A swim spa can transform how you relax, exercise, and enjoy your outdoor space. This guide covers the key features, costs, and expert insights to help you choose with confidence.
Choosing a swim spa is a major investment in your home, health, and lifestyle. And while they offer incredible benefits, year-round use, fitness, therapy, and family time, there are a few critical things to consider before making your decision.
Here’s what Spa World experts recommend thinking about first, based on 40+ years of real-world experience helping customers make the right call.
Will it fit your space—and your future plans? Swim spas are big. Planning properly now can save you major costs and headaches later.
Here’s what to check:
Measure your outdoor area carefully. Most swim spas are between 4–6 metres long. Make sure there’s clearance around all sides for access and maintenance.
Choose from:
Learn more about swim spa installation.
Swim spas often need crane delivery. Check for powerlines, fences, and tight spaces. Need help? Use our guide to create a site video for easy assessment.
You’ll need a solid, level base—usually a reinforced concrete slab. If placing it on a deck, have a qualified builder confirm it can handle the weight.
Learn everything you need in our step-by-step Spa Site Preparation Guide.
Check with your local council about fencing laws, drainage, and any electrical approvals needed for large spa installations.
Not sure about permits? Our Spa Regulations Guide makes it easy.
Spa World tip: Leave space for future upgrades like a pergola, deck extension, or our ClearLift® Automatic Cover, designed to add style and convenience.
Why do you want a swim spa—and how will you use it?
Before you fall in love with a model, get clear on your "why."
Common goals we hear from customers:
Best of both worlds: Want full-body workouts and massage therapy? Look into dual-zone swim spas like the Vortex® Hydrozone™ or Fisher® Dual™. These give you a heated spa zone and a swim zone in one unit.
Planning to use your spa year-round? Insulation makes all the difference. Efficient insulation isn’t just about comfort—it can slash your running costs, especially in cooler climates.
What to look for:
Avoid: Spray-only insulation or thin layers—they may lower upfront cost, but often mean higher power bills.
Running a swim spa doesn’t have to break the bank.
A quality swim spa, well insulated and equipped with energy-saving features, can cost as little as $50–$150/month to run.
Features that help reduce power use:
Spa World tip: Combine a heat pump with a well-insulated shell and Smart Cover to keep running costs low, especially in winter.
Keep it clean without the hassle. Swim spas need regular water care—but the right systems can do most of the work for you.
Recommended options:
Reminder: No spa is totally chemical-free, but better systems mean clearer water, fewer adjustments, and less ongoing effort.
It’s not about the number of jets—it’s what they do. If massage therapy or recovery is a big part of your swim spa goals, jet design and placement are critical.
What to look for:
Spa World tip: Try the spa in-store if possible. Feel the jet placement for yourself—it’s the best way to know if it suits your body.
Explore our in-depth guide to hydrotherapy jets to understand their benefits and features.
Modern spas should be easy—and smart. You want your swim spa to be simple to operate and compatible with your lifestyle.
Top system brands we trust:
Look for:
Spa World tip: All Vortex® and Fisher® Spas offer smart controls and audio options—great for busy households.
Choose a spa that lasts 15+ years—not one that fades after 5. Your swim spa will live outside in all weather. The materials it’s made from matter.
Best choices:
Brands to trust: Vortex®, Fisher®, and Jacuzzi® Spas all use premium acrylic and high-strength framing for long-lasting performance.
Buy from a company that’ll be there when you need them. A good swim spa should come with a strong warranty and real support—not just a phone number and a promise.
What Spa World customers get:
Swim spas typically range from $20,0Swim spas typically range from $20,000 to $60,000+, depending on size, features, and brand. Higher upfront costs often mean lower long-term running expenses.00 to $60,000+, depending on size, features, and brand. Higher upfront costs often mean lower long-term running expenses.
When it comes to swim spas, cutting corners usually means higher costs later—whether in energy bills, maintenance, or frustration. But with the right guidance, buying a swim spa can be one of the best lifestyle decisions you’ll make.
At Spa World, we only stock brands we trust, use, and support—backed by real warranties and real people who care.
Ready to take the next step?
Visit a Spa World showroom – See the options and speak with an expert.
Looking for backyard design inspiration? This couple installed a swim spa in a deck on a sloping site and the results are stunning. Read their design and build story and watch the video of their installation.
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