 5 using the spa portion of the tank, you’ll want to make sure the water is less than 95 degrees. Even then they should only stay in the water for 5 to 10 minutes maximum. For adults, it’s recommended to keep your soaks to 20 minutes and under.
Dual Temperature Spas
For those who would like to have multiple people using the swim spa at once, you’ll probably want to invest in a dual temperature swim spa. These swim spas are composed of two separate tanks – one featuring the motor-driven current system and the other set up with seating areas and massaging jets. Because the two tanks are separated it’s easy enough to set the temperatures for their particular use.
Benefits of Swim Spas
Beyond the convenience of having a tank that allows both swimming and hot tub style relaxation, swim spas take up much less space and use a lot less water than a full swimming pool and hot tub combination. Not only does this allow people to swim in smaller spaces, but it also cuts down on the amount of maintenance and chemicals needed to run things properly. The smaller sizes of swim spas also allow for the use of an ozonator to keep the water clean†. This option is usually out of reach for those with a full-sized swimming pool.
To find out if a swim spa might be a good option for you and your family, download a swim spa buyer’s guide below today, or visit us at our swim spa store.