Guide to Save Money on a Hot Tub: Smart Choices for Affordable Soaking

A hot tub is more than just a luxury—it’s a wellness investment. From easing sore muscles to relieving stress and improving sleep, hot tubs offer a range of physical and mental health benefits.

But let’s face it, owning a hot tub can also come with upfront and ongoing costs. If you’re in the market for a new spa or are already a hot tub owner looking to lower your expenses, there’s good news. With advancements in technology, smarter energy use, and the right setup, saving money on a hot tub is entirely within reach.

Let’s dive into “How To Save Money on a Hot Tub,” the most effective ways to save money whether you’re buying a new one or upgrading the one you already have.

1. Start Smart: Choose an Energy-Efficient Hot Tub

Before anything else, the key to long-term savings is purchasing the right hot tub. Modern hot tubs, especially those from Caldera Spas and Fantasy Spas, are equipped with energy-efficient systems designed to minimize power consumption without sacrificing performance.

These brands, available at Skovish Pools & Spas showrooms in Luzerne and Shickshinny, PA, are known for:

• Full-foam insulation that traps heat inside and keeps cold air out.
• EnergySmart® systems with smart sensors and circulation pumps.
• Programmable controls that let you run the hot tub during off-peak energy hours.

Choosing the right model at the beginning means you’ll spend significantly less on monthly energy bills down the road.

2. Insulation Matters: Upgrade the Internal Components

If you’re buying a new spa or want to upgrade your existing one, one of the biggest factors in heat retention (and thus energy savings) is interior insulation. A properly insulated hot tub reduces the amount of work your heater has to do, which keeps electric bills manageable.

Even if you already own a hot tub, consider these upgrades:

• Energy-efficient pumps: Switching to a multi-speed or variable-speed pump allows you to maintain circulation without consuming excessive power.
• Side-discharge pumps: These are often more efficient than center-discharge types and can be retrofitted to many existing spas.
• Circulation pumps: Some hot tubs use small circulation pumps that run 24/7 at low wattage, offering continual water movement with minimal energy use.

3. Use a Quality Hot Tub Cover

This might seem obvious, but many hot tub owners overlook the importance of a high-quality, well-fitting cover. An old, cracked, or waterlogged cover can allow heat to escape—forcing your spa to work harder to maintain temperature.

Here’s how to save with a cover:

• Replace aging covers that no longer seal tightly.
• Use a thermal blanket under the main cover for extra heat retention, especially in colder climates.
• Keep the cover clean and dry, and remove any snow or heavy debris that may warp the cover over time.
  

A solid, insulated cover can reduce heat loss by up to 75%, making it one of the best investments for long-term savings.

4. Control Systems & Timers: Use Smarter Electronics

Today’s hot tubs come with smart control panels that allow you to program schedules, adjust settings, and monitor energy usage. The hot tubs in our showrooms, including the Caldera and Fantasy Spa models, feature user-friendly interfaces that help you save without sacrificing comfort.

Here’s how to take advantage:

• Schedule heating cycles during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper.
• Set timers to maintain ideal temperatures only when you plan to use the spa.
• Use eco or vacation modes if you won’t be using your hot tub for a few days or longer.

Reducing unnecessary heating and circulation can significantly cut your monthly energy bill.

5. Choose LED Lighting

Lighting is another overlooked area when it comes to energy savings. Many older hot tubs have incandescent bulbs that are inefficient and burn out quickly. Modern models offer vibrant, energy-saving LED lights that last longer and use a fraction of the power.

If your current spa has older lighting, upgrading to LED is a quick and affordable way to reduce power use while enhancing the ambiance.

Tip: When not using the tub at night, turn off the lights to avoid unnecessary draw from the system.

6. Keep Up With Regular Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures your hot tub works efficiently. Neglecting routine tasks can lead to clogged filters, sluggish pumps, and cloudy water—all of which can force your spa to use more energy and chemicals.

To keep costs low:

• Clean or replace filters every few weeks.
• Balance water chemistry to prevent scaling and buildup in the plumbing.
• Inspect your cover and insulation regularly.
• Check for leaks which can lead to water waste and temperature fluctuation.

Keeping your system clean and running smoothly helps avoid costly repairs and minimizes energy waste.

7. Buy From a Trusted Retailer Who Cares About Savings

When you purchase your spa from Skovish Pools & Spas Luzerne or Shickshinny store locations, you’re not just buying a hot tub—you’re gaining a team of experts who care about your long-term satisfaction and savings. Our experienced technicians and support staff will guide you through choosing the most cost-effective spa for your needs, ensuring you’re set up with:

• The right size and model for your household and energy goals.
• Expert tips on how to operate your spa efficiently.
• Ongoing support and service to maximize longevity and performance.

Plus, we offer some of the most competitive pricing on Caldera and Fantasy Spas in the region—so you’re saving money from day one.

8. Bundle Accessories and Essentials for More Savings

The costs of start-up chemicals, steps, and covers can add up quickly. That’s why many retailers, including us, often offer seasonal discounts when you bundle essential hot tub accessories at the time of purchase. Ask about seasonal specials on:

• Water care kits
• Steps and handrails
• Cover lifters
• Start-up services

Getting these items all at once, especially with a bundled discount, means you won’t be hit with surprise costs after your spa is delivered.

9. Consider Long-Term Financing with Low Interest

While a hot tub can be a big upfront purchase, financing options can make it more affordable over time. We often offer low-interest financing promotions to qualified buyers, helping you spread the cost over manageable monthly payments.

It’s a smart way to avoid large upfront costs while enjoying all the health and relaxation benefits of a spa immediately.

Ready to Soak and Save?

Hot tubs don’t have to drain your wallet. Whether you’re just starting your search or already own a spa, following these tips can help you maximize energy efficiency, cut ongoing costs, and extend the life of your investment.

Visit Skovish Pools & Spas today at our Luzerne or Shickshinny, PA locations to browse energy-efficient hot tubs and chat with our expert staff. Or give us a call and let’s discuss your options—we’re happy to guide you to the perfect hot tub that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Relax smarter—soak in the savings!