Hot tubs keep a large volume of water heated to a constant temperature, and therefore have the potential to consume a lot of energy. HotSpring hot tubs are some of the most energy efficient on the market, but by taking a few simple steps you can ensure you’re not wasting electricity, be kind to the environment and keep your bills down. The key is to minimise heat loss so that the spa heater doesn’t need to come on to re-heat the water as often.

Hot Tub Cover

Probably the most important energy saving measure is to ensure you have a good quality hot tub cover, and keep it closed when the spa is not in use. It needs to be kept in good condition. If the insulation foam is damaged or the vinyl cover is torn the cover will be significantly less effective as heat can escape through the weak areas. Damaged hot tub covers should be replaced as soon as possible.

Floating Thermal Blanket

A floating thermal blanket on top of the water will help to prevent evaporation from occurring when the hot tub is not in use. Even with a good hot tub cover some evaporation and condensation is likely to occur and this uses a small amount of energy. In addition, a floating thermal blanket can help to protect the underside of the hot tub cover from being damaged by constantly being bombarded with moisture containing chlorine and other chemicals. This is a very low cost way of improving your hot tub’s energy efficiency.

Wind Break

Heat can also be lost through the sides of a hot tub, particularly if it is situated so that the prevailing wind can leach heat away. It’s a good idea to provide some shelter to act as a windbreak. A purpose built hot tub gazebo is a great option, but even a small fence will do.

Air Jets, Blowers and Lights

Always make sure you turn off accessories such as lights, air jets and blowers when not using the hot tub to reduce electricity consumption. Be sure to close air valves after use to avoid pulling in cold air, which can lower the water temperature and cause the heater to come on more often, thus using energy unnecessarily.

Cartridge Filters and Plumbing

Dirty or clogged filters can reduce water flow within your hot tub, reducing efficiency and making the pumps work harder. Ensuring filters are cleaned regularly, preferably every time the water is changed, will improve energy efficiency. In addition, any scale build-up on the surfaces of pipes or heating elements can reduce the efficiency of pumps and heaters, so regular cleaning and descaling of the hot tub’s plumbing system will boost efficiency and extend the life of the hot tub.

Hot Tub Settings

Reducing the temperature setting of your hot tub by even a degree or two can make a difference to the amount of energy it uses to heat up. If you’re going away for a few days or are unlikely to be using your spa for any reason it can be worth setting it to maintain a lower temperature for the duration, such as 21°C rather than the more usual 37-38°C. Some hot tubs have an economy mode setting to facilitate this. When you’re ready to use the spa again, it will take a lot less time and energy to heat it back up to usage temperature than if you turned it off completely and allowed it to cool down fully.

For more expert advice about energy saving accessories such as hot tub covers, spa gazebos and more don’t hesitate to contact us.