How Much Does an Endless Pool Cost?

Highlights

• The national average cost to install an endless pool is $22,500, with a typical price range of $7,000 to $50,000.
• Some of the most influential factors on the cost to install an endless pool include the pool size and type, the site preparation work required, the cost of electrical work, labor costs, delivery, and the home’s geographic location.
• The benefits of installing an endless pool include a compact size, low water usage, easy maintenance, and health benefits for the entire family.
• Endless pool installation can be difficult for homeowners unless they have pool installation experience, so many will choose to hire a professional for this job.

“Endless pool” is the most common term used to describe a pool with an automated current that provides resistance while the user swims. This allows the user to essentially swim in place at a set speed for as long as they like. Endless Pools is a brand name that is typically used in place of more generic terms, like swim spa, lap pool, exercise pool, never-ending pool, and current pool.

According to Angi, the cost of inground lap pool installation ranges from $7,000 to $50,000 with a national average cost of $22,500. Current pool cost varies greatly based on the endless pool size, type, site preparation, local labor rates, and more. Homeowners can use this informative guide to find out more about the various factors involved in endless pool prices so they can come up with an accurate endless pool cost estimate for their pool project.

Factors in Calculating Endless Pool Cost

In order for homeowners to put together an accurate budget, it’s necessary for them to understand the various factors that can affect the endless pool price. Even the smallest endless pool requires a substantial investment, so before jumping into an installation project, homeowners will want to consider these key endless pool cost factors.

Pool Size

One of the most basic factors for homeowners to consider when drawing up a budget for an endless pool installation project is the size of the pool. Endless swim spa pools typically measure a minimum of 8 feet in width by about 10 to 21 feet in length, with an average depth of 39 inches, though homeowners can also select models that reach a depth of up to 6 feet, or 72 inches. A homeowner can even have a small, compact endless swim spa installed in their home for much cheaper than an indoor pool cost.

The exact price per cubic foot varies widely depending on the brand, pool type, installation type, filtration system, and any additional customizations. For example, plunge pool costs may be lower, since these pools don’t have the same mechanical elements as traditional swim spas. However, homeowners can expect the price of the project to increase as the size of the endless pool increases, and they can opt for a smaller endless pool if they want to keep the cost of the project down.

Pool Type

Swim spas typically cost about $7,000 to $50,000 for purchase and installation, though the final cost of the project varies depending on the type of pool. A homeowner can invest in a basic, no-frills swim spa for about $7,000 to $15,000. These pools are relatively small in size and do not come with any extra features, but they can be a good option for homeowners looking for a product on the low end of the price range.

If there’s a little wiggle room, homeowners can opt for a mid-range model, which typically costs between $15,000 and $25,000 for installation. On the high end of the price range are premium models, which come with a wide assortment of extra features. These premium products generally cost between $25,000 and $50,000. The following table shows the average price range for different types of endless pools, including installation.

Site Preparation

When homeowners are planning the purchase and installation of an endless swim spa, a major consideration is whether they want an inground or an above-ground model. The site preparation costs can vary depending on the type a homeowner chooses. If they decide to go with an above-ground endless pool product, they can expect to spend about $3 to $6 per square foot to level the yard and an additional $2 to $6 per square foot for the concrete base.

However, those who decide an inground endless pool is a better choice for their home will need to take excavation costs into consideration. The typical cost of excavation for a pool installation project is about $100 per hour on average, though it should be noted that if the installation requires the excavation of hard-to-reach locations or challenging terrain, then the hourly rate can increase.

Electrical Work

The main benefit of an endless pool over a traditional lap pool is the automated current that allows the user to swim in place as long as they desire. However, to operate this system without issues, a homeowner will need a 220-volt or 240-volt power source and may even need a new subpanel if the home’s existing electrical panel cannot handle the power demands of the new endless pool.

The installation of the electrical wiring and a 220-volt or 240-volt outlet to operate the endless pool can cost between $600 and $2,200. If a homeowner needs to add a new subpanel to the home, then the cost will increase by about $400 to $1,800, depending on the extent of the electrical work.

Labor

Most DIYers are not capable of installing an endless swim spa pool on their own, so it’s expected that they will need to hire professional swim spa installation experts. If a homeowner opts for an above-ground endless pool, then the total cost of labor is typically less than if they were to choose an inground pool.

On average, homeowners can expect to pay about $300 in labor costs for the installation of an above-ground pool. The labor costs of an inground swim spa can reach up to $7,000. However, these rates typically vary depending on the terrain, accessibility, and size of the pool. Geographic location can also impact labor rates. Homeowners can expect to pay more for pool installation labor if they live in a densely populated location with a high demand for pool installation services.

