Choosing The Right Backyard Swim Spa for Your Needs: 5 Tips

If you’ve been considering taking the leap and investing in a backyard swim spa, you’ve likely wondered how to decide between the plethora of options on the market…and you’re not alone.

With the various sizes, models, features and price points, it can be difficult to determine which one is your perfect fit.

That’s where we come in.

In this guide, we’re going to walk you through the top five things to consider as you navigate the waters, helping you narrow down which model is best for your space and needs.

Different Types of Swim Spas

Before we dive into the five key elements to consider when buying a backyard swim spa, let’s explore the different types of swim spas.

While all swim spas provide an open swim area and some form of hydrotherapy seating, some feature specific design elements that may pique your interest more than others.

If you’ve done some initial exploring, you may have noticed two distinct designs:

• Open designs that seamlessly combine hot tub seating and open swim areas.
• Models that separate the hot tub section from the swim area, often referred to as “dual zone” swim spas.

Open style swim spas are typically more popular, requiring less space while providing ample room for swimming and lounging.

Dual zone models, on the other hand, often have a larger footprint, but sometimes offer the added perk of individual temperature control over both the hot tub area and swim area.

Top Tips for Finding The Right Backyard Swim Spa

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get into the five key elements you’ll want to consider to help determine which model is right for you.

1. Determine The Right Size

Easily the most important factor to consider is size. Swim spas can range anywhere from 13 feet to 19 feet long, providing a wide margin for error if you’re not sure how much available space you have in your backyard.

Before you start browsing the available models, grab a measuring tape and measure the space where you’d like to install your swim spa.

After you’ve got your measurements, consider how much space you’ll need around your spa to maintain easy access. You’ll want to ensure there’s enough room to easily navigate your yard or complete routine maintenance. You don’t want to end up with a cramped space after installation!

Apart from your available space, you should also consider how you plan to use the spa and your height.

If you’re tall, you may want to consider a model with a large swim area, ensuring you can easily battle the current without feeling crowded.

Furthermore, if you plan on using your new swim spa for body weight exercises or have kids who will be enjoying the water, you may want to consider investing in a model that’s capable of providing the space for those activities.

2. Features to Consider

Now that you’ve narrowed down which size swim spas best suit your space and individual needs, it’s time to consider the feature you want.

Every model will include its own unique set of features, from basic functional elements like the type of swim jets and hydrotherapy seating, to aesthetically pleasing elements like LED lighting and water features.

Each time you look at a model, take note of the features that stand out to you. Do you want a swim spa with built-in stairs for easy access? Is seating capacity an important factor? Or perhaps you’re an advanced swimmer and want to ensure your model can meet your needs.

Whatever the case, you’ll want to make a list of the features that are most important to you. Here are some key features to consider:

• Swim jets and current speed
• Gripped flooring
• Interior steps
• Energy efficiency and insulation
• Smart technology, such as the SmartTub®️ System
• Hydrotherapy jet configuration
• Waterfalls and LED lighting
• Advanced therapeutic features

Once you have an idea of your most desirable features, you’ll be well on your way to determining which model is capable of meeting your needs.

3. Set a Budget

Another key element of choosing a backyard swim spa is setting your budget. These backyard additions are an investment that can provide years of enjoyment, and it’s important you set a realistic budget that fits within your financial plan.

If you’re considering the overall cost of one of the models you’re interested in, keep in mind that financing options are available upon approval, which may open up your options and reduce the price to a more manageable monthly payment.

As you consider your budget, you’ll also want to factor in installation and operational costs beyond the initial price of your spa. This should include energy and maintenance costs.

4. Installation Considerations

Installing a backyard swim spa isn’t as easy as just having it delivered and placed in your backyard.

There are a variety of steps that you’ll need to take to prepare your backyard for its arrival, which will need to be completed before delivery day. There are three main elements you’ll need to consider, including the:

• Foundation
• Electrical hookup
• Delivery method

First and foremost, you’ll need to ensure you have a strong, level foundation for your swim spa to be placed on. The most common foundation options include concrete or gravel.

Next, you’ll need to hire a licensed professional electrician to set up the dedicated electrical outlet for your new spa.

Lastly, you’ll need to have a plan for getting the swim spa to your chosen location. This often requires a crane to lower the spa into your backyard.

Luckily, you won’t be alone in this process, and your dealership should be able to help ensure you have everything ready before delivery day.

5. Find a Reputable Dealership

Speaking of your dealership, selecting the right one is pivotal in ensuring you have the best possible experience throughout this entire process (and long after).

You may have researched the various hot tub and swim spa dealerships near you and wondered how to know which one to work with.

When you select your dealership, you’re not just choosing a place to buy your swim spa. You’re forming a partnership that extends far beyond the initial sale, providing expert support and guidance for years to come.

With such an important decision, how can you be sure you’re selecting the right dealership? Here are some things to look for as you explore your options:

• Years of Experience: If a dealership has been around for a long time, it’s likely they’ve built a trusted business that members of your community have been happy with. Furthermore, this also showcases their expertise, especially if they’ve been providing spa service and repairs throughout that time.
• Available Services: When you partner with a dealership, you’ll want to ensure they provide the range of services you require. At the very least, they should provide maintenance and repair services, ensuring you can easily have future concerns met. This showcases a dealership’s reliability and the value they place on your experience.
• Google Reviews & Testimonials: This is a great way to get a sneak peek at what you can expect from a dealership, giving you insight into the buying process and how they handle any aftercare services.
• Expertise on Their Brands: When you purchase a swim spa from a dealership, you want to ensure they have expert knowledge of the specific products they offer. This will ensure they can provide reliable information to help you find the right swim spa for your needs and highlight their ability to properly support you and your spa after installation.

Top Questions to Ask Your Dealer:

To help ensure you’re fully prepared when you walk into your chosen dealership, here are a few key questions you’ll want to ask:

• What’s included in the warranty?
• What services do you offer after installation?
• How long does it take to get a service appointment?
• Do you handle delivery, and what does that process look like?
• Do you have local contractors you work with during delivery, such as electricians?
• Do you offer financing solutions?

These questions will help you better understand what to expect from your chosen dealership and whether they can meet your needs and expectations.

Backyard Swim Spas for Sale in Whistler

At Poolside Spa Sales & Service, we’re passionate about transforming backyards into private retreats, offering unmatched therapeutic luxury. With our wide selection of Jacuzzi®️ Swim Spas and hot tubs, we’ve got just what you need to create the backyard of your dreams.

Serving the residents of Squamish, Whistler and the surrounding areas, we’re your go-to local experts for everything from hot tubs and swim spas.

Stop by your nearest showroom today to explore the models on our showroom floor, and get ready to dive into a world of blissful relaxation!