Making Your Spa More Energy Efficient

Energy efficiency upgrades are taking hold in every aspect of our lives. Our cars are becoming more fuel-efficient, our AC units are using less energy to keep the climate of our home controlled, and lighting systems are being made to last longer slowing the drain on our energy resources. Spas are no different and the upcoming cool weather months make for a perfect opportunity to get with the “more efficient” program.

Spa Covers

A good spa cover is always your first line of defense against losing heat and racking up unnecessary energy expenditures associated with keeping a spa warm. Rather than settling for a cheap cover that barely keeps the leaves out, invest in a heat-retaining cover with an insulated core and a reflective layer inside the vapor barrier. Also, be sure to quickly remove any water that settles or accumulates on top of the cover as it reduces its insulative ability.

Spa Placement

Where you place your spa can have a huge impact on how much energy it takes to keep it warm. Although other factors like proximity to a pre-existing deck or other amenities might be important, placing a spa in a location that takes advantage of exposure to the sun is more important. Placing a spa where it will have more exposure means it will stay warmer throughout the day and require less energy to heat up when the sun goes down. It also means that you will be less likely to be bothered by the sun at setting and rising times. If southern exposure is not an option, definitely avoid overhead shade and maybe even consider installing a blind to block any cool wind or breeze.

Controls and Components

While a warm spa is always the preference, consider altering your control settings to use less energy over time. Rather than maintaining a high resting temperature, consider lowering it a couple of degrees and get accustomed to what is likely still a thoroughly warm rest. It is also important to make sure you turn off any jets when the spa is not in use as jets circulate cool air into the water and make it more difficult to maintain warm temps. Beyond the energy savings associated with heating controls, make sure to keep your filters clean at all times so that water has an easier time getting pumped through your spa system. The harder your spa works to circulate water, the more energy gets spent.

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