How to

  • Can Swim Spas Be Installed In-Ground? What You Need to Know

    Back to the Learning Centre By Jon Filson Hydropool Hot Tubs and Swim Spas https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vciQjxLQjjYIf you’re dreaming of a sleek, streamlined swim spa that fits seamlessly into your garden design, you might be wondering: Can swim spas be installed in-ground? The short answer is yes — but there’s a bit more to it than simply digging a hole and dropping one in. In-ground installations can look stunning and offer unique benefits, but they also require careful planning, proper drainage, and sometimes even building permissions. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything UK homeowners need to know before going in-ground with a swim spa, including pros, cons, and practical considerations. We’ll go over: What are the benefits of in-ground swim spas?  What permissions are required?  What are maintenance and access issues?  How much does an in-ground installation cost?  What options are there to in-ground?  Hopefully by the end you’ll have a strong sense of whether an in-ground swim spa is right for you.   Can Swim Spas Be Installed In-Ground in the UK? Yes, swim spas can be installed in-ground — and many people across the UK are choosing this option for that polished, built-in look.  In-ground installation involves: Excavation to the right depth and width Foundations to support the weight of the spa A carved-out basin: to ensure access on all sides of the spa for eventual servicing Drainage systems to prevent water accumulation in the basin Access hatches for servicing pumps and components Some homeowners opt for a partially in-ground install, which reduces excavation and still delivers a stylish, semi-sunken appearance, like in the image below. What are the Benefits of an In-Ground Swim Spa? Installing a swim spa in-ground offers a number of appealing advantages: Aesthetics: It creates a clean, modern, and unobtrusive look in your garden. Accessibility: Easier to step into without needing high steps or platforms. Sheltering: Can be built into a patio, decking area, or enclosed space. Wind protection: Being lower to the ground can reduce wind exposure and heat loss. If your garden has a contemporary design or you want your swim spa to blend in, going in-ground might be the way to go. What Planning or Permissions are Needed? In many UK cases, you won’t need full planning permission for an in-ground swim spa — especially if it’s installed in a rear garden and not exceeding certain height limits. However, it’s always wise to check! You may need approval if: You live in a conservation area or listed property. You’re excavating near property boundaries or tree roots. You plan to build a permanent structure around the spa. Your Hydropool dealer will be able to guide you through the correct local processes. Is a Swim Spa Actually Worth It? What’s Involved in Preparing the Site? Site preparation is one of the most important (and costly) aspects of in-ground swim spa installation. Typical steps can include: Soil testing and ground assessment to ensure stability. Excavation using heavy machinery, with careful measurements. Laying a reinforced concrete base to support the spa (they can weigh 1,500–3,000 kg empty, and up to 9,000+ kg filled). Waterproofing and drainage systems to prevent flooding. Service access for future maintenance. You’ll also need to consider electrical supply (usually a dedicated 32 or 50-amp connection) and access for delivery, which is typically done by crane. What are the Maintenance and Access Considerations? One of the biggest challenges of in-ground swim spas is access to the equipment. Unlike an above-ground unit, you can’t simply open a side panel when maintenance is needed. To avoid problems: Ensure sufficient clearance around the spa for service technicians. Incorporate removable decking panels or hatches. Work with an installer familiar with Hydropool’s design and servicing needs.  Ensuring access all around an underground swim spa is key in the event of future maintenance needs.How Much Does an In-Ground Swim Spa Installation Cost? Costs will vary depending on site conditions, access, and finish quality but here’s a general guide for UK buyers: Excavation and groundwork: £3,000–£8,000+ Concrete base and drainage: £1,500–£4,000+ Swim spa unit: £21,000–£60,000+ depending on model Installation and electrical work: £1,500–£3,500 That puts the total cost of an in-ground swim spa installation somewhere in the £30,000–£55,000+ range.  The amount not included in here involves landscaping. Many people do significant landscaping around the swim spa, either with decks or shrubbery. We’re not putting an estimate here because it’s different with everyone, but we do want to flag it as a cost.  We’d encourage you to talk to a local retailer here. They can help work out the budget with costs in your actual area.    How Much Do Swim Spas Cost? What are the Alternatives to In-Ground Installation?  If a fully in-ground spa isn’t feasible for your space or budget, don’t worry — there are other stylish options: Partially in-ground (half sunken) installations Deck surround builds that hide the spa frame Landscaped integration with planting and hardscaping Can Swim Spas Be Installed In-Ground? What You Need to Know In-ground swim spa installation is absolutely possible — and the results can be stunning. But it requires more time, planning, and investment than an above-ground install. If you want a seamless, stylish addition to your garden with easier access and a custom look, it’s certainly worth considering. Ready to explore your options? Your local Hydropool retailer can guide you through in-ground swim spa models, installation advice, and site requirements.  Jon Filson is the Senior Content Manager at Hydropool Hot Tubs and Swim Spas.

