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Swim Spa FAQs

The Ultimate Guide to Your Swim Spa

Frequently Asked Questions About Swim Spas

Raleigh Hot Tub Store
Swim Spas for Sales

Feeling Overwhelmed or Unsure About Swim Spas?

The experts at Epic Hot Tubs are here to help guide you through the purchase process to understand and enjoy your new swim spa.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a swim spa?

A swim spa combines the benefits of a hot tub for relaxation and a swimming pool for exercise into one unit. Most swim spas have infinity jet pumps for an endless swimming experience.

Why should I get a swim spa?

You can get a swim spa a lot faster and less expensive than a swimming pool. You can use it year round and it requires less maintenance. In most models, you can adjust the speed of the infinity swim jets. You can exercise without leaving your beloved home or host parties for your family and friends. It upgrades your home to a 365 day vacation destination.

What is the difference between a swim spa and a swimming pool?

All of our swim spas are above ground while most swimming pools are inground. Swimming pools  require city permits, time consuming constructions, and cost a lot more money than a swim spa. The ongoing maintenance cost is a lot higher on swimming pools than spas. You can move your swim spa to your new home while swimming pools stay with the house and in many cases even lower the value of your home or limit the audience who would invest in it.

What is the difference between a hot tub and a swim spa?

A swim spa is like a giant hot tub that allows you to swim and exercise in it. Swim spas have infinity or endless swimming jets while hot tubs have seats.

Does a swim spa really have infinity jets to swim in the same spot?

Yes, all of our swim spas are equipped with endless swim or river jets. It allows you to swim in the same spot like when you run on a treadmill in the gym.

What brand of swim spas do you sell?

We sell PDC Swim Spas in all location and Wellis Swim Spas at our Durham showroom.

What brand of swim spas are better?

PDC swim spas were voted the best swim spas in the country for multiple years in the US and is a hand made, reliable product.

Why is one of your swim spa brands cheaper than the other one?

There is not much price difference between our spa brands, most of the price differences are due to a difference in features and accessories you choose.

What’s a dual zone swim spa?

A dual zone swim spa contains a large swim area and a separate hot tub area in one unit where you can control temperature and jet’s independently from each area. It mostly requires two dedicated power lines , one of each area.

What’s a single zone swim spa?

A single zone swim spa contains only one infinity swimming area. Many cases, it has seating areas like a hot tub but only one temperature control. If you want to use it for relaxation like a hot tub then switch to swim, you might need to wait a while until the temperature goes down to a lower temperature for the ideal level.

Do I need two dedicated power lines for a dual zone swim spa?

Yes, you need one 50 amp breaker, 240 volt for your hot tub side, you need one 50 amp breaker, 240 volt for your swim spa side.

Can I control the temperature separately in the hot tub and the swimming area in a dual zone swim spa?

Yes, you have separate heating controls for both sections of the spa.

Should I buy a single zone swim spa and a hot tub separately or a dual zone swim spa?

If you have a large enough space for both a hot tub and swim spa, you will get the best experience from having a seperate high-end hot tub and swim spa. However, if you have a limited space or budget but want both a swim spa and hot tub, a dual zone swim spa is a very good alternative.

How big is a swim spa?

Most of our swim spas are anywhere from 12 to 20 feet in length but there are other brands that are a lot longer than that. Based on our customer’s feedback, the 17 feet swim spas are the ideal size for most backyards.

Should I purchase a longer or a shorter swim spa?

While it depends on your personal preference and space, longer swim spas generally provide a more comfortable swimming experience and more space for your friends and family.

Can I exchange the swim spa that I purchased from you to a different size?

We are sorry but due to the nature of these personal products, all special orders are final. We encourage you to visit one of our showrooms to check out and experience our products. Feel free to talk with our spa consultants to educate yourself regarding swim spa models and options. Please perform additional research on your own to confirm you make the right decision before you place an order. Some of our manufacturers have showrooms open to the public to visit and test the products we sell. Please read our “Terms and Conditions” for further details regarding our exchange policies.

Can I return the swim spa that I purchased from you in case I change my mind?

We are sorry but due to the nature of these personal products, all special orders are final. We encourage you to visit one of our showrooms to check out and experience our products. Feel free to talk with our spa consultants to educate yourself regarding swim spa models and options. Please perform additional research on your own to confirm you make the right decision before you place an order. Some of our manufacturers have showrooms open to the public to visit and test the products we sell. Please read our “Terms and Conditions” for further details regarding our return policies.

How many people can fit into a swim spa?

It depends on the purpose of the usage of a swim spa to determine how many people can fit in it. If your goal is relaxation or play with kids then you definitely can comfortably fit more people in your swim spa. To swim comfortably in your swim spa, you most likely will use it on your own or might share the swimming area with one more person.

