HotTubs
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Why Save Energy with HotTubs?
A hot tub can be a high-energy using appliance, particularly an older model that may not meet current standards. Owners of tubs that are more than 10 years old may wish to consider replacing their spa with a new unit. An average-sized older unit can consume 12 to 18 kWh of electricity each day, whereas a newer energy efficient appliance generally consumes between 5 to 7 kWh in electricity each day.
Newer energy efficient models should meet California Energy Commission (CEC) requirements. Whirlpools that meet CEC requirements have high energy efficiency ratings and have a smaller environmental footprint than older spas and those that do not meet these appliance standards.
Construction improvements, particularly in insulation, revised controls and changes in pumps and heating units, have made whirlpools much more energy efficient.
Saving Energy: Simple How To's
Once the hot tub has been installed, users can take steps to ensure that energy consumption does not create a burden on the family budget.
There are many to keep energy costs down while using a hot tub. These include:
Keep the thermostat at 102 degrees Fahrenheit. Manufacturers often set the thermostat two degrees higher.
Use a timer to heat water during off-peak hours. Energy consumption is highest between 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Heating the water at times other than those can help with the electricity bill.
Lower the thermostat when the tub is not in use, particularly if it will not be used for a week or more. Older appliances may need to be drained.
Set filtration cycles to off-peak hours. Whirlpools with low-wattage, continuous circulation pumps may need to run as programmed.
Use a well-fitting insulated cover. Keep the cover in good condition to avoid heat loss.
Use a floating thermal blanket to retain heat and reduce moisture build up.
Repair leaks.
Adjust jets so that water does not stream out of the tub during use.
Maintain the correct chemical balance so that the tub does not need to be drained and refilled as frequently.
Use landscaping to create a windbreak around a hot tub that is outside. Privacy panels and fences can help cut wind exposure.
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@Springboard--that's a good analogy you draw between the vehicle and hot tub. You hit the nail on the head! I know vehicles get better gas mileage at 55 mph, but I still drive 65 if that's the speed limit. :D So yeah, I guess you don't really want to turn off your hot tub long enough to test its energy use.
65? I just like to see how far I can make the needle go. lol. :)
Have you ever seen how far the needle can go without getting pulled?! :P Hehe.
Best purchase I ever made! Love my hot tub. Great article.
Glad you like the article. Hot tubs really are nice! It's just so relaxing.
Springboard Level 5 Commenter 2 years ago
Good information here. I've always been curious to see how much energy usage my hot tub accounts for, though I haven't shut it off long enough to see. I try to keep mind around pretty close to temp all the time, mainly because I came to the conclusion that it used less energy to keep it heated than to try and heat colder water everytime we wanted to use it. Sort of the same concept of leaving a car driving at 55...at 55 the engine burns gas the most efficiently.