  • Can Swim Spas Be Used as Hot Tubs? Understanding the Differences

    Back to the Learning Centre By Jon Filson Hydropool Hot Tubs and Swim Spas If you’re torn between a hot tub and a swim spa, you’re not the only one. Many shoppers ask us at Hydropool: Can a swim spa be used as a hot tub too? The short answer is yes, it can. In short, a swim spa can do anything a hot tub can, plus you can work out in it, swim in it and use it as a small pool. A swim spa is heated year-round and you can sit in it and get a massage, just like you can with a hot tub. There are differences with each product and in this article, we’ll go over what they are. We’ve been building hot tubs at Hydropool for 45 years and swim spas for more than 30, so we know a little bit about each! In this article, we’ll help you decide what’s right for your garden by answering the following questions: Can you sit and soak in a swim spa like a hot tub? Do swim spas have massage jets like hot tubs? What’s the difference in water temperature between a swim spa and a hot tub? Are there dual-zone swim spas with hot tub sections? Is it better to buy a hot tub, a swim spa, or both? Can a swim spa truly replace a hot tub? Hopefully by the end you’ll have a strong sense of which is right for you. Can You Sit and Soak in a Swim Spa Like a Hot Tub? Yes. Most swim spas have built-in seating areas at one or both ends, allowing you to relax just as you would in a hot tub. These seats are typically moulded for comfort, and the spa water can be heated to the same temperature as a hot tub (up to around 40°C or 104°F). Does it feel the same? Not quite. A swim spa has more space than a hot tub, so you’re sitting further apart in many cases, although this depends on the style of the swim spa. So a hot tub offers a more intimate experience, while a swim spa offers a more spacious one. But both provide a chance to soak and get a hydrotherapy massage. Do Swim Spas Have Massage Jets Like Hot Tubs? They do. Swim spas often include hydrotherapy jets in the seated areas, which can target the back, shoulders, and legs. High-end models offer very similar jet power and variety to premium hot tubs. No company selling you a swim spa wants you to feel like skimped or are missing out. Can You Actually Swim in a Swim Spa? What’s the Difference in Water Temperature Between a Swim Spa and a Hot Tub? Both can be heated to hot tub temperatures, but they’re often used at different settings: Hot tubs are commonly kept around 37°C to 40°C (98°F to 104°F) year-round. We encourage people to start at 100F, and move up or down from there. Swim spas are often set lower, around 26°C to 30°C (78°F to 86°F), especially when used for swimming or working out or playing. Otherwise, the workouts become too warm. Of course, you can set the temperature to whatever you wish. Many UK owners adjust the temperature seasonally, warming it up for winter soaking or lowering it for summertime, when it comes to both hot tubs and swim spas. Are There Dual-Zone Swim Spas With Hot Tub Sections? Dual temperature models such as this Hydropool Aquatic Sport 19DTAX are elegant options with great flexibility. Yes. Dual-zone swim spas feature two separate compartments: One side features a large tank for swimming, workouts or simply hanging out, as you might in a pool. This is often with a lower temperature. One side that functions just like a traditional hot tub. This one has a higher temperature and more jets for relaxing. Each section can be heated and controlled independently. For UK buyers who want the best of both worlds, this can be a brilliant compromise though it typically comes at a higher price point and takes up more space. To some buyers, it’s still not enough! For those we suggest you buy a large swim spa and a large hot tub separately. How Big Is a Swim Spa? Is It Better to Buy a Hot Tub, a Swim Spa or Both? That depends entirely on how you plan to use your spa: Go for a hot tub if your main goal is relaxation, hydrotherapy, and year-round warmth in a compact space. Choose a swim spa if you want exercise, family fun and flexibility with seating and temperature. Consider both (or a dual-zone model) if you’ve got the garden space and budget, and want to cover all bases. Many UK homes don’t have room for two separate units, which is why swim spas are becoming such a popular all-rounder. Can Swim Spas Be Used as Hot Tubs? Understanding the Differences Yes, swim spas can function a lot like hot tubs, offering heated water, massage jets, and a place to relax. But they’re not identical. Hot tubs focus entirely on comfort and hydrotherapy, while swim spas also prioritise versatility and space for movement. You can do more in a swim spa than you can in a hot tub, but a swim spa can still do everything a hot tub can do. Here’s a quick summary: Swim spas do include seating and jets, but fewer than a dedicated hot tub. You can heat a swim spa to hot tub temperatures — or keep it cooler for exercise. Dual-zone swim spas give you the best of both worlds. Whether one can replace the other depends on your space, budget, and goals. Still weighing up your options? Chat to your local Hydropool retailer about which spa suits your lifestyle and space. Jon Filson is the Senior Content Manager at Hydropool Hot Tubs and Swim Spas.

