With water rates on the rise, many hot tub owners are looking for ways to reduce the costs associated with operating a hot tub. For hot tub owners who have older models and are not yet ready to upgrade to a more energy efficient tub, there are ways to reduce operating costs in the winter season.
Repair Leaks
When you buy a new hot tub, the spray foam insulation traps heat in the air bubbles inside. If there is a leak somewhere in the hot tub or its plumbing system, the foam begins to absorb water until the moment it fills with water. When this happens, the insulation loses its effectiveness, which means you will have to spend more money heating your spa.
To prevent foam insulation from filling with water, you will need to check your hot tub and plumbing system for leaks regularly. Don't ignore minor leaks as even those small drops of water can add up to significant costs over time. Also, once the leaks are repaired, have a qualified technician replace the wet insulation as well.
Get a New Hot Tub Cover
Hot tub covers also contain foam insulation. As for spa covers, the foam is usually covered with a plastic barrier that prevents it from absorbing water and moisture from the spa. Unfortunately, even the best plastic or vapor barrier will wear out over time, which means that at some point, water will be able to seep through the foam insulation in the hot tub deck.
It goes without saying that wet foam insulation on hot tub decks is just as ineffective as wet foam insulation on the hot tub itself. So when you feel like your hot tub cover is heavier than normal, you'll want to check the foam insulation, as this may mean it's already soaked with water. When it is, you'll want to consider purchasing a new hot tub cover.
Check Water Levels Regularly
Checking your hot tub’s water levels is a task that most hot tub owners tend to forget, but it’s especially important during the cold months. When met with cold air, hot water turns to steam causing it to rapidly evaporate. This can result in a significant decrease in water levels, impacting water flow and causing your heater to shut down. If that happens, it can be a frozen pipe disaster with significant repair costs. To avoid this, it’s recommended you check and refill your hot tub at least once a week. If you notice problems with your heater, contact a professional right away to avoid costly repairs.
Contact the Experts
Heating your hot tub efficiently during the cold months doesn’t have to be complicated. With these three tips, you’ll save on energy costs while getting to enjoy the warmth of your hot tub year round. Even if you don’t plan on using your tub during the winter, it’s important to keep it full of water and functioning properly. Contact Spring Dance Hot Tubs for questions about maintaining hot tubs in NJ, or to find the perfect hot tub for you!