How Much Does it Cost to Run / Operate a Hot Tub?

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A Complete Breakdown of Monthly Operating Costs—Electricity, Water Care, Seasonal Changes, and How Your Hot Tub’s Quality Affects Your Bottom Line

By Leisure Time Inc.  |  February 2026  |  Estimated Read Time: 12 minutes

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You’ve done the research, picked out the perfect hot tub, and it’s finally sitting in your backyard. Now the question shifts from “how much does a hot tub cost?” to “how much does it cost to keep running?”

It’s a fair question—and one we hear all the time at Leisure Time Inc. The good news? Running a hot tub is more affordable than most people expect, especially if you’re making smart decisions about energy efficiency and water care. In this guide, we’ll break down every monthly expense, explain how different water care systems compare, show you how Idaho’s seasons affect your energy bill, and reveal why the quality of your hot tub may be the single biggest factor in what you’ll spend each month.

The Quick Answer: What Most Idaho Hot Tub Owners Spend

That’s less than most gym memberships, streaming bundles, or a single couples’ massage—and your hot tub is available to you 24/7, 365 days a year.

Electricity: The Biggest Variable

Electricity is the single largest operating expense, and it’s also the one that varies the most. How much you’ll pay depends on four key factors: your local energy rate, the energy efficiency of your hot tub, the ambient temperature where you live, and how often you use it.

Idaho’s Energy Advantage

If you live in Idaho, you’re already ahead of the game. Idaho enjoys some of the lowest residential electricity rates in the nation. Idaho Falls Power customers pay approximately $0.076 per kWh—among the cheapest in the country. Idaho Power customers in Boise and much of southern Idaho pay around $0.10–$0.12 per kWh under the current tiered rate structure. Compare that to the national average of roughly $0.18 per kWh, and Idaho hot tub owners enjoy a significant advantage on their monthly energy bills.

*Estimates based on a well-insulated, mid-size hot tub used 4–5 times per week.

How Seasons Affect Your Energy Bill in Idaho

Idaho’s climate means your hot tub works harder in winter and coasts through summer. That directly affects your electricity bill—sometimes dramatically.

Winter (November – March)

When outside temperatures drop into the teens and single digits, your hot tub’s heater has to work harder to maintain temperature. For Idaho hot tub owners, winter months typically see electricity costs increase by 40–70% compared to summer. A hot tub that costs $20/month to heat in July might cost $30–$35/month in January. Poorly insulated models can spike even higher—$50–$70+/month in the coldest stretches.

This is where quality insulation pays for itself. Hot Spring’s Highlife Collection uses multiple layers of high-density polyurethane foam—the same material found in commercial freezers—to lock in heat even in sub-zero conditions. Their SilentFlo 5000 circulation pump runs continuously on less energy than a 40-watt light bulb, so your water stays hot without constant heater cycling.

Summer (June – September)

In summer, when ambient temperatures are in the 70s–90s, the gap between the air and your spa water is much smaller. Your heater kicks on far less often, and many well-insulated hot tubs barely need to heat at all during Idaho’s warm months. This is when monthly electricity costs can drop to $10–$20 for an efficient model.

How Your Hot Tub’s Quality Affects Operating Costs

Not all hot tubs are built the same, and the differences in construction quality have a direct, measurable impact on what you’ll pay every month to keep your spa running.

Insulation

This is the #1 factor. Budget hot tubs often use minimal half-pound foam or partial spray foam, leaving large air gaps that allow heat to escape. Premium brands take a very different approach. Hot Spring’s Limelight and Hot Spot Collections use FiberCor™ insulation, which fills the entire cabinet at four times the density of standard foam. Caldera Spas uses the same FiberCor technology in their Utopia and Paradise Series. Sundance’s RigidBond™ shell construction increases thermal retention at the shell itself.

Over a 10-year ownership period, the energy savings from premium insulation can amount to $2,400–$4,800—more than enough to justify the higher purchase price.