  • How to Adjust Alkalinity in Your Hot Tub

    Back to the Learning Centre By Jon Filson Hydropool Hot Tubs and Swim Spas https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGUJIppfFyMProper water balance is essential for maintaining a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable hot tub experience. One of the most crucial aspects of water chemistry is alkalinity, which plays a significant role in stabilizing pH levels and protecting both your equipment and skin. If your hot tub’s alkalinity is too high or too low, it can lead to issues such as skin irritation, cloudy water and over time, potentially damage the tub’s components. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about adjusting alkalinity in your hot tub, including: What alkalinity is and why it’s important How to test alkalinity levels How to raise or lower alkalinity levels Common mistakes to avoid At Hydropool, we want to ensure your hot tub is always ready for a relaxing soak. Let’s dive in and learn how to maintain proper alkalinity levels in your hot tub.  What is Alkalinity and Why is it Important? Alkalinity refers to the water’s ability to neutralize acids, which helps keep the pH level stable. In simple terms, it acts as a buffer to prevent rapid shifts in pH levels, keeping your water balanced and safe. It’s actually often called “buffer” in the industry as a result.  Alkalinity is measured in parts per million (ppm), and for hot tubs, the ideal range is typically between 80–120 ppm. If alkalinity levels are too low, the pH can fluctuate, leading to corrosion of your hot tub’s metal components, such as heaters and jets. If it’s too high, it can cause the water to become cloudy and prevent pH adjustments, making it difficult to maintain proper water chemistry.  How Does a Hot Tub Work? How to Test Alkalinity Levels Before you can adjust your hot tub’s alkalinity, you need to test the water to determine the current levels. You can use a few different methods for testing: Test Strips: These are the quickest and easiest method. Simply dip the strip into the water, wait for a few seconds, and compare the colour change to the chart provided with the strips. Most test strips will provide readings for both alkalinity and pH. For a hot tub, water test strips are the least expensive and all you should ever need for water testing. Digital Testers: These handheld devices offer a more precise reading and are often a bit more expensive than test strips. They can give you an accurate measurement of alkalinity and pH with just a small sample of water. Liquid Test Kits: A more traditional method, liquid test kits usually involve adding drops to a water sample to create a colour change. The results are then compared to a colour chart to determine the alkalinity. Regardless of the method, it’s important to test the water regularly (ideally every few days) to ensure the water chemistry remains balanced.  How to Raise or Lower Alkalinity Once you know your alkalinity levels, you can adjust them by adding specific chemicals to the water. Here’s how to do it: How to Raise Alkalinity If your alkalinity is too low (below 80 ppm), you’ll need to raise it to prevent pH swings and protect your hot tub equipment. The best chemical to use for this is alkalinity increaser, which typically contains sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). Here’s how to raise the alkalinity: Calculate the Amount Needed: Follow the instructions on the product packaging, as the amount of alkalinity increaser needed depends on your hot tub’s size. Most containers will come with a set sized scoop that helps with this process. Typically, adding around 1.5 oz (42g) of sodium bicarbonate per 1,000 litres of water will increase alkalinity by about 10 ppm. Add the Chemical: Add the recommended amount of alkalinity increaser to your hot tub water. It’s best to add the chemical gradually and evenly around the perimeter of the tub. Run the Jets: Turn on the jets to circulate the water and allow the alkalinity increaser to dissolve completely. This will take between 15 minutes and half an hour. Don’t use the hot tub during this time.  Retest the Water: After a few hours, retest the water to ensure the alkalinity is within the ideal range (80–120 ppm). If necessary, repeat the process until you reach the desired level.  Adding chemicals is best done slowly and carefully in order to prevent chemical swings in your water.How to Lower Alkalinity If your alkalinity is too high (above 120 ppm), you’ll need to lower it to bring your water chemistry back into balance.  To lower alkalinity, you’ll need pH decreaser (also known as pH-minus or muriatic acid) or an alkalinity decreaser. But just to confuse people, it’s usually called pH decreaser.  