While we’re relaxing in our hot tubs and enjoying outdoor living, our role in being kind to the planet has become even more critical.
So, the burning question: Can hot tubs be environmentally friendly? The short answer is yes, but there’re a few things to consider. Our hot tub experts have put together this guide on making your hot tub more energy efficient.
1. Keep your hot tub covered
Covering your hot tub is essential, even if you plan to go back in later. A cover reduces evaporation and maintains heat, providing insulation when not in use. A cover lifter makes this process accessible and manageable for all users.
A hot tub thermal cover also protects your tub from dust, debris, and wildlife and reduces wasted water caused by fishing them out.
Hot tub covers should be replaced after 3-4 years. Over time, it’ll become heavier and lose some of its insulation properties due to contact with steam from the water and general wear and tear.
2. Responsibly drain your hot tub water
There’s no need to waste products if you won’t be putting them to use. When it’s time to drain your water, refrain from adding chemicals and let it rest undisturbed with the cover off for a few days to neutralise the water.
Most hot tubs have a drain valve on the bottom or inside the cabinet. You can also use a submersible pump to remove the water. Turn off the power and electricity to avoid damaging the tub and unnecessary electricity use, this will preserve the motor and stop it from burning out.
3. Find the ideal hot tub location
Picking the right location for your hot tub is essential for several reasons. You need to find a solid and level surface close to your electrical supply, but you should also consider a spot that’s sheltered from the elements.
Ensuring your hot tub is out of the wind can help reduce heat loss and preserve energy consumption. Get creative when sheltering your tub and turn it into a private paradise to be proud of with these innovative hot tub privacy ideas.
A hot tub gazebo can be handy, as it’ll shelter your hot tub from the unpredictable British weather. You can even get one with an atrium roof so the sunlight can shine through.
4. Clean your hot tub filters frequently
The longer your hot tub filter goes uncleaned, the more dirt and debris can build up, reducing its effectiveness.
You should clean your filter at least once a week to keep on top of maintenance, making the cleaning process quicker and easier. Check out our guide on how to clean your filter and reduce chemical use to make it more environmentally friendly.
It’s easier to have two filters on rotation, using the spare while you’re cleaning the other. They should be replaced every 12 months if you don’t rotate them.
5. Book in regular hot tub servicing
Having your hot tub serviced regularly by a professional will ensure it gets a full health check and sort out any problems bumping up your tub’s energy use. Click here to book your hot tub service; we recommend doing this annually.
Our technicians can check your water chemistry and general wear and tear and highlight potential future issues, like leaks, cracks, or loose valves. They’ll also check your massaging jets and ensure your hot tub heating system works efficiently, reviewing its energy consumption.
A faulty hot tub can be bad for the environment. Cracks, broken parts, and leaks can waste chemicals and water. Maintaining and servicing your hot tub will extend its lifespan and make it more energy efficient.
6. Consider a SmartTub™ system
A relatively new addition to the hot tub industry is the SmartTub™ system, which makes owning a hot tub a breeze. It’s available on Jacuzzi® J400/500 series tubs as standard and the J200/300 as an optional extra.
It starts with an easy-to-use app that lets you view your hot tub energy use estimates and adjust your key settings, like temperature. It can even alert you when your hot tub needs attention and will help identify when a service is required.
The system makes it easy to monitor energy use and adjust the settings to keep energy costs low, helping your pocket and the planet.
7. Efficiently heat your hot tub
Investing in an air source heat pump will lower your hot tub's running costs as well as your impact on the environment. They use renewable energy to heat the water in your tub, and you’ll make the investment back in two years through energy savings while enjoying up to 50% annual savings.
With our air source heat pumps, for every 1kW of energy used, you’ll receive 2kW of energy when the air is 10°C. When it’s 20°C outside, you’ll receive 4kW, making it even more efficient.
Or, do away with electricity altogether and opt for a sustainable wood-fire hot tub that's powered by nature!
Frequently asked questions
Are hot tubs bad for the environment?
Hot tubs aren’t bad for the environment if you maintain and use them wisely. Keeping on top of your cleaning is the most eco-efficient way to maintain a hot tub, as it’ll prevent you from needing to drain contaminated water.
The older your hot tub, the less eco-friendly it may be due to outdated technology, so choosing a modern one will help save on electricity and be better for the environment.
How do I make my hot tub more energy efficient?
Choosing a hot tub with a SmartTub™ system can help you be more energy efficient, as you can monitor and control its features from your phone.
In winter, switching to a low temperature rather than entirely off will save energy, as it won’t need to heat up from the coldest temperature when you use it. If you're not planning on using your tub at all over the colder months, consider winterising your hot tub, find out more in our guide. You can also book a hot tub winterising service with us.
You can also opt for air source heat pump for a sustainable way to heat your hot tub.
Find more energy saving hot tub tips here.
Can you use rainwater to fill your hot tub?
As it’s normal to experience some water loss due to evaporation, consider collecting rainwater in barrels and buckets instead of using water from your home to replenish it. This will make topping up your hot tub more energy efficient. Just check the water is crystal clear first.
Can you use hot tub water to water plants?
Although it isn’t encouraged, using quality, regulated chemicals should be safe. Fully neutralised water can be used on your grass, if necessary, but never dispose of water full of chemicals on your grass or around your hot tub foundations.
It’s best practice to use a dechlorinate solution to ensure the chlorine levels in the water reach 0.
Parting advice
We all know that running a hot tub uses a lot of power. But if we manage our hot tub energy consumption, we can be kinder to the planet.
The best part is that this handy eco-friendly tips guide will also help your pocket by reducing hot tub energy costs, working hand in hand with being more energy efficient.
Need more advice? Give us a call on 01482 212322 or email enquiries@outdoorlivinghottubs.co.uk and we’ll help you out. Or drop in and see us in our Hull or Leeds showrooms.
Not near one of our Yorkshire hot tub showrooms? No problem, if you’re looking for an energy efficient tub you can explore our virtual showroom or book a video call with our showroom team
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