Are Inflatable Hot Tubs Expensive to Run?

Compared to the price of traditional hot tubs, inflatable hot tubs are an affordable way to become a hot tub owner. However, inflatable hot tubs are also more expensive to run compared to hard-shell hot tubs. Still, many people decide that the money saved on the initial price of an inflatable hot tub is worth it.

Let’s break down the costs so you can decide if the price is worth it for you.

Do inflatable hot tubs use a lot of electricity?

Compared to hard-shell hot tubs, blow up hot tubs use more energy because they tend to lose heat quicker. You can use less electricity by making sure your tub is well-insulated and setting it at a lower temperature.

How much does it cost to maintain inflatable hot tubs?

You will need to clean your hot tub a few times a week, and every few months you may need to drain it for a deeper clean. The cost of chemical cleaners and cleaning tools varies; however, it’s typically around £30. You will also have to pay for new filters every few years, which can cost about £20 – £30.

Do you leave inflatable hot tubs on all the time?

You should leave your inflatable hot tub on all the time unless you are storing it for a long period, like during the winter months. Turning it on and off will actually require more energy because the water temperature will lower and then need to be raised again.

Additionally, it will take more energy to run your hot tub in the winter, as it has to heat the water from a lower temperature. So, you should leave your blow up hot tub running all of the time, especially in winter when it has to work harder to warm the water.

How much does it cost to run a hot tub per day in the UK?

It costs around £7 – £10 a week, or about £1 a day on average, to run an inflatable hot tub. The actual price will vary depending on your tub’s temperature and your local climate, as well as the size of your tub, how often you use it, and the pump’s kW rating. It can also vary depending on your electricity supplier’s charges.

How to save money running your inflatable hot tub

You can conserve some energy by keeping your tub running year-round, lowering the temperature, and purchasing insulating accessories to help maintain the temperature.

We mentioned above the benefits of keeping your hot tub running all the time, and keeping it at a lower temperature can conserve energy. Most owners run their hot tubs between 37.5–39°, so setting it at about 37.5 will save energy over time.

Finally, since inflatable hot tubs lose most of their heat through the ground and through their covers, consider purchasing an insulated ground mat. Additionally, your inflatable hot tub should come with an insulation lid, which you should always leave on unless you are using the tub.

You shouldn’t leave your inflatable hot tub on grass or gravel without a floor protector, as this will increase the energy cost to maintain your hot tub’s temperature.

So, inflatable hot tubs are more expensive to run than traditional hot tubs, but most can keep costs low enough that it is still worth it.

Read: Are Hot Tubs Good for Weight Loss?