Factors affecting hot tub heating costs
Modern manufacturers advertise the cost to run their hot tubs at about $1 per day, with $50 per month at the high end.*
The tub's heater and pump are a big part of the energy cost. The actual energy cost to run a hot tub will also depend on your energy cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh), your local climate and your maintenance and use habits. If you live in a place with mild winters, it will cost less to keep your hot tub warm than it does in climates with more severe winters.
Calculating your hot tub's energy consumption
In terms of electricity needed to run a hot tub, many modern manufacturers advertise a broad range of dollar amounts to budget. Let's take a look at what goes into these estimates.
What is the electricity cost of heating a hot tub?
The primary energy requirement in a hot tub is the heater, which will draw around 1,500 watts or 6,000 watts, depending on whether it's a 120-volt heater or a 240-volt heater. There's also the water pump to consider, which usually draws about 1,500 watts.
Even when the tub is not in use, the heater will run occasionally to maintain the water temperature. But when you're enjoying a soak, the heater will be running frequently, if not constantly, along with the pump. You can, therefore, estimate that a hot tub with a 120-volt heater will consume 3,000 watts while in use, and one with a larger heater will consume 7,500 watts. These wattages translate into 3 kilowatt-hours (kWh) and 7.5 kWh, respectively. Multiply your hot tub's kWh by the kWh rate on your electricity bill — let's say 12 cents — to find out how much each hour in a hot tub will cost you: 36 cents for 120 volts of heating and 90 cents for 240 volts.
Other factors will likely affect this price, including:
- The size of your tub — more water requires more heating
- Your tub's thermostat setting
- Outdoor air temperature and wind speeds
- The quality and age of your water heater
There are also multiple features that factor into the cost of maintaining your hot water temperature when the tub is not in use:
- The quality of the tub's insulation
- The quality and fit of the tub's cover
- Whether you use a thermal blanket for additional insulation
- Whether you use a heater timer to emphasize heating during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper.
Tips for reducing your hot tub's heating costs
1. Lower the water temperature
Dropping the thermostat by just 3–5°F can reduce heating costs by 10–20% and still feel about the same inside the tub. If you find 100°F–102°F ideal, you may find 95°F works just as well.
2. Improve insulation
You can inspect cabinet and pipe insulation for flaws. Adding foam kits or upgrading to full-foam insulation can reduce heat loss and lower energy usage for your hot tub.
3. Optimize usage patterns
Maintain a consistent temperature instead of reheating from cold. Frequent heating cycles can strain the system and waste energy. Use eco-mode or energy-saving mode when not in use.
4. Use a high-quality insulated cover when your tub is not in use
A well-fitting, insulated cover prevents up to 70% of heat loss, reducing heater workload and saving energy. Check for gaps at hinges and consider adding steam stoppers for extra efficiency.
5. Install windbreaks
Wind accelerates heat loss. Put up fences, screens or shrubs to shield your hot tub from drafts, saving 10–15% on heating costs.
6. Schedule heating during off-peak hours
If your utility offers time-of-use pricing, run heaters at night when rates are lower. A spa timer can automate this for extra savings.
7. Regular maintenance
Clean filters and check for leaks monthly. A well-maintained system heats more efficiently and avoids costly repairs.
8. Upgrade to energy-efficient components
Modern pumps and heaters consume less power. Consider heat pumps or solar-assisted heating for long-term savings.
Energy-efficiency in hot tubs
Energy-efficient hot tubs are designed to maximize comfort and minimize energy consumption through advanced insulation, efficient heating systems and smart controls.
- Full-foam insulation can retain heat and a high-quality cover on the tub can prevent up to 70% of heat loss.
- Energy-efficient pumps with variable speeds can reduce power usage without compromising performance.
- Many models incorporate programmable timers, economy modes and even smart technology that learns usage patterns to optimize heating cycles.
Additional innovations like heat pump systems, LED lighting and thermal friction heating further enhance efficiency, making these hot tubs a sustainable choice that lowers utility bills and reduces environmental impact without sacrificing luxury.
Take all the costs of a hot tub into consideration
As you look at all these factors, it's important to keep in mind that hot tub ownership has some costs beyond the electricity bill.
Depending on the system your tub uses to keep the water clean, you'll need to drain and replace the water anywhere from one to six times per year. Hot tubs also require chemical additives, which can add around $100 per year in operating costs. There are also filters that will need periodic replacement, and if your tub uses UV light to fight against bacteria, you'll need to replace a UV light bulb about once per year as well.
Installation is also worth planning for, and it may include pouring a concrete slab and wiring a new 240-volt circuit to run the heater and pump.
Retailers understand that there's a certain learning curve that comes with all the fun of having a hot tub in your home. It's recommended that you work closely with a hot tub dealer to make the best estimations possible regarding the energy changes and lifestyle adjustments that come with the specific model you're considering.
Source: https://www.hydropoolhottubs.com/Learning-Centre/Blogs/How-Much-Will-a-Hot-Tub-Raise-My-Electric-Bill
