Energy efficient swim spas: Save money while you swim

Whether you arededicated to reducing your impact on the environment, are looking to reduceyour costs and maintenance associated with your swim spa, or both, energyefficient swim spas offer a variety of benefits.

This article willdelve into the topic of energy efficient swim spas, including what they are,the benefits of energy efficient swim spas, how you can save money while youswim, and what factors determine a swim spa’s energy efficiency. You will alsolearn about some of the energy efficient aspects featured in Sundance® Spas, which takes pridein its swim spa models that are highly energy efficient.

What is an energyefficient swim spa?
An energy efficient swim spa can be known by many names, including an eco-friendlyswim spa, a low energy spa, or a green swim spa. All of these refer to the factthat the swim spa uses materials and innovations that are designed to helppreserve energy, reduce your carbon footprint, and ultimately keep your utilityand maintenance costs down.

The energyefficiency of any given swim spa will vary based on a few key factors, such asthe materials used, insulation quality, effectiveness of the swim spa cover,electrical configuration of the swim spa, and smart technology that can helpyou track and monitor your usage.

Benefits of anenergy efficient swim spa
There are many perks of having an energy efficient swim spa. Here are just afew:

Lower monthly energybills—Thanks to superior materials, great insulation, smart technology, and anexcellent swim spa cover, you can actively retain your swim spa water’s heatwhile also keeping your utility costs down. That isreally a win-win while you swim.

Reduce yourenvironmental impact—Preservation of our planet is a global issue, and everyone’scontributions matter, no matter how big or small. Doing your part byconsciously choosing a highly energy efficient swim spa is not only good foryour bottom line, but it’s also good for a worldwide cause, and that feelsgood, too.

Lower maintenancecosts—The durable build and sustainable materials of a luxury energy efficientswim spa will likely equate to lower maintenance costs in the long run. This isanother way you will save money while you swim when you choose an energyefficient swim spa.

Water conservation—If you protect yourswim spa with a well-made, tight-fitting cover and maintain it well, you shouldbe able to go up to six months between water changes, with normal usage. Overthe course of the lifespan of your swim spa, this can equate to thousands ofgallons of water saved, all while keeping your water fresh and ready forswimming and soaking.

What factors impactyour swim spa’s energy efficiency?
There are a number of factors that can impact the energy efficiency of your swim spa.These can include:

Sustainablematerials—Look for a swim spa shell made with long-lasting acrylic or compositelayers that are rated for 15 years or more.

Superior insulation—Proper insulationcannot be underestimated when it comes to sustainability. Seek a swim spa withhigh-density full-foam insulation that surrounds the shell and cabinet tominimize heat loss.

High-quality swimspa cover—Make sure to preserve your swim spa with a well-fittingcover to lock in your water’s heat and reduce evaporation, which is a majorcontributor to heat loss.

Size and volume ofyour swim spa—Naturally, the larger and deeper your swim spa is, the more waterwill be required to fill it and heat it, which uses more energy. When shoppingfor a swim spa, keep size in mind. What size do you actually need, and will youactually use it? Could you potentially size down for the sake of conservation?

Usage andtemperature setting—The more you use your swim spa and the higher the temperature, the moreenergy it will require.

Climate—If you live in acold region of the world or one with extreme temperatures, it will take moreenergy to adjust and retain the temperature of your swim spa. Somemanufacturers, such as Sundance® Spas, may offer an additional layer ofprotection by way of added factory-installed insulation between the frame andsiding to enhance heat retention and energy efficiency.

Electricalconfiguration—Typically, 240VAC models are more energy efficient for heating than120VAC models.

Pumps and heaters—Look forvariable-speed pumps and energy-efficient heaters, which only use the requiredenergy, unlike traditional single-speed pumps.

