THE ULTIMATE SWIM SPA GUIDE - Installation Tips Pool & Room Design Water Currents Fabrication Options - SwimEx
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THE
ULTIMATE
SWIM SPA
GUIDE Installation Tips
Pool & Room Design
Water Currents
Fabrication Options
INDEX
SWIM SPA ADVANTAGES 4
POOL FUNCTIONALITY 5
t Benefits of Water Currents
t Water Current Options
FABRICATION METHODS 8
t Acrylic
t Vinyl Liner
t Fiberglass
t Gunite
POOL CHEMICAL CHOICES 12
t Chlorine vs. Ultra Violet Light
INSTALLATION TIPS 13
POOL ROOM OPTIONS 14
t Flooring/Deck Construction
t Drains
t Tile
t Pool Color
OWNER REVIEW 16
GENERAL QUESTIONS TO ASK 18
2
INTRODUCTION
SWIM SPAS, FITNESS POOLS, LAP POOLS, EXERCISE POOLS
These are just some of the terms used to describe pools with a water current feature. Water current
pools vary greatly in size, output, and construction quality. This guide includes general information
and tips to consider before purchasing. If you make the right choices before you buy, you’ll have a
beautiful and extremely functional pool that adds value and function to your home and lifestyle.
WHY A SWIM SPA?
A small pool or swim spa uses fewer resources, takes up less space, and overall is less costly than a
larger pool to maintain and enclose if desired. Now, let’s dive in further.
3
TOP 4 SWIM SPA ADVANTAGES
1. ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY
Small pools and swim spas generate a smaller carbon footprint. They
require less water, fewer chemicals, and less electricity. You can easily
heat a small pool with solar panels, often eliminating other heat sources
all together. A win-win for the environment and your wallet. From the
initial fill to topping off your pool to draining it for cleaning, you’ll use
significantly less water. This is a major environmental benefit.
2. EASIER TO MAINTAIN
It’s much easier to drain a small pool for cleaning. Once drained, it’s also easier to clean.
Have you considered a small fiberglass pool? Swim spas with a smooth Gelcoat surface
make it hard for algae to adhere to walls. In additio, wiping down the tile line and pool walls
is a snap.
3. LESS EXPENSIVE TO RUN
Smaller pools use less water which equals fewer chemicals. This makes it easier to maintain the water quality.
Also, fewer chemicals means less out-of-pocket expenses. In addition, it costs less money to heat a small
pool, especially if you keep it covered when not in use. SwimEx pools are extremely well insulated with a
solid wood core for extra strength and insulation to maintain heat more effectively.
4. EASIER TO INSTALL
Are you thinking of an in-home installation but afraid of humidity? Due to their smaller water surface size,
there’s no need for costly dehumidification systems. A smaller pool footprint equals less construction for a
more budget friendly installation. This is especially important if you want your pool inside. Many swim spas
can fit in spaces as small as 12’ x 20’. You can even find some pools that arrive in sections for tight access.
Plus, once the space is ready, most swim spas can be installed in as little as 2-3 days.
WHAT’S THE BEST PART?
Swim spas offer more function in a smaller footprint. So go small. The
environment, your wallet, your home, and your health will be glad you did.
BOTTOM LINE
Small pools are more efficient and less costly to run.
4
POOL FUNCTIONALITY
It’s extremely important to understand what outcomes you want to
achieve before you purchase any pool. Do you want to swim, workout, relax? Consider
the ability level of the people who will use it. Consider the space. If you decide to go
with a swim spa, here’s what you’ll gain over a still water pool.
BENEFITS OF THE
POOL’S WATER CURRENT
1. Current Pools Improve/Build Balance.
Current pools provide a constant test for balance. The water flow
acts as a changing variable, forcing you to adjust to unpredictable
circumstances. A continuous current forces the spine to maintain
posture and constantly re-adjust against the flow. It allows for
controlled movement that increases strength and helps prevent
future injury by eliminating the chance of falling.
Exercise tip: Are you having trouble with balance?
Jump against the current. Mastering this in the
2. Develop Proper Gait, Posture, and Body Alignment. water helps your body learn the right mechanics
Current pools provide varied resistance. The turns, to regain balance on land.
rises, and shifts you perform with each exercise requires Exercise tip: Start the current at a low-speed
constant adjustments in the brain, forcing it to be flexible and increase it from one session to the next to
with positioning in order to master total control of your progressively get stronger.
movement. The ever-changing current in a swim spa is
very similar to everyday movement patterns like walking
and running outside. Once you’ve perfected your stride in
water, you will be more confident on land.