How quick can you deliver a swim spa to my home?

It depends on the brand and our current inventory. If we have your dream swim spa in our warehouse, we can deliver locally within a week. Most models will take 8-12 weeks to get delivered to your home, but some models can be delivered in only a few weeks.

How will I get the swim spa in my backyard?

In most cases we can deliver a swim spa to your backyard without a crane regardless of the size of your swim spa. In some cases, if a backyard is hard to access by trailer, we most likely will need to use a crane to get your swim spa delivered to your desired spot.

Can you deliver a swim spa without a crane?

We can deliver swim spas without a crane in most cases but there are situations where there is no other way than renting a crane if there is no easy way to access your backyard with a truck or slide the spa through your backyard.

Do I need a fence around my swim spa?

Swim spa regulations are much more relaxed than swimming pools. In most cases you won’t be required to have a fence around a swim spa. However, you will need to check with your HOA and your local city or town authorities before purchasing.

Do I need a permit to put a swim spa in my backyard?

Regulations for swim spas are a lot easier to deal with when compared to swimming pools. In most cases there are not strict regulations for installing a swim spa. However, please talk with your HOA and local authorities about your local regulations before having your swim spa delivered.

Can I put a swim spa on grass?

It’s not recommended to put a swim spa on grass.

Can I put a swim spa on mulch?

It’s not recommended to put a swim spa on mulch.

Can I put a swim spa on pavers?

You might install a swim spa on the top of pavers if it was installed properly.

Can you put a swim spa on a concrete pad?

Yes. Actually, it’s recommended to place your swim spa on a concrete pad. Make sure there is fiber cement or rebars to improve the strength of the concrete slab. It’s recommended to have at least 6 inch tall concrete pads but we strongly encourage you to discuss your project with your licensed concrete contractor.

What if my existing concrete pad is not completely flat? Will I have any issues running my swim spa or swimming in it?

You run the risk of damaging your tub if your concrete pad is not completely level and flat. It is your responsibility to make sure your concrete pad is level.

How thick of a concrete pad should I install for my swim spa?

Your concrete pad should be a minimum of six inches deep. It is recommended to add rebar or fiber-strand to make your concrete pad stronger to hold the extreme weight of a swim spa, it’s water, and it’s users.

How quick will my brand new concrete cure before we can place a swim spa on it?

We recommend you wait at least a week before delivering and place your new swim spa on your brand new concrete pad.

Can I put a swim spa on a SmartDeck?

Yes, you can most definitely use SmartDeck for your swim spa project but an enforced, flat surface concrete pad is recommended for your swim spa.

Can I put a swim spa on my deck?

Swim spas weigh over 30,000 lbs when full, so you cannot put it on a deck but you can build a deck around it.

Is it a good idea to build a deck around my swim spa?

It’s definitely a convenient, great, and neat idea to build your new swim spa into a deck

How far should my swim spa be from my house and all other surroundings?

You need to have a minimum of 6 feet of distance from all surroundings on all sides.

Can I put my swim spa beside my house?

You need to have a minimum of 6 feet of distance from all surroundings, including your house, on all sides.

Can I put my swim spa in my garage, basement, sunroom, or any other enclosed area?

Your swim spa can be placed in enclosed areas as long as each areas meets the proper pad strength and is accessible. As always, check with your local regulators and your HOA before installing your swim spa in an enclosed area.

Can I put a swim spa into an enclosed building like a shed or shipping container?

Sheds will not support the extreme weight of a swim spa. A shipping container does not provide a level, completely flat surface for your swim spa so you cannot pur your swim spa into a shipping container.

Can I put a swim spa into a stand alone enclosure or sunroom?

Yes, in fact, we recommend using a swim spa enclosure to protect your swim spa from UV rays and extreme weather.

 Is it a good idea to put a swim spa indoors?

In order to put a swim spa indoors you will need to have proper ventilation and space.

Do I need a dehumidifier or an AC unit for a swim spa in an enclosed area?

Yes, you will need a dehumidifier to keep the moisture out of the air, and an AC unit is recommended to maintain a proper temperature in the room.

How heavy is a swim spa?

Swim Spas range from 3,000 to 4,000 pounds dry, and when filled with water they can weigh in excess of 30,000 lbs.

How many gallons of water do swim spas hold?

Swim spas can be anywhere from 2,500 to 5,000 gallons.

How long does it take to heat up a swim spa?

Water in a swim spa typically heats up 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit per hour, though this can be slower for a larger body of water. Expect at least 8-12 hours to reach temperature.

