Can I Turn My Hot Tub Off When Not in Use?

Can I Turn My Hot Tub Off When Not in Use?

The question of whether you can turn off your hot tub when not in use can be answered quite quickly.  Yes, you can.  However, there may quite a few variables that will influence when you should turn off your hot tub or whether you should leave it running.  This article will go over the various factors to keep in mind when deciding whether to turn off your hot tub when it’s not in use.

Energy Costs

One reason you would want to turn off your hot tub when it’s not in use is to cut down on your energy costs.  However, if the cost of energy is your only concern, it may not make sense to turn off the tub whenever it’s not in use.  The energy used to bring a cold hot tub up to temperature can easily outweigh the amount of energy used to maintain it at a usable heat.  If you plan to use your hot tub on a daily basis turning your hot tub off after every use may not be the most efficient use of electricity. 

Thermostat

One way to reduce your energy bill is to lower the hot tub thermostat by a degree or two.  You will hardly notice the difference in the water’s temperature, but you will notice the difference in your energy bills.  Small adjustments in temperature can make a major difference in energy consumption.

Off Peak Hours

If you live in an area where your energy company charges different rates during peak or off peak hours, it may make good sense to use a timer to turn off the hot tub during peak hours and have it turned back on once the cheaper rates come into effect.   Speak to your energy company about the potential savings for this type of timer use.

Covers And Thermal Blankets

A good quality hot tub cover that’s fitted specifically for your tub couple with a thermal blanket to lay on the water’s surface may keep in enough heat to turn off your hot tub for short periods of time.  If you use your hot tub every 12 hours (say before you go to work and before you got to bed), judicious use of your hot tub cover and thermal blanket may allow you to turn off the hot tub while you’re away.  If you only use your hot tub once a day or less, the cost of reheating the water may exceed any benefit of turning off the hot tub.

Insulation

The amount of insulation your hot tub has will play a role in how much heat it retains.  This not only includes insulation actually attached to the hot tub itself.  The insulating effects of the surrounding environment such as walls, fences or lines of foliage will also allow the water to retain heat better while the hot tub is turned off.

Cold Weather

If your area is prone to the temperature falling below freezing, you will want to keep your hot tub running to prevent the nightmare of frozen pipes and machinery.  In times of cold weather when you’re not using the hot tub, it’s better to turn the thermostat down rather than turning off the tub altogether.  An exception to this is if you’re closing down the hot tub completely.  If you’re planning on doing this, ensure it’s done properly to avoid any damage during cold weather.

To learn more about the health and wellness benefits of hot tubs, download a hot tub buyer’s guide.