A swim spa with an adjustable current can challenge you
beyond your comfort levels of exercise, all without risking
injury. Water’s safe environment eliminates the possibility
of falling as it provides support.
5
3. Great Home Gym
t A swim spa with a current can assist movement and functional tasks that help build confidence.
In turn, increased confidence means it’s more likely you will continue exercising.
t Working out against the current builds core strength.
t If the current spans the entire width of the pool, you can successfully achieve any workout routine,
including upper and lower body exercises, cardio workouts, and stretching.
4. Allows You to Measure Your Progress Exercise Tip: Try using the current with your eyes
Look for swim spas that come with a variable closed. This forces the brain to “sense the force” of
speed current. This allows you to gradually increase the water and learn how to respond without visual
the water’s resistance so you can systematically cues. This is extremely helpful to learn how to rely
progress from one session to the next. more on vestibular and sensory systems for balance.
5. Create the Ultimate Swim Experience
There are basically three different water current systems – jets, propellers, and paddlewheels. Each of these
systems produce different swimming experiences. The current’s strength and width will determine how
effectively you will be able to swim in the pool. Make sure your ability level matches the current you choose.
Once you determine the right current for your needs, here are the benefits of swimming in a current pool:
t Current pools that provide a consistent flow allow for stroke analysis to improve your form.
t No need for flip turns. Simply keep on swimming.
t Current pools with an adjustable water flow allows you to achieve interval and endurance workouts.
t Program a swim training session that includes a warm-up, swim, and cool down.
6. Moving Water is Fun
Current pools combine the functionality of a full-sized pool in a small efficient package. Plus, moving water
is fun! It’s hard to compare a still water pool and a current pool. They both hold water, but that’s where the
similarity ends. What makes a swim spa unique is the water current. It’s the ideal way to stay in shape, swim,
and condition in a pool that takes up very little space but packs a big punch.
6
WATER CURRENT OPTIONS
Jets:
Located in the center front of the pool, 2-3 Jets push a forced stream of water in the swim area. The
optimum position to get the most from the current is in the very center of the pool at the water line.
This current can produce an uneven, turbulent and shallow stream of water.
Propellers:
Located in the center front of the pool, this water current is smoother, deeper and wider than Jets. This
can be a very effective current, however users will need to remain closer to the center of the pool for
optimal use.
Paddlewheels:
Located in the back of the pool, the Paddlewheel draws water from
the swim area and pushes it through a false bottom floor or side
tunnels to the front of the pool and out a pool-width front grille. This
current is the widest, smoothest, and deepest current available. The
current strength can be adjusted to challenge the most competitive
athlete/swimmer or it can be gentle for rehabilitation. The current
is strong enough to run against without a treadmill and because
of the current width, you can perform both upper and lower body
workouts without the use of exercise equipment.
7
FABRICATION METHODS
FABRICATION METHODS
Picking your construction material is a
necessary decision to consider before you
buy because the type of material your swim
spa is built with will determine:
t The durability and strength
t Lifespan of the swim spa
t Amount of maintenance
t Flexibility of customization and design
elements
1. ACRYLIC
An acrylic pool shell is common for many pools, hot tubs, and swim spas. It is usually a lower cost option,
but may require upkeep and recurring maintenance. The acrylic pool quality depends on how thick the
acrylic layer is, as well as what material makes up the substructure. Acrylic swim spa pools with a hand-rolled
fiberglass substructure are considered highest quality and more durable.
The most widely used fabrication for spa shells, thicker is always better in any acrylic model. In the
manufacturing process a flat acrylic sheet is heated and vacuum-formed to a mold. There is typically little
insulation, and if the acrylic shell has any defects or develops cracks down the road, it’s difficult to repair or
you may have to replace the unit altogether.
Acrylic Benefits:
Quick Installation – Most acrylic swim spas units are “plug and play” and fast to install.
Acrylic Disadvantages:
1. Difficult to Repair – If your acrylic pool cracks or blisters, it is hard to restore it back to the way it was
when it came out of the factory.
2. Damages in the Sun – There is the potential for degradation of the acrylic from UV rays.
3. Installation options are more limited.
8
2. VINYL LINER
The vinyl liner sits between the pool structure and the
water. Smooth vinyl liners are fairly flexible when compared
to concrete, which can easily crack. Metal spa shells with
a vinyl liner are usually the lowest priced fabrication
option. While this construction method can keep costs at
a minimum, over time the vinyl liner will fade from pool
chemical exposure and/or can get torn. If this happens the
liner will need to be replaced.
