A swimming pool or Jacuzzi in the garden used to be an unobtainable dream for the average family, but times are changing and there are some surprisingly affordable solutions out there.

Pools

Of course, if you want a full-size in-ground pool then you’re going to need to save up for a while, as well as have a really big garden! But there are a lot of above-ground options that are easier on the pocket, and will provide hours of fun for the family.

Wooden pools are at the higher end of the above-ground range, and you can expect to pay a few thousand pounds for one. These pools have a wooden outer shell, with a vinyl liner. Steel and resin-framed pools are a cheaper alternative, and while sturdy are not as attractive.

Soft-sided pools are becoming very popular as the affordable alternative. Quick and easy to install, these pools start at less than £100 for small splash pools, ranging up to around £1000 for a 24 foot pool.

Whatever type of pool you go for, you’ll need a filter pump – lots of pools come with one so you may not need to purchase this separately. To keep your pool in good condition, you need to use some chemicals too. A pool water test kit will help you to find out whether you need to adjust the alkalinity, calcium and pH levels.
You will also need to add chlorine to sanitise your pool. Granules or tablets are available, or you can invest in a salt chlorinator – with one of these you just add salt to the water, and the electronic device turns the salt into chlorine.

If you want to heat your pool to extend the season, there are a number of heater options, from solar to gas, electric and oil heaters. You can even get a wood burning pool heater!

Hot Tubs

A hot tub or spa adds class and luxury to a garden or patio. Like pools, there are a wide range of hot tubs so you can choose something to suit your property and budget. From a few hundred pounds for an inflatable spa to super-luxurious models complete with tv screen, music player, lights and aromatherapy systems that will set you back upward of £15,000! Don’t worry though, there are a lot of stages in between these two extremes.

It’s a good idea to visit a hot tub retailer so that you can see the differences for yourself. Do you need a hard-top cover? What horsepower pump do you need? How many jets? There are a lot of things to consider other than the price.

 

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