What temperature should I operate my swim spa?

While this depends on what you’re using the swim spa for 86-90 degrees is a common temperature range for swimming. Make sure your swim spa does not exceed 104 degrees.

How often do I need to drain the water from my swim spa?

As with a hot tub, the water should be drained and refilled once the TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) is greater than 2,500 parts per million. At least once a year is typical for most users. Since it is a larger body of water than a hot tub, a partial drain and refill may be easier to perform on a more regular basis.

How often do I need to check the water quality of my swim spa with the pH tester?

We recommend testing your water’s pH at least weekly. The warmer your water, the more frequently you need to check.

Do you offer water testing services to make sure I add the right amount of chemicals to my swim spa?

Yes, you can bring in a 4oz water sample to our Raleigh or Durham stores and we will provide you with a free water analysis.

How difficult is it to learn and do water chemistry for a swim spa on my own?

It is a very simple process to learn. We do offer on-site maintenance packages to perform testing and maintenance for you.

I never owned a hot tub, swim spa or swimming pool and don’t know anything about spas. Can you show me how to use it and how to add chemicals to the water?

We provide how-to videos and a how-to cheat sheet will after your purchase of a hot tub or swim spa. In addition, we also offer on-site maintenance packages to perform the testing and maintenance for you.

Do you offer new swim spa owner consultation?

Upon request, we do offer a 1 hour concierge service after your swim spa is hooked up to electricity and filled with water.

Are there floating Frog smart chlorinating systems for my swim spa?

Yes, the Flippin’ Frog and Flippin’ Frog XL are large versions of the Frog @ease that will work in your swim spa.

Why the Frog floating chlorination system so popular for swim spas?

They are more convenient, use less chlorine and only need to be changed every 4-6 weeks on average.

Is it really true that the Frog SmartChlor Technology uses up to 75% less chlorine in my spa to sanitize the water?

Yes, because the mineralizer at the top of the Frog offers a more natural way of keeping the water clear and algae free.

Do you offer ongoing water maintenance services for your swim spa customers?

Yes, we offer weekly, bi-weekly and monthly water treatment and maintenance service packages for swim spas in the Triangle area.

Do you sell saltwater or chlorine or bromine swim spas?

We sell chlorine and bromine swim spas, but we do not offer saltwater swim spas.

Are there completely chemical free swim spas out there?

No, chemicals are necessary for performing water tests and keeping your swim spa clean.

Can I use the same chemicals for my swim spa that I use for my hot tub or swimming pool?

Hot tubs and swim spas can use the same chemicals, but not swimming pools. It is recommended to check the proper chemicals and quantities for each before use.

Can we use aromatherapy salt or oil in your swim spas?

You can use anything that is spa approved, whether it’s liquid or granular.

Do swim spas have water pumps like swimming pools to filter and clean the water 24/7?

Swim Spas have water pumps to filter and clean the water, however they work on a cleaning schedule that you set and do not run 24/7.

Do you sell swim spas with ozonator and/or UV water sanitization systems?

Yes, all of our swim spas come with an ozonator and UV water sanitization system.

How much less chemicals will I use in a swim spa that is equipped with a UV water sanitization system?

You will use around 60% less chemicals in a swim that that is equipped with a UV water sanitation system.

How often do I need to change the ozonator and/or UV in my swim spa?

Yes, it is recommended that you change your ozonator and UV every 12 and 18 months.

How do I know when I need to change my ozonator and/or UV?

Depending on the manufacturer, you may be able to see if the UV light is still on and working. If you’re having to add more chemicals than normal, your ozonator and/or UV may need to be changed. It is recommended that you change your ozonator and UV every 12 and 18 months.

How many volts and AMPS do a swim spa need to operate?

Most swim spas require 50 amps and 240 volts, a dual zone swim spa may require two 50 amp, 240 volt connections to operate.

Are there 110 volt swim spas out there?

You might find a swim spa operating with 110 volts but it most likely not powerful enough to blow fast enough for a smooth swimming experience.

How fast do your swim spas swim jets blow water?

It depends on how many swim jets your model has, but our swim jets can move anywhere between 1200 to 5500 gallons per hour.

How many swim jets do your swim spas have?

We have swim spas with 1 to 3 river jets and we also have swim spas with a dual propulsion system.

Can we change the speed of the water flow in your swim spas?

Yes, you have options to program for different speeds and routines within your swim spas control system.

What swim spa model has the best swimming experience?

For the ultimate swimming experience, we would recommend the TruSwim series of PDC Swim Spas for their dual propulsion system.

What length of swim spa do you recommend for a 5’ 6” tall person?