Vinyl Liner Benefits:
1. Often less expensive up front – The downside of this is
the recurring replacement and maintenance costs.
2. Shape and size – The length, width and depth of a vinyl
liner pool are offered in a variety of shapes and sizes.
3. Liner feels smooth to the touch – The vinyl material is
non-abrasive.
Vinyl Liner Disadvantages:
1. High recurring costs – Even the more popular vinyl
liner pool brands do not offer lifetime guarantees on
their pool liners. On average, homeowners reported
spending over $1700 each time the liner needs to be
replaced. Be sure to read the fine print!
2. Maintenance & Upkeep – Vinyl liners typically need
to be replaced every 3-5 years. Some of these models
feature a hydraulic motor that must be replaced every
3-5 years. These costs can add up over time.
3. Take care when using the pool – Most vinyl liner pools
usually only have a thickness of 20 – 30 mil. Keep this
in mind especially if you have children or will keep the
pool outside where it will be exposed to the elements.
9
3. FIBERGLASS
There are benefits of fiberglass pool construction that you can’t get with other fabrication
methods.
Fiberglass Benefits:
1. Fiberglass pools with a Gelcoat surface are easy to clean and maintain. Out of all pool construction
materials, the Gelcoat surface requires the LEAST amount of maintenance on a daily/weekly basis. This
means less time spent on cleaning and less money spent on chemicals.
2. The Gelcoat surface of a fiberglass pool is a smooth, nonporous surface so algae won’t stick to the walls.
Gunite walls, typically made of porous materials, can be a breeding ground for algae. While there can still
be algae in fiberglass pool water, there is less on the walls. This means, you don’t have to scrub the walls
as you would with a gunite pool, making it easier to maintain.
3. Structurally speaking, fiberglass shells are impervious to normal wear and tear, as well as elements like
sun and harsh weather. The result: they will not need major repairs down the road. For extra endurance
and installation flexibility, some fiberglass shells are built like the hull of a boat with a Gelcoat finish for
easy cleaning and an interior wood layer for extra insulation and added strength.
4. If you’re looking for a quick install, fiberglass pools can be up and running in as little as 2-3 days. Because
the shells come pre-built from the manufacturer, installation is a matter of simply delivering the shell and
connecting the plumbing. In addition, there are countless installation options available with fiberglass,
especially if you find a fiberglass manufacturer that builds self-supporting pools. In this case, pools can
be installed above ground, partially above ground, in-ground, inside or outside. Because they are much
lighter than gunite, they can be installed on upper floors.
5. Fiberglass pools can be built as small as 8’ x 20’. If you want a small pool and are looking for the same
function as you would get in a large gunite pool, look into fiberglass pools with a water current feature
that have as much function as a full-sized swimming pool.
Fiberglass Disadvantages:
1. Fiberglass pools are built from molds that can limit shape. Many times you have to choose from available
sizes. However, the depth and length can be changed in some fiberglass pools but there are a few
manufacturers that create custom fiberglass shells. Check with each manufacturer to learn their specific
limitations.
2. Fiberglass pools, if not manufactured properly, can develop bubbles or crazing. If this happens, the good
thing is it is relatively easy to buff out flaws. Once done, fiberglass can look as good as new.
3. While this is a more expensive option than acrylic or vinyl liner pools, fiberglass pools are easy to
maintain, can be repaired to look like new, and can be customized with different sizes, depths, and
colors.
104. GUNITE
Gunite Benefits:
If you are looking for a specific shape, an extra-large or extra deep pool, gunite is great for this. Gunite
pools are built on-site. While the building process takes longer than a fiberglass pool installation, this
allows for more flexibility in shape and size. Gunite is good if you want features that include built-in rock
formations, pond-like looks, waterfalls, etc.
Gunite Disadvantages:
1. Gunite pools can incur expensive repairs as they age. Some people would argue it is inevitable that at
some point they will need major renovations. Every 7-10 years the interior plaster has to be re-coated.
2. They require much more maintenance on a weekly basis, such as higher chemical demand and more
frequent vacuuming.
3. Gunite can be rough to the touch on feet, hands, and if scraped up against.
4. Gunite installation is much more complicated. As the work is done on-site, it can take weeks or months
to complete.
11POOL CHEMICAL CHOICES
If you are a first time pool owner, or looking to upgrade your pool, it’s important to know which type of
water treatment best suits your pool needs.
