What Is Spill Mode for a Pool?

How It Works

• When spill mode is turned on, water from the attached spa circulates with the water in the pool. This creates a waterfall, as the overflow from the spa spills into the larger part of the pool. The water is circulated with a pump, similar to the way the water is circulated in a fountain. Since the two areas are connected in spill mode, it allows you to use the same filtration equipment and chemicals for both the pool and spa.

Adding a Spa to a Pool

• In some cases, the pool and spa are actually a single unit, sold and installed together. These combination pool and spa units, while more expensive than a standalone swimming pool or spa in most cases, cost less than purchasing the two features separately. Spas can also be added to existing in-ground swimming pools with a spill feature. For pool owners who want a custom pool and spa combo or prefer a waterfall at a different height than the standard few inches, connecting a standalone spa is the best option.

Aesthetics

• Spill mode adds aesthetic appeal to a pool, both visual and audible. Visually, the spill is a thin sheet of water that falls evenly from a channel connecting the spa to the pool. While the waterfall adds visual appeal, the sound of the falling water is just as important for some pool owners; the sound of falling water is relaxing and adds ambiance to the pool area. The height of the spa, as well as the pump pressure, determine the look and sound of the waterfall.

Using Spill Mode

• Spill mode isn't designed to run all of the time on most pools. Although it doesn't have a negative effect on the pool or spa, it does use more energy. Turn off spill mode any time the pool is not in use as a pool or for ambiance, especially overnight when the pool is not in use and during the day while family members are at work. You can install a timer that will turn spill mode on and off automatically as desired. Spill mode typically shuts off for use of the spa alone and can be manually shut off while using the pool only.