If you’re planning on investing in a spa, you’ll have the option to place it in or above the ground. There are plenty of factors to consider with either setup, and it can feel a bit overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll go over the differences between the two configurations to help you figure out the best fit for your Aussie home.
The Great Debate: Dig It or Set It?
While space is an important consideration, it’s far from the only thing you have to think about when purchasing any type of spa. There are a lot of pros and cons for both inground and portable setups, and they vary widely from installation to year-round maintenance.
For instance, installing and maintaining a portable spa is much simpler, as you’d just place it on an easily accessible concrete slab. On the flip side, an inground spa will require a ton of work and resources to set up, but the end result is a long-lasting fixture that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
The aesthetic appeal of inground integration
An inground spa may be great for homeowners who want their new fixture to blend in nicely with its surroundings. If you live in a neighbourhood with a gorgeous view, you can leave it completely unobstructed by having the spa installed in the ground.
This gives your backyard a luxurious resort aesthetic, though installation and maintenance will be costly and time-consuming.
The functional flexibility of portable units
On the other hand, portable spas are incredibly flexible, as they can be set up just about anywhere. If you need any repairs or upgrades on the unit, its parts are easily accessible and replaceable.
Not satisfied with its current placement? You can simply have it moved to a different spot in your backyard (where you have an adequate foundation). This portability is also beneficial when dealing with harsh weather conditions, as it lets you store the unit for extra protection.
Even some portable units, like Just Spas’ Urban Pool models, can be installed in a way that emulates an inground spa’s recessed look. You’d need to set it in a deck with side access for maintenance, but the end result is a seamless resort-like patio aesthetic.
Installation Realities: Excavators vs. Cranes
Regardless of whether you’re installing it in or above the ground, there’s a lot of work involved in delivering and setting up a spa. This will most likely involve heavy machinery, especially if you’re going for an inground unit.
The excavation process and council headaches
Before setting up your spa, make sure that any groundwork or construction complies with your area’s regulations. Check with your local council first, especially since you might require a building permit as well.
You may also need to build safety barriers around your spa, as Australia has strict rules requiring this. Again, this varies across different states. For instance, Queensland requires fences for spas even if it has a lockable cover.
Plug-and-play simplicity with portable spas
For portable spas, installation requires significantly less time and is generally more convenient. As long as you have a suitable foundation for it, placing your spa can be as simple as pushing it into your property and setting it up.
In some cases, a crane might be needed if your home has no clear path to move the spa in. A licensed electrician should also help you with the initial installation, but after that, you’re good to go.
Counting the Costs
Apart from the cost of the spa, installing and maintaining it can result in significant additional expenses. This depends on where you plan on placing it, extra features you’ve chosen, and any additional construction that you might want to add.
Comparing upfront investment
The units themselves will have varying upfront costs based on factors such as their size and features. Compact models, like Just Spas’ Zephyr, will have a significantly lower upfront price compared to a ten-seater model from the same line.
Some models also have optional upgrades, which can drive up your initial investment. For example, the Cyclone range also offers the Select Upgrade, which includes mood-setting AquaGlow backlit jets and the AquaSound Bluetooth speakers.
Depending on your desired backyard setup, you could also be spending on decking or landscaping.
Hidden costs: Landscaping, fencing, and compliance
Preparing your home for your desired spa can be a costly process, especially for inground units. You may need to dig a trench and build safety fences that comply with local regulations. This will take substantial time and money.
There’s also the matter of installing the spa’s power requirements, which can definitely add up depending on how much work the tradies will need to do. For simpler above-ground setups, this can take no time at all, while an inground unit, even a partial one, might need an entire day or two of labour.
Maintenance, Durability, and Energy
Installing it is just the beginning. Keeping the spa in tip-top shape requires regular maintenance, especially for the larger swim spas. For simple maintenance, make sure to clean your filters every couple of weeks and replace the water after a few months.
Beyond routine cleaning, the unit’s overall durability should also be considered. Technical issues that require major repairs can still come up over time, which is why investing in an Australian-made spa is ideal.
