Are you thinking about getting a hot tub, but worried about the high energy costs? Or do you already have a hot tub, but you don’t use it as often as you like because it makes your electricity bill go up? You’ll be glad to know that you can enjoy your home spa and keep your electric bill low by making a few smart choices. Here are some practical tips to help you make your hot tub more energy efficient.
1. Invest in a High Quality Cover
One of the biggest sources of heat loss in a hot tub is the surface of the water. A well-insulated, tight-fitting cover helps trap heat inside and reduces the amount of energy needed to maintain a constant temperature. Look for a cover with a high R-value, which indicates better insulation. At Sunset Spas, we offer high quality, energy-efficient hot tub covers, including Standard foam covers with R-value 14 and DurofoamⓇ covers with an R-value of 21!
2. Maintain the Right Water Temperature
Keeping your hot tub at a moderate temperature when it’s not in use can also help save energy. The ideal standby temperature is around 98°F to 100°F—not too high to waste energy, but warm enough to heat up quickly when you want to take a soak. Lowering the temperature by just a few degrees when you’re not using your hot tub can make a noticeable difference in your electricity bill.
3. Use Energy-Efficient Modes and Timers
Most modern hot tubs have an eco-mode or energy-saving setting that automatically adjusts the heating and filtration cycles for better efficiency. If your hot tub has a timer, you can schedule it to heat during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower. If your tub is outdated and lacks a timer, you should consider upgrading to a more efficient model.
4. Keep the Jets Off
While jets provide a soothing massage, they also increase energy consumption. When the jets run, they introduce cool air into the water, forcing the heater to work harder to maintain the temperature. To conserve energy, make sure you turn the jets off when you’re not using your spa.
5. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Pump
Older hot tubs often have outdated pumps that use more electricity than necessary. If your hot tub is more than ten years old, consider upgrading to an energy-efficient circulation pump. Newer pumps use far less energy to keep the water filtered and clean.
6. Use Thermal Matting
A significant amount of heat can be lost through the base of your hot tub as well, especially if it’s placed on a cold, uninsulated surface like concrete. Adding a thermal or rubber mat underneath your hot tub can help reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency by creating a barrier between the hot tub and the ground.
7. Keep Up with Regular Maintenance
Proper maintenance will also keep your hot tub running efficiently. Here’s what you should be doing at least once a week:
- Cleaning the filters to keep the pump from overworking.
- Checking for leaks—even a minor one can cause the heater to work harder.
- Balancing the water chemistry to prevent buildup that could affect performance.
8. Use a Thermal Blanket
A floating thermal blanket sits on top of the water beneath the cover and adds an extra layer of insulation. This simple addition can reduce both evaporation rates and heat loss, making it easier to maintain water temperature without excessive heating.
9. Place Your Hot Tub in a Sheltered Area
If your hot tub is exposed to wind and cold weather, it will use more energy to stay warm. Installing it near a windbreak such as a fence, trees, or a privacy wall provides a little shelter and improves efficiency. If you live in northern Arizona or Nevada, where it gets much colder in winter, an insulated hot tub enclosure or gazebo can provide even more protection from the elements.
10. Consider Upgrading to a More Efficient Hot Tub
If you have an older model, upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient hot tub can lead to significant savings over time. Today’s models feature better insulation, energy-efficient pumps, and smart controls that help reduce energy consumption. A new model will also save you money on the costly repairs that older hot tubs frequently require.
Enjoy Your Hot Tub Without the High Energy Costs
Following these energy-saving tips will help you maximize your hot tub experience while keeping your electricity bills in check. Whether you need to add a cover with better insulation or adjust the ambient temperature, making small changes can lead to big savings. If you want to upgrade to a more energy-efficient hot tub or cover, explore our selection at Sunset Spas in Las Vegas or find a showroom near you.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (3/3/2025). Photo by Dimitris Kiriakakis on Unsplash
