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Cost of running a hot tub this summer revealed and it's more than you think
AS summer in the UK has well and truly hit, you may be tempted to get a hot tub to enjoy in your garden over the next few months.
And with jacuzzis available on the high street for as low as £250, it's easy to think that splashing out on the luxury accessory won't put too much of a dent in your wallet.
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However, a hot tub expert has warned households that cheap inflatable tubs are the "worst culprits for high running costs", and could leave you with a hefty energy bill come the end of summer.
Loop head of data science Steve Buckley said that inflatable spas have almost no insulation, so the energy-guzzling appliances could cost you over £500 a month in running costs - or a whopping £1,500 a month over June, July and August.
"An inflatable spa has almost no insulation – so all the heat escapes – from the bottom, the sides as well as the top.
"This means that if you want to maintain a comfortable temperature, the heater is working overtime," he said.
Depending on its size and model, most tubs have a heater between 1.5 and 5kW.
Mr Buckley explained that if the hot tub had a 3kW heater, it would cost approximately 77p an hour to run, or £18.53 per day.
"That's over £500/month if you forgot about it and it was left running," he added.
If you've got a hot tub that you're planning on making the most of for the summer, or if you're still considering buying one, the energy expert has revealed his top tips for driving down running costs.
Beware of cheap tubs
If you're on a budget but still desperate to take a dip, you might be tempted to go for a cheaper model.
"Whilst [inflatable tubs] can be inexpensive to buy, they can be incredibly costly to run," Mr Buckley said.
This is because the heat escapes at a quicker rate than more expensive models, as they lack proper insulation.
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More energy-efficient hot tubs are usually pricier because they are decked out with more insulation - which means you'll use less energy to heat it up.
Improve insulation
Even if you do have a cheaper model, there are steps you can take to improve the insulation of your tub and keep your running costs down.
Mr Buckley advises people to use a "well-fitting, insulated cover to reduce heat loss".
The Sun found hot tub covers available on Amazon for as little as £21, however you'll have to fork out slightly more for an insulated one, which appear to range from around £40 to over £100.
He also suggests adding a "floating thermal blanket" inside the hot tub for an extra layer - these are available on Amazon for around £35.
You can also insulate the sides and base of your tub with foam board or thermal wrap, and if you have a non-inflatable model you should make sure that any gaps in the cabinet are sealed.
When you've finished having a soak, it can be easy to forget to pop the cover back over your jacuzzi.
However, doing so can get rid of up to 60% of the heat, meaning you'll be using more energy than you need to when warming up your tub again.
Lower the temperature
Mr Buckley tells households to set the temperature of their tub to 37-38C, rather than 40C - and to drop it down further if the tub won't be used for a few days.
Each degree lower can save you around 10% of your total running costs.
Some hot tubs have an eco or sleep mode, and Mr Buckley advises to turn on this function when you're away from your hot tub.
Keep it clean
Cleaning and replacing your filters regularly will keep the system efficient, Mr Buckley explained, while balancing the water chemicals will reduce the strain placed on the heater.
You should aim to drain and refill your tub every three to four months to prevent sediment build-up, which can lead to your filter becoming clogged.
Annual servicing keeps your heater and pumps working efficiently.
According to trading directory Checkatrade, the average cost of a hot tub clean and service is £225.
Switch to a cheaper energy tariff
Mr Buckley suggests switching to an off-peak tariff, which offers lower energy rates at less popular times, normally at night.
"Many EV and heat pump owners are on special electricity tariffs that offer periods of cheaper electricity, often overnight.
"If you're on one of these tariffs, use a smart plug or a timer to set a schedule and heat your hot tub at the same time," he said.
However, he urged households to "make sure your insulation is up to scratch first, as you'll want to hang on to all that precious heat you're making using the cheap energy overnight."
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