We recommend purchasing at least a 14 feet long swim spa regardless of the height of the user. Smaller swim spas might be tight and less comfortable to swim in.

What length of swim spa do you recommend for a 6 foot tall person?

We recommend a spa at least 15 feet long for anyone around or above 6 feet tall.

How much does a swim spa cost?

There are many factors that influence the cost of a swim spa, however the price can range anywhere from $25,000 to over $50,000.

Which one is your cheapest swim spa?

Our cheapest swim spa is our Vitality 12 foot swim spa.

Which one is your best swim spa?

The best swim spa brand and model depends on your fitness level and how you plan to use it. Our TruSwim line will provide the best swimming experience. The PDC Synergy FX series or Amazon W-Flow from Wellis would be the best value options and the best options for hosting parties or entertaining your family as a swimming pool alternative. The best dual zone woul be the FX219 or SX219 from PDC depending on your fitness level. The best swim spa for physical therapy would likely be our FX or SX serie, but you should talk with our spa consultant to narrow it down to the best swim spa for your specific needs.

Can I write off a swim spa from my tax return?

In some cases, if you’re purchasing your swim spa for your business, for a rental property, or for a prescription you may be able to write a swim spa off on your taxes. Refer to your tax expert for more information.

How much is the annual upkeep (maintenance) cost of a swim spa?

Your maintenance and annual upkeep cost depends on your usage and temperature you run at.

Do I need periodic maintenance for a swim spa?

Yes. Swim spas require regular maintenance to remove dirt and oil before it builds up and causes damage to your swim spa.

Do you offer weekly swim spa water maintenance services?

Yes. We offer water treatment and maintenance services up to 52 weeks a year. We can take care of basic cleaning, chemical adjustments, draining and refilling as well as complete system purge, filter replacement and more. Learn more about our swim spa maintenance services on our website.

Do you sell exercise equipment and add-ons that we can use in your swim spas?

Yes, we offer the Aqusizer underwater treadmill, bungees and swim tethers.

Are your swim spas good for physical therapy?

Yes, they are also ADA compliant

Are swim spas handicap accessible?

Swim spas can be equipped with special lifts to make them handicap accessible.

Do you sell handicap accessible swim spas or accessories for regular spas?

Yes, upon special request, we can sell handicap lifts to make your swim spa handicap accessible.

Do you offer discounts for disabled veterans for handicap accessible swim spas?

Yes, ask your spa consultant about our veterans discount.

Do you offer discounts for senior citizens to purchase swim spas?

Yes, ask you spa consultant about our senior citizen discount.

Do you offer automated, hand free, or easy to open and close covers for your swim spas?

Yes, we offer the Covana Legend, which is an automated swim spa cover, as well as  rolling swim spa covers which are easy to open and close.

Do you offer optional add-ons like WiFi controls and Bluetooth audio speakers for your swim spas?

Yes, we offer WiFi controls and Bluetooth audio upgrades for all of our swim spas.

What can manage a WiFi control in your swim spas?

You can manage your WiFi controls using an app on your mobile device.

Why should I buy a swim spa from your company?

I’m sure you can answer this question better than us by now if you read this long list of FAQs but here are just a few reasons to make sure you feel comfortable doing business with us.
1. We represent only the best brands in the spa industry and their best models.
2. We are a locally owned and operated spa dealer with an experienced maintenance team.
3. We do not just sell a product to you then disappear. You can ask any questions regarding our swim spas or any other products you purchased from us, and we will answer. 
4. Yes, we do answer the phone when you call us.
5. We provide free water testing for life and water chemistry consultation for our customers. 
6. We provide spa maintenance, repairs, and water treatment services as well

Can I exchange the swim spa that I purchased from you to a different size?

We are sorry but due to the nature of these personal products, all special orders are final and non refundable. We encourage you to visit one of our showrooms to check out and experience our products. Feel free to talk with our spa consultants to educate yourself regarding swim spa models and options. Please perform additional research on your own to confirm you’re making the right decision before placing an order. Some of our manufacturers have showrooms open to the public to visit and test the products we sell. Please read our “Terms and Conditions” for further details regarding our exchange policies.

Can I return the swim spa that I purchased from you in case I change my mind?

We are sorry but due to the nature of these personal products, all special orders are final and non refundable. We encourage you to visit one of our showrooms to check out and experience our products. Feel free to talk with our spa consultants to educate yourself regarding swim spa models and options. Please perform additional research on your own to confirm you’re making the right decision before placing an order. Some of our manufacturers have showrooms open to the public to visit and test the products we sell. Please read our “Terms and Conditions” for further details regarding our return policies.

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Do You Still Have Questions About Swim Spas?

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