Every hot tub, new or aged, uses energy. The main use of energy? Raising and maintaining the water’s temperature, which provides a relaxing spa experience in return. Yet, the cost to operate your hot tub should not outweigh the experience. Below are steps owners can take to increase their tub’s energy efficiency--new or dated.
1. Replace and Maintain Your Cover
The cover on your hot tub is the number one defense against soaring energy expenses! A proper cover can reduce heating costs anywhere from 50% to 70% according to the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF).¹
Covers must be sized for your hot tub, otherwise, it will add little to no energy retaining value. Before purchasing a new cover, research the insulation and vinyl rating. As always, we stock high-quality covers and can help determine the best R-value for your location.
Inspect your lid weekly and clean as needed. Tears in the vinyl--which can be patched--cause foam inside the vinyl to absorb water, thus losing insulation value. Waterlogged covers also damage cabinets, cover lifts, and bear a safety hazard to bathers.
2. Keep the Cover On!
An uncovered hot tub is subject to 95% energy loss! ¹ Make sure you are only removing your cover when the spa is in use. Easily remove and put on your cover with the help of a cover lift, which can also help create a wind barrier (read more regarding barriers below).
3. Reduce Evaporation
50% of energy loss can be attributed to evaporation.¹ A solar blanket lays on the water’s surface and reduces vaporization. A solar blanket also prevents a vinyl cover from absorbing water vapor--which is created during the process of evaporation. Consider a thermal-foam blanket for extra energy saving value.
4. Check Your Filtration Cycles
“Most spas come with a preset filter cycle,” says Brandon O’Brien, Service Manager for Leisure Pool and Spa. “Only increase your filtration cycle if your bather load calls for it,” he expressed.
Some hot tubs, including Master Spas, have a dedicated 24-hour circulation pump. “I like these systems because it is always filtering but doesn't cost extra to operate,” says John Brady of President Leisure Pool and Spa. “You also get the added bonus of ozone added to the water with Master Spa’s Mast3rPur System, which saves you money on chemicals and maintenance obligations,” he adds.
5. Limit the use of Water Features and Air Blowers
“Adding air to your water will decrease temperature through evaporation and convection. Try running your massage pumps without the air and limit how long your water features are on to save energy,” says O’Brien.
“Always confirm jets and water features are off when the tub is no longer in use so they are not running under the cover adding unnecessary operating expenditures,” confers Brady. 6. Add a Wind Barrier
“Heating costs will increase for an open body of water as compared to one that is sheltered from the wind,” writes the NFSP.¹ If your tub is already in place, consider adding a gazebo, landscaping, planters, or other barriers to block the wind.
7. Turn Down the Heat While you are Away
Stop! If you are continually adjusting the temperature of your water you may be adding to your energy needs. This hack only works if the hot tub is out of service two-three weeks or longer. Also "never go lower than 80-90 degrees," advises Brady.
Our brand Master Spas allow you to adjust your temperature--as well as lights, massage pumps,stereo, and filtration settings--from the convenience of your smartphone or tablet. Forgot to shut off the waterfall? No problem, adjust from anywhere with the press of a button.
8. Invest in a Master Spa
Master Spas is among the most energy efficient spas available today, offering both icynene foam insulation and the Quiet Flo Water Care System.
The QuietFlo Water Care System utilizes "a hot tub circulation pump to maximize efficiency in spa heating and filtration... by keeping the water moving at preset intervals, the circulation pump ensures hot tub water remains filtered and heated evenly,” writes Master Spas.²
Learn how much your new Master Spa will save you by clicking here!
Did you know swimming pool owners can implement these same suggestions? Let us know which idea you used and how much you saved!
¹ NATIONAL SWIMMING POOL FOUNDATION Pool and Spa Operator Handbook 2nd ed. National Swimming Pool Foundation, 2017. Chapter 12
² Retrieved from https://www.masterspas.com/energy-efficient.php
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