Delivery

Before an endless pool can be installed, it needs to be delivered to the home or the selected installation location, like a cottage or cabin. Due to the size and weight of an endless swim spa, this delivery service is typically completed with a small crane. In most cases, the installation company will arrange for the crane delivery, but there is a cost associated with this service.

Homeowners will want to speak with the pool installation company to determine if this cost is included in the total price of the job or if it is an extra fee that they will be responsible for handling. On average, the delivery of an endless pool costs about $800 to $1,500. However, depending on the terrain and accessibility to the yard, the cost can increase. Other factors that can influence the cost include steep hills, fencing, trees, and other obstructions.

Geographic Location

While it may not be the first factor that springs to mind, a home’s geographic location is one of the most frequent considerations for just about any home renovation project. This is because the cost of labor, services, products, and delivery varies based on the local supply and demand. If the home is in a rural area with a low population, the homeowner may be able to save on the cost of installation. However, the delivery cost to a rural location can increase by $200 to $400, depending on the supplier.

For those living in densely populated areas, delivery won’t be as much of a factor as the existing demand for pool installation and maintenance service. Typically, a higher population will lead to a higher demand, allowing pool installation companies to increase the price of their services and also increase the local labor rates to complete the work.

Additional Costs and Considerations

The general endless pool cost range stretches from $7,000 to $50,000. Even after homeowners take into consideration the primary cost factors, like size, type, and local labor rates, there are still a few additional costs that it’s important to keep in mind when coming up with a budget. Homeowners will want to keep these additional factors in mind when planning their pool installation project.

Above-Ground vs. Inground Installation

There isn’t a significant difference in the initial cost of an above-ground endless pool versus an inground endless pool, beyond typical size and customization differences. However, when it comes to the installation costs, above-ground swim spas tend to be the more affordable option.

Above-ground endless swim spa pools need to sit on a level surface that is solid enough to hold the weight of the pool when it is filled with water. In most cases, this is accomplished by leveling the location and pouring a concrete base for the pool. The cost to level the yard ranges from about $3 to $6 per square foot, while the cost to pour a concrete base is about $2 to $6 per square foot.

If a homeowner decides on an inground endless pool, they won’t need to worry about leveling the yard. Instead, they will need to pay to have the location excavated to accommodate the size and depth of the inground pool. On average, excavation costs about $100 per hour, though difficult terrain and poor accessibility due to obstructions, like trees or fences, can increase the cost.

Permits

While some above-ground endless pool models may not need a permit, this is not the case for most endless pool installations. If a homeowner isn’t sure whether they need a permit or not, they can call their local permit office and ask them directly. The homeowner could also ask the pool installation company if a permit is required. If they say that it is required, the homeowner can ask if the company will handle permit acquisition or if they are responsible for acquiring a permit for the project on their own.

Permit costs for a swim spa installation typically range from about $200 to $1,000. If the pool installation company will be getting the permit for the job, homeowners will want to check whether the cost of the permit will be included in the total cost of the installation or if it will be added as an extra charge, so there aren’t any surprises when the project is complete.

Saltwater System Installation

A typical swim spa pool will have a standard filtration system to help keep the pool clean. The homeowner or a hired pool maintenance expert will also need to regularly test the water chemistry levels and add chlorine and other pool chemicals to ensure the water remains safe to swim in. However, if a homeowner is comfortable paying an additional $200 to $1,500, they can equip the endless pool with a saltwater filtration system.

Saltwater pool systems eliminate caustic chloramines from the pool, preventing red eyes, itchy skin, bleached swimsuits, and harsh chlorine smells. The drawback to these systems is that they cost more to install and to maintain, so if a homeowner doesn’t have the budget, they’ll want to stick with a standard endless pool filtration system.

Customizations

An endless pool is a great place to sit, relax, and swim for minutes or hours on end without worrying about running into the walls. Basic models offer the ability to swim in place against an automatic current that the user can set to their desired speed, allowing them to determine the level of exercise. If a homeowner is looking for more out of their endless pool, then there are a variety of customizations they can consider. However, it’s necessary to point out that additional features come at an increased cost. Homeowners will want to keep an eye on their budget when they are selecting customizations, or they could end up with some high-end features that push the total cost into the $30,000 to $50,000 range.

Popular customizations for an endless pool include hydrotherapy jets, a saltwater system, Wi-Fi or remote phone control, an infinity edge, lighting, and dual temperature options. Customers can also opt to add the cost of a pool heater in their budget to ensure their pool remains temperate.