Here’s how to lower the alkalinity: Calculate the Amount Needed: Refer to the product’s instructions for the exact amount of pH decreaser needed. Generally, you’ll need around 1.5 oz (42g) of pH decreaser for every 1,000 litres of water to lower alkalinity by 10 ppm. Add the Chemical: Slowly add the recommended amount of alkalinity decreaser to the water while the jets are running to ensure the chemical is evenly distributed. Wait 15 minutes to half an hour.  Retest the Water: After several hours, retest the water to check the alkalinity level. If necessary, add more alkalinity decreaser, but always do so gradually to avoid overshooting your target level. Otherwise you’re caught in a trap of adding then subtracting, adding and subtracting.  Hydropool’s Self-Cleaning Hot Tubs Common Mistakes to Avoid When Adjusting Alkalinity Adjusting alkalinity is a simple process, but there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid: Adding Too Much Chemical: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and start with small amounts when adjusting alkalinity. Adding too much chemical quickly can cause the levels to swing too far in the opposite direction. Take your time and get it right. Alkalinity is usually one of the most stable compounds.  Not Testing the Water Regularly: Water chemistry can change over time due to factors like bather load, weather conditions, and the type of chemicals used. Be sure to test your hot tub’s alkalinity and pH each week to keep…

  • How to Choose the Right Size Swim Spa for Your Garden

    Back to the Learning Centre By Jon Filson Hydropool Hot Tubs and Swim Spas Choosing the right size swim spa isn’t just about what looks good. It’s about how it fits your garden, your lifestyle and your long-term goals. Whether you’re after a place to relax, exercise, or entertain, size matters. Space is tight in gardens across the United Kingdom and you want to make sure that you’re not buying too much or depriving yourself of space you could really use.  We get asked about size and space frequently at our Hydropool stores, so we wanted to give you an answer here.  In this guide from Hydropool, we’ll cover: Common swim spa sizes available in the UK How to measure your space properly What to consider before buying Tips for selecting the best fit for your needs Let’s figure out what size of swim spa makes the most sense for you.    What Sizes Do Swim Spas Come In? Most swim spas are about 2.2 metres wide and about a metre deep to about 1.4 metres deep. These measurements are roughly consistent. Some manufacturers may have a “deep” swim spa, for additional space in the tank if you want it.   Length is where most of the options are. Swim spas in the UK typically range from about 3.7 to 6.7 meters long (12 to 22 feet), with most falling into one of three categories: Compact (12–14 ft / 3.7–4.3 m): Great for small gardens or for people who primarily want hydrotherapy or light exercise. Hydropool’s version of this is the 13-foot FFP, which is known as our Family Fun Pool.  Standard (14–17 ft / 4.3–5.2 m): A popular all-rounder size that supports both swimming and relaxation. Ideal for families. The Hydropool Aquatic Sport is a good example here.  Large (17–22 ft / 5.2–6.7 m): Best for tall people who would kick their feet on the sides of a shorter swim spa, those who just want the luxury of a larger build or those who want a dual-zone spa with separate swim and hot tub areas. Hydropool’s largest is the 19-foot DTAX model, which features both a swim spa and a hot tub.  Here’s a tip: If you’re trying to decide what swim spa would be best for you – and you’ve done the measurements so you know roughly what will fit – then your next step is to see a swim spa in person and potentially get in it. A good retailer will let you get in the swim spa and even swim in it on site if you want, so you know if it feels large enough for what you have in mind. With the money a swim spa costs, “try before you buy” isn’t a bad idea.  If you haven’t done the measurements, keep reading! We’ll tell you how.  How to Measure Your Garden for a Swim Spa Before you fall in love with a specific model, it’s essential to measure your available space carefully so you’ll know it will fit. Here’s how: Clear the area: Remove any temporary garden furniture, tools or pots that might obscure your view of the space. Mark the footprint: Use chalk, stakes or a garden hose to outline potential swim spa sizes on your patio, decking or lawn. Allow extra space: You’ll need at least 0.5–1 metre (20–40 inches) of clearance around the spa for long-term servicing, cover removal and steps. This applies whether your swim spa is above ground or below. This is a crucial element often overlooked!  Check access: Make sure there’s nothing blocking a crane from lowering the swim spa in place.  