A hot tub is more than just a luxury—it’s a sanctuary for relaxation, stress relief, and even healing. It’s a place where you can indulge in comfort and pamper yourself, surrounded by the soothing warmth of the water and the gentle massage of the jets. But as with all things, there’s a way to indulge smarter. At Love’s Hot Tubs, we believe that comfort shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense. That’s why we’re sharing the best ways to make your hot tub experience more sustainable. From energy-saving upgrades to water-conserving habits, these tips will help you indulge in luxury while still living your best life.
1. Choose an Energy-Efficient Hot Tub
When shopping for a new hot tub, consider one designed with energy conservation in mind. These models, equipped with advanced insulation materials, energy-saving pumps, and tight-sealing covers, not only support the planet but also significantly lower monthly utility bills, putting you in control of your expenses. This is a win-win situation: You can enjoy your hot tub guilt-free, knowing you’re contributing to a more sustainable future.
Eco-friendly features to look for:
- Look for full-foam insulation or eco-wrap for superior heat retention
- High-efficiency pumps use less electricity while maintaining water flow
- Sealed covers prevent heat from escaping when the tub isn’t in use
Recommended Energy-Efficient Models at Love's Hot Tubs:
- Artesian Spas – Garden Spas Series: Designed for energy-smart efficiency, these spas offer hydrotherapy benefits while minimizing energy usage.
- Nordic Hot Tubs – Modern Series: Built for durability and comfort, these models feature innovative designs that provide an unparalleled soaking experience with energy-efficient operations.
2. Embrace Chemical-Free Water Treatment
Traditional chlorine and bromine treatments can be harsh on your skin—and the environment. Today’s technology offers eco-friendly alternatives like saltwater systems, ozone generators, and UV-C purification. These methods eliminate or drastically reduce the need for chemicals, resulting in a gentler, greener hot tub experience.
Options to consider:
- UV-C systems use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria
- Ozone generators oxidize contaminants without added chemicals
- Saltwater systems produce natural chlorine through electrolysis
Industry Insight: According to Better Homes & Gardens, natural swimming pools, which avoid chlorine and other chemicals, offer a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative in the long run.
3. Conserve Water with Smart Practices
Water is a precious resource, and with some thoughtful practices, you can reduce how often your hot tub needs draining. A high-quality filtration system and regular maintenance will extend water usability. If you do need to drain it, reuse the water to irrigate non-edible plants or grass—just be sure it’s free of harmful chemicals first.
Smart ways to save water:
- Install high-efficiency filters to extend the life of your water
- Test and balance your water weekly to reduce bacteria buildup
- Use drained water for landscape irrigation when safe
Industry Insight: Better Homes & Gardens emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance, including keeping filters clean and maintaining proper chemical balance, to ensure efficient operation and water conservation.
4. Optimize Heating Efficiency
Heating accounts for a major portion of a hot tub’s energy usage. Reduce this by insulating well, adjusting temperature settings when the tub isn’t in use, and shielding it from cold winds. These small changes go a long way toward reducing emissions and energy bills.
Easy heat-saving upgrades:
- Insulated covers trap heat when not in use
- Reduce the temperature a few degrees when not soaking
- Place the tub near wind barriers like fences or shrubs
5. Maintain Regular Cleaning and Servicing
A clean hot tub is an efficient hot tub. When filters, pumps, and jets are clogged or worn, the system has to work harder—using more electricity and wearing out sooner. By creating a cleaning schedule and following the manufacturer’s maintenance tips, you’re taking a proactive step to keep everything running smoothly and efficiently, and you’re being responsible for the environment. Regular maintenance ensures the longevity of your hot tub and contributes to a more sustainable use of resources
Maintenance must-dos:
- Clean filters every 2–4 weeks, depending on the use
- Schedule professional service annually
- Keep water levels stable to avoid straining the pump
6. Incorporate Sustainable Materials and Accessories
Go green, not just with the tub itself but with the materials around it. Many brands now offer accessories like stairs and covers made from recycled or sustainable materials. You can even find spas that use reclaimed wood or eco-plastics for their outer shells.
Sustainable upgrade ideas:
- Look for accessories made of recycled composite materials
- Choose steps and planters made from reclaimed wood
- Support brands that source sustainably and manufacture responsibly
Industry Insight: Better Homes & Gardens highlights the importance of choosing the right hot tub covers, noting that custom-fitted covers ensure a proper fit, which is crucial for effectiveness and energy efficiency.
7. Utilize Smart Technology
Other Artesian Spas and Nordic Hot Tubs, available at Love’s Hot Tubs, offer smart technology that brings control and customization right to your fingertips without over-complicating the experience.
Artesian Spas – Smart Features:
- SpaTouch 2 Topside Control Panel: An intuitive touchscreen to manage temperature, jets, and lighting with ease.
- DIRECTFLOW Personal Control® lets each seat occupant independently control their massage pressure and airflow, maximizing comfort and efficiency.
- Energy-Efficient Settings: Built-in modes help manage power consumption intelligently.
Nordic Hot Tubs – Smart Features:
- ControlMySpa™ App (with BP WiFi pack): This app enables remote access to temperature and filter cycles directly from your smartphone.
- Dual Therapy System (DTS™): This system combines whirlpool and targeted jet flow to reduce therapy time and energy usage.
- Simple Interface: Emphasizes Nordic’s philosophy of reliability and user-friendliness.
Why It Matters:
These systems allow you to maintain comfort while minimizing waste—so your spa stays energy-efficient, customized, and ready when you are.
8. Explore Renewable Energy Options
Want to take sustainability to the next level? Consider installing solar panels to partially or fully power your spa. If you’re in a geothermal area, you can tap into those energy sources. These options may require initial investment but offer long-term environmental and financial benefits.
Sustainable power solutions:
- Solar panels can heat the water or power the tub
- Geothermal systems offer stable, renewable heat year-round
- Local incentives or tax breaks may offset setup costs
9. Position Your Hot Tub Thoughtfully
Where you place your spa matters. To help maintain stable water temperature, position it in a spot protected from harsh winds and extreme sun. Proximity to the house or power sources can also reduce energy loss during heat and power transmission.
Placement tips:
- Place tub near walls or trees for natural wind barriers
- Install in shaded areas to avoid excessive sun heating
- Reduce cable distance to improve power efficiency
10. Retrofit Existing Hot Tubs for Efficiency
Do you already have a hot tub? No problem—you can still make it greener. Retrofit options like aftermarket insulation, upgraded pumps, and smart controllers can reduce its environmental impact and save you money over time.
Efficiency-boosting retrofits:
- Upgrade old pumps to energy-efficient models
- Add insulation blankets or foam panels
- Install a WiFi controller to manage use remotely
Final Thoughts
Eco-friendly soaking isn’t just a trend—it’s a lifestyle. With a few intentional choices, you can enjoy your hot tub while doing your part to protect the planet. Whether you’re upgrading to a more efficient system, switching to greener sanitation methods, or simply maintaining what you have more mindfully, every step counts.
At Love’s Hot Tubs, we help you find sustainable solutions that match your lifestyle. Ready to upgrade or want expert advice? Stop by our showroom or give us a call. Let’s make your hot tub greener—together.