A Consumer Guide to Spa Pools

A spa pool is perfect for budget-minded people who want the convenience of getting a water workout without installing a full-sized pool in their backyard. Many spa pools today come with a variety of features and can be installed indoors or out. If you are an avid swimmer, consider getting a spa pool in place of that pricey gym membership.

Identification

• A spa pool is larger and deeper than a typical hot tub. They are space-efficient and less expensive than in-ground pools. A user can swim against a gentle current without ever hitting the wall, and therapeutic jets provide soothing and relaxing relief after exercise.

Types

• Molded shell spa pools are fashioned out of acrylic and are between 12 and 24 feet long. Portable --- or self-contained --- spa pools are pre-built and can be moved to any location, although they are a bit bulky to install. Modular spa pools are custom built in a variety of sizes and depths and can be installed indoors, such as in a basement or sunroom.

Installation

• Spa pools are compact in size and can be installed anywhere as long as there is a concrete slab or spa pad underneath that can hold more than its filled weight. Spa pools can be installed in the ground, above the ground or partly recessed. An indoor spa pool must have a good ventilation system and a floor drain.