5 Energy Saving Tips Every Hot Tub Owner Should Know

Is your hot tub costing you more than you think it should? Even if it’s not, chances are, you can still save money by following these 5 simple tips.

Cover

Spa covers are an integral part of maintaining a low-cost, energy-efficient spa. Because heat rises, most heat is lost through the top of the hot tub.  Having a well-made, heat-retaining cover makes a huge difference.

Waterlogged covers have almost no insulating ability and force the pumps and heater to work harder to regulate the temperature. This means not only increased energy cost but also shorter life for pumps and other expensive components.

When purchasing a replacement spa cover, choose options to increase insulating value and longevity. Double wrapped foam cores and full-length padded seals at the hinges offer increased protection and insulation.

Even with these enhancements, standard covers will still lose radiant heat through the foam. Duratherm Spa Covers feature an innovative Energy Reflex upgrade. This reflective metalized shield inside the vapor barrier bounces heat back into your hot tub. Similar to foil-backed home insulation, this inexpensive upgrade pays for itself many times over in energy savings.

Small gaps between the spa cover and the shell, waste energy. Easily prevent gaps by keeping straps snug and latched when not using the spa. If latches are broken, missing, or inadequate, easily install Replacement Spa Cover Locks on existing covers.

Thermal Blanket

Even with a great spa cover, evaporation between the water surface and the bottom of the cover results in heat loss. Using a Floating Thermal Blanket reduces heat loss from evaporation by up to 95%. As an added benefit, spa blankets help protect your spa cover from chemical damage.

Control Settings

The settings on your spa controls are an effective energy conservation tool. Most spas can be set to 104°F, but reducing the temperature to 102°F or lower is a big money saver. It takes a lot more power to maintain hot water at higher temperatures.

Many spa controls have energy-saving settings for when you are away from home. Before vacation, set your spa controls to economy or sleep mode. If your system lacks the programming to set those modes, simply turn the heat down to 80°.

If your power-utility company offers reduced electric rates during off-peak hours, adjust heating/filtration cycles accordingly to keep costs down.

Air Valves Off

While opening air valves on your spa increases the massage power, they also lower the water temperature over time. Close these valves after use to avoid introducing cool air into the spa when you’re not using it.

Filters

Dirty, old Filter Cartridges overwork pumps and reduce water flow, greatly reducing efficiency. Rinse filters weekly with a garden hose, and deep clean them with a Non-foaming Filter Cleanser at every water change (every 3-4 months).

Rotate two sets of filters, installing a clean and dry spare with each water change. This will extend the life of your filters and keep water circulating more freely. Read more about Filter Cartridge care and cleaning.

Do you have any money saving tips to share? Leave them in the comments below!