Landscaping and Hardscaping

After the installation of the endless pool, the homeowner will need to figure out what to do about the surrounding area. Some homeowners will opt for the installation of a nonslip pool deck, especially if they have decided on an above-ground endless pool. This can range in cost from about $3,000 to $12,000 depending on the size and materials.

Other individuals may prefer to use concrete slabs or pavers for the hardscaping around the pool. Concrete slab installation costs about $2 to $6 per square foot. Additionally, the area around the pool will need to be landscaped to ensure that it is level. Any grass, flowerbeds, or other plants that the homeowner wants around the pool can also be put in at this time. On top of that, there is a good chance that the homeowner will need to re-landscape excavated areas. Homeowners can expect to pay about $4 to $10 per square foot for professional landscaping services.

Maintenance and Repairs

When a homeowner commits to installing a pool in their yard, they will want to factor the ongoing maintenance and repair costs of owning and operating a pool into their budget. On average, a homeowner can expect that straightforward maintenance tasks and pool repairs will cost about $110 to $350.

Most professional pool maintenance and repair companies charge an average rate of about $25 to $100 per hour. This means that the faster the job, the less a homeowner will need to pay for the service. However, it’s also important for homeowners to keep in mind that some companies may have a minimum charge to ensure that they make money on a service call. Homeowners can check with their pool maintenance company to determine if they have a minimum charge policy and consider bundling services to reduce the cost. Alternatively, a homeowner could handle the majority of the pool maintenance on their own to reduce the yearly maintenance cost.

Running Costs

Just as homeowners will want to factor in ongoing pool maintenance costs, they will also want to factor in the running costs of a pool system. This includes the cost of electricity to operate the pool and water to fill it. Endless pools use an automated current to allow a user to swim in place for minutes or hours at a time, depending on their preference. However, this function uses electricity to power the turbine or paddlewheel technology.

The cost of electricity to run an endless swim spa is about $20 to $50 per month, though the cost increases based on the size of the pool and any extra features that require electricity to function. The cost to fill the endless pool is generally more reasonable than electricity costs, though it depends on the size of the swim spa and local water rates. Most endless pools require about 1,500 to 2,500 gallons of water, with an average cost of $0.004 per gallon for municipal water.

Types of Endless Pools

The cost of endless pool installation can also vary based on the type of pool. There are several different types of endless pools, typically differentiated by the manufacturer. This includes the brand-specific original Endless Pool, HydroPool, SwimEx, and models offered by other generic swim spa brands.

Original Endless Pool

When a homeowner is looking for endless pool designs, it’s necessary for them to understand that there is a difference between the Original Endless Pool and Endless Pool swim spas. The Original Endless Pool is essentially a DIY swimming pool kit that comes with a simple steel structure and vinyl liner for a homeowner to build. These pools come in a variety of sizes and can be ordered with or without a swim-current system.

An Endless Pool swim spa is typically made with an acrylic shell and a finished resin cabinet. While a homeowner can purchase an Endless Pool swim spa without the current system, this type of pool is typically sold with the current system. Endless Pool current systems use a turbine to push water through a swim grate, which breaks up the swirling motion of the water to create a smooth swimming current. Homeowners can expect to pay about $15,000 to $40,000 for an Endless Pool swim spa, while an Original Endless Pool costs about $32,000.

HydroPool

Another popular swim spa brand is HydroPool. This company manufactures swim spas with automatic current systems that are powered by two heavy-duty turbines, known by the brand-specific name V-Twin jets. The jets push the water in the pool, creating a current that moves along at the set speed, so the user can swim in one place without worrying about running into the walls.

HydroPool swim spas create a current that can reach speeds of up to 6.2 miles per hour, and the company has recently introduced the AquaPro Control system. The AquaPro allows the user to set consistent swim speeds but also lets the user choose preset interval training programs. Adding the HydroPool WaterWatch will help the user maintain a consistent heart rate while they swim. The watch will vibrate if the user’s heart rate increases or decreases beyond the target range. As with Endless Pools swim spas, homeowners can expect to pay about $15,000 to $40,000 for a HydroPool swim spa installation.

SwimEx

Traditional swim spa designs typically follow the turbine model made popular by Endless Pools. However, SwimEx pools use a different method of creating an automatic current that actually pulls the water to the rear of the pool. This has the added benefit of increasing the depth and width of the current, so the user can be anywhere within the SwimEx pool and still take advantage of the automatic current.