Pumps and Heating Systems

Older or budget hot tubs often use the jet pumps to circulate and heat water, which is energy-intensive. Modern premium spas use dedicated low-wattage circulation pumps that run continuously and efficiently. Hot Spring’s Energy Smart system, for example, captures waste heat from the equipment compartment and redirects it into the water—a patented approach that reduces energy consumption significantly. Caldera’s EnergyPro pump and heater combination eliminates the need for jet pumps to cycle on and off throughout the day.

Covers

A well-fitting, insulated cover prevents up to 60% of heat loss in a hot tub. Premium brands manufacture custom-fit covers with dense foam cores and hinge seals that lock in heat. A worn, waterlogged, or ill-fitting cover can increase your monthly energy costs by $10–$20—so replacing an aging cover is one of the best investments you can make.

The takeaway? A premium hot tub can save you $3,000–$5,000 in energy costs alone over its lifetime compared to a budget model.

Water Care Systems: Comparing Costs and Convenience

Your water care system is the second-largest ongoing expense after electricity. The system you choose affects not just your monthly chemical costs, but also your maintenance time, water quality, and how often you need to drain and refill your spa. Here’s how the most common systems compare:

Traditional Chlorine

Monthly cost: ~$10–$20  |  Maintenance time: 15–20 min/week

Granular chlorine (dichlor) is the most common and least expensive sanitizer for hot tubs. You manually add chlorine after each use, test your water 2–3 times per week, and shock weekly. It’s effective and affordable, but requires the most hands-on attention. You’ll also need to drain and refill your spa every 3–4 months. Products like Leisure Time Spa 56 Chlorinating Granules and FreshWater Concentrated Chlorinating Granules are available at shop.leisuretimeinc.com.

FROG @ease (SmartChlor + Minerals)

Monthly cost: ~$20–$30  |  Maintenance time: 5–10 min/week

The FROG @ease system combines mineral sanitizing with SmartChlor technology to deliver self-regulating, low-chlorine water care. It uses up to 75% less chlorine than traditional methods and only requires shocking once a month. The SmartChlor cartridge lasts 3–4 weeks, and the mineral cartridge lasts 4 months. It’s a popular choice for busy families who want simpler maintenance. The system is compatible with many brands including Sundance Spas and is available as a built-in inline system on select models. Replacement cartridges run about $17–$20 each, or roughly $55–$60 for a 3-pack.

Ozone + UV-C (Sundance CLEARRAY Active Oxygen™)

Monthly cost: ~$10–$20  |  Maintenance time: 10–15 min/week

Sundance Spas’ CLEARRAY Active Oxygen system combines ozone gas injection with UV-C light to create an advanced oxidation process that treats 99.9% of waterborne pathogens. This natural process significantly reduces chemical dependency—you still add a small amount of chlorine or bromine, but far less than traditional methods. The system is factory-installed on all acrylic Sundance Spas, and the UV-C bulb is replaced annually. Ongoing chemical costs are low because the system does most of the heavy lifting. Paired with Sundance’s MicroClean filtration system, it’s one of the most efficient water care approaches available.

FreshWater Salt System (Hot Spring / Caldera)

Monthly cost: ~$15–$25  |  Maintenance time: ~5 min/week

The FreshWater Salt System is available on Hot Spring’s Highlife and Limelight Collections and on Caldera’s Utopia and Paradise Series. It uses a titanium cartridge to automatically generate chlorine from dissolved salt—eliminating the need to manually measure and add sanitizer. The water feels softer and more natural, with no harsh chemical odor. Each titanium cartridge lasts about 4 months and can be replaced in seconds without tools. The biggest advantage? Water can last up to a full year before needing to be drained and refilled, which saves both water and the energy required to reheat a fresh fill. FreshWater Spa Salt is available at shop.leisuretimeinc.com.

Water Care System Comparison

Which System Is Right for You?

If you want the lowest upfront cost, traditional chlorine is hard to beat. If you want the easiest, most hands-off experience, the FreshWater Salt System or FROG @ease are excellent choices. If you value the most natural water with minimal chemical by-products, Sundance’s CLEARRAY Active Oxygen system is a standout. Our team at Leisure Time Inc. can help you match the right system to your lifestyle and budget.

