Owning a hot tub is an excellent way to relax and unwind after a long day, and knowing how to reduce the costs of running one can make the experience that much more enjoyable. Below, we’ll take a look at the average costs of hot tub ownership and share some tips on keeping your spending to a minimum. Here’s what you need to know!
Planning For Installation Costs
First things first is establishing an installation plan for your hot tub. Certain factors can influence the exact amount, including the delivery method, the size of your spa, where you live, etc. The cost of installation will, of course, vary depending on whether you’d like it above or in-ground, or you’d like to add a deck or have other landscape work done, for example. A crane delivery might be necessary for hot tubs on the larger end, likely costing between $400 to $2,000. If you’d like that spa to be installed in-ground, then an excavation crew will be needed to dig the hole. This will likely cost between $1,000 to $1,500, but it depends on your location. The alternative approach for many homeowners is placing their units on a deck. If this is what you’d like for your installation, the typical starting price for a deck would be about $3,000; however, it varies depending on many factors.
Speaking of decks, it’s worth mentioning that having a sturdy support system underneath your hot tub is a must if you want the structure to be stable. You can take your pick from concrete slabs, a reinforced deck, compact soil with crushed gravel, and many other options. You can ask for help from your local spa dealer to determine which one is the most suitable for your home.
Preparing Your Budget For Running Costs
The next thing you need to consider is the running costs. As you may already know, owning a hot tub can increase your monthly power bills. The good thing is that there are easy ways to conserve energy and lower your spending.
For instance, you can set the temperature to a lower level whenever possible, so the heater doesn’t have to work as hard. Another way to keep your hot tub running costs down is by using a cover. This will prevent heat loss and protect the unit from dirt, debris, and other elements that can damage it. It’s important to choose a high-quality cover that fits your hot tub well.
To get an idea of how much you’d need to pay for your upcoming power bill after purchasing a hot tub, you can check the temperature that you usually set whenever it’s in use. For example, if you set it at around 98 degrees to 105 degrees, you might need to spend two and three dollars daily on electricity. However, if you opt for a Hydropool hot tub, you can run at 100 degrees for only pennies a day due to their advanced Thermal Shield System.
Reducing Costs Further with Regular Cleaning†
Another cost that you need to consider is the price of chemicals and other maintenance supplies. Luckily, there are ways to cut down on these expenses as well. One way to do it is by maintaining a regular cleaning† schedule for your hot tub. This will prevent the build-up of dirt, grime, and other contaminants that can require more intense and expensive cleaning† methods. You should also take the time to check the pH level of your hot tub water regularly. This will ensure that everything is balanced and won’t potentially cause harm or irritate the unit or it’s swimmer. When using a test strip or kit to check the pH levels, your indicator of healthy water will be between 7.2 to 7.8 pH.
By being mindful of the costs involved and taking steps to reduce them, you can enjoy all the benefits of owning a hot tub without the stress. With a little bit of effort, you’ll be able to find the perfect hot tub for your needs and budget. For more information on choosing the right hot tub for your home, download our free buyer’s guide.