The strong pull of the current is created by paddlewheel technology, offering a better flow than standard jetted lap pools and more generic swim spas. These pools have 99 speed settings and are capable of moving up to 25,000 gallons of water per minute, while swim spas from Endless Pools move only about 5,000 gallons per minute. The drawback to this innovative design is that SwimEx pools start at $47,900 and increase in price from there.

Other Brands

While Endless Pools is the primary swim spa brand, there are more generic alternatives that a homeowner may be interested in if they are looking for specific features or are just trying to keep installation costs low. These models will typically range from about $7,000 to $35,000, depending on the size, type, and customizations.

Fitmax’s iPool is an alternative to the automated current system offered by Endless Pools, SwimEx pools, and HydroPool. Instead of moving the water in the pool to allow the user to swim in place, the iPool has a dual tether system that keeps the swimmer from reaching the walls of the pool, so they are free to swim as much as they want. This has the benefit of reducing the cost of the pool and the ongoing running costs.

Benefits of Choosing an Endless Pool

When a homeowner is trying to decide whether investing in an endless pool swim spa is worth it or whether they want to look into concrete or fiberglass pool costs instead, it’s important for them to weigh the cost and stress involved with a project like this against the potential benefits an endless pool can offer. The compact size, low water use, and easy maintenance are some of the benefits of having an endless pool, though the most obvious benefit of an endless pool is that it provides a homeowner with an easily accessible location at home to exercise.

Compact Size

Having a huge pool in the yard can seem like a benefit at first glance, but a homeowner will need to pay to fill, filter, clean, and treat the water. The more water the pool has, the higher the maintenance and running costs. Additionally, large lap pools take up a lot of space that could be put to better use for family get-togethers or barbecues.

If a homeowner likes to swim nonstop for an extended period of time but they have a small yard or want to keep their yard free for other activities, then an endless pool is a great choice. These pools have a compact size, typically ranging from about 10 to 21 feet in length, with a minimum width of just 8 feet. As an additional benefit, going with a swim spa means the homeowner will pay a lower cost to build a pool than if they were to choose a full-size pool.

Low Water Usage

Not only will having a smaller pool allow a homeowner to use more of their yard for other activities, like hosting summer barbecues, but the compact size also ensures that the total water usage will be low. The average cost to fill a pool ranges from about $4 to $10 per 1,000 gallons. An average-size lap pool typically requires about 10,000 to 30,000 gallons to fill the pool. This means a homeowner would need to pay about $40 to $300 to fill the pool.

However, endless pools generally require only about 1,500 to 2,500 gallons of water to entirely fill the pool. This significantly lower volume reduces the cost to fill the pool, so a homeowner would only need to pay about $6 to $10 per fill.

Easy Maintenance

The compact size and low water volume of an endless pool swim spa also reduce the maintenance requirements of the pool. This is because it’s easier to keep a small pool clean than it is to brush, filter, and vacuum a large lap pool. In addition, the filtration system for smaller pools does not need to work as hard to filter hair, dirt, and debris, because there is a significantly lower volume of water to pull through the filter.

In fact, the maintenance required for an endless pool is closer to the upkeep required for a hot tub than it is to the maintenance required for a full-size pool. A homeowner will still need to test the water chemistry regularly, but less chlorine and other pool chemicals will be required to keep the water safe for swimming.

Health Benefits

The main reason to invest in an endless pool for most people is the exercise benefit. Endless pools create an automatic current using a turbine or paddlewheel technology. The user sets the speed of the current, allowing them to swim in place for as long as they want. With this system, the user can swim continuously to build up their aerobic conditioning, swim a specific distance or set amount of time in set intervals, or even work on their swimming techniques.

Even individuals with joint problems can take advantage of these health benefits, because the pool water reduces the strain on their joints and muscles, allowing them to work out without risking serious injury. Once the workout is complete, they’ll just need to turn off the current, grab some of the best pool toys, and take some time to enjoy the sun, relax, and splash around in the water with the kids.

Endless Pool Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional 

Endless pools are an excellent addition to the home for aerobic conditioning, low-impact training, and simple relaxation. If a homeowner is thinking about investing in an endless swim spa but wants to handle the installation on their own, then they may be able to save $300 to $7,000 on the total cost. However, pool installation isn’t a simple, straightforward project, so if a homeowner doesn’t have a ready and willing crew of knowledgeable volunteers and a significant amount of pool-industry experience, then tackling this job as a DIY project is not recommended.

