How to cut the costs of running a hot tub – owning one is cheaper than you think
MAKE the most of lighter evenings by soaking in your own hot tub.
It feels like a slice of luxury to sip on a cold drink in hot water outdoors — but adding one may be cheaper than you think.
Here’s how to keep the costs of a tub from bubbling over.
BUDGET BLOW UP: If you want a hot tub on a budget, inflatable is the way to go.
A solid structure will set you back thousands of pounds, whereas you can get a four-person inflatable tub for under £200.
The Intex one is in the sale for £199 at Aldi, down from £299.99. But the best price I could find was the MSpa Lite round tub, £198.95, from B&Q.
Look for guarantees when buying. For example, the Intex model comes with a three-year warranty.
KEEP IT CLEAN: Once you have a tub, you will need to maintain it.
Change the water every three to four months, and in between you should be treating the water to stop bacteria growing.
Chlorine and bromine both can be used to keep your water clean and safe. Chlorine tablets are generally cheaper than bromine. The amount you use depends on the size of the tub.
COOL BILLS DOWN: Inflatable hot tubs are typically heated up ahead of each session, which can burn a chunk of energy each time. Help speed up the process by attaching the cover to keep heat in, and insulate the base with a floor protector.
Turning down the heat on your tub by just a couple of degrees — from the maximum 40C to 38C, say — can make a difference to costs.
Where you position your tub will also affect how quickly it loses heat.
Try to choose a spot that is more sheltered from the colder air of the wind.
Using your hot tub on warmer days is also more cost-effective because it means the heater won’t have to work as hard to keep temperatures up.
- All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
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