Is It Better To Keep Your Hot Tub Running All The Time Or Switch It Off Between Uses?

If you're dipping your toes into the world of hot tub ownership, there's probably no shortage of questions you have about owning and maintaining your own. However, of all the things there are to learn, the question of whether or not you should switch off your spa between uses is likely at the top of your mind. Whether you're wondering this because you want to maximize your hot tub's lifespan or minimize your monthly energy bill, you've come to the right place to have your question answered. 

As with today's smart thermostats and HVAC systems, modern hot tubs are generally more energy efficient (and less expensive to run over time) when maintaining a steady temperature for as long as possible. That is, of course, assuming you use your hot tub on a daily or weekly basis, explains Clearwater Pools and Spas. Thus, switching off your hot tub every time you get in and out of it is, ultimately, a huge money-waster. However, there are certain times when you will need to turn it off, as well as times when you'll need to drain and winterize it.

While it's ultimately costlier to switch off your hot tub after every use, there are other good reasons to let your hot tub keep running aside from energy efficiency. For instance, if you turn off the spa during freezing winter weather without properly draining and winterizing it, you are likely to encounter a disaster that includes broken hardware, frozen pipes, and costly repair bills, advises Clearwater Pools and Spas. As such, if you'll be using your hot tub at all during the winter season, you're better off keeping it running, or simply turning down the thermostat if you don't anticipate extremely cold weather in your region.

On the other hand, if you're not into taking a soak when the temperatures plummet, shutting down and winterizing the unit is your best option. While this process is by no means fast or simple, it's a regular part of hot tub ownership that comes with the territory. It'll also ensure that your spa is in perfect working order come springtime when pleasant weather returns to your neck of the woods.

Depending on the duration of the vacation you're taking, you may find it worthwhile to shut down your hot tub. However, Aqua Spas and Pools notes that it's definitely not ideal to leave it filled with water when it's off for extended periods of time since this can cause bacterial growth along with other issues. According to Hot Tub Focus, if you'll be traveling away from home for more than a week or two, then emptying, cleaning, and changing the water in your hot tub before leaving is a good idea. Assuming your area won't be experiencing freezing weather, you can keep it off while you're away. Not only will you come home to a clean hot tub after your trip, you'll save some money since your hot tub's motor will be taking a little vacation of its own.

On the other hand, most homeowners agree that draining a hot tub and shutting it off is too much of a hassle for shorter vacations. If you'll be leaving home for just a few days, or even up to an entire week, you can safely keep yours running without worrying that you're wasting money. However, before you leave for any trip, it's always a good idea to take care of any routine maintenance tasks.