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Despite its smaller size, a spa operates in much the same way as a swimming pool. A pump circulates the water and passes it through a filter; the addition of chemicals destroys bacteria and keeps the water sterile. There are important differences, however, between a spa and a pool.
Spas are generally heated to a much higher temperature, and the force of the water flowing into the spa is much greater than that in the swimming pool, producing the high-pressure rush of water that makes spas especially soothing.
When installed next to a swimming pool, an in-ground spa uses the same equipment as the pool itself. The pool’s basic equipment needs to be slightly larger to handle the additional load. Freestanding spas require their own pump, filter, and heater. That equipment can be smaller than for a swimming pool, since the workload is smaller.
Swimming Pools & Spas All you need to know about planning and installing a pool. Also, guides to pool equipment and components. Includes an idea gallery with breathtaking pool photography.
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