We're sharing some necessary steps you should take to ensure a smooth swim spa installation…
How To Prep My Home For an Indoor Swim Spa?
An indoor swim spa allows you to relax, swim, and exercise right from your home! We’re sharing how to prep your home for an indoor swim spa installation.
An indoor swim spa offers you the opportunity to swim, relax, and exercise, all from the comfort of your own home!
Before you install a swim spa in your home, however, you need to properly prepare your space for its installation.
You’ll need to think about everything from the site to the walls and flooring.
At Epic Hot Tubs, we’re committed to making the swim spa installation process as easy as relaxing in one. We’re sharing everything you need to know about prepping your home before your swim spa arrives.
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Plan the Swim Spa Delivery Pathway
You want to make the swim spa installation as easy as possible for the delivery team. Clear the delivery pathway early on and ensure there are no obstructions. Consult with your delivery team to inquire about the mode of delivery. Will they require a crane or will the team be able to install it themselves?
Consider beforehand how much space the indoor swim spa will require. Measure entry and access points as well as the dimensions of your specific swim spa.
You must arrange for enough room to enter and exit the swim spa, as well as clearance for servicing. Allowing about three feet on either side of the swim spa is recommended. However, the space is more important on the side with the components.
Consider Water Source
An indoor swim spa requires access to a water source. You can’t enjoy your tub if you can’t fill it. If you don’t already have the plumbing for your indoor spa built, get a quote from a plumbing specialist in your region.
Set up the Electrical Supply
All swim spas require a 240V circuit with a GFCI breaker. This is due to the massive amount of electricity required to heat the water while still maintaining acceptable water flow and filter functionality. You’ll need to contact a licensed electrician to construct a separate circuit or other electrical equipment. This should preferably be done before the indoor installation.
Install a Dehumidifier
As you heat your swim spa, the humidity in the room naturally increases. This can often lead to too much moisture which can cause an unhealthy environment and even lead to mold and mildew infestations.
However, this shouldn’t mean you can’t enjoy your indoor swim spa or hot tub! The solution to this is easy – get a dehumidifier for your indoor environment. A dehumidifier designed for your indoor environment will stabilize your swim spa or hot tub environment and ensure year-round use.
Install Fans
Heat and water can combine to create a steamy and extremely hot indoor hot tub chamber. While this is good in tiny doses, you’ll also want to use fans to keep the room cool and ensure proper ventilation.
You can install either exhaust fans or ceiling fans to circulate the air in the room.
Install Proper Flooring
It’s inescapable that the floor in the room where you put your indoor swim spa will be splattered with water. In fact, a person may transport up to a gallon of water with them every time they get out of an indoor swim spa or hot tub.
That is why you must ensure that the floor is solid enough to support all of that weight. Do not use wood flooring, which can warp and decay, and do not use carpeting, which can also hold water and rot.
For most swim spas, ceramic tiles with a matte finish are a good option to minimize slips and falls
Make Sure You Have The Right Walls
The downside of indoor swim spas and hot tubs is that when the spa cover is removed, humidity can film the room which can negatively affect your furniture and walls. To prevent any damage, the walls must be constructed properly.
Consider using glass, wood, or concrete walls. Cedar is less prone to decay, and glass is simple to care for. Consult a licensed contractor about other treatments you might use to avoid mold and sagging on the walls.
Can You Put a Swim Spa Indoors? Feasibility and Benefits
Many homeowners wonder, can you put a swim spa indoors? The answer is a resounding yes, provided you plan carefully. An indoor swim spa offers a year-round oasis for swimming, relaxation, and exercise, regardless of the weather outside. Unlike outdoor installations, an indoor swim spa provides privacy and protection from the elements, making it ideal for consistent use. However, it requires thoughtful preparation to ensure your home can accommodate the spa’s size, weight, and environmental needs.
The benefits of an indoor swim spa are numerous. It can enhance your home’s value, provide a dedicated space for fitness and therapy, and create a luxurious retreat. To make it work, you’ll need to address factors like space, ventilation, and structural support, which we’ll cover in detail below. With the right setup, an indoor swim spa becomes a seamless addition to your home, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Designing Your Indoor Swim Spa Room
Creating an inviting indoor swim spa room is about balancing functionality with style. Indoor swim spa designs should prioritize ease of access, safety, and a relaxing atmosphere. Consider incorporating elements like large windows for natural light, non-slip flooring, and durable wall materials like glass or cedar to enhance the space. You might also add seating areas, plants, or ambient lighting to make the room feel like a spa retreat.
When planning your indoor swim spa room, think about how you’ll use the space. Will it be a private sanctuary or a family-friendly area? Ensure there’s enough clearance around the spa for safe entry and exit, and consider storage for towels and accessories. Consulting with a designer can help you create a residential indoor swim spa that complements your home’s aesthetic while meeting practical needs.
Ventilation Solutions for Indoor Swim Spas
Proper ventilation is essential for any enclosed swim spa to maintain a healthy and comfortable environment. Indoor swim spa ventilation prevents excess humidity, which can lead to mold, mildew, or damage to your home’s structure. Beyond installing fans, as mentioned earlier, consider adding a high-capacity ventilation system, such as an HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) or ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator). These systems exchange stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while maintaining energy efficiency.
For optimal air quality, ensure your ventilation system is sized appropriately for the room’s volume and the swim spa’s heat output. You may also want to install windows that can be opened to promote natural airflow. Working with a professional HVAC contractor can help you design a ventilation solution tailored to your indoor swim spa, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience year-round.
Common Challenges in Swim Spa Indoor Installation
Swim spa indoor installation can present unique challenges, but with proper planning, they’re easily manageable. One common issue is ensuring your home’s structure can support the swim spa’s weight, which can exceed several thousand pounds when filled. Consult a structural engineer to assess your foundation and floor joists, especially for older homes. Another challenge is navigating tight entryways during delivery, which may require cranes or specialized equipment.
Humidity control and electrical requirements also pose challenges. Without proper dehumidifier and ventilation, moisture can damage your home. Similarly, inadequate electrical setup can delay installation. To avoid these issues, work closely with your swim spa source and licensed professionals, such as electricians and contractors, to ensure every detail is addressed before installation begins.
| Preparation Step | Key Considerations | Professional Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery Pathway | Clear obstructions, measure entry points, confirm crane needs | Delivery team |
| Water Source | Ensure plumbing access for filling the spa | Plumber |
| Electrical Supply | Install 240V circuit with GFCI breaker | Licensed electrician |
| Ventilation | Add fans, dehumidifier, or HRV/ERV system | HVAC contractor |
| Flooring | Use non-slip, water-resistant materials like ceramic tiles | Contractor |
| Walls | Choose durable materials like glass or cedar | Contractor |
Get an Indoor Swim Spa Today!
If you’re interested in getting an indoor swim spa for your North Carolina home, the experts at Epic Hot Tubs can help you!
Our team will work closely with you to ensure you find the best swim spa for your family. We are also here to walk you through the entire swim spa installation. Call us at 888-884-3742, visit our Durham or Raleigh Hot Tub Showroom, or fill out the form below!
About The Author:
Richard Horvath
Hot Tub & Spa Expert
Richard has been in the hot tub & spa industry for years. As a long hot tub & swim spa owner himself, Richard has a passion for helping homeowners create their dream backyard.