When it comes to endless pool installation, the best course of action is for a homeowner to hire one of the best pool installation companies in their area with experience installing endless pools. If a homeowner insists on handling the excavation and installation on their own, at the very least, they will want to hire a professional electrician to complete the electrical work to avoid dangerous hazards, costly repairs, and a voided product warranty.

How to Save Money on Endless Pool Cost

Even if you are attempting to keep costs low, swim spa installation can cost between $7,000 and $50,000 on average. To help make this pool project a reality, it’s important to find ways to reduce the cost of the installation and the ongoing cost of maintenance. Consider these methods for reducing the cost.

• Don’t skimp on quality. You can save on future repairs if you choose the highest-quality model in an affordable price range rather than selecting the highest-end model.

• Get multiple quotes. Find and research at least three different endless pool installation companies in the area to ensure you are getting a fair price for the project.
• Avoid nonessential additions. Reduce the cost of the endless pool by limiting the number and extravagance of nonessential pool additions, like built-in speakers and underwater lighting.
• Install the pool during the off-season. If you live in an area that experiences seasonal winter temperatures, then you may be able to save on the cost of the installation by scheduling the job for early spring or late fall.
• Choose a smaller pool design. Putting in a smaller endless pool will still offer the limitless swim potential without the higher cost of a large design. You can also keep costs low by opting for an above-ground endless pool instead of an inground pool.
• Test and maintain the pool yourself. Don’t pay for professional pool maintenance when you are capable of cleaning the pool, testing the water, and adding chemicals to balance the water chemistry.

Questions to Ask About Endless Pool Installation

Most DIYers don’t know enough about endless pool installation to complete this job on their own, so even if a homeowner feels like they have spent enough time researching endless pool installation to have a firm grip on the process, it’s still recommended that they ask the installer or pool company’s customer service representative about any additional information. This can be as simple as asking for company references from the installers or getting a line-item estimate so homeowers know how much the job is expected to cost. If a homeowner isn’t sure what to ask, they can refer to this list of helpful questions about endless pool installation.

• Are you insured?
• Are you a member of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP)?
• Can you provide references?
• Do you provide workers’ compensation to your employees?
• How much experience do you have?
• Will you send someone to my house to inspect the area before I hire you?
• How will you communicate progress or problems with me?
• Do you require a deposit up front?
• What warranties are included in the contract?
• Do you offer financing?
• Can I see a line-item estimate?
• What kind of site preparation will be needed?
• Do you subcontract any part of the project?
• How many gallons of water will this pool hold?
• How often will I need to change the water?
• How long will this pool last?
• Will I need a pool cover?
• Do I need to drain the water during the winter?
• How long have you been in business?

FAQs

Before homeowners invest in an endless pool installation, it’s important for them to have as much information about the endless pool swim spa cost so they can properly budget for the project. Homeowners can find out more about endless pool benefits, maintenance, and the cost of endless pool installation by reviewing the frequently asked questions below.

Q. Do endless pools increase property value?

Adding a never-ending pool to a home will typically increase the value of the property, though the amount depends on the geographic location and the demand for swimming pools in the area.

Q. Is it expensive to maintain an endless pool?

On average, a homeowner can expect to pay about $110 to $350 for general maintenance and repairs. Typically, pool maintenance companies charge about $25 to $100 per hour, so the easier the fix, the cheaper the cost of upkeep.

Q. How often should I change the water in an endless pool?

The pool water should stay relatively clean as long as the homeowner keeps up with pool maintenance and water chemistry treatments. If they live in an area that is warm all year long, they may not need to change the water in the inground endless pool for up to 2 years, depending on the frequency of use. However, if their location experiences freezing temperatures, then they will need to at least partially drain and refill the pool at least once a year.

Q. Are endless pools noisy?

Endless pool parts include a hydraulic motor that is often considered the noisiest part of the pool, but this motor can be located up to 75 feet away from the pool. Additionally, the drive system can be mounted under the decking at the rear of the pool, keeping noise levels to a minimum.

Q. How long does it take to build an endless pool?

With a professional crew of trained and experienced installers, a homeowner can have an endless pool completely built within 3 days. However, any custom finishing work, like coping or skirting, may increase the time based on the finish materials used.

Q. How deep should my endless pool be?

The average depth of an endless pool is about 39 inches, though homeowners can select models that reach up to a depth of 6 feet, or 72 inches. If a homeowner opts for a plunge pool, like an Endless Pool WaterWell, then the depth typically ranges from 4 to 5 feet.

Sources: Angi, Swim Spa Hot Tubs, Orleans Hot Tubs, Endless Pools, SwimEx, Fitmax

 

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