Other Monthly Operating Costs

Filters ($8–$17/month amortized)

Filters should be rinsed monthly and deep-cleaned every 3–4 months. Most filters need full replacement every 1–2 years, at $30–$100 per filter depending on the model. Hot Spring’s Highlife Collection features dishwasher-safe Tri-X filters, which last longer and are easier to maintain. You’ll also want test strips, cover cleaner, and shell cleaner on hand.

Water ($5–$13/month amortized)

Draining and refilling a 300–400 gallon hot tub typically costs $20–$40 in water. If you’re on a traditional chlorine or FROG system, plan for 3–4 refills per year. With a FreshWater Salt System, you may only refill once a year—saving both water and the energy needed to reheat it.

Cover Replacement ($4–$8/month amortized)

Hot tub covers typically last 3–5 years before the foam core absorbs moisture and loses insulating ability. Replacement covers range from $150–$400 depending on size and quality. A good cover is one of the most cost-effective investments you can make—it prevents heat loss and keeps operating costs down.

Total Annual Operating Cost Summary

That breaks down to roughly $40–$125 per month depending on your hot tub’s efficiency, your water care system, and how cold it gets where you live.

7 Ways to Lower Your Monthly Hot Tub Costs

1. Invest in a quality hot tub upfront: Premium brands like Hot Spring, Sundance, and Caldera are engineered for energy efficiency. The monthly savings add up fast.
2. Keep your cover in good shape: Replace it when it gets heavy or waterlogged. A new cover can cut heat loss dramatically.
3. Use a salt water or mineral system: These systems reduce chemical costs, cut maintenance time, and extend the life of your water.
4. Clean your filters regularly: Dirty filters force pumps to work harder, increasing energy consumption.
5. Lower your temperature in summer: Even a 2–4 degree reduction saves measurably on electricity.
6. Take advantage of Idaho’s off-peak rates: If you’re on Idaho Power’s Time-of-Use plan, heat your tub during off-peak hours for lower rates.
7. Shop water care products locally: Visit shop.leisuretimeinc.com or stop by our showrooms for genuine water care products at competitive prices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it cheaper to leave my hot tub running or turn it off?

Always leave your hot tub running. Heating water from cold requires far more energy than maintaining temperature. Modern spas with circulation pumps are designed to run continuously on minimal electricity.

Will a salt water hot tub save me money?

Over time, yes. The FreshWater Salt System reduces chemical purchases, extends water life up to a year (saving water and reheat costs), and cuts maintenance time. The cartridges cost more than granular chlorine, but the total cost of ownership is typically lower—especially when you factor in time savings.

How much does electricity cost to run a hot tub in Idaho Falls?

Idaho Falls Power charges approximately $0.076 per kWh—among the lowest rates in the country. A well-insulated hot tub in Idaho Falls might cost as little as $10–$25 per month in electricity, depending on usage and season.

Does a bigger hot tub cost more to run?

Slightly, because there’s more water to heat. However, the difference is modest with a well-insulated spa. Insulation quality matters far more than size when it comes to operating costs.

How often do I need to change the water?

With traditional chlorine or FROG @ease: every 3–4 months. With the FreshWater Salt System: up to once a year. Each drain-and-refill costs $20–$40 in water plus the energy to reheat.

At Leisure Time Inc., we’ve been helping Idaho families choose, install, and maintain hot tubs for over 50 years. We carry Hot Spring Spas, Sundance Spas, Caldera Spas, Freeflow Spas, and American Whirlpool—all chosen for their quality, energy efficiency, and long-term value.

Whether you’re shopping for your first hot tub or looking to upgrade to a more efficient model, visit one of our showrooms in Boise, Idaho Falls, or Twin Falls to compare models, explore water care options, and get personalized advice on which spa will deliver the lowest monthly operating costs for your family.

Your hot tub should work for you—not drain your wallet.

Browse our hot tubs or visit a showroom to see the difference quality makes.

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Tags: Hot Tub, Hot Tub Operating Cost, Hot Tub Electricity, Water Care, FreshWater Salt System, FROG @ease, CLEARRAY, Idaho Energy Rates, Hot Tub Maintenance