How Much Does an Inflatable Hot Tub Cost to Run?

There’s quite a lot to think about when it comes to purchasing a hot tub. I’ve been thinking about buying one for some time, but only recently I’ve come to the conclusion that an inflatable hot tub could be the best choice for me. However, I’ve been wondering how much it would actually cost to run, and how much I can expect to spend. I decided to take the time to look into it to find out just how much I would need to set aside in my budget.

So, how much does an inflatable hot tub cost to run? Inflatable hot tub running costs depend upon a number of factors. The size of the inflatable hot tub, the type of heating, the ambient temperature and, of course, the rates charged by the energy supplier are all considerations which need to be borne in mind. The cost will also vary depending on how much the hot tub is used and at what temperature the water is set.

There are quite a few factors to think about when it comes to determining the costs of running an inflatable hot tub, so I’ve spent some time researching them so I could make a well-informed decision about whether this really is the right option for me.

What Are The Ongoing Costs Involved In Running An Inflatable Hot Tub?

Most people tend to only think about the cost of actually buying their hot tub when they do their initial research into their purchase. However, it’s important not to overlook the running costs. Owning any kind of hot tub will require you to continue to spend money over the lifetime of your tub. Some people forget this when they purchase an inflatable hot tub. Just because this type of tub isn’t permanently plumbed into your property doesn’t mean that there is no need for any ongoing costs. Just like with a regular hot tub, regular cleaning and maintenance are required. This means you’ll need to spend money on supplies on an ongoing basis. Spa filters, spa chemicals and cleaners will all need to be paid for regularly. And that’s before you take into account the energy necessary to pump, heat and filter the water. Bearing in mind these ongoing costs is very important before you buy your first hot tub.

Here are some essentials which will require regular expenditure when you own and run an inflatable hot tub:

• Cleaning products to keep your hot tub spotless
• Water filters
• Water testing equipment
• Water treatments to keep bacteria at bay
• Electricity
• Water

Of course, the costs of the above will all vary. The price of cleaning products, water filters, water treatments and testing equipment will be different depending on which brands and types you buy. The cost of water and electricity will vary depending on your supplier and the area in which you live. However, knowing that these are your ongoing expenses will help you to reach a realistic figure of just how much you can expect to have to pay out every year to run your hot tub, whether you choose an inflatable model or a plumbed in, permanent spa.

Which Factors Are Important In Determining The Energy Costs Of Running An Inflatable Hot Tub?

A hot tub requires energy to heat up and to operate water jets, and energy doesn’t come for free. In fact you will find that your energy costs are the biggest ongoing financial commitment. This means that your hot tub will carry on costing you money long after the initial outlay. So, how much can you expect to have to pay out every year for the energy necessary to run your hot tub? Here are the key factors which need to be weighed up to determine the true cost.

• Hot tub size – one factor to consider is the size of your hot tub. It stands to reason that more energy will be required to heat a larger hot tub. Also, if you have a water meter in your home, you’ll also need to bear in mind that a larger volume of water will also be required to fill up your large inflatable hot tub, and this will also add to the mounting costs.
• Hot tub position – if your hot tub is indoors, you may need to spend less money on heating the water. This is because the air temperature will be better controlled and will be warmer. If your hot tub is outdoors, it will be exposed to the elements. A spa which has very little shelter will need more energy to heat its water and this will increase your costs.
• Insulation – some hot tubs come with an insulated floor pad or lid. These can reduce your energy costs since the heat will be better retained inside the tub. A cover is especially important since heat rises and will escape rapidly without a cover in place.
• Ambient temperature – if you are using your hot tub indoors, as I’ve already pointed out, you’ll need to spend less on energy to heat the water. If you have an outdoor hot tub, the air temperature has a role to play in how much energy you’ll require to keep the tub water warm. If you’re using the tub only in the summer you’ll need to spend less on heating but if you’re going to use it in the winter, you’ll spend more.

Is It Possible To Minimise The Costs Of Running An Inflatable Hot Tub?

There are a few things you can do to try to cut down the expense of running your inflatable hot tub. Here are a few tips:

• Whenever possible, choose a smaller hot tub. This will reduce the amount of water required and the amount of electricity necessary to heat the water.
• Choose a hot tub with an insulated floor pad and an insulated cover. This will ensure that water retains its temperature as much as possible in between uses.
• Use the tub indoors or in a sheltered area where the water isn’t exposed to the outdoor elements. This will reduce the amount of electricity necessary to keep the water hot.
• Only use your hot tub outdoors during the summer when the air temperature is warm. This will reduce the energy required to heat the water.
• Choose the right energy supplier. Every so often you should check on a price comparison site to find out which is the most affordable energy supplier in your area. This can help you to slash the cost of your energy bills across the board.
• Keep the water heater activated in between uses if you plan to use it regularly.
• Purchase the chemicals in a bundle to reduce costs in the long-run.
• Keep the filters clean by rinsing them after each use or at least once per week. This prolongs their lifespan and makes the pump even more efficient.
• Manage the pH levels properly. This will help you to reduce the amount of money you spend on chemicals and chlorine.
• If your hot tub has a power saving timer, make use of it. This will ensure the best cost efficiency from your tub by preventing power wastage.
• Keep the walls of the hot tub clean. This won’t just prolong its lifespan, it will also mean you need to use fewer chemicals to keep the tub hygienic.

Follow these expert tips and you’ll be able to keep the costs of running your inflatable hot tub to a minimum.

Can I Save Money By Filling My Inflatable Hot Tub With Warm Water?

Generally speaking, it’s not a great idea to fill your hot tub with warm water. There’s a risk of damaging the hot tub if the water is above 40 degrees C and you could also damage your hot water heating system as well. There is probably not really going to be much of a financial saving to be had from using hot water either, the only real advantage is that the hot tub might be hot and ready for use more quickly than letting it heat up from cold.

You can find out some more details about filling with hot water in my post here.

Why choose an inflatable hot tub? If you’re wondering whether it’s worth your while to choose an inflatable hot tub or whether you should opt for a built-in model, there are a few benefits of choosing a portable model that you should bear in mind. For a start, portability is a major bonus. You can use the spa in different areas, so you can opt for an indoor or outdoor hot tub depending on the weather. It will also be cheaper to purchase and require no complex installation process. Inflatable hot tubs are, essentially, “plug and play” which means you can use them wherever you like, whenever you like without needing a plumber or electrician. Read more about whether inflatable hot tubs are good value in my “How Long do Inflatable Hot Tubs Last” post here.