Every spa and hot tub has one major thing in common - they all heat water. Conserving as much of the generated heat as possible is the objective. The well-insulated shells of many modern spas have been fabricated to help save energy. The problem with heat is it rises. Attention should be focused on the spa's cover, a critical component in reducing energy consumption.

Tie straps should be snug and remain latched to reduce heat leakage when the spa is not in use. A cover that is beginning to show signs of deterioration can allow heat leaks to occur at the hinge-fold, or around the cover edges. An exceptionally heavy cover indicates the foam-core insulation has become waterlogged, consequently resulting in the loss of R-value and higher heating costs.

Minimize wind exposure with a gazebo, spa enclosure, fencing, or shrubbery to provide both an attractive, effective windbreak and a considerable reduction in heat loss.

Today's spas come from the factory with the high temperature limit set at 104º F. Reducing that temperature to 101º - 102º F can significantly reduce the disproportionate amount of energy needed to heat up those additional degrees. Remember to shut off air and water lights when the spa is not in use. Even turning down the thermostat when you are on vacation or programming the thermostat to heat during off-peak hours can prove to be an economical solution.

Keeping spa filters clean allows for proper circulation of your spa water, reduces pump motor strain and increases heater element efficiency. Replace your filters every year to maintain your spa's peak performance. Over time, the plumbing system can become congested with deposits of oily grime, reducing water circulation and jet action. It's a good idea to also flush the plumbing system when changing your spa's water to help maintain unimpeded water flow.

Adding a floating thermal spa blanket can further reduce heat loss by insulating and minimizing evaporation. Because it also helps keep moisture buildup on the inside of the cover to a minimum, it can increase the spa cover life as well.
Quickly repair any leaks and adjust jets to avoid wasting hot water that must be refilled and reheated.

Replacing an old, energy wasting hot tub with an efficient new spa can save 50% or more in heating costs. But be a smart shopper and don't overbuy horsepower. Keep in mind that very large pump motors consume large amounts of power to run, and can result in huge power bills. The design and engineering of a spa is much more important than the number of jets for providing a soothing and vigorous hydro-massage.

Spa Energy Conservation

David Williams, owner of Spadepot.com, has over 20 years experience in the hot tub and spa business. An expert in his field, David has been working with hot tubs since 1990 and started in the spa business in 1997. He is the expert author of the SpaCyclopedia and has invented many products for the hot tub industry which are sold worldwide. Also known under the persona of "Dr. Tubbs" for 5 years, David has designed the absolute guides on Hot Tub installation, spa ozonators and many other topics. David has personally trained and supervised a staff of 20 employees in this industry.