Whether in or above the ground, our spas are built to endure the local climate, and any necessary fixes can be done quickly with locally-sourced parts.
Generally, inground spas are protected from outside damage. That said, portable spas built with strong shells and insulation can last just as long when maintained well.
Accessing plumbing and equipment
When it comes to plumbing access, above-ground spas easily beat their inground counterparts. Models above the ground will have their cabinet out in the open, allowing you to take it apart whenever you need to.
For inground units, opening it up can be a little more complicated depending on how you set it up. If the spa is installed in a deck, there might be some room allocated on the side specifically for maintenance purposes.
The process is a lot more complex for spas placed directly into the ground, especially ones that are permanent fixtures. For those, you will most likely need professional help to even access the unit’s systems.
Why portable units often win on insulation
Some portable spa models maintain warmth more efficiently than inground units. They do this by having multiple layers of insulation and maybe even a cover to trap heat without the use of electricity.
At Just Spas, a lot of our models come built with 8-layer Arctic Insulation. Regardless of the spa’s placement, this eco-friendly solution can help keep it warm while minimising running costs related to heating.
Of course, the insulation’s effectiveness for both portable and inground spas will still vary based on the ambient temperature and weather. If your spa is exposed to the elements, controlling the heat will occasionally be difficult.
Lifestyle Fit for Aussie Backyards
Depending on where you live, you might experience hot summers, frequent rain, or even frosty winters. An Australian-made spa is fit for such conditions and can provide year-round relaxation and entertainment, making it a worthwhile addition to your backyard.
Moving house? Taking the spa with you
If you ever plan on moving in the future, definitely consider purchasing a portable spa instead of an inground one. These are much easier to dismantle and reinstall in your new home.
When moving, make sure that there’s a clear path to push the spa out of your house. You may even have to hire professionals or use a crane to get it out.
As for inground spas, non-permanent ones can be moved, but uprooting these may be incredibly expensive and time-consuming. Not only would you have to prep your new place for the spa, but you’d also need to address the large, gaping hole left behind.
Finally, no matter what type of spa you have, avoid potential headaches by checking the local regulations if you’re moving to a different state. What was allowed in your previous location might not be compliant in your new home.
Hydrotherapy performance differences
Regardless of where they’re installed, spas often feature different jet configurations that can provide a soothing massage. The main difference comes in how fast they heat up and how well they can maintain their temperatures.
In general, a portable spa is better because of its insulation. Most inground spas can quickly lose heat to the ground and usually have to be preheated longer per use, while portable units are designed to efficiently maintain heat through layers of insulation and thick covers.
As a result, portable models also typically reach the desired temperature faster, allowing you to get your hydrotherapy fix in no time.
Verdict: Which One Suits Your Life?
When picking between an inground or portable spa, the choice mainly boils down to whether you value looks over convenience.
For those looking to elevate their backyard’s aesthetic, an inground spa might be right up your alley. As long as you don’t plan on moving anytime soon, this type of spa can last you a long time. Just remember that it will be challenging to maintain and repair.
On the other hand, a portable spa is perfect for year-round use. It’s a more budget-friendly plug-and-play option, and it can be just as relaxing as its inground counterparts. It can still give your patio that luxury resort feel, and it’ll take much less time to set up and enjoy.
Why Buy a Swim Spa for Australian Homes?
When comparing in-ground spas, portable spas, and full-size pools, the swim spa is an excellent option that falls directly in between. The swim spa features the energy-efficient compactness of a portable spa, combined with the functionality of a full-size pool. It is ideally suited for the Australian backyard, where finding remedies for small backyard spaces, managing running costs & maintaining usability throughout the year are important considerations in making a swim spa purchase. Swim spa features built-in temperature controls, powerful swim jets, and multiple hydrotherapy seats for both fitness & relaxation benefits. It delivers Family Value in One Easy-to-Use Solution, all without the hassles of excavation and obtaining a council approval (Permit) Required For In-Ground Installations.
Explore our range of Swim Spas designed for fitness, relaxation, and everyday Australian living.
Still looking for the best fit for your outdoor space?
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