Hot Tub Running Cost Calculator
Hot tub running costs vary a lot depending on size, how well insulated the tub and cover are, and your electricity rate. Enter your details below for a weekly and monthly cost estimate before you buy — or to see where you might be able to save.
Estimate your hot tub running cost
Enter your tub size, cover/insulation habits, and your electricity rate.
Typical inflatable or hard-shell tub
Estimated usage: 8.0 kWh/day
£15.12 per week
That's roughly £64.80 per month. Actual costs vary with outdoor temperature, water temperature setpoint, and how often the tub is used.
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A few well-reviewed hot tubs and pool accessories.
£89.99
Pros
- Inflates and self-supports quickly
- Includes filter pump for cleaner water
- One of Amazon's best-selling paddling pools with tens of thousands of reviews
Cons
- Liner can puncture on rough ground without a mat
£449.00
Pros
- AirJet massage system for up to 6 people
- Popular Lay-Z-Spa model with hundreds of reviews
- Includes insulated cover to help retain heat
Cons
- Running costs noticeable on electricity bills in winter
- Year-round use
£3499.00
Pros
- Acrylic hard shell built to stay outdoors year-round
- 65 hydrotherapy massage jets with LED lighting
- Built-in aromatherapy and ozone purification for cleaner water
Cons
- Requires professional delivery and a level base
- Significant upfront investment
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest factor in hot tub running costs?
Heat retention matters more than almost anything else. A well-fitted insulated cover used consistently between sessions can cut running costs substantially compared with an uncovered or poorly insulated tub, since most of the energy use goes into replacing lost heat rather than the initial warm-up.
Does the outside temperature affect running costs a lot?
Yes — a hot tub loses heat faster in cold, windy weather, so winter running costs are typically higher than summer. This calculator gives a year-round average estimate rather than a season-specific figure.
Should I turn my hot tub off when not in use for a while?
For short gaps of a few days, it's usually cheaper to leave it running at temperature, since reheating a fully cooled tub from cold uses more energy than maintaining it. For longer absences (a week or more), turning it off and draining it may work out cheaper.
How can I reduce my hot tub's running cost?
Use an insulated cover every time it's not in use, lower the set temperature by a degree or two if comfortable, and check for worn seals or a damaged cover that let heat escape faster than necessary.