A hot tub consumes a lot of electricity, especially during peak energy times (mornings and around dinner time). However, you can minimize the amount of energy your hot tub uses by purchasing an efficient model.
A model that meets stringent energy efficiency standards can save you 5%-30% on your utility bill. To find out more, learn about these four important energy-saving features:
Heater
The heater is the heart of any hot tub, converting electrical energy into heated water. It’s also responsible for regulating the temperature of your water, so you need to choose a high-efficiency model. Look for one with an ENERGY STAR® rating.
The power rating of your heater also impacts how long it takes for your hot tub to heat up. For example, a 4-kilowatt heater will heat your water much faster than a 2-kilowatt heater. Also, consider the ambient air temperature when you’re deciding how long it will take for your hot tub to reach the desired temperature.
A programmable heat thermostat is another great way to reduce your electric usage, especially when you’re not using your hot tub. Setting it to a low temperature will save you energy while still allowing the water to warm up.
Other options for saving energy with your hot tub include a solar heater or wood-fired heating system. These systems are a little more expensive upfront but they can help reduce your electricity costs over time. You can also reduce your energy consumption with a well-insulated hot tub shell and a cover that keeps the heat in.
It’s also a good idea to regularly clean or replace your filter as this can help to extend the life of your heater. Dirty filters can make your pump and heater work harder to keep the water circulating. If you want to be the most efficient with your hot tub, use a variable speed pump that only uses power when it’s needed. This can save you up to 20% on your energy bill over the course of a year.
Pump
The pump is your hot tub’s engine. It’s what powers the jets and is responsible for the kneading that your muscles crave. But when it’s having problems, your whole system can go out of commission. A screeching noise or a lack of jet action could be the sign of a problem that requires immediate attention.
A few simple steps can help keep your pump running efficiently. For starters, make it a point to regularly check the pressure and temperature of your water. Keeping up with routine maintenance can also prevent clogs and reduce energy consumption. You can even avoid expensive repairs by checking for moisture around the pump seals on a regular basis.
Every Hot Tub needs a pump that can both control the jets and circulate the water. To do this a pump will need to have both high and low speeds that are measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). When a single pump can move between these two speeds it’s called a variable speed or a two-speed pump.
Pumps can vary in size and power so make sure you know the specs of your pump before you replace it. Most pumps will have some form of specifications printed on them with the most important ones being horsepower (HP) and speeds. It will also be helpful to know whether your pump needs 110-120 volts or 220-240 volts. Look for a label that lists these details or use a multi-meter to test the voltage of your pump.
Once you have determined your pump’s specifications you can make sure it fits inside of your Hot Tub. Most pumps have a “frame” that they bolt into place and the bolt holes are either farther apart or closer together depending on your frame size. You can also measure the distance between the bolts on the outside of your pump’s frame to find out which size you need. This is especially helpful when purchasing a new pump as you can double check that the bolts are the correct length to ensure a tight fit. If they are not, you will need to purchase longer bolts.
Filtration
When it comes to the filtration system of your hot tub, the most important thing is that it works properly. This is because the filtration system is stage one of your hot tub’s circulation process. It ensures that the water being pumped through the heater and back out through the jets is free of debris, clean and warm, and ready to deliver the hydrotherapy that your Hot Tub was designed for.
Filters are silent but powerful features in any Hot Tub; they trap contaminants as the water passes through them. This includes dirt, leaves, skin oils, lotions and other environmental residue, as well as dissolved substances such as minerals, bacteria and other pathogens. Without a filter, hot tub water would quickly fill with contaminates and become unusable.
The most common type of filtration system for hot tubs today uses a microfilter that is placed inside of the hot tub’s “skimmer.” The hot tub pump pulls the water in through this skimmer, then pumps it through the microfilter and back out through the jets to the main body of the water. This is a very effective and inexpensive way to sanitize your Hot Tub.
There are also some systems that use a filter basket in conjunction with a microfilter. This is another very effective sanitization system, especially when combined with a UV assist sanitation device.
Some hot tubs utilize a different kind of filtration, called a pressure type system. This is generally found on older tubs and does not offer the same level of water filtration as the suction type filters used on modern tubs.
All filtration systems should be cleaned regularly, with the recommended cleaning solution (don’t use household cleaners as they will damage the filter), to keep them performing their best. Regular maintenance will save you money, reduce chemical usage and prevent unwanted debris from entering the main body of hot tub water. It is also a good idea to have a spare filter handy for quick replacement. Keeping the filtration system working at its peak will allow your sanitizer to work more effectively to help you enjoy crystal blue, safe and clean hot tub water.
Insulation
Hot tub insulation plays a huge role in how much a hot tub consumes energy. It is what keeps the heat from escaping the water and the pipes. Without proper insulation a hot tub could consume more energy than expected, leading to higher electricity bills.
There are many types of insulation used in hot tubs. Some are rigid foam boards and others are sprayed in. The denser the insulation the better the thermal protection it provides. A full foam hot tub is the most energy efficient but is also the most expensive.
An energy efficient hot tub also uses a tight fitting cover to keep out air and rain. Whether a cover is used or not, the energy usage of the hot tub is dependent on how well it’s constructed and insulated.
A quality insulated hot tub also allows for easy access to the plumbing and motor, allowing for quick repairs and maintenance when needed. It also prevents rodents from entering the spa and destroying the equipment.
If you choose to insulate your hot tub yourself, be aware that it will likely void the manufacturer warranty. This can lead to expensive repairs that could otherwise have been avoided.
Buying a well insulated, high quality hot tub is a long term investment that will help you save money on energy costs and prolong the life of your spa equipment. While you may pay a little more upfront for a quality insulated model, the energy savings over time will definitely be worth it.
Insulation is one of the most important aspects to consider when looking for a new hot tub. It not only reduces your energy bills but it can prolong the life of your equipment and make the overall experience more enjoyable. It’s also one of the most affordable ways to maintain the pristine condition of your hot tub. If you’re ready to start saving on your energy costs and enjoy the benefits of a Hydropool Hot Tub, contact us today to see how we can help you get started. Our dealers can provide you with the information you need to find the perfect hot tub to meet your needs.