How Much Does It Cost To Run A Hot Tub

One of the first things people ask before buying a hot tub is. How much does it actually cost to run a hot tub?

It’s a fair question, and one that often puts people off before they’ve had the whole picture. The reality is that for most UK households, hot tub costs are much lower than expected, especially with modern, well-insulated designs.

At Wave Spa UK, we speak to customers every day who are surprised by how affordable it is to enjoy their hot tub at home, all year round. In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what you can expect in terms of the cost of running a hot tub and how to keep those costs as low as possible.

How Much Does It Cost To Run A Hot Tub In The UK?

For most people, the daily cost of running a hot tub in the UK is approximately £1 to £2.

That works out at roughly:

● £30-£60 per month
● £365-£730 per year

Many Wave Spa owners find their running costs sit comfortably at the lower end of this range, thanks to efficient heating systems and insulated designs built for UK conditions.

Why Hot Tub Running Costs Are Lower Than You Might Think

Many people assume hot tubs are expensive to run because they picture them constantly
heating large amounts of water. In reality, once your hot tub reaches the desired temperature, it only requires small amounts of energy to maintain it, especially if it’s well-insulated.

Modern hot tubs are designed to:
● Retain heat efficiently
● Avoid constant reheating
● Use energy only when needed

This makes a big difference to ongoing costs.

What Affects The Cost Of Running A Hot Tub?

Electricity Prices - Estimated Cost

Electricity is the main running cost for any hot tub. With UK electricity prices currently averaging around 27-30p per kWh, efficiency really matters. Hot tubs that retain heat well will require less power overall, which is why insulation plays a crucial role.

Insulation Quality - Energy Efficient Hot Tubs

If there’s one thing that has the most significant impact on hot tub running costs, it’s insulation.

A well-insulated hot tub:
● Keeps heat locked in
● Reduces heater run time
● Uses less electricity day-to-day

Wave Spa hot tubs are supplied with insulated liners and thermal covers, helping to minimise heat loss even during colder months.

Water Temperature Settings

Most people set their hot tub between 37-38°C, which is ideal for comfort and relaxation.
If you want to reduce running costs slightly:

● Lower the temperature by 1-2°C when you’re not using it regularly
● Avoid heating from cold repeatedly. Steady temperatures are usually cheaper

How Often You Use It

Interestingly, frequent use doesn’t always mean higher costs.

Keeping your hot tub at a consistent temperature often uses less energy than letting it cool down and reheating it each time. Many spa owners use their hot tubs several times a week without seeing a significant increase in their electricity bills.

Hot Tub Running Costs: What Should You Expect?

Hot tub running costs can vary depending on the type of spa you choose, how often you use it, and how well it holds onto heat. The key thing to remember is that modern hot tubs are designed to be far more efficient than many people expect.

For most households, the difference in running costs comes down to size, insulation, and usage, rather than whether you use your hot tub regularly.

Inflatable hot tubs are a popular choice for customers seeking an easy and affordable way to enjoy a hot tub at home, with their running costs often coming as a pleasant surprise.

Once heated, an inflatable hot tub requires only small amounts of energy to maintain its
temperature, mainly when used with a well-fitted, insulated cover.

Most owners can expect running costs of around:

● £1 to £1.50 per day
● £30 to £45 per month

Wave Spa inflatable hot tubs are designed with the UK weather in mind, helping to retain heat and reduce energy usage, even on cooler evenings.

How To Keep Hot Tub Running Costs Low

Keeping hot tub running costs low is primarily about simple day-to-day habits rather than big changes. One of the easiest ways to reduce energy use is to always keep the insulated cover on when the hot tub isn’t in use. This helps trap heat in the water, meaning the heater doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain the temperature.

Regular maintenance also plays a part. Clean filters allow water to circulate properly, helping the system run more efficiently and use less electricity overall. During periods when you know you won’t be using your hot tub as often, slightly lowering the temperature can also help keep running costs down without affecting comfort when you return to using it regularly.

Where your hot tub is positioned can make a difference, too. Placing it in a more sheltered area, away from strong winds, helps reduce heat loss, something that’s particularly useful during colder months. Small, consistent habits like these all add up, helping keep the cost of running a hot tub comfortably manageable.

Estimate Your Own Hot Tub Running Costs

One of the best ways to understand what hot tub running costs might look like for your home is to use our Hot Tub Running Cost Calculator. Our simple tool lets you input your electricity tariff, usage habits, and water temperature to get a personalised estimate of your monthly energy bill.

It takes the guesswork out of planning and helps you see how small changes, like adjusting temperature or cover use, can affect your overall costs. Try our calculator to get a clearer picture of what running a hot tub might cost you.

Why Wave Spa Hot Tubs Are Designed To Be Cost-Effective

Wave Spa hot tubs are built with everyday UK use in mind. Features include:

● Energy-efficient heating systems
● Insulated liners and thermal covers
● Optimised pump performance
● Designed for year-round enjoyment

The result? A hot tub that’s easy to enjoy without worrying about rising energy costs.

For most UK households, the cost of running a hot tub is lower than expected, typically coming in at around £1-£2 per day, or roughly £30-£60 per month, depending on usage and setup. Good insulation and efficient heating make a big difference, helping to keep energy use steady throughout the year. With Wave Spa hot tubs designed specifically for UK homes, it’s easy to enjoy the comfort and relaxation of a hot tub without worrying about high ongoing costs.