How much does it cost to run a hot tub?

Your very own oasis, a place to relax and spend time with loved ones is a great investment. In a recent home survey, it was said that adding a hot tub to your property would increase the value of your property but how much does it cost to run a hot tub?

How much it costs to run a hot tub can be impacted by various factors, below we discuss what affects the running costs of a hot tub and why:

1)      Size: The amount of water your hot tub or swimspa holds will dictate how much energy is needed to heat the water initially and keep it at the desired temperature.

2)      Temperature: Hot tub and swimspa water are usually set between 36oc and 40oc, however, this temperature might be lowered during the summer months to make it more comfortable for the bathers. Just like a kettle, the hotter you want the water the more electricity it will use and the higher the costs. The ambient temperature will also have an impact, the colder it is outside, the more energy required to keep the hot tub at its optimal desired temperature due to heat loss, therefore you will generally have to spend more during the winter.

3)      Usage: Obviously the more the hot tub is used the more it will cost to run. When your hot tub is on, you will be running the pumps, blowers and the cover is off, firstly you will be using electricity to run the hot tub and you will lose heat faster due to the water movement (similar to stirring your food to cool it down).

4)      Location: Whether your hot tub is indoors or outdoors will impact cots, an indoor hot tub will use less energy to keep the water warm due to the warmer ambient temperature, however, an indoor hot tub will require the purchase of a dehumidification system and therefore it will to your running costs.

What are the running costs of a hot tub?

Electricity: Costs of electricity vary significantly, some providers will be better than others, therefore it is advisable to keep an eye on your energy plan to make sure you are saving money where possible. According to a survey done by BISHTA (The British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association) On average customers spent between £1 and £2 a day with an average use of 30 minutes a day.

Water: The initial cost to fill up with be no more than £10 which depends on the size of your hot tub and how much you are charged for water.

Chemicals: After the initial shock dosing to start the system your chemical costs will be relatively low just a few pence each week, depending on the type of sanitiser you use. BISHTA estimate around £300 a year.

How to lower your hot tub running costs?

1)      Make sure your cover is on tightly and securely when your hot tub is not in use, this will prevent heat, water and chemical loss due to evaporation. Maintain your cover to increase longevity. As covers wear out they can begin to take on water, not only does this make it less efficient at heat retaining but it also becomes exceptionally heavy and difficult to use.

2)      Invest in a well-insulated hot tub, all solid hot tubs have degrees of insulation, however, some are better than others and this will reduce your energy loss through heat.

3)      Invest in an energy-efficient hot tub which uses minimal power to run