Perhaps the number one worry of those who wish to own a hot tub is the electricity bills. Experts advise keeping the hot tub on all day to minimize energy usage. But how much electricity does a hot tub use?
Hot tub owners estimate that a hot tub can consume between 3 to 6 kWh daily. However, several factors can affect hot tub electricity usage. These factors include the size of the hot tub, its energy efficiency, its insulation system, the heater component system, and others.
In addition, the surrounding temperature, usage frequency, and session length can also affect the amount of electricity the hot tub will use. The operational behavior of your hot tub also matters (temperature settings and jet usage).
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How Much Power Does a Hot Tub Use?
The power required to run a hot tub depends on its electrical circuit voltage requirement. Hot tubs can either be 220 or 240 volts. There are also “plug and play” models that are only 110 volts. Nowadays, 220V is commonly used in appliances and electronic devices, including hot tubs.
Generally, the 220V hot tub is more power efficient than the 110V. Then again, many factors must be considered when understanding how much power a hot tub uses. I will briefly touch on these factors below.
Hot tubs have two components that use electricity independently – the heater and the pump. The heater is, of course, responsible for heating the water for you to have a relaxing experience. On the other hand, the pump circulates the warm water and power up the jets.
The hot tub’s heater can draw between 3000 to 6000 watts daily. On top of this, the pump can also draw around 1500 watts. As a result, a hot tub can consume up to 6 kWh daily.
Factors That Affect a Hot Tub’s Power Usage
You must understand the factors below to understand how much electricity a hot tub uses. The next sections are important if you plan to get a new hot tub or want to minimize the energy usage of your existing hot tub.
Power Efficiency Capability
Each brand of a hot tub will have a different energy-saving capacity. Picking the most energy-efficient hot tub would greatly help minimize the operation cost. The best way to find the most efficient hot tubs is to read reviews and get referrals from family and friends.
Size of the Hot Tub
Size does matter when we talk about the power a hot tub would use. Understandably, it is quicker to heat a smaller hot tub because it contains less water. However, heating a bigger hot tub may draw more wattage of electricity because it contains more water.
The Hot Tub’s Heating System
The hot tub’s heater can be 110V or 220V. Although the 220V is more power efficient, it still draws higher wattage.
Different brands of hot tubs feature different heaters. You will likely suffer from high electricity bills if your hot tub has a less-efficient heating system.
The Pump
Similar to the heater, power consumption depends on its efficiency. If you got a hot tub with a less-efficient pump, you would bear with the higher energy use.
The Hot Tub’s Insulation
The hot tub’s insulation system is also very important. Keeping your hot tub insulated is important not to waste the heat. There are many types of insulation that you can consider.
Covering your hot tub would greatly help you minimize power usage. Doing this would prevent the heat from escaping your hot tub. As a result, your hot tub heater will not spend much electricity to obtain your desired temperature.
The Weather Temperature
The surrounding temperature can also affect the power consumption of your hot tub. Running a hot tub in winter is more costly than in the summer. It requires more time to heat your hot tub in cold weather.
The Length of Use
The time you soak in the hot tub also affects power usage. When you dip yourself in the water, the temperature can change. When this happens, your hot tub heater will need more electricity to provide you with the temperature you desire to experience.
The Hot Tub Operational Settings
Of course, the way you operate your hot tub also matters. The higher you set the temperature, the more power your hot tub draws. The longer you run the jets, the more power your hot tub will use.
Turning off your hot tub after every use may not be the most economical option. Hot tub experts and owners agree that leaving your hot tub on is more power efficient. This idea is based on the fact that a hot tub will draw more power every time you heat the water.
How Much Electricity Does a Hot Tub Use Per Day, Week, and Month?
Using the general estimation that the hot tub will use between 3 to 6 kWh per day, you can check the calculations below to understand how much electricity your hot tub will use weekly and monthly.
Weekly Electricity Usage
3 – 6 kWh daily x 7 days = 21 – 42 kWh
Monthly Electricity Usage
3 – 6 kWh daily x 30 days = 90 – 180 kWh
I want to reiterate that the figures above are mere estimations because of the factors that can influence the amount of power your hot tub will use. The longer you use your hot tub, the more you will understand how to minimize power usage and make your hot tub experience less expensive.
