A spool pool, a combination of a spa and pool, is a versatile backyard water feature that offers a unique way to cool off in the summer and warm up in the winter. These smaller-than-normal pools are not only cost-effective but ideal for backyards low on space. Learn more about spools, including the cost, maintenance considerations, and design ideas.

What Are Spool Pools?

A spool pool is a compact version of a traditional pool, usually in a scaled-down rectangular shape. These relaxing spaces typically have spa-like features, similar to a hot tub. They can also allow you to swim continuously against a current, perfect for those who want to swim for exercise but don't have the square footage for a lap pool.

Spools are perfect for restricted spaces or yards that are an odd shape. You typically only need enough space to fit a spool that is 10-16 feet long and 6-8 feet wide. Originally designed to accommodate small spaces, spool pools are becoming increasingly popular for homeowners with backyards of all shapes and sizes.

Cost Benefits of a Spool Pool

A spool pool is more economical than a large lap pool in the short and long term. It’s less expensive to install and maintain, which means there’s room to incorporate other popular backyard features, such as outdoor kitchens, showers, lounge and dining areas, and edible gardens. According to Angi, a traditional in-ground pool averages around $65,909.1 A spool, however, comes with an average price tag of $22,650.2

When considering total cost, don't forget about all of the traditional pool features you will likely still include, like surrounding landscaping and decks. Don’t forget other essentials, such as a pool or hot tub cover, lighting, and safety fences or gates. 

Make Your Spool Pool Perfect for Summer

While you may not be able to host huge summer pool parties or add any waterslides to your spool, adding this water feature shouldn't feel like a complete compromise.

Depending on your space, you can still carve out room for iconic poolside must-haves—lounge chairs topped with patio umbrellas, maybe a fun unicorn or popsicle-shaped inflatable, and some floating pool lights in the water. It doesn't take much to turn a spool into the ideal place to relax with friends, drinks in hand.

Take your backyard living space a bit further and consider an outdoor shower located close to both your spool and the entrance to the house so you can rinse the chlorine off after a dip. Don’t forget to add hooks for towels and soap, shampoo, and conditioner. 

Use Your Spool Pool All Winter

Depending on where you're located, most people don’t get a lot of use out of their swimming pool in the winter months, but that’s not the case with a spool pool. During those chilly months, you can adjust the temperature of your spool and utilize it as a spa or hot tub. Just buy a trusty pool thermometer to monitor ideal temperatures. 

Making use of a warm spool can be therapeutic as well. Relaxing in warm water can help reduce stress and relieve aches, pains, and sore muscles. If you really want to unwind, leave your phone inside charging while you recharge as well.

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Get a Workout In

Spools aren’t just fun, they’re functional, too. They are the ideal place for fun and unique workouts. Swim "laps" against a continuous current created by jets or use it for water aerobics. Since the water’s buoyancy can help support weight, exercising in your spool will reduce stress on your joints. Take your workout routine to a new level by investing in swim belts, weights, and, depending on the length of your pool, a kick board.

Spool Pool Maintenance

A spool's petite size means that the costs to maintain and clean it are less than those of a traditional pool. In addition to using less water, spools require fewer chemicals and less energy to heat and circulate a cleaning pump—though you will still need to buy pool test kits. The cost to heat a spool is between $20-$80 a month, also according to Angi.2

Before You Get a Spool Pool

Like any pool, safety should still be taken into consideration. Think about installing a fence around your spool if you have young children around. While a spool is great for a specific group of people, it’s not always the ideal place to entertain with or use for more than a handful of people at once. Take your time when weighing the pros and cons of the type of pool you want to install.

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Is a Spool Pool Right for You?

If you want to infuse a resort-like feel into your home, save on backyard space, have a new way to relax, exercise, and relieve pain, a spool might be the right choice for you. Since they do not require a lot of space, a spool doesn’t have to be the main feature in your yard. They leave space for other hobbies, such as gardening, outdoor grilling, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does it take to heat up a spool?
• It depends on the exact size of the spool and the type of heater, so it could take anywhere from 8-48 hours. In general, the water should warm up a few degrees each hour.
• What is the difference between a spool and a plunge pool?
• Some people use these terms interchangeably. However, a spool is a small pool and a plunge pool is a small, deep pool that allows you to jump in and be submerged up to your neck.