Your local retailer will be happy to come to your home and do a free site inspection if you have any concerns.  What Else Should You Consider When Choosing Size? It’s not just about the physical space. Choosing the right swim spa size is also about how you plan to use it. Ask yourself: What’s your primary goal? If you’re after resistance swimming or daily fitness, you’ll need enough length to swim without interruption. Hydropool’s Aquatic Trainer series is designed specifically for this purpose. How many people will use it? A compact swim spa may be perfect for couples, but larger families or social users will benefit from extra seating and space. The Aquatic series has 14 foot and 17-foot editions.  Do you want separate zones? Dual-zone swim spas let you enjoy a hot tub and swim spa in one unit. These tend to be on the larger side (typically 5.8 m / 19 ft or more). An example is here.  What’s your energy budget? Bigger swim spas hold more water and take more energy to heat. A quality swim spa will help reduce running costs across all sizes.  Will it fit your garden layout? Think about sun exposure, privacy, and how your swim spa will integrate into your garden design. Corner placement, decking options or gazebos may influence your choice. Popular Hydropool Swim Spa Sizes  To give you a head start, here are some examples of Hydropool models and their sizes: Hydropool AquaPlay 13FFP – 381 cm (12.5 ft): A compact option perfect for active families or those with limited space. Hydropool AquaSport 14AX – 442 cm (14.5 ft): A mid-sized, all-rounder spa for both exercise and relaxation. Hydropool AquaTrainer 17AX – 533 cm (17.5 ft): A larger unit for serious swimmers with advanced jet systems. Hydropool Executive Trainer 19EX – 574 cm (19 ft): Dual-zone luxury with powerful swim current and a full-size hot tub. All models are designed with smaller gardens in mind and come with advanced insulation and energy-saving features. Final Tips Before You Decide Visualise the size using garden furniture or cardboard to mock up the footprint. Speak with your installer to confirm delivery access, clearance needs and electrical requirements. Think long-term: Choose a size that meets not only your current lifestyle but also future plans (kids growing up, entertaining more often, etc.). How to Choose the Right Size Swim Spa for Your Garden So, how do you choose the right size swim spa? Start by measuring your space, understanding how you’ll use it, and thinking ahead. Make sure you add a couple of feet to the area.  Whether you opt for a compact or dual-zone model, choosing…

  • Common Hot Tub Problems: Your Complete Guide

    Back to the Learning Centre https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzQuXE6wvhgThe Complete Guide to Common Hot Tub Problems and How to Resolve Them   By Jon Filson Hydropool Hot Tubs and Swim Spas If you own a hot tub or are considering buying one, you understand that it’s similar to owning a car or a home appliance. It has moving parts that need regular attention and occasional maintenance to keep running smoothly. And sometimes even then, servicing is required.  At Hydropool, we’ve been in the hot tub industry for over 40 years, and we’ve seen firsthand how crucial it is for hot tub owners to understand how their spas function. By knowing the common problems that can arise and how to tackle them, you’ll ensure your hot tub remains a source of relaxation and enjoyment for years to come. In this expert guide, we’ll cover: Key hot tub components that may experience issues The most common problems faced by hot tub owners Proven tips to maintain your hot tub and avoid costly repairs We hope your Hydropool hot tub will run without a hitch, but like any piece of equipment, occasional servicing may be necessary. Let’s dive into the details and explore how to keep your hot tub in perfect condition.  Which Hot Tub Parts Can Experience Problems? A hot tub consists of various components, and understanding which ones are most likely to experience issues can help prevent major headaches. Here’s a breakdown of common parts and their potential problems.  Plumbing Parts: Hoses and JetsHoses carry water through the system, while jets circulate it to provide the therapeutic experience you bought your hot tub for. Though they require minimal maintenance, over time occasional issues like leaks or calcium build-up in jets can arise if water isn’t properly balanced. Regular checks help ensure smooth operation. Leaks can happen with hoses. This usually happens shortly after delivery, if something has jostled loose, or years after ownership.   