You dream of a backyard where you can relax, exercise, and spend time with family, but the thought of installing a full-sized pool might feel unrealistic. Maybe you do not have the space, or you want something that works year-round in New Jersey’s climate.
If you’re looking for the perfect balance between a swimming pool and hot tub, a swim spa installation offers the best of both worlds.
They combine the therapeutic comfort of a hot tub with the exercise benefits of a pool, all in a compact size that works perfectly in suburban backyards across New Jersey. With the right planning and professional approach, a swim spa installation can completely transform your outdoor living space.
What Sets a Swim Spa Apart and Why It Matters in New Jersey
Swim spas are designed for dual purpose. They allow you to swim against a steady current for exercise, while also offering built-in hydrotherapy seats for relaxation. This makes them more versatile than a hot tub alone and more practical than a traditional in-ground pool.
For New Jersey homeowners, the value of a swim spa installation goes even deeper. Space is at a premium in many neighborhoods, and zoning rules often make full pools complicated. A swim spa requires only a fraction of the space and can be installed above ground, semi-recessed, or in-ground depending on your vision. This flexibility makes it an attractive option for both large and compact backyards.
Climate is another major factor. New Jersey experiences freezing winters and humid summers. Unlike pools that sit unused for half the year, swim spas can be enjoyed in every season. With proper insulation, efficient covers, and water-heating technology, they remain comfortable even in January.
Families can swim, relax, and recover from workouts no matter the season. All within the comfort of their personal swim spa installation.
Which Swim Spa Fits Your Backyard and Lifestyle?
At Sun Pools, we focus on two trusted names in swim spa innovation: Jacuzzi® Swim Spas and PDC Spas®. Both brands deliver high-quality designs that cater to fitness, relaxation, and wellness, but each has its own story.
Jacuzzi® Swim Spas
Jacuzzi® Swim Spas have long been synonymous with hydrotherapy. Their swim spa collection continues that tradition with advanced jet technology and performance-driven features. Models like the PowerPro™ and PowerActive™ series are built for swimmers who want an authentic experience, complete with adjustable currents and ergonomic seating. With dual-zone options, you can swim in one section and soak in the other at different temperatures, making it a true all-season investment.
PDC® Swim Spas
PDC Spas® is an American manufacturer known for hand-crafted durability and a wide selection of designs. Their series range from compact models for smaller spaces to large units built for advanced training. Popular choices like the Synergy and TruSwim lines offer powerful resistance currents for fitness, while the Vitality series focuses on family fun and relaxation. PDC’s attention to detail ensures long-lasting performance that New Jersey homeowners can count on.
Choosing between the two often comes down to lifestyle goals. If you are looking for elite hydrotherapy and a brand name that defines luxury, Jacuzzi® Swim Spas are a natural choice. If you want customizable sizes and versatile performance at competitive price points, PDC® offers an impressive lineup.
Preparing Your Site: Foundations That Last
A solid foundation is the key to a successful swim spa installation. Swim spas are heavy, and once filled with water, they can weigh several tons. Without proper support, you risk settling, shifting, or even cracking.
Most New Jersey swim spa installations use a reinforced concrete pad. A four-inch slab with rebar is often sufficient, though larger models may require thicker pours. For semi-recessed or in-ground setups, professional excavation and drainage planning are essential to prevent water pooling around the unit.
Deck installations are also possible, but the deck must be properly engineered to hold the weight. Reinforced beams and footings may be necessary, which is why working with an experienced installer is critical. The investment in a reliable foundation pays off in peace of mind and long-term durability.
Delivery and Placement: The Logistics
Swim spas do not arrive in pieces. They are delivered as a single, large unit, so planning the route into your backyard is one of the first steps. Driveway widths, gates, fences, and even trees may affect how your spa is moved into place.
In many cases, a crane is required to lift the spa over the house or obstacles. This might sound complicated, but experienced teams handle it every week across New Jersey. The key is scheduling in advance and ensuring clear communication between the homeowner, installer, and crane operator.
Once the spa is on site, proper clearance is essential. You will need space around the spa for future maintenance, such as removing panels or accessing pumps. It is not just about getting the spa in place today, but making sure it remains serviceable for decades.
Hookup: Water, Drainage and Power
Installing a swim spa is not only about placement, it is also about connections. Filling the spa is as simple as running a garden hose, but drainage requires careful planning. Having a nearby area where water can safely exit during draining or winterizing prevents flooding and protects your foundation.
