If you’re in the market for some home-based aquatic activities, you should know that your choices aren’t limited to swimming pools and hot tubs. You should look into swim spas as well. To allow you to learn more about these unique water tanks we’ve come up with an article to describe what swim spas are, how is a swim spa heated, their energy efficiency and more.
What Is A Swim Spa?
You might think of a swim spa as a hybrid of a swimming pool and a hot tub. Although much smaller than a full-sized swimming pool, you’re still able to practice your stroke in a swim spa. Swim spas generate a strong, adjustable current which allows the swimmer to stay in place while performing their stroke. It’s similar to running on a treadmill, but with the treadmill being replaced by a current of water. Because the swimmer never reaches the end of the water tank, they never have to turn around. This allows the water tank to be much smaller than a swimming pool. That said, a swim spa is likely to be somewhat bigger than a hot tub. But similar to a hot tub, swim spas can be outfitted with form-fitting seats, massaging water jets and other entertainment options.
How Is A Swim Spa Heated?
The size of swim spas makes them easy to keep heated throughout the year, even in the cold winter season. You’ll have much more control over the temperature than you would with a full-sized swimming pool. The ideal temperature of a swim spa depends on how you’re using it. If you’re using it mainly for swimming, you’ll likely prefer a water temperature in the mid to high 20s. If you want to use your swim spa more like a hot tub, you can heat the water as high as 40 degrees Celsius.
What About Energy Efficiency?
There are many options available with a swim spa that can make it more energy efficient. Inground swim spas are naturally more energy efficient than above ground swim spas due to the insulative properties of the surrounding earth. For above-ground swim spas, it’s possible to buy models with extra insulation surrounding the water tank and cabinet to improve energy efficiency. Insulation can also be used to retain heat generated by the water pump. Thermal vents are available to allow heat to escape during hot weather and to be captured and reused in colder weather. Pressurized filtration systems can also cut down on the amount of energy used since they filter and clean† the water much faster than conventional systems. One of the best ways to cut down on heat loss is to cover your swim spa with a well fitted, insulated cover whenever the swim spa isn’t in use.
Should You Maintain A Constant Temperature?
Whether you keep your water heater always on the go or if you turn it off after each use really depends on how often your swim spa is getting used. If you’re swimming or soaking on a regular basis, it’s much more energy-efficient to keep the water at a constant temperature. If you’re not using your swim spa very much, it might be better to turn on the swim spa before each use. You’ll just need to plan ahead as it will take some time for the water to reach a comfortable temperature. If you don’t plan on using your swim spa in the winter, you should drain the water tank. Allowing water to freeze in your swim spa can cause serious damage to its components.
If you’d like to learn more about the ins and outs of swim spas, download a free buyer’s guide below today, or visit us at our swim spa store.