Pumps: The Heart of Water CirculationMost hot tubs have one or two pumps. For example, in our Signature range, the Gold model uses a single pump, while the Platinum model benefits from dual pumps for enhanced efficiency and longer lifespan. A single pump has to work harder than two pumps, so it tends to go quicker. The most common other long-term issue is leaks due to worn seals, but pumps are generally long-lasting with proper care.  Heater: Keeping Your Water WarmYour hot tub heater keeps the water at the perfect temperature by passing it over a heating element. However, if your water chemistry isn’t balanced, it can stress the heater due to particles either accumulating on it or eating away at it. Make sure to regularly check your water’s pH to protect this essential component.  How does your hot tub work? Electrical Components: Ensuring Smooth OperationHot tubs rely on electrical components like control panels, pumps, and the heater. There are a variety of codes that can come up, and each needs to be handled separately. Over time, wear and tear, water damage, or faulty connections can cause problems. If you notice issues with the electrical system, it’s always best to consult a professional to avoid further complications.  Filters: Keeping Your Water CleanFilters are essential for maintaining water cleanliness. If not regularly cleaned, they can become clogged, leading to more severe mechanical issues. Regular filter maintenance ensures your hot tub water remains inviting and your system continues to run efficiently.  Water Quality: A Key Factor in Hot Tub HealthGreen water, foamy water, odd smelling water, cloudy water: It can all happen. That’s why maintaining the right water balance is crucial. A low pH can corrode components, while high pH levels can cause calcium build-up.  Regular water testing and adjustments prevent most water-related issues. Your local hot tub store will be able to advise you if anything happens. Just bring in a sample and they can tell you what to do to fix it.   Shell: Maintaining Aesthetics and PerformanceAcrylic shells can sometimes chip or get scratched, while imbalanced water chemistry can cause staining. Regular maintenance and attention to your water balance will help preserve the beauty of your hot tub shell for years.  Cabinet and Frame: Ensuring Structural IntegrityFor your hot tub to function properly, it should sit on a solid, level surface. If not, the frame and cabinet could warp over time, leading to structural damage. Ensuring the proper installation of your hot tub is key to avoiding these issues.  Hydropool’s hot tubs are insulated by a blanket which wraps the entire environment, creating elite energy efficiency while still providing acccess should servicing ever be needed. Does Insulation Matter for Hot Tub Repairs? Yes, it absolutely does. The type of insulation used in your hot tub affects both its energy efficiency and the ease of repairs. Many hot tubs are fully foam-filled, which means if a repair is needed, the foam insulation must be removed and replaced—a costly and time-consuming process. At Hydropool, we’ve designed our hot tubs with a thermal blanket system, which not only provides excellent energy efficiency but also makes repairs easier and more affordable because the entire unit is accessible inside cabinet. This design gives you peace of mind, knowing that repairs won’t break the bank. The Most Common Hot Tub Problems and How to Fix Them Let’s now dive into the most common problems that hot tub owners experience. Armed with the right knowledge, you’ll be able to resolve these issues quickly and effectively.  Water Issues: The Most Common ProblemBy far, water-related problems are the most common. Improper maintenance can lead to discolouration, foaming, unpleasant smells, or even damage to internal components. Regular water testing and maintenance are your best defense against these issues, with your local hot tub dealer always there to test your water for you and offer advice.   Heater Failures: Causes and SolutionsIssues with the heater often arise from water chemistry imbalances. If the water is too acidic, it can damage seals, while high pH levels can cause calcium build-up. Additionally, blocked filters can impede water flow, which may cause the…

  • How Do You Install a Swim Spa? Your Comprehensive Guide to the UK from Hydropool