Electrical work is more specialized. Swim spas require a dedicated 240-volt line with a GFCI breaker. This must be installed by a licensed electrician to meet code and ensure safety. Positioning the disconnect switch at least five feet from the spa, but within sight, provides both safety and convenience.
Professional installers coordinate these details to ensure the system runs smoothly from day one. Cutting corners with power or drainage is never worth the risk, which is why homeowners trust experienced spa retailers like Sun Pools to manage the process.
Installation Day: Step by Step Essentials
Swim spa installation day is exciting, but it also follows a precise sequence. Once the spa is delivered, it is carefully placed on the prepared base. Installers use levels to confirm it sits evenly, preventing uneven water pressure that could damage the shell or plumbing.
Next comes the fill. As the water rises, technicians check for leaks, air pockets, and plumbing function. Once the spa is filled, the electrical connection is tested, and the pumps are activated. Adjustments are made to confirm proper flow for both the swim current and hydrotherapy jets.
The final step in your swim spa installation is orientation. Homeowners are shown how to operate controls, adjust temperature, and maintain water balance. This walkthrough ensures that you not only receive a properly installed swim spa but also the knowledge to enjoy it fully from day one.
Swim Spa Installation Inspiration: Turning Function Into Lifestyle
A swim spa is more than equipment. It becomes the centerpiece of your outdoor living area. Many New Jersey families choose to integrate their spa into a deck or patio, creating a seamless transition from home to water.
Privacy is another key factor. Fencing, pergolas, and landscaping can frame the spa while offering a sense of retreat. Strategic plantings like evergreens or ornamental grasses soften the view and add year-round beauty.
Accessories and enhancements take the experience further. LED lighting, audio systems, and weather-resistant furniture create an inviting atmosphere. With the right setup, your swim spa becomes a year-round hub for exercise, relaxation, and social gatherings.
Optimize and Maintain for New Jersey Use
Regular maintenance keeps your swim spa performing at its best. Weekly water tests, proper chemical balance, and filter cleaning are the foundation of care. Many homeowners rely on professional water care products available through Sun Pools for consistent results.
Winter requires extra attention. Even though swim spas are designed for cold climates, proper insulation and covers are essential. A high-quality cover not only conserves energy but also prevents debris and snow from entering the water.
Finally, consider long-term upgrades. Adding steps, handrails, or upgraded covers can improve usability. Lighting and decking updates keep the area fresh and inviting. By maintaining both the spa and its surroundings, you ensure lasting value for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I place a swim spa installation on an existing deck, and what reinforcement is needed?
Yes, but decks must be engineered to handle the weight. Swim spas can weigh up to 20,000 pounds when filled. Reinforced beams and proper footings are essential. Always consult a structural professional before installation.
Which Jacuzzi® Swim Spa and PDC® Swim Spa models are best for fitness versus relaxation?
Jacuzzi® PowerPro models are designed for serious swimmers with advanced currents. PDC’s TruSwim series also excels for training. For relaxation and family use, Jacuzzi® Swim Spas with dual-zone technology and PDC Vitality models are popular choices.
How much backyard space do I need for a swim spa installation?
Most swim spas range from 12 to 20 feet long. You should allow at least three feet of clearance around the unit for service access. Compact backyards in New Jersey can often accommodate a swim spa where a pool would never fit.
What electrical requirements should I prepare for before installation?
A dedicated 240-volt line with a GFCI breaker is standard. A licensed electrician must handle the work, and the disconnect switch must be installed within sight of the spa but at least five feet away.
How can I enjoy my swim spa year-round in New Jersey’s climate?
Investing in a high-quality insulated cover and proper water care allows year-round use. Many homeowners also add pergolas, windbreaks, or heating elements around the spa to make winter use more comfortable.
Swim Spa Installation: Ready to Transform Your Backyard?
Adding a swim spa installation is one of the smartest ways to combine exercise, wellness, and relaxation in a single investment. Whether you are drawn to the hydrotherapy innovation of Jacuzzi® Swim Spa or the American-made performance of PDC Spas®, Sun Pools can guide you from planning to installation and long-term care.
Since 1972, families in New Jersey have trusted Sun Pools for pools, spas, and backyard enjoyment. If you are ready to make the most of your outdoor space, visit Sun Pools today or contact our Green Brook Township team to start your swim spa journey.
