What’s the Difference Between a Swim Spa and a Hot Tub?

When in the market for a backyard water feature, people often consider both a swim spa and a hot tub. A common question we hear at Bonnie & Clyde’s Pools and Spas is, “What’s the difference between a swim spa and a hot tub?” Often, hot tubs and swim spas are grouped together in the same category. While they do have some similarities, they are also very different in many ways. Let’s explore the traits of each in hopes of helping you discover which is the best fit for you.

Primary Use

Knowing how you plan to primarily use your backyard water retreat will help you know which will best serve you. A hot tub can be used for relaxation and wellness reasons. It boasts many amazing health benefits including relieving achy joints, easing sore muscles, aiding in circulation, and promoting better sleep. This is great for anyone wanting to unwind in the hot waters and benefit from the many health advantages.

On the other hand, you have a swim spa. Swim spas are designed for swimming and aquatic fitness. The swim jets create a current that you can swim or walk against, providing an excellent low-impact cardio workout. You can also enjoy swimming for fun in a swim spa. It’s a great place to teach kids to swim. Additionally, swim spas have massage seats and jets so you can benefit from many of the same perks as a hot tub. 

Size

Size may be the most noticeable difference. Swim spas are typically at least double the size of a hot tub. Specifically, our swim spas range in length from 13 feet all the way to 19 feet. By comparison, all the hot tubs in our InnovoSpa^® line are between six and a half to seven feet long. Depending on the space you have available and your personal desires, size may make a difference in what interests you most.

Care

Both a swim spa and hot tub require regular maintenance that includes water treatment, filter care, and cleaning. Since a swim spa is larger than a hot tub, you may think there is slightly more involved. However, swim spas are easy to care for. Although there is more water than in a hot tub, water care and cleaning is very similar.  

Location

Swim spas and hot tubs can both be installed either indoors or outdoors. The only difference is hot tubs are able to fit in more compact spaces since they are smaller in size. However, both swim spas and hot tubs are great options for those with limited space to offer. 

At Bonnie & Clyde’s Pools and Spas, we want you to find the perfect swim spa or hot tub for your home! Give us a call today to let us help you do just that! We can talk more about the differences between a swim spa and a hot tub. Or come visit us at our North Richland Hills location so we can show you the swim spa or hot tub that will fit perfectly at home.