What is the Smallest Swim Spa?

You want a pool, but you knew your backyard was too small. You then heard about a swim spa, and thought your problems were solved. It’s smaller. But will it fit into a smaller backyard?  

What to do? What swim spa can you get? What’s the smallest swim spa?  

These are good questions to be asking and we hear them a lot at Hydropool! Here are answers:

• The quickest answer is that the smallest swim spas are about 10-12 feet long and eight feet wide
• Next up is about 14-17 feet long and eight feet wide
• And lastly, you can find some from 17-21 or larger, while remaining eight feet wide

In this article, we will explain a bit more about sizing so that you can have a deeper understanding of the size you need. We will cover:

• What measurements you need around your swim spa (so you know how to accurately measure your space available)
• Why swim spas are sized the way they are

Hopefully, by the end, you’ll have a good sense of what is the right swim spa size for you and the amount of space you need!

What Measurements Do You Need Around Your Swim Spa?

You generally need to leave about 2-3 feet the entire way around the spa.

This is important when you’re trying to calculate the size you need in your backyard. You will want to allow access to all sides of the swim spa for maintenance down the road. So if that spot is a little tight against the fence, you may want to consider another option, such as a large hot tub.

Why are Swim Spas Sold in the Sizes They Are?

A swim spa combines a pool and a hot tub into one. It creates a current that you can swim against, without reaching the other side, while holding you in place as you swim.

You need a little space to be able to do that. You also want enough space to work out in and move about comfortably. That means enough room to swing your arms and legs.

• The smallest swim spas available are typically about 10-12 feet long, 7 feet wide and 4 feet deep. Smaller sizes like this are geared towards aquatic therapy and those seeking muscle relaxation from the target massage features (these swim spas essentially have jetted seats on one end and mostly function as a hot tub). These small spas are perfect for those that suffer from back pain, muscle or sports injuries or other chronic pain and want a way to soothe their ailments as well as have access to a low-impact form of exercise.
• If you do have a bit more space, you can choose a larger swim spa. Even just jumping up 2 feet in size to a 12-foot length can make your workout more comfortable. The reason why 12-14 feet is such a popular size is that most people can swim comfortably in this configuration.
• Swim spas larger than 14 feet (they can range up to 21 feet in length, or more), are meant so that you have a great deal of room, and often feature separate hot tubs as well as a swim spa. There are plenty of options available to work with your space, how many people you plan will be using it and personal preferences.

What are the Benefits of Choosing a Smaller Swim Spa?

There are some advantages to purchasing a smaller swim spa.

• In addition to saving space, smaller spas are easier to clean and maintain.
• They require fewer water chemicals (which saves you money) and are easier to drain and clean.
• With a small swim spa, another area you will potentially save money on is your utility bill as there is less water to heat.
• Buying a smaller swim spa can also sometimes give you more installation choices. A smaller unit can be easier placed inside or located in a sunroom without having to do major renovations. Or, it may just fit into that perfect little corner in your backyard garden.

What is the Right Size of Swim Spa for Me?

The good news is that you have a range of options.

• Swim spas begin about 10 feet long – anything smaller than that is going to be too small for most people to move about in comfortably while they are working out (and if you don’t want to work out, we’d suggest getting a hot tub)!
• The most common ranges are between 14, 17 or around 20 feet. With these sizes you have enough room to swim in without hitting any of the sides, as well as possible opportunities for other people to use the spa as well. It can act as a mini pool as much as a swimming recreational workout area.

We hope we have answered your questions about sizing and swim spas! If we missed anything though, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your local retailer.