Today I want to talk to you about swim spas. But, instead of just discussing their benefits, I want to address something crucial – the downside of having a swim spa that doubles as a hot tub.
Now, you might think that having a swim spa that can also function as a hot tub is the best of both worlds, but there are some significant drawbacks to consider. Here’s why I believe a dedicated swim spa is often the smarter choice.
1. Temperature Troubles
One of the main issues with combining a swim spa and a hot tub in one unit is temperature control. Let me explain. When you’re swimming in a swim spa, the water temperature is ideal for physical activity. It’s around 30 degrees Celsius, which is perfect for keeping you comfortable while you’re moving. However, if you decide to relax in the hot tub section of the same unit, 30 degrees can feel surprisingly chilly when you’re not moving. You’ll quickly find yourself shivering and wanting to hop out.
To enjoy a comfortable soak in the hot tub, you’ll need to crank up the heat, which means heating a large volume of water to a higher temperature. This not only takes time but can also be expensive in terms of energy consumption. Essentially, you’re sacrificing the convenience of switching between swimming and soaking comfortably.
2. Limited Customisation
When you opt for a swim spa that combines both functions, you often have limited customisation options. The hot tub portion typically comes with a predetermined seating layout, jet configuration, and colour scheme. This means you might have to compromise on the features you truly desire in a hot tub, all because it comes as part of the package with your swim spa.
Wouldn’t it be better to have the freedom to choose a hot tub that fits your specific preferences? You can select the seating arrangement, the jets that target your sore muscles just right, and even the colour that complements your garden.
3. Maintenance Challenges
Maintaining a dual-temperature swim spa and hot tub can be more complex and demanding. You have to manage two separate water temperatures, chemical balances, and filtration systems. This can be overwhelming and potentially lead to increased maintenance costs over time.
In contrast, a dedicated swim spa designed solely for swimming eliminates the need for these extra complexities. It offers you the simplicity of focusing on one water temperature and maintaining it at an optimal level for your chosen activity.
4. Space and Aesthetics
Another factor to consider is the space and aesthetics of your backyard or outdoor area. Combining a swim spa and hot tub into one unit may limit your design options. It can dominate your outdoor space, leaving less room for landscaping, seating areas, or other features you might want to incorporate.
By choosing a separate swim spa and hot tub, you have the flexibility to arrange them in a way that maximises your space and enhances your overall outdoor ambience. You can create a garden oasis that’s tailored to your vision.
In conclusion, while the idea of a swim spa that doubles as a hot tub may seem tempting, it’s essential to consider the drawbacks. Temperature control challenges, limited customisation, increased maintenance demands, and space constraints are all compelling reasons to opt for a dedicated swim spa for your swimming needs and a separate hot tub for relaxation and hydrotherapy. It’s a choice that offers more comfort, flexibility, and control in creating your perfect aquatic experience.