How Much Does it Cost to Run a Hot Tub For a Day, Week, and Month?
On average, most hot tub manufacturers advertise their hot tubs will cost around $1 daily and $50 monthly. However, your actual cost will vary depending on the previously discussed factors. It can be lower or higher than this.
The cost of kWh of electricity in the U.S. varies depending on where you live. The average energy prizes table in the U.S. shows that Hawaii, San Diego, and San Francisco have the highest kWh rate. But if we average all the rates, we can get around 15.64 cents per kWh if we get the average.
Now, let’s use the estimation that the hot tub will use between 3 – 6 kWh daily. To obtain the actual cost, we need to multiply the number of watts used and the rate per kWh. For illustration purposes, we will use the overall average of the electricity rates in the U.S., which is 15.64 cents.
Daily Cost of Using a Hot Tub: 3 – 6 kWh x $0.1564 = $0.47 – $0.94
Weekly Cost of Using a Hot Tub: 21 – 42 kWh x $0.1564 = $3.28 – $6.57
Monthly Cost of Using a Hot Tub: 90 – 180 kWh x $0.1564 = $14.08 – $28.52
Although the sample calculation above shows a figure below what hot tub manufacturers advise, you would not understand how much running a hot tub will cost until you look closely into it. You can install a sub-electricity meter for your hot tub to count how many kWh it uses at the end of the month.
No doubt running a hot tub will add up to your electricity bills. There are also other appliances in the house that you need to consider. What is important is to find ways to minimize energy use and optimize the efficiency of your machines.
3 Most Energy-efficient Hot Tubs Available on Amazon
Have you decided to get a new hot tub and want some options? There are great buying guides you can check only to help you decide. However, you can check the high-rated hot tubs on Amazon below to get started.
Best Price: Coleman SaluSpa Tahiti Inflatable Hot Tub Spa
This hot tub is the winner if you want to purchase a quality one at a minimal price. Many people left a good review for this hot tub. Among the things that they are satisfied with are the hot tub material and its ability to contain heat.
This hot tub boasts 120 jets that provide users with a soothing and relaxing experience. The tub is also very convenient to operate. Plus, it features the Power Saving Timer that allows the user to set the temperature up to 40 days in advance.
Another key feature of this hot tub is the puncture-resistant DuraPlus material that ensures durability. The hot tub also has Freeze Shield automatic heating function that prevents component freezing in the winter.
Best Alternative: Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub
This hot tub received an above-average rating for all the key features, including ease of assembly, sturdiness, timer function, and temperature control. The tub also features 120 bubble jets to enhance your soaking experience.
The control panel is located inside the tub, providing more convenience because you can stay inside the tub should you wish to change the temperature. It also features a power-saving timer that you can set in advance for up to 72 hours.
It has a cover to help contain the heat and keep the hot tub clean. Users are generally happy that this hot tub can provide your desired temperature like a standard one. A few reviews talk about some puncture incidents.
Best Value: Intex 28429E PureSpa Plus
The Intex 28429E PureSpa Plus features 140 soothing high-powered jets that provide users with optimal relaxation. It can fit four people to enjoy its warm water.
Users of this hot tub love the built-in hard water treatment system that makes the water safer for the skin of the users. Additionally, they enjoy the add-on features, including the insulated grey cover, extra filter cartridges, headrests, thermal ground cloth, and others.
Some of the few complaints about this product are the unclear instructions and difficulty contacting product support.
Verdict
Running a hot tub can use between 3 – 6 kWh daily, 21 – 42 kWh weekly, and 90 – 180 kWh monthly. These are general estimations, as many factors can affect the hot tub’s electricity usage. Some key factors to consider are the size of the hot tub, the efficiency of its heater and pump, the length of use, and the surrounding temperature.
Hot tub manufacturers advertise that a hot tub can cost around $1 per day and $50 monthly. The actual cost can be lower or higher. What matters here is your effort to conserve energy by finding ways to minimize the energy consumption of your hot tub.
