At Millennium Custom Pools, we’ve seen more homeowners fall in love with spool pools—compact pools that bring you the best of both a swimming pool and a relaxing spa. These small but mighty pools are changing the game for backyards, especially in tight city lots where space is limited. A spool pool gives you room to unwind with warm, soothing jets or get a light workout with a swim. If you’re looking for a water feature that combines comfort and exercise without needing a huge backyard, it’s easy to see why spool pools from Millennium Custom Pools are the top choice for today’s modern homes.

What Makes a Spool Pool Different

A spool pool combines the best features of a spa and swimming pool into one versatile water feature. We can heat these compact pools to spa-like temperatures or keep them cooler for refreshing swims. Unlike traditional pools, spools typically measure between 10-16 feet in length and 6-8 feet in width, making them perfect for smaller yards.

What truly sets spools apart are their adaptable features. We’ll find powerful jets for hydrotherapy, built-in seating ledges, and adjustable depth options that support both relaxation and exercise. Many spools also include energy-efficient heating systems and automated covers, letting us enjoy the water year-round. Their smaller size means lower maintenance costs and water usage compared to full-sized pools, while still delivering the therapeutic benefits of a spa. At Millennium Custom Pools, we offer custom pools with various customization options to meet your specific preferences and space requirements.

Key Benefits of Choosing a Spool Pool

Because spool pools pack multiple functions into a compact design, they offer significant advantages for homeowners seeking aquatic amenities. We’ll often find that they’re more cost-effective than traditional pools, requiring less water, fewer chemicals, and reduced maintenance. Their smaller footprint means they fit perfectly in urban yards or tight spaces where standard pools won’t work.

These versatile water features let’s enjoy both relaxing soaks and light exercise throughout the year. With temperature controls, we can use them in any season, making them a smart investment in our home’s value. Their hybrid nature also means we’re getting two features – a pool and spa – for essentially the price of one, while using less energy than operating separate units would require.

Many spool pools incorporate therapeutic jets similar to compact hydrotherapy pools, providing health benefits like improved circulation and muscle relaxation.

Design Options and Features

While spool pools may be compact, they offer extensive design possibilities to match any aesthetic preference or lifestyle need. We can customize them with various finishes like tile, stone, or concrete, and incorporate water features such as cascading waterfalls, fountains, or LED lighting systems.

For enhanced functionality, we’ll help you select from options like built-in seating ledges, therapy jets, or swim resistance systems. You can also add heating elements for year-round enjoyment and automated covers for safety and maintenance. Modern designs often include smart technology integration, allowing you to control temperature, lighting, and cleaning systems from your smartphone.

Consider adding poolside amenities like built-in planters, fire features, or a tanning ledge to create your perfect outdoor retreat. Our team provides expert planning and design to ensure your spool pool complements your existing landscape and meets all your specific needs.

Installation Requirements and Cost Considerations

Installing a spool pool requires careful planning and budget considerations beyond the design elements. We’ll need to factor in site preparation costs, including excavation, electrical work, and plumbing connections.

Most areas require permits and inspections, which can add $500-$2,000 to the project. The total cost typically ranges from $20,000 to $50,000, depending on size, materials, and features. We recommend setting aside 10-15% of your budget for unexpected expenses.

Professional installation usually takes 2-4 weeks, though this varies based on complexity and weather conditions. You’ll also need to consider ongoing maintenance costs, including chemicals, energy usage, and seasonal servicing.

Monthly expenses generally run $100-$200, making spool pools more economical to maintain than traditional swimming pools. We offer various financing options to help make your dream spool pool attainable despite budget constraints.

Maintenance and Upkeep Tips

To keep your spool pool in optimal condition, you’ll need to establish a consistent maintenance routine. We recommend checking the water chemistry at least twice weekly, balancing pH levels between 7.2 and 7.6, and maintaining proper chlorine levels. Clean the filters monthly and backwash as needed to prevent debris buildup.

Don’t forget to brush the walls and floor weekly to prevent algae growth, and skim the surface daily to remove floating debris. During winter months, we suggest maintaining water circulation to prevent freezing and using a quality pool cover. It’s also essential to inspect the heating system quarterly and clean the jets monthly to ensure proper water flow. Regular maintenance of your spool pool’s features will extend its lifespan and keep operating costs down. Failure to properly maintain your pool may void warranties and affect the lifetime warranty on the gunite pool shell.

Year-Round Usage and Temperature Control

These maintenance practices set the foundation for enjoying your spool pool throughout all seasons. We can maintain comfortable swimming temperatures year-round through efficient heating systems and thermal covers. During winter months, we recommend keeping the water temperature between 85-90°F for optimal comfort, while summer may only require 78-82°F.

To maximize temperature control, we’ll want to invest in a quality pool cover to retain heat when the spool isn’t in use. Installing a heat pump or solar heating system can significantly reduce energy costs compared to traditional gas heaters. For colder climates, additional insulation around the spool’s exterior walls helps maintain consistent temperatures. We can also program the heating system on a timer to warm the water before planned use, ensuring it’s ready whenever we want to take a dip. Implementing these temperature control systems can significantly increase your property’s market value while providing a year-round outdoor lifestyle solution.

Planning Your Perfect Spool Pool Project

Before breaking ground on a spool pool project, careful planning and preparation will maximize both enjoyment and property value. We recommend starting with a detailed site survey to assess drainage, utility lines, and local building codes.

Consider sun exposure, privacy needs, and how you’ll integrate the spool into your existing landscape.

Next, let’s focus on design elements that match your lifestyle. If you’re planning to exercise, we’ll want to include swim jets and sufficient depth. For entertaining, built-in seating and ambient lighting create the perfect atmosphere.

Don’t forget practical features like equipment placement and safety barriers.

Work with experienced contractors who understand spool pool construction, and establish a realistic budget that includes ongoing maintenance costs.

Remember to factor in seasonal preparations and any necessary permits before construction begins.

At Millennium Custom Pools, we can transform your ideas into realistic outdoor spaces that combine functionality with aesthetic appeal.

Takeaway

We’ve explored how spool pools offer the perfect balance between luxury and practicality for homeowners seeking a versatile water feature. Whether you’re looking to exercise, relax, or entertain, these compact pools deliver year-round enjoyment without overwhelming your outdoor space. With careful planning and consideration of your specific needs, we’re confident a spool pool can transform your backyard into the retreat you’ve always wanted.