How much does it cost to run a hot tub?

THE UK is hotting up and summer is in full swing, and it might get you thinking about splashing out on a new hot tub.

While some might be sold at a bargain price, hot tubs can still cost a lot to run.

It’s not just the initial outlay you need to consider, there are  that come with a hot tub once it’s set up in your back garden.

The hot tub will be hooked up to the electricity supply to ensure the water is heated and the bubbles are working, and this will rack up the cost of your bills – and that’s before you consider the effect on your water bill for filling it up.

From July, the regulator Ofgem announced the cap will be set at an annual level of £2,074 for a dual fuel household paying by direct debit, based on typical use.

Because the price cap changes every three months, it means prices could go up or down from October.

The cost of living crisis has seen prices rise in many areas including supermarkets and fuel.

So, with that in mind, it’s important to work out how any new item could impact your budget.

Energy usage, water bills, it all adds up

The cost of your new hot tub will depend on multiple factors, including the size of tub, type of the pump, and how often you use it.

According to IdealHome, a hot tub with a 3kW heater would cost 90p per hour to run.

This is based on the new July price cap.

If you were to use it for eight hours, you’d be spending £7.20 each day.

If you’re looking to get your money’s worth out of your new buy, and you use it every day, you might find you’re forking out up to £50.40 a week.

It could cost you even more in the colder months too, as it will take more energy to keep it hot against the outdoor temperature.

But the costs don’t stop there: you’ve also got to fill it.

estimates that the roughly 1,500-1,700 litres that you use to fill it up every time will cost around £1.50 a pop.

One way to cut the costs from the start is to go small – the more water your hot tub holds, the more it costs to run. So only opt for an eight-seater for example, if you really need it.

You also need to make sure you’re keeping on top of maintenance and cleaning your tub.

According to trading directory Checkatrade, .

You’ll probably need to have one of these a year.

There are also chemicals, equipment and replacement parts to think of.

Cut the cost of your hot tub

Efficient running of your hot tub will help keep that electricity bill down.

Be sure to turn the temperature down.

Most people like to keep their tubs between 38 and 40 degrees, but every degree lower will save you around 10% of your total cost.

Do a quality check. Ensure your cover is still in good condition because 60% of heat escapes through the surface.

You can buy extra insulation to keep heat in – in just the same way you might to keep your home warm.

This of course means more spending but it could be worth it in the long-run.

And make sure you keep it clean. Your filter will have to work twice as hard and twice as long if it’s dirty and clogged.

With many Brits pumping money into their garden, we tell you all you need to know about hot tubs before your purchase.

And if you’re worried about the real cost of keeping cool, here’s how much it’ll cost you to keep your fan going all night long.

Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk