Are Hydropool's Self-Cleaning Swim Spa Worth It?

No one buys a swim spa wanting to maintain it. It’s a necessary element of owning one, but not one people focus on. 

We know this because we’ve been selling swim spas since the 1990s, using our patented self-cleaning feature. Hydropool’s self-cleaning swim spas promise to reduce maintenance time and effort, allowing you to enjoy the benefits without the stress.  

But are they really worth it? We are obviously biased here, but what we want to do in this article is explain our system as much as possible so you can decide for yourself.  

This guide aims to provide a thorough evaluation of Hydropool’s self-cleaning swim spas to help you make an informed decision. 
 
In this post, we’ll cover: 

- The unique features of Hydropool’s self-cleaning swim spas 
- Benefits of self-cleaning technology 
- Practical insights into whether these swim spas are worth the investment 

Hopefully by the end, you’ll have a strong sense of whether self-cleaning is right for you.

Why Consider Self-Cleaning Technology? 

Maintaining a swim spa can be time-consuming, requiring regular cleaning and water treatment. Self-cleaning technology is designed to automate as much of this work as possible. Understanding the benefits and features of such technology can help you decide if it's a worthwhile investment for your lifestyle. 

Self-cleaning is a feature on every Hydropool other than the 13-foot AquaPlay FFP, our smallest swim spa.  

What Makes Hydropool’s Self-Cleaning Swim Spas Unique? 

Hydropool’s self-cleaning swim spas incorporate several advanced features that set them apart from traditional swim spas: 
 
- Advanced Filtration System 
- Floor Vacuum System 
- Optimized Surface Skimmer 

Our self-cleaning feature has three defining elements: 

• First, one filter removes everything on the surface of the water, with the jets and pumps circulating the water to encourage it to head toward the filter. This type of filter is commonly used in the hot tub and swim spa industry.  

• Second, on the bottom, a vacuum filter removes anything that falls to the bottom of the pool. This is not common. It is common in public and residential pools, where it is often referred to as a drain.  

• Third, the tub or spa’s cleaning filter is placed after the pump, which causes the pump to push the water through the filter in a pressurized canister environment. It’s forced that way for a reason: so the water can’t go anywhere but through the filter, to ensure 100 percent of the water is filtered through the cleaning system. This is called pressurized filtration.  

 Let’s explore each of these features to understand their benefits. 

What is Unique about Hydropool’s Filtration System? 

Hydropool’s self-cleaning swim spas use an advanced filtration system designed to keep the water clean and clear: 
 
- Continuous Pressurized Filtration: The system provides continuous filtration, ensuring that debris and contaminants are consistently removed. It’s forced filtration, so that all of your water is filtered every 40 minutes. Most filters use non-forced filtration, which means the water is filtered inconsistently.  
 
Key Benefits: 

- Continuous and thorough filtration, ensuring all of your water is constantly filtered 
- Improved water clarity and hygiene 
- Energy-efficient operation 

What is Hydropool’s Floor Vacuum System? 

The floor vacuum system automatically cleans the bottom of the swim spa: 
 
- Debris Removal: It removes dirt, leaves, and other debris from the floor, keeping the swim spa clean with minimal effort. 

- No Need for Additional Vacuum: Hot tubs without this feature frequently require vacuuming to remove debris that has settled at the bottom of the hot tub.  
- Automated Operation: The system operates automatically, requiring little to no manual intervention. 
- Enhanced Experience: A clean floor enhances the overall swim spa experience, making it more enjoyable and hygienic. 

Key Benefits: 
- Automated debris removal 
- Minimal maintenance effort 
- Improved hygiene and enjoyment   

Every jet in a Hydropool swim spa, such as this 14-foot Aquatic Sport, contributes to moving the water toward the top skimmer, ensuring it is cleaned with the pressurized filter system.  

How Does the Surface Skimmer Work? 

The surface skimmer in Hydropool’s self-cleaning swim spas is optimized for efficiency: 
 
- Surface Cleaning: It efficiently removes floating debris, such as leaves and insects, from the water surface. Particles in water either sink or they float – this captures anything floating.  
- Minimal Maintenance: The optimized design reduces the need for manual skimming, saving you time and effort. 
 
Key Benefits: 
- Efficient surface cleaning 
- Enhanced water circulation 
- Reduced manual maintenance 

What Are the Overall Benefits of Self-Cleaning Technology? 

Hydropool’s self-cleaning swim spas offer several overarching benefits: 
 
- Time Savings: The automated systems save you time on cleaning and maintenance tasks. 
- Improved Water Quality: Continuous filtration and optimized cleaning result in consistently high water quality. 
- Convenience: The self-cleaning features provides a more hassle-free ownership experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying your swim spa. 
- Cost Efficiency: While the initial investment may be higher, the energy-efficient features and reduced maintenance costs can offer long-term savings. 
 
Key Benefits: 
- Significant time savings 
- Superior water quality 
- Enhanced convenience 
- Potential long-term cost savings 

Is the Self-Cleaning Investment Worth It? 

Investing in a Hydropool self-cleaning swim spa can offer substantial benefits, but it's important to consider your specific needs and circumstances: 
 
- Usage Frequency: If you plan to use your swim spa frequently, the time saved on maintenance can be invaluable. 
- Budget Considerations: While these swim spas may have a higher upfront cost, consider the potential savings on maintenance and energy over time. 
- Lifestyle: If you prefer a low-maintenance, hassle-free experience, the self-cleaning features can greatly enhance your enjoyment and satisfaction. 

Is Hydropool’s Self-Cleaning Right For You?  

- Assess Your Needs: Consider how often you will use the swim spa and how much time you can dedicate to maintenance. 
- Calculate Costs: Compare the initial cost of a self-cleaning swim spa with the potential long-term savings on maintenance and energy. 
- Research Reviews: Look for customer reviews and testimonials to see how other users have benefited from the self-cleaning features. 
- Visit a Showroom: If possible, visit a Hydropool showroom to see the self-cleaning swim spas in action and speak with experts. 
- Evaluate Your Lifestyle: Think about your preference for convenience and low-maintenance solutions. If you prefer them, Hydropool may be a good choice for you.  
 
Hydropool’s self-cleaning swim spas offer a range of advanced features that simplify maintenance and enhance the overall experience. By reducing the time and effort required to keep the swim spa clean, they allow you to focus on relaxation and enjoyment.  

The long-term benefits of improved water quality, time savings, and convenience make these swim spas a worthwhile consideration for many buyers. Are they right for you? That is your decision.  

Have a question about self-cleaning that we didn’t cover here? Look for a Hydropool retailer nearest you for help.