Understanding Hot Tub Costs

Operating Costs

Beyond the initial purchase of your hot tub, you can expect ongoing costs to operate and enjoy it. The good news that is a well-insulated, energy-efficient hot tub should not dramatically impact your electric bill. Hot tubs generally run on electricity, which powers the jets and lights as well as heats and circulates the water.

The California Energy Commission ratings state that electricity costs for hot tubs from major brands, such as Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs, can range from $10 to $21 monthly to operate. The most energy-efficient hot tubs may even bring your monthly operation costs to $15 or less. Your electrical costs will also be dependent on the kWh rates in your area as well as how often you use your hot tub.

Maintenance Costs

You may have a variety of maintenance costs such as chemicals and supplies as well as any general repairs or services that your hot tub may require over time. However, these costs will be significantly lowered with the purchase of a high-quality hot tub with well-performing systems to help make maintenance nearly hassle-free.

Your hot tub will require chemicals to be added to the water after each use and during your scheduled filtration cycles. You will likely only need to add a small amount of chlorine or bromine sanitizer and make weekly adjustments as needed. The cost of chemicals can range between $10 to $40 per month, depending on how often you use your hot tub, the time of year and climate in which it is used, and the quality of your hot tub’s water management and filtration systems.

While you may still have some maintenance costs associated with a luxury model from a high-quality brand, you can rest assured that your hot tub has been designed with the best equipment and functions that will help keep overall maintenance costs low. A top-of-the-line model from a luxury brand will also include excellent warranties that will ensure your hot tub is protected and covered in the case that it does need a repair or parts replacement. Always ask about a hot tub’s warranties before making your final decision.

Delivery and Installation Costs

If you’ve wondered about hot tub installation costs, these too can have a range of answers based on how you purchase your hot tub. Often, your delivery and installation costs can be rolled into the total purchase of your hot tub if you buy from an authorized spa dealer. However, these costs can also vary based on the type of hot tub that you purchase.

While most portable hot tubs are fairly easy to have placed and installed, some portable hot tubs are considered “plug and play.” These are hot tub models that only need to be plugged into a standard 110/120v outlet.

While it is recommended that they are plugged into a dedicated circuit, they generally do not require any additional electrical hook-up, like a 220/240v hot tub will. A 220/240v hot tub will require electrical hardwiring from a professional electrician. This can add to the cost of your preparation and installation.

For example, based on how your electrician charges for service calls, parts, and labor, having an outlet and circuit breaker installed can range in cost.

Home Guide published an overview of 2023 hot tub installation costs in which it states: “The average cost to install a 220v electrical outlet for a hot tub is $300 to $1,000. Hiring an electrician costs $50 to $130, plus a $100 to $200 service call fee covering the first hour of hot tub wiring installation.”

Call your electrician to get an estimate for your specific installation to get an exact idea of this cost. It’s also important to note that your electrician will also need to come out after your hot tub is delivered and installed to connect and hook it up.

In addition to a dedicated 220/240v electrical line, a 40-, 50-, or 60-amp breaker is recommended to use all your hot tub’s pumps and heaters simultaneously. You may also consider that while a 110/120v hot tub uses less power, which can help keep operating costs low, Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs that operate from a 220v/240v system are very efficient, so they do not add a significant amount to your electric bill yet you’ll still be able to enjoy powerful hydrotherapy.

Value vs. Cost

When you are weighing your options as to which hot tub is right for you, cost will likely be a major deciding factor. It’s very important to consider the overall value of this important investment. A high-quality hot tub may cost you more initially; however, it can also provide you with peace of mind that it was designed for peak performance and built to last for many years.

You could opt for a lesser-quality hot tub that has a lower initial price tag. However, be advised that a hot tub from a subpar brand may end up costing you more in operating, maintenance, repair, and service costs—not to mention the high cost of your time. It may also not end up being worth the hassle, or your stress levels, of trying to properly maintain a less-than-superior hot tub.

As you continue your research and begin shopping for a hot tub, be sure to establish a budget and determine your wish list of features. These two things can help you find the best hot tub that meets all your desires and that will provide you with soothing relaxation for many years.

Affiliations: Jacuzzi® is a registered trademark of Jacuzzi Group. All rights reserved.

Medical disclaimer: This information is not intended to prescribe a particular diagnosis or course of action. We are not medical professionals. Please contact your GP or other medical professional for advice if you have any concerns about your current health or well-being.