Before diving in and purchasing an inflatable hot tub, you’ve no doubt asked yourself, ‘how much does it cost to run an inflatable hot tub?’
In this blog post, we’ll break down the costs associated with running an inflatable hot tub and provide some tips on how to keep those costs as low as possible. Read on to learn more!
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Inflatable hot tubs cost significantly less compared to hard-shell hot tubs. While a traditional hot tub may cost several thousand, you can get an amazing inflatable hot tub by spending just a few hundred.
Here is a list of some of the inflatable spas with the most affordable hot tub prices:
| Inflatable hot tub | Price |
| Bestway St. Lucia Saluspa (2 person hot tub) | Click here |
| WEJOY AquaSpa (2 person hot tub) | Click here |
| Intex 28429E PureSpa (4 person hot tub) | Click here |
| Coleman Saluspa (6 person hot tub) | Click here |
Beyond the initial purchase price of the inflatable hot tub, you need to consider the ongoing running costs. An inflatable hot tub, like any other hot tub, requires an electric supply, water, chemicals, and regular replacement of filters.
In this article, we will provide the most accurate overview possible of the cost per month to run an inflatable hot tub.
Running costs per month of an inflatable hot tub
Within the United States, the running cost of an inflatable hot tub can vary greatly. It is due to the influence of several variables such as temperature, atmospheric pressure, and electricity tariffs. Similarly, whether you are using a 2 person hot tub, 4 person hot tub, or 6 person hot tub also influences the running cost of an inflatable hot tub.
In addition to this, the frequency of use will also impact the running cost per month. This is because components of an inflatable hot tub like filters and chemicals need to be changed more regularly when you use it more frequently.
When determining the running cost per month of an inflatable spa, we have based it on the average user. So, the running cost may be a bit more or less than what we have detailed but largely it will be around the cost outlined below.
Let’s divide each cost factor and measure the average running cost per month for an inflatable hot tub.
Power Consumption or Electricity Usage
This is without a doubt the biggest cost that you will incur after the initial purchase of your inflatable hot tub. In an inflatable hot tub heater and water circulation pump are two main components that consume power. Most inflatable hot tubs have a 1300-watt heater and an 80-watt pump.
While the heater runs according to temperature needs and turns on and off, the pump works continuously and needs a constant supply of power.
Most inflatable hot tub heaters take an hour to heat water for every 2 degrees Fahrenheit. As a result, it takes several hours before the hot tub is warm enough to use. Once heated, the hot tub will continue to consume power every hour of usage.
Now, let’s calculate the cost of electricity. It will involve some math.
In the US, the average cost of electricity is about $ 0.23/ unit.
Now, our average inflatable hot tub needs 1.3 kWh to heat and will consume around 30.38 units of electricity in the entire day.
Now,
For 24 hours, the electricity cost will be:
Electricity cost = total units consumed × cost of 1 unit of electricity (or 1 kWh)
Electricity cost (24 hours) = 30.38 × $.14
Electricity cost (24 hours) = $4.25
Electricity cost (30 days) = $127.5
Apart from the running cost of electricity, there are other costs as well which may be broadly categorized as maintenance costs.
Running Costs
Like anything, there are maintenance costs when it comes to running an inflatable hot tub. Although these expenses sound minimal, they can add up quickly so it’s good to be mindful of their cost.
Chemicals
Water in an inflatable spa can develop different germs as well as molds if it is left untreated. Therefore, chemicals in the form of bromine tablets and others are used to keep the water clean and safe. On average, chemicals will cost you around $8 per month. It is also important to test the water’s PH level and testing strips can cost around $5 per month. Other Cleaning products may also be required such as a Scum Sponge to absorb body oils from your inflatable hot tub. Other cleaning products may total around $10 per month.
Filters
Most inflatable hot tubs use two filters which need to be replaced after every month or 6 weeks. So, the average monthly cost of filters will be $5.
Water in Inflatable Hot Tubs
Water is an important factor for you to consider when determining the running cost of an inflatable hot tub. The amount of water required to fill your hot tub will vary depending on its size, but let’s say you have a 4 person hot tub that on average requires 210 gallons of water to fill. Depending on how regularly you use your hot tub we can assume that changing the water fortnightly is a good idea to keep it clean and bacteria free.
Now, the average water cost in the US is around $ 1.5/ 100 gallons. So, the monthly average cost of water will be around $6.30.
Now, let’s calculate the total monthly running cost of an inflatable hot tub.
Monthly Inflatable Hot Tub Maintenance Costs
| Utility | Cost |
| Water | $6.30 |
| Chemicals and Filters | $28 |
| Electricity | $127.50 |
| Total cost (monthly) | $161.80 |
Ways to Save Money
There is no denying the fact that an inflatable hot tub has a lower initial cost a than hard shell traditional hot tub. But, when it comes to running costs, the cost of running an inflatable hot tub exceeds that of a traditional hot tub. One major reason is that a portable spa can’t maintain heat between uses due to lower insulation capacity as compared to traditional spas.
So, here are some of the major ways you can use to lower the running cost of your inflatable hot tub:
Temperature Control
Many hot tubs have the function of setting a temperature. Consider choosing a temperature that is much lower than the maximum the hot tub can reach. This is especially important when you don’t plan on using it for a few days. Be organized and up the temperature closer to the time when you know you will be using it. If you don’t plan on using it for an extended period, make sure you turn it off, drain and clean it before packing it away for storage. For more information about this check out, ‘How to clean and pack up inflatable hot tub for storage’.
Enhance the efficiency of your Inflatable Hot Tub
The colder the water is in your inflatable hot tub the more energy it takes to heat it and keep it warm. There are several strategies you can use to help your hot tub run more efficiently.
Inflatable Hot Tub Lids
Inflatable hot tub lids are an easy and effective way to keep your hot tub warm. By trapping heat, the inflatable hot tub lid prevents heat from escaping, which means your hot tub will stay warm for longer. Inflatable hot tub lids also help to protect your hot tub from debris and dirt, keeping it clean and hygienic. And, because they’re inflatable, they’re easy to store away when you’re not using them. So if you want to keep your hot tub warm, an inflatable hot tub lid is the way to go.
Thermal Mats
If you’re considering an inflatable hot tub, you might also want to invest in a thermal mat. These mats help to insulate the bottom of the tub, keeping the water warm and preventing heat loss. They’re relatively inexpensive and easy to install, and they can make a big difference in your overall enjoyment of the tub. We recommend the CosySpa Hot Tub Flooring Protector which comes in 1/4″ or 1/2″ thickness.
Wind Break
For inflatable hot tubs kept in the open, the wind flows over the water surface and accelerates the cooling process. One of the common problems inflatable hot tub users have is the water temperature readily reducing when the lid is taken off. The solution to this problem is a windbreak. A windbreak is any obstacle that could break the incoming wind, thus preventing the water from cooling down rapidly.
There are many ways to create a windbreak. Any kind of barrier, from a plywood fence to a stone wall, will stop the flow of wind. If you don’t want to invest money, you could instead plant some bushes or tall plants – excellent natural windbreak and looks attractive. Considering a windbreak can save you a lot of money from frequently re-heating the water. And remember, when you’re not using your inflatable hot tub, keep the lid on to keep the water nice and warm. It makes a big difference!
Conclusion
So, what’s the bottom line? How much does it cost to run an inflatable hot tub each month? In short, it costs about $161.80 per month on average. Of course, this number could go up or down depending on a variety of factors like the size of your tub and your electricity rates. But overall, running an inflatable hot tub is a relatively affordable way to relax and soak in some heat after a long day.
