Costs

Do Hot Tubs Increase Your Energy Bill? Evaluating Ongoing Costs

Back to the Learning Centre By Jon Filson Hydropool Hot Tubs and Swim Spas Thinking of adding a hot tub to your garden, but wondering what it’ll do to your monthly bills? You’re not alone. One of the most common questions we hear from homeowners across the UK is: do hot tubs increase your energy bill? The short answer is yes. A hot tub uses power to heat its water, so your bill will be affected. But how much depends on the type of hot tub you choose, how you use it and how well it’s maintained, as well as other factors. We will walk through them all in this article. On average, a modern hot tub in the UK will use between 3–7 kWh per day, depending on the model, insulation quality, and usage. At the current electricity rates, that translates to around £1.50 to £3.50 per day, or roughly £45 to £105 per month. If that range is too wide, an average cost we see is about £75 coming from the cost of power. In this article, we’ll explain: How much electricity hot tubs typically use in the UK What factors influence energy consumption Tips to reduce hot tub running costs Are energy-efficient hot tubs worth it? How to estimate your monthly hot tub energy bill Whether you’re trying to budget or just want the facts before committing, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. How much electricity do hot tubs typically use in the UK? The bulk of the energy cost comes from maintaining water temperature, especially during colder months when your tub is fighting against chilly outdoor air. Typical breakdown of energy use: Heating the water: 70–85% Pump and filtration: 10–20% Lighting, jets or any entertainment systems: 5–10% Keep in mind a few factors here: Older or poorly insulated tubs may cost significantly more to run. The size of the hot tub and the body of water it has will matter as well. Two pumps models cost less to run per month than one pump models because the pumps are not taxed as much (they do cost more upfront generally though. As an example, this is the key difference between a Signature Gold and a Signature Platinum hot tub). Ambient temperature plays a huge role here in how hard your hot tub has to work too. Our advice? Your local retailer will be able to give you more specific monthly cost, and we’d advise you to seek one out to get a real number. Find your local retailer here. What’s the complete monthly cost of a hot tub? What other factors influence energy consumption? Every hot tub is a bit different and so is every garden setup. The energy consumption of your hot tub depends on many factors: Insulation quality A well-insulated hot tub holds its heat longer, reducing the need for constant reheating. Look for models with full-foam insulation or triple-layer designs (the second is what Hydropool uses. We switched because it keeps everything just as warm but it’s easier to service: Click here for a Complete Guide to Hot Tub Insulation). Frequency of use If you’re using your tub daily (and for long sessions), expect higher energy bills. Less frequent use generally means lower costs. Once you lift that cover, it’s similar to lifting the cover off of a pot or opening your oven: a lot of heat comes out. Cover quality A thick, well-fitted, lockable cover can drastically reduce heat loss overnight or when the tub’s not in use. Heating settings Running your spa at 38°C all the time can burn more energy than necessary, especially if you don’t use it every day. Age and model of your spa Newer models tend to be more energy-efficient thanks to modern insulation and smarter tech. Older spas may lack these savings. Tips to reduce hot tub running costs If you’re concerned about energy use, there are several easy and effective ways to bring your bills down without compromising your soak. Top tips for saving energy with your hot tub: Use a high-quality insulated cover and keep it closed when not in use Turn down the temperature a couple of degrees: Maybe you prefer 36–37°C to 38–40°C Schedule filtration cycles during off-peak hours (if your electricity plan allows) Keep the water clean and balanced to avoid needing to empty and refill too often Add windbreaks or an enclosure to reduce heat loss from wind exposure Blue button: For more practical advice, visit our Hydropool Learning Centre https://hydropoolspas.co.uk/learning-centre/ For more practical advice, visit our Hydropool Learning Centre Are energy-efficient hot tubs worth it? Absolutely. While energy-efficient hot tubs may cost more upfront, they tend to pay off in the long run. High-efficiency models often include: Superior insulation materials Programmable controls for smart energy use More efficient pumps and heaters Additional circulation pumps that use less power overall In many cases, you can cut running costs in half compared to an older or budget model. If you’re shopping around, keep an eye out for spas that have been independently tested for efficiency (or those known for Canadian-style insulation, which is well-suited for UK winters). How to estimate your monthly hot tub energy bill To get a rough idea of your ongoing hot tub costs, you can use this simple method: Ask for any tub you’re considering’s kWh usage per day — for example, 5 kWh/day Multiply by the number of days per month — 5 x 30 = 150 kWh/month Multiply by your electricity rate — at 30p per kWh, that’s 150 x £0.30 = £45/month Of course, your actual costs may vary depending on usage, temperature settings, and energy provider. Your complete guide to what a hot tub costs Quick monthly cost guide Light use, efficient tub: £30–£50/month Average use, standard tub: £50–£80/month Heavy use, older model: £80–£120+/month Still not sure what to expect? Speak to your local Hydropool retailer for advice tailored to your setup. Do Hot Tubs Increase Your Energy Bill?…