How Much Do Hot Tubs Cost to Run? UK Running Costs Explained

It's the first question almost everyone asks before they take the plunge: how much do hot tubs cost to run? The good news is that a modern hot tub costs far less than most people expect, and a few simple habits bring that figure down further still.

How much do hot tubs cost to run in the UK?

Three costs make up the total:

• Electricity – heating the water and holding temperature
• Filtration and water care – filters, chlorine, test strips
• Maintenance – the occasional drain, refill and clean

Electricity is by far the biggest, so let's start there.

Hot tub electricity costs

Running costs depend on your tub's size, how well it's insulated, your preferred temperature, how often you use it, the weather and your tariff.

As a rough guide, with UK electricity at around 27–28p per kWh, a hot tub used three or four times a week costs roughly £1–£3 a day, or £30–£90 a month. Expect the lower end in summer and the higher end in a cold British winter.

Where that electricity goes:

• The heater – heating from cold is the biggest draw; once up to temperature it only tops up lost heat
• The pump and filtration – runs for hours a day but uses far less than heating
• The bubbles – pull cooler air through the water, so long bubble sessions nudge the heater back on

Every Wave Spas hot tub runs from a standard 13-amp plug, so there's no electrician or installation cost to add. Luxury you can afford.

Does the type of hot tub change the running cost?

Yes – and the difference comes down to insulation. The better a tub holds its heat, the less often the heater has to switch on.

• Inflatable hot tubs – the lightest and most affordable option. The air-filled walls offer some insulation, so expect running costs toward the upper end of the range in winter.
• Eco Foam hot tubs – solid, rigid foam walls hold heat far better than an inflatable, so the heater cycles less and running costs sit toward the lower end of the range. They also hold temperature better overnight and in windy, exposed gardens.
• Frame hot tubs – a rigid frame and insulated walls deliver similar efficiency, with the look and feel of a traditional spa.

Whichever you choose, the saving habits below apply to all of them.

Hot tub filtration and maintenance costs

Much smaller than the electricity bill, and easy to budget for:

• Filters – rinse weekly, replace every few weeks of regular use. Typically under £100 a year.
• Chemicals and water care – chlorine or bromine, pH adjusters and test strips come to around £10–£20 a month.
• Water changes – a few pounds in water every few months. Many owners take fewer baths, so it balances out.

All in, filtration and maintenance usually land in the £150–£300 a year range, with no annual engineer visit to pay for.

Reducing hot tub energy costs: 6 simple ways to save

1. Keep the cover on, every time – most heat escapes through the water surface. This is the single biggest saver.
2. Leave it on rather than switching off – holding temperature costs pennies; reheating from cold costs pounds.
3. Turn it down a notch – 37–38°C instead of 40°C makes a real difference. Drop it further or switch off when you're away.
4. Find a sheltered spot – wind steals heat. A fence, wall or hedge helps.
5. Insulate underneath – a ground mat stops heat seeping into a cold patio.
6. Go easy on the bubbles – enjoy them while you soak, switch off before you get out.
   

So, is a hot tub worth it?

Add it up and a well-cared-for hot tub typically costs £500–£1,200 a year to run in the UK – with a well-insulated Eco Foam tub sitting toward the lower end of that. That's less than a takeaway coffee a day for a spa-quality experience in your own garden.

Our Waveflow™ filtration keeps the water crystal clear between changes, and FrostFree™ protection looks after your tub through the colder months, so you can unwind in style all year round.

Ready to bring the spa experience home? Explore the full Wave Spas range.

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