Save Money on Your Hot Tub
Hot tubs are a wonderful addition to any backyard. However, you can rack up a rather large energy bill if you’re not careful. Read on for tips and tricks to help you save money while running your hot tub.
Invest in a Good Cover
The best way to save energy is to have a good spa cover. Most of your hot tub’s heat will escape through the top, so you need to have a good cover to keep that heat inside the spa. Inspect your cover often, as it can crack or become waterlogged with age. If it is damaged in any way, you will need to replace it. It may be a good idea to also get a floating thermal blanket to put inside your spa to help insulate the spa when it is not in use.
Adjust the Thermostat
Most hot tubs are set to 104°, but if you turn down the thermostat even two degrees, you can save quite a bit of money. In the cold winter months, you won’t want to have the hot tub set to its high temperature anyway, as the difference between the outside temperature and the temperature in the spa will be dramatic and uncomfortable.
Heat it Only When You Use It
Instead of having your hot tub always on just in case you want to go for a dip, you should heat your spa only when you want to use it. It will take 6-8 hours to heat up, so you should turn it on in the morning if you’re planning to use it that night. During the winter, don’t turn the temperature too low or you may end up with frozen pipes. If you do use your hot tub more than 6 times a month, it will be more cost effective to keep it running all the time. Just make sure that you have a well insulated cover so that you won’t lose energy.
Block the Wind
A lot of heat and energy is lost when wind whips through the spa, evaporating and cooling the water. To prevent this phenomenon, install fencing, shrubs, or privacy screens near your hot tub to block drafts. Consequently, your hot tub area will also be a lot more private.
Turn Off the Extras
When you leave your spa, make sure that you turn off the lights, jets, etc. so that you don’t waste energy when you’re not there. When you’re in the spa, use your jets as little as possible, as they can actually lower your spa’s temperature, causing your heater to work over time.
