When considering purchasing a hot tub, you’ve probably already asked yourself some of the major questions like “what’s my hot tub budget?” and “where will I put my hot tub?” Next you’ll probably start considering things like “how much does it cost to run a hot tub?”, “what affects hot tub usage?” and “how an I be most energy efficient when using my hot tub?”

These are all smart questions to ask prior to purchasing a hot tub and ones that we can help provide insight on in this article. Let’s start by addressing a few other topics that ultimately impact how much it actually costs to operate a hot tub. We’ll then follow up with hard numbers from the most comprehensive study on spa energy usage ever done. Research findings are based on 20,000 spas in use from actual consumers worldwide over the course of a full year, not from spas in a lab.

There is not one exact answer when it comes to how much it costs to operate a hot tub because there are multiple factors that impact the total cost. When you are considering how much you’ll be spending on your hot tub running costs, you’ll want to consider the following questions:

Just as with any appliance in your home that requires power, the more you use your hot tub, the higher your operational costs will be. But keep in mind that a Jacuzzi® hot tub — with its specialized PowerPro™ jets designed to effectively target key muscles — can provide a complete, relaxing hydromassage experience in as little as a half an hour. If you’re conscious about conserving energy and cutting down on the cost of running your hot tub, sometimes less is more.

Some power companies’ rates vary throughout the day or week. Contact your power provider to confirm your off-peak usage hours. Then align your hot tub usage during these times. Doing so can help you keep the costs of operating your hot tub down. The good news is, most power companies offer savings during these off-peak hours, which tend to be at night or on the weekends, which are convenient times to enjoy your hot tub.

Ultimately, the size of your hot tub will impact your operating costs simply because you will need

to heat more water in a larger model or less in a more compact model. The more water the model holds, the longer it can take to heat to your desired temperature and that will impact your bottom line. However, size matters is not the only factor. Jet function and your hot tub pump can also play into your costs. Generally, the more jets your hot tub has, the more pumps and energy will be required to run them. A good control system can help reduce costs on this front by only enabling the jets you are using at any given time.

Just as with the size of your hot tub, the preference of your water temperature will impact your hot tub operating costs. The hotter the water, the harder the hot tub functions will need to work. That can make a difference in the costs.

Insulation can make a vital impact on decreasing your hot tub operation costs — good insulation, that is. Good insulation is vital to the experience and the life of the spa. Some low cost spas have very limited insulation panels around the cabinet of the spa or just a small amount of foam sprayed directly onto the spa’s shell. While this can save on initial hot tubs costs, you’ll end up with higher utility bills in the long run. A well-insulated hot tub will retain heat better, resulting in lower running costs.

All Jacuzzi® hot tubs, for example, are built with high-performance energy-saving insulation. The Jacuzzi® brand insulation surrounds the shell and fills the cabinet, helping to lower operating costs while also ensuring quieter operation and providing reliability and peace of mind in even the coldest of climates. Jacuzzi® hot tubs are also equipped with a polymer base, a rugged protective barrier that insulates the spa from the foundation. The durable ABS-formed foundation protects components from moisture and the elements while adding structural strength.

Energy efficiency is important for usage of all resources. When shopping for a hot tub, it’s a good idea to ask about the energy efficient components of a specific hot tub model you are interested in. We highly recommend ensuring the spa you’re looking to purchase meets or exceeds standards set by the California Energy Commission. Controlling energy consumption is about much more than insulation. For example, technology such as the Jacuzzi® SmartTub® system allows you to monitor, schedule, and adjust energy usage to fit your lifestyle, customize your water temperature and lighting, and lock your hot tub.

This automation reduces standby power by up to 25%, thus helping to manage running costs. Energy efficiency is an important part of hot tub ownership. Premium spa brands generally have models with full foam insulation, efficient pumps, and smart systems that help you manage usage and keep running costs in check.

When considering how energy efficiency can impact usage, it’s crucial to note that a real-world study of more than 20,000 Jacuzzi® hot tub users around the world shows the average median energy use is just 6 KWh per day across all four seasons over one full year. A quality hot tub with excellent energy efficient features will cost most owners less than $1 a day to operate.

There are many things to keep in mind when managing and lowering costs of running your hot

tub including the following:

Electricity is not the only running cost hot tub owners will encounter. Other factors that affect

running costs can include:

There is no one exact answer of how much it costs to operate a hot tub. Rather, there are multiple and individualized factors, and costs will likely fluctuate throughout the year depending on these factors. When considering your hot tub purchase, it’s a good idea to ask your Jacuzzi® dealer about estimated operating costs as well as tips to help you minimize your costs.

Still have questions? Stop into an authorized Jacuzzi® dealer or showroom to speak with a team member who can help you explore the best Jaczzzi® hot tub for your specific needs and desires.

Click here to find your nearest Jacuzzi® dealer



Disclaimer: All information, including pricing and product details, was accurate at the time of writing and may change without notice.

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Medical disclaimer: This information is not intended to prescribe a particular diagnosis or course of action. We are not medical professionals. Please contact your GP or other medical professional for advice if you have any concerns about your current health or well-being.