CHLORINE
Pros
1. Chlorine is the most commonly used pool sanitizer. Chlorine comes in several forms, such as tablets,
liquid, gas and granular.
2. Chlorine acts as a residual sanitizer, which means it can remain in the pool longer after it is applied into
the pool.
3. Chlorine can be stored for long periods of time.
Cons
1. Chlorine can cause red eyes, dry skin and lung irritation if not balanced properly.
2. The disinfection by product (DBP) in chlorine causes the odor you smell in many pools.
3. At normal levels, chlorine doesn’t destroy some common contaminants that cause illness.
ULTRA VIOLET LIGHT (UV)
1. By inactivating bacteria and other harmful particles found in untreated water, UV radiation leaves no
chemical side effect.
2. To be effective, it must enter relatively clear water so as not to be absorbed. Since ultraviolet water
purification does not remain in treated water, a chemical such as a chlorine compound is added to the
treated water after the fact. Although this does negate some of the advantages of ultraviolet water
purification, it still manages to avoid the potential side effects of chlorination.
12INSTALLATION TIPS
When you consider different swim spa prices, it’s important to weigh the price of the pool or spa against
installation options and final cost. The way the pool is constructed makes a difference when it comes to how
the pool needs to be installed. Some swim spa brands have limited options for where and how they can be
installed while others can be installed in a home basement, fitness room, deck, patio, and more. If you’re
putting the pool into a pre-existing area, decide what room or outdoor space you have available before you
settle on a brand.
Ask these questions:
t Is the pool freestanding or does it need a surrounding structure to keep it together?
t Do I need to backfill around the pool?
t Can the pool be installed above ground, below ground, or partially above ground?
t What kind of skirting is necessary?
t Can the pool be delivered in sections for access into a tight space if needed?
The answers to these questions might bring a seemingly less expensive pool up to the same cost as a
more expensive pool. In the long run, it could benefit you to get a better quality pool from the start.
Many swim spa companies work directly with architects. Some even have their own engineers and
technicians to that can provide you with design assistance and installation guidance.
Permits
Each state has its own pool codes – and compliance is key. Check with your local town/city before you buy.
There may be different regulations for swim spas versus a full-sized pool. Safety can be the driving factor (i.e.
yard access) or zoning by-laws. Make sure you understand any restrictions. Find out what’s needed to meet
these prior to purchasing your pool and submitting your plans.
Not all swim spa suppliers are the same. Check to make sure your chosen pool supplier is up-to-date with
codes. In some instances, they can help in the design phase to make sure your
project meets certain requirements. 13POOL ROOM OPTIONS
Flooring/Deck Construction
The floor’s function is as important as its appearance, and
A
there are endless flooring options available to use as a deck
successful
surround. Floors should be non-skid, easy to clean, slant away
Swim Spa installation
from the pool and into the drains. While tile may seem like a
depends as much on
good option, keep in mind that grout needs cleaning - the
room design as it does on
smaller the tiles, the more grout. In addition, tiles should slope
the chosen Swim Spa
down and away from the pool - the bigger the tile, the harder it
model.
is to create the required slant. Other options include laminate
floors, wood, or epoxy.
Drains
Deck drains are recomended at the entry and exit areas. When a person exits a pool they will typically carry
2-3 gallons of water which will empty onto the pool deck.
14POOL COVERS
A pool cover is a great way to help with temperature retention, keep your pool clean, and protect it
from the elements. Here are some great choices to help keep your pool looking like new.
Hard Top Pool Cover
This hard top cover is a perfect fit. It is a rigid vinyl pool cover made in four sections to custom fit to your
pool. There are many colors available.
Manual Pool Cover
A manual pool cover is convenient enough for daily use. There are no straps,
no sandbags, and no anchors required to hold it in place. The cover is an
economical alternative to an automatic cover. It moves along low-profile
tracks to cover and uncover the pool, then stores on its own reel when not in
use. Your pool can be covered in less than 60 seconds.
Thermal Blanket
Created to fit your pool size. A lightweight (5 lb (2.26 kg)) 3/16” (.47 cm)
closed cell foam with vinyl on each side. The insulation R rating is 3.2.
Pool Cover Benefits:
1. Water conservation
2. Energy conservation
3. Less chemical consumption
4. Temperature retention
5. Less cleaning time
6. Keep dirt and debris out of pool
7. Acts as a safety device for unplannned access
15CUSTOMER REVIEW
This pool owner shares her story in a swim spa review, detailing how she made the decision to buy a fitness
pool and how she uses it for training.
