Running a spa should be relaxing — including when it comes to your power bill. With the right setup and a few smart habits, you can keep your spa warm, efficient, and affordable throughout the year. Much of your spa’s energy use comes down to insulation, circulation, water care, and how well the heat is retained.

Why Energy Efficiency Matters

Spa operating costs depend on several things: outdoor temperatures, how often you use the spa, and how well the heat stays inside the shell. Some energy-efficient spas can run for as little as $30/month, while less efficient designs can cost significantly more to maintain. The good news? Many of the biggest savings come from design features and everyday habits.

1. Choose the Right Insulation

A spa can lose a surprising amount of heat through its walls. High-quality insulation helps keep warmth inside the water rather than escaping into the air.

Common insulation types include:

• Full-Foam Insulation — fills the space between the shell and the cabinet to minimise heat loss.

• FiberCor® Insulation — used in some HotSpring models, this material is 4 times denser than typical urethane foam, offering strong heat retention.

• Layered Insulation — multiple foam densities designed to eliminate gaps and improve performance.

Better insulation means your spa needs less power to stay at your preferred temperature.

2. Make Sure Your Spa Cover is Doing Its Job

A well-insulated cover is essential for preventing heat from escaping at the surface.

A good cover should:

• Fit tightly around the edges

• Have a dense foam core with a strong R-value

• Include added material at the centre seam for improved heat locking

Tip: Clean and condition your cover monthly. If your cover becomes cracked, sagging, or waterlogged, it won’t insulate properly and may be costing you energy. In those cases, consider replacing the cover to maintain efficiency and heat retention.

3. Circulation Pump Efficiency Makes a Big Difference

A dedicated circulation pump keeps water moving using minimal energy — some use around the same power as a 40-watt light bulb. Without this feature, the spa relies on jet pumps for circulation, which consume more power and make more noise.

If your spa does not have a dedicated circulation pump:

• Reduce jet-pump run times during the day

• Use off-peak electricity hours if your provider offers lower rates during those times 

4. Maintain a Steady Temperature

Letting your spa cool down fully and reheating it later can use more energy than keeping the water at a consistent temperature. If you use your spa regularly, maintaining your preferred temperature may actually save power over time.

5. Regular Maintenance Protects Efficiency

A well-maintained spa naturally runs more efficiently. Simple upkeep can make a noticeable difference:

• Keep water balanced — Proper chemistry protects pipes, pumps, heaters, and internal components from wear or scale buildup, improving performance and longevity.

• Clean your spa filter regularly — A clogged filter forces the pump to work harder, consuming more power. Rinse weekly and deep clean as needed.

• Clean and condition your cover — Helps maintain a proper seal and prevents heat loss.

• Use a cover lifter to prevent wear and ensure the cover closes correctly every time 

• Replace worn-out covers to keep insulation effective.

Even small habits, like keeping the spa covered when not in use, help reduce heating demands.

Final Thoughts

Every spa owner can benefit from understanding how insulation, heat retention, circulation, and maintenance impact energy use. With a combination of good design features and simple daily practices, you can enjoy warm, efficient soaks — and a more predictable power bill. Whether you’re optimising your current spa or researching your next one, focusing on energy efficiency will always pay off in comfort and long-term savings.