    Back to the Learning Centre Like someone who has found an indie band of their very own, you have discovered the swim spa. It’s like a hot tub, but you can swim in it, but less expensive than a pool. The only question left is where it goes in your garden. By Jon Filson Hydropool Hot Tubs and Swim Spas Like someone who has found an indie band of their very own, you have discovered the swim spa. It’s like a hot tub, but you can swim in it, but less expensive than a pool. The only question left is where it goes in your garden.And then it hits you:Where can it go in your garden?Or should it go in your garage?Maybe it should go indoors?Or maybe it should partially above ground, for a lifted effect.Maybe it should go entirely below? Or perhaps just sit there on top, with decking built around?Or can it go on a deck itself?So many questions. We are asked all of these and more from swim spa buyers and would-be buyers at our retail stores. So we wrote this article with the answers, so you could know what option fits you best. Have a read and hopefully by the end it will be more clear on what works best for you.Can you put a swim spa in the ground?Yes. Swim spas can be placed in-ground all the way or part of the way. The most popular option locally is to semi-submerge the hot tub into the ground, with more than three-quarters of swim spas being installed this way in the UK. This look is quite refined and requires additional landscaping, but done well, the swim spa will look like an integrated and expensive addition to your home and garden.You will need to create a wide area surrounding the swim spa, so that it can be accessed for service, and a pump will need to be installed to keep that area from becoming filled with water due to rain or overflow from swimming, should you be especially energetic.Can you bury a swim spa?As in put it entirely below ground? Yes you can. This is another quite popular approach with all of the caveats of putting a swim spa in the ground part of the way. You will need to build a basin to hold the swim spa so that it can be accessed for service and you will need to ensure that the basin is kept dry with a pump.Can you put a swim spa in a garage?Yes. There are a few thing you’re going to want to be sure of though.To install a swim spa in a garage:You will want to be sure the foundation is solid, as swim spas must live on a flat, stable, strong surface, such as concrete pad.You will want to make sure there is adequate electrical capabilities, as swim spas require 240V of power.You will want to have sufficient ventilation. Exhaust ventilation is expected, to forcibly expel the moisture that invariably will build up.You will want to be satisfied you have access. How are you getting the swim spa inside the space you’re considering? If it’s not built, this is relatively easy. But if it is built already, you will need to ensure you have a large enough doorway to slide the swim spa through.If putting your swim spa in the ground indoors, the same caveats apply as outdoors. You will need a concrete basin surrounding your swim spa to guarantee access, and you will want a system to ensure that basin is free of water.Can you put a swim spa indoors?Yes. It doesn’t have to be just a garage! A swim spa can be installed indoors. Our showrooms regularly feature swim spas that you can test before you buy, for example, so we are quite used to indoor installations.Keep in mind the floor/foundation, adequate ventilation and electrical will all be required as well as access to the space in the first place: The swim spa will need to get in the door somehow. With indoor installations, we highly recommend you speak to a local retailer who can work with you to advise you of the particulars to your location. We find even in gardens, every delivery is unique.Do you need planning permissions for swim spas?Here’s the good news: In 99.9% of situations you do not need any permissions. You should always discuss this with your local retailer, however, before you buy. But it is a very rare situation where anything document is required as a swim spa is a portable unit, not a permanent one like an in-ground pool.Can you put a swim spa on a deck?In short, no. We do not advise this. A swim spa is extremely heavy and a deck isn’t build to take the weight. Swim spas must be placed on a secure concrete pad.Swim spas are great contributors to gardens. While it is common to put them in the ground, it isn’t mandatory. Decking can be built around a swim spa so that you’re able to step right in and so that your swim spa doesn’t stick right out but is instead incorporated into the surroundings.Where can I install a swim spa?Swim spas can be more easily located in your garden or indoors than pools. There is additional work for different applications, but swim spas remain versatile units.Most people in the UK semi-submerge swim spas, with more than 3/4s of the buying public opting for that particular approach. It requires a bit of extra effort, but the overall effect is often stunning, with access made easy through steps and decking.Whichever way you decide is right for you, we hope we have answered many of your questions here on how swim spas can be installed. If we have missed any questions, please let us know, by contacting your local retailer here. Jon Filson is the Senior Content Manager at Hydropool Hot Tubs and Swim Spas.