Are Energy Efficient Hot Tubs Worth It?

What qualifies a hot tub as energy efficient?

Before diving into the benefits behind owning an energy efficient spa, you need to know how to spot one. Products that claim energy efficiency typically use efficiency standards to substantiate their claims. The most widely accepted being APSP-14, a standard that outlines specific performance metrics to ensure heat retention and energy savings before the products can hit the shelves. There are currently 8 states that have passed laws to enforce this standard and restrict the sale of all non-compliant hot tubs. If you live in California, Oregon, Rhode Island, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York or Nevada, you might have already noticed that you can’t purchase or receive certain hot tubs.

For those who live elsewhere, this is still important for you! Several other states are close to passing similar laws, and there is a new federal standard anticipated to be introduced soon. Even without legislation, energy efficiency benefits everyone!

What are the benefits of buying/owning an energy efficient hot tub?

Environmental Benefits:

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the purchase and use of energy efficient appliances, such as hot tubs “can result in lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and other pollutants.” Lower energy consumption means a lower collective carbon footprint and less pollution, resulting in “cleaner air, water and land, all of which directly affect human health,” according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

Economic & Cost-Saving Benefits:

The EPA and DOE both recommend taking steps to reduce energy usage, which can also potentially lower your utility bills. Products, such as hot tubs, with energy efficient constructions are built to use less power than traditional models through various features, including heat retention and automated power settings. The goal: keeping your spa water hotter for longer and only using power when it’s truly needed. This process lowers the energy used to heat the spa so you can enjoy the relaxing, warm embrace of your hot tub and know you’ve also made a wise choice for your finances and the environment.

What energy efficient options are out there?

In 2007, Bestway® created the first inflatable hot tub (read more about that here) and has led the market by producing multiple industry-first features, like heat-retaining structures and app-controlled heaters and pumps.

EnergySense®:

Extensive research and testing led to the development of a heat-retaining material used to construct spa liners and covers. A specialized interior filling insulates and reflects heat back into the hot tub, resulting in up to 40% higher energy efficiency than similar inflatable spas. Bestway sells hot tubs that already include the EnergySense liner or cover and a stand-alone cover that is sold separately.

Shop EnergySense here.

ThermaCore™ Foam Hot Tubs:

Further innovation led to the introduction of foam panels encased in DuraPlus™ tear-resistant material​. ThermaCore construction provides a sturdier, more durable option that is as much as 40% more energy efficient than a traditional inflatable spa.

Products coming in 2024

Bestway Smart Hub™ App:

Introduced in 2020, this smartphone app lets users adjust the water temperature settings, run the heater and pump, activate the Power-Saving Timer and control the massaging jets all from the convenience of their handheld device. This makes it easier