Why did you purchase a Swim Spa?
After nearly a quarter century of swimming, I knew this
investment would be worth it. I’m very committed to the
sport, but as my schedule became busier, I was looking for
a way to conveniently and consistently work out without
disrupting my work schedule. Before I purchased my
SwimEx, it took nearly two hours for me to drive to the pool,
swim, shower, then drive back to work. Because I run every
morning, the only time I could fit in a swim was at lunchtime.
I found I was getting too much skin damage swimming
mid-day nearly every day in sunny Scottsdale and Paradise
Valley, Arizona. And I was missing out on business lunch
opportunities because I had to get my swim in.
What swim spa did you choose?
I chose a SwimEx 600 S. With the exception of my home, this
pool is the biggest purchase of my life. After more than four
months of use, I’m convinced it is one of my wisest. I’m a
very service-oriented and convenience-oriented person. The
quality of the customer service at SwimEx sealed the deal for
me very early in the process. At every level and department
within the company, I received same-day, thoughtful
responses to my myriad of questions about SwimEx. The sales team helped me decide what model, and
what features. I am so happy with the choices that I made. And after I signed the contract, the sales and sup-
port staff stuck with me through the entire building and installation process and continue to check in with
me regularly to ensure my satisfaction.
SwimEx is also known for being “low maintenance,” since there’s no liner to replace, and the paddlewheel
technology is so well-established and functional. Trust me – it’s true! I’m embarrassed to admit I can’t
even change my own bike tire, and changing the toner in my printer is a huge accomplishment. But I have
absolutely no maintenance issues with this pool. I had a few questions in the first couple weeks and always
got an answer same-day. There was a learning curve with water testing, skimming, and vacuuming, but
you’d expect that with any pool. It’s easy. In five minutes, I’m in my suit and goggles, do a quick inspection of
all equipment, swing the panel doors open, hit the start button, set my speed, and I’m swimming. Every few
days, I take a water sample for testing. I am so grateful that I bought a SwimEx.
16How often do you use it and what do you think so far?
My SwimEx 600S was delivered May 1, 2017. It was operational by May 2, and I’ve used it virtually every day
since then. Seriously, it’s early September, and I think I’ve missed maybe eight swim days in the past four
months. On some of those days, I’ve deep-water aqua-jogged with a flotation belt. Aqua-jogging is a great
way for me to add running mileage during our hot Arizona summers.
As an amateur athlete, I’ve found that this pool is the ideal training tool for running and swimming
competitions. Over the past few years, I had developed a weak left arm when swimming. The consistency of
the SwimEx water current is quite unforgiving when it comes to stroke inefficiencies. Beginning in late May, I
began to address this with weekly private lessons. Coach Paula, my instructor, had never been in a resistance
pool. She loves it! We are able to do lessons in the pool together and also with her observing from various
points on deck.
My workouts have begun to parallel my old Masters training regimen. They include my favorite workout –
the individual medley! Take a look at the video. We cut the freestyle a bit short because the water current is
set at speed 57 out of 99 for the fly-back-breast sequence. Watch me fight for position in breaststroke. Check
out the transitions. They are extra fun without walls!
This pool is such a blast. I am in it nearly every day for at least 40 minutes. I even aqua-jog for 15-20 minutes
after my morning daily runs. As a result, I have been able to push myself harder while running because I use
the SwimEx as my post-run recovery tool.
Installing a SwimEx has brought my whole family together. We’ve focused on a common goal, improved our
property with the surrounding decking, pavers, sun shade, and ancillary structures, and of course created
more time together now that I don’t have to spend two hours a day getting back and forth to my aquatic
workouts.
17General Questions to Ask Before
You Buy:
t What kind of system generates the current?
t How is the pool constructed?
t What is the lead time needed to get the finished pool?
t What equipment is included with the cost of the pool?
t Can the swim spa supplier provide CAD, Revit, and/or review plans?
t Does the swim spa supplier know and understand specific state health codes?
t What are the delivery options?
t Who will install the pool and/or handle post construction service and maintenance?
Customer Service
Make sure the company who supplies your swim spa
has been in business long enough to know its product,
understand how to trouble shoot if/when issues arise,
and has the ability to help you maintain the pool after
it’s been installed. All pools, including swim spas, need
yearly maintenance. Choose a company that stands
behind their pool, has a service division, and will be
there for you when you need them.
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