Tips for buying andusing energy efficient swim spas

• Search swim spa     lines that exceed California Energy Commission standards with factors such     as full-foam insulation, sustainable materials, efficient motors, and     integrated energy-smart controls and technology like the Sundance® Spas SmartTub® system, for example.
• If you are already a swim spa owner looking to upgrade to a more energy efficient model, look into the trade-in programs of your swim spa’s brand or dealer. Some offer you the ability to upgrade to a more efficient model, while     your old model can be refurbished or the components of it can be recycled.
• Use your swim spa during off-peak hours of your local electric company. Even slightly adjusting the temperature of your swim spa water by just one or two degrees when not in use can make a difference in your usage and potentially lower your bills.
• Always use your swim spa cover when you’re not swimming or soaking. An excellent swim spa     cover will efficiently preserve your water’s heat until you are ready to use it next.
• Buy a high-quality swim spa that is built to last between 15 and 20 years. Replaceable pumps,     heaters, and controls have a lesser environmental footprint than a subpar swim spa that may only last five to seven years before it’s no longer     usable.
• Ask about your swim spa’s water care. Oftentimes, swim spas that feature lower-chemical water care systems are more eco-friendly. Review your options with your swim spa dealer before making your final purchase.

Energy efficientSundance® Swim Spas
If you are looking to save money while you swim withan energy efficient swim spa, check out the Sundance® swim spa series. Inaddition to unbeatable hydromassage and swim support designed for both fitnessenthusiasts and family fun, Sundance® swim spas are energy efficient. Eachmodel boasts the hearty build of a SunStrong® steel frame and 3-layerRigidBond® shell, a 240VAC electrical configuration, and most models can beupgraded to include the SmartTub® system, which makes managing and monitoringusage easy and convenient.

This system and apphave an energy usage (kWh) sensor, on-peak/off-peak rate monitoring, Smart HeatMode and carbon footprint estimates to help you stay eco-conscious when usingyour swim spa. You can also receive filtration and water care reminders and personalizedrecommendations to ensure your swim spa is operating at peak efficiency.

The system’s SmartHeat mode allows you to maintain your swim spas’ temperature optimally andschedule heating during off-peak hours to benefit from lower energy rates. TheAuto Schedule feature actually learns your usage patterns and adjusts yoursettings to reduce energy consumption without compromising on your swim orhydrotherapy experience. Furthermore, the Power Estimator report shows you yourenergy savings while also estimating your carbon footprint.

Making smart, energyefficient choices is the responsible thing to do in today’s world. When you aremaking a significant investment, such as a swim spa, you can rest easy knowingthat it is possible to purchase a highly energy efficient swim spa. In doingso, you can save money and minimize your environmental impact while stillenjoying the incredible wellness benefits that a premium swim spa, such as aSundance® swim spa, can offer. When you are ready to dive into all the energyefficient options available to you, visit an authorized Sundance® swim spadealer near you to see models for yourself in person.

Frequently AskedQuestions (FAQs): Energy efficient swim spas: Save money while you swim
Q: Are swim spas energy efficient?
A: Some models by reputable brands feature a long-lasting build,sustainable materials, excellent insulation, a protective cover, pumps,heaters, and equipment, and smart technology that all work together to be asenergy efficient as possible.  

Q: What are theCalifornia Energy Commission (CEC) standards for energy efficient swim spas?
A: According to the CEC website, swim spas are regulated under portableelectric spa standards, including strict labeling, high-efficiency insulation,and, in 2026, a shift from gas-only heating toward heat pump or solartechnologies. Additional standards include certified energy use, mandatedcovers, and timer controls to run during off-peak hours.

Q: What is theSmartTub® system?
A: An exclusive smart technology compatible with most Sundance® swimspas, the SmartTub® system is a perfect companion for ensuring the energyefficiency of your swim spa. It offers a variety of features and modes thathelp you easily save money and reduce your carbon footprint, all withoutsacrificing your experience, whether you are swimming or soaking.

Disclaimer: Sundance® Spas is aregistered trademark of its respective owner. All rights reserved.  

Medical Disclaimer: We are not medicalprofessionals. This content is for informational purposes only and is not asubstitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult yourphysician or a qualified healthcare provider with questions regarding anymedical condition.