Is a Swim Spa the Same as an Above Ground Pool?

Many homeowners dream of having a place to swim, exercise, and relax in their backyard. If you’re exploring alternatives to a traditional pool, you may be wondering: should you buy a swim spa, or an above ground pool? Are they the same thing?

This blog explores the key differences between swim spas and above-ground pools to help you decide which one is the best fit for your home.

Swim Spas vs. Above Ground Pools: What’s the Difference?

Although swim spas and above-ground pools share similarities, they are not the same, and both have unique advantages to consider. Below, we explore how they differ to help your decision-making process.

What Is a Swim Spa?

A swim spa is essentially a hybrid between a hot tub and a swimming pool. It offers the built-in heating, circulation, and filtration systems of a hot tub, but with more space to swim.

Endless Pools swim spas are also built with fitness in mind and offer features like adjustable currents for resistance while swimming, exercise equipment, and more—all with the comfortable seating and temperature control options of a hot tub.

What Is an Above-Ground Pool?

An above-ground pool is a freestanding swimming pool installed above ground level. It is typically constructed of metal, wood, or resin with a vinyl interior liner.

This is a more budget-friendly alternative to in-ground swimming pools, providing a great way for families to have fun and cool off during the warmer months.

7 Considerations for Choosing a Swim Spa or Above-Ground Pool

Deciding between a swim spa or an above-ground pool involves careful consideration of essential factors like size, installation, accessibility, features and accessories, and much more. Below, we outline key considerations to help you decide which one is best for your home.

1. Size and Dimensions 

Above-ground pools come in different shapes and size options, and they are usually much larger than swim spas. The most popular sizes for above-ground pools include 24-foot diameter round pools and 15 x 30-foot oval pools¹. 

Although swim spas are smaller than most above-ground pools, they come in a broad range of sizes, starting as compact as 7 feet wide and reaching up to 20 feet long. This extensive size range and narrow, rectangular shape make them a versatile choice for almost any yard size, even small spaces. 

Below are some common swim spa sizes and dimensions: 

2. Installation 

Above-ground pools are larger and take more time to install, usually about a few days. They may also involve more preparation like ground leveling and deck construction. This makes installation more expensive and time-consuming. On the other hand, swim spas are smaller and more straightforward to install, so it only takes as little as a few hours to a day.

3. Decks and Accessibility

Above-ground pools are larger and much higher off the ground than a swim spa. Without a deck constructed around it, you usually need to climb a ladder on the side of the pool to get inside, which poses accessibility concerns. 

You can absolutely build a deck around your swim spa if you’d like, but swim spas are shorter in height and come with flat, wide steps that don’t require as much climbing to get in and out of, so decks aren’t always necessary. 

Although it’s a matter of preference, you will likely need a deck to make getting in and out of your above-ground pool more convenient. 

4. Hydrotherapy Features

When it comes to hydrotherapy features, this is where swim spas shine. Most models include: 

• Powerful jets that create swim currents for exercise 
• Built-in ergonomic seats for relaxation 
• Hydrotherapy jets for targeted deep tissue massages 

Above-ground pools lack the jets, adjustable currents, and other built-in hydrotherapy features that swim spas are known for. 

5. Heating and Temperature Control 

Most above-ground pools do not have heated water, which means they are only usable during the warmer months of the year. If you want heated water in your above-ground pool, you’ll have to invest in a separate heater, which can be pricey. 

Swim spas on the other hand have built-in temperature control, allowing you to enjoy either cool or hot water with the press of a button. This means you can use your swim spa all year long—no matter the season.

6. Fitness Accessories

Many swim spa models offer optional fitness accessories like underwater treadmills, aquatic bikes, row kits, and more. In combination with adjustable currents and hydrotherapy features, these accessories can turn your swim spa into the ideal place for aquatic workouts and exercise recovery. 

Most above-ground pools are designed for swimming only. Although they provide more space to move around, they don’t have the exercise or fitness accessories that swim spas do.

7. Cleaning and Maintenance 

Above-ground pools generally require more maintenance than swim spas because they are much larger and don’t have the built-in filtration systems that swim spas do. In addition to water care, weekly maintenance tasks for above-ground pools include: 

• Skimming the surface to remove debris, leaves, and insects 
• Cleaning the walls and floors of algae 
• Using a pool vacuum to remove dirt and debris 

Swim spas still require regular maintenance, cleaning, and water care treatments to stay functional. However, they are much easier to keep clean due to their built-in filtration and circulation systems, easy-to-use covers, and more compact sizes.

Additionally, swim spa shells are often made of antimicrobial materials like acrylic, which means you don’t have to scrub them frequently for algae as you would with an above-ground pool.

Find the Best Swim Spa for Your Home at Creative Energy

Swim spas and above-ground pools share similarities, but they both have key differences that make them suitable for different needs and lifestyles. By carefully considering the advantages of both, you can make an informed decision and select the perfect option for your home.

For decades, Creative Energy has been a leading retailer of swim spas, hot tubs, fireplaces, and more. We offer a wide selection of swim spas in various sizes, and our team of friendly experts is excited to help you find the perfect option for your needs, lifestyle, and budget. Contact us online or visit any one of our award-winning Bay Area showrooms in Concord, San Rafael, and San Mateo to browse our selection today.