What is a Self-Cleaning Swim Spa?

By Jon Filson

Hydropool Hot Tubs and Swim Spas

Published Apr 07, 2025

No one buys a swim spa to work on it on the weekends. That’s why at Hydropool we offer self-cleaning swim spas that are designed to give you more time to enjoy and less time maintaining.  

But what exactly is a self-cleaning swim spa, and how does it work? Our salespeople around the world have been explaining this for years. We started making swim spas in the 1990s, and we patented the self-cleaning process, so we wanted to write an article that spelled it all out for you.  

A self-cleaning swim spa takes on much of the work you’d otherwise have to do yourself. It is a patented style of swim spa so we’re the only ones selling them in the world. They are modelled after commercial pools, employing the same system that is used in any public pool.  

As a result, they are designed to be low maintenance, safe and resilient to being used by kids and adults.

In this article, we will cover: 

  • How does a self-cleaning swim spa work?  
  • What are the benefits of a self-cleaning swim spa?  
  • How to choose the right self-cleaning swim spa?  
  • What you still have to do with a self-cleaning swim spa 

There is no swim spa sold today that doesn’t require some maintenance. But in this article we hope to show you why Hydropool’s self-cleaning swim spas require the least possible amount of effort, giving you more time for what matters: Using your swim spa! 

 

How Does a Self-Cleaning Swim Spa Work? 

A self-cleaning swim spa incorporates advanced technology to automatically clean and filter the water, reducing the effort and time you need to spend on maintenance. A self-clean swim spa is built on the same principle as a public pool. Hydropool used to be in the public pool business. So when it got into the hot tub and swim spa business, it adapted its pools, as they were built.  

Public pools are regulated far more heavily than any kind of hot tub or swim spa. But Hydropool built its swim spas to those regulations, which include having a top skimmer, forced, pressurized filtration, and a bottom floor vacuum.  

Over the years we have added ozone and UV light treatments to help stop any problems before they start. This is similar technology to how your drinking water is treated for use.  

Let’s go through all the self-cleaning features. Here's how it works: 
 
- Filtration Jets: These strategically placed jets push debris towards the high-flow skimmers and pre-filters, keeping the water surface clean. This ensures that any leaves, dirt, or other debris that fall into the water are quickly directed towards the filtration system, maintaining a spotless surface. 
 
- Floor Vacuum: The built-in vacuum system efficiently removes dirt and debris from the bottom of the spa. Particles either float or sink – this is due to water’s basic properties. So the vacuum is especially useful for capturing any particles that settle at the base, preventing them from accumulating and making the swim spa easier to maintain. 
 
- Pressurized Filtration: This system filters 100 percent of the water in just a few minutes, ensuring crystal-clear water at all times. This rapid filtration process means that contaminants are quickly removed from the water, keeping it clean and safe for use. 
 
-Always-On Self-Clean Mode: Models come with a self-cleaning mode runs cleaning systems automatically, even when the swim spa is not in use. This feature allows the swim spa to remain clean and operational with minimal manual intervention, making it highly convenient for busy households. 

 

What Are the Benefits of a Self-Cleaning Swim Spa? 

Investing in a self-cleaning swim spa offers several benefits that enhance your experience and make ownership more enjoyable. 
 
Ease of Maintenance: With automated cleaning systems, maintaining your swim spa becomes minimized. Spend more time enjoying your swim spa and less time cleaning it. The self-cleaning features handle most of the work, allowing you to relax and unwind without worrying about regular upkeep. 
 
Consistent Cleanliness: The continuous filtration and cleaning ensure that your swim spa water is always clean and safe to use.  
 
Cost-Effective: A self-cleaning system reduces the need for chemicals and manual cleaning supplies, saving you money in the long run. By maintaining cleaner, you can cut down on the amount of chemicals needed to keep the water balanced, leading to cost savings over time. 
 
Healthier Water: The advanced filtration systems help to maintain balanced water chemistry, providing a healthier environment for you and your family. Properly filtered water reduces the risk of skin irritations and other health issues associated with poorly maintained swim spas. 

How to Choose the Right Self-Cleaning Swim Spa? 

When selecting a self-cleaning swim spa, consider the following factors to ensure you choose the best model for your needs: 
 
Size and Space: Determine the available space in your home or yard to choose a swim spa that fits comfortably. Measure the area where you plan to install the swim spa, and ensure that there is enough room for the unit itself as well as for movement around it. 
 
Features and Options: Look for additional features such as therapeutic jets, lighting options, and control systems that enhance your swim spa experience. These features can add to the enjoyment and usability of your swim spa, providing a more versatile and satisfying experience. 
 
Energy Efficiency: Opt for energy-efficient models that save on electricity costs and are environmentally friendly. Energy-efficient swim spas are designed to use less power while maintaining optimal performance, reducing your utility bills and environmental footprint. 

 

Caring for Your Self-Cleaning Swim Spa: What Do You Have to Do?

Although self-cleaning swim spas automate much of the maintenance, there are still a few steps you should follow to ensure optimal performance: 
 
Regular Checks: Periodically check and clean the filters to maintain their efficiency. Even with automated systems, filters can become clogged over time, so weekly cleaning is necessary to keep the system running smoothly. 
 
Water Chemistry: Monitor and balance the water's pH and chemical levels to keep it safe and clean, at least once a week. Weekly testing and adjustment of the water chemistry will ensure that the water remains balanced and safe for use, preventing issues such as algae growth or skin irritations. Your filter needs to be soaked quarterly, and the water drained at about the same rate.  
 
Scheduled Maintenance: Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for routine maintenance and servicing. Adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule will help prevent potential problems and extend the lifespan of your swim spa. 
 

Is a Self-Cleaning Swim Spa Right For You?  

A self-cleaning swim spa is an excellent investment for anyone looking to enjoy the benefits of a swim spa without the hassle of constant maintenance. With its cleaning systems, it helps your swim spa water to remains healthy, while allowing you to focus on relaxation and enjoyment.  

That’s the goal! We hope this article spelled out everything you need to know about Hydropool’s self-cleaning system. Have further questions? Reach out to your local retailer.  

 

  

Disclaimer: In this article, we’ve used brand names not affiliated with Hydropool or Jacuzzi Brands LLC, the parent company of Hydropool. All information, including pricing and product details, was accurate at the time of writing and may change without notice. 

Jon Filson works in Hydropool’s marketing department, with the goal of being a bridge between the company and the customer (he got the job after finding the process of buying a hot tub overly complicated himself). Jon answers key customer questions for Hydropool’s Learning Centre, with the goal of educating hot tub and swim spa customers so they understand what they need to know to be confident when shopping. Have a question about hot tubs or swim spas? Write to Jon at  jfilson@hydropoolhottubs.com

X
Cookies help us improve your website experience.
By using our website, you agree to our use of cookies.
Confirm