It’s not very often that the average hot tub user is thinking about the amount of energy that is being used while they’re trying to relax and get away from it all in their backyard hot tub. But for those who pay the bills and worry about their impact on the environment, having an energy-efficient hot tub increases their ability to relax and feel good about the purchase they’ve made. To help figure out what is the most efficient hot tub, we’ve compiled a list of components that play a role in creating an energy-efficient system.
Filtration System
The filtration system is an important part of keeping the hot tub’s water clean† and fresh. The efficiency in which water is passed through the filtration system plays a large role in how much energy the hot tub is using. Ideally, you’d like the entire volume of water in the hot tub to be run through the filtration system as fast as possible. This means that the water can be cleaned several times over without having to be continuously running. A filtration system that can cycle the entire hot tub’s volume during a single soaking session is ideal.
Hot Tub Cover
The hot tub cover plays the most important role in preventing heat from escaping from the water when the tub isn’t in use. Without a well-insulated hot tub cover, it could take several hours for the water to be heated to a comfortable temperature before each use. A good hot tub cover is especially important for those who experience cold temperatures during the winter.
Hot Tub Cabinet
Not only is heat released from the water’s surface, but it can also escape through the walls of the tub itself. Having a properly insulated hot tub cabinet will greatly reduce the amount of heat lost through the hot tub shell and cabinet. Again, a properly insulated cabinet is a must-have if you plan on using your hot tub throughout the winter. Without it, you may find it hard to maintain optimal water temperature in extremely cold weather.
Water Pump and Heater
The water pump and heater are the biggest energy drains for a hot tub. By using low amperage, high flow pumps, water can be heated and circulated at a far lower energy cost. Look for a water pump and heating system that’s designed for maximum energy efficiency.
Heat Exchange Systems
Heat exchange systems are used to redirect heat that’s typically lost to the environment and direct it back into the hot tub water. Water pumps can create a lot of residual heat that’s typically wasted. By utilizing a heat exchange system, the wasted heat can be used to bring down your energy costs.
Programmable Controls
Having a programmable control system is similar to having a thermostat in your house. Rather than having your furnace blasting on full until you turn it off, the thermostat allows the heat in your house to be regulated and kept consistent. The same concept can be used when heating a hot tub, but not every hot tub has a control system that allows this to happen. Look for hot tubs with programmable control systems to automate your energy savings.
Energy Regulations
The gold standard for hot tub energy regulation is set by the California Energy Commission (CEC.) If energy efficiency matters to you, look for hot tubs that meet or exceed the standards set by the CEC. Even if you don’t live in California, CEC certification will save you money on your energy bills.
To learn more about how the hot tub you choose can play a role in energy efficiency as well as the amount of money it costs to run one, download a free buyer’s guide below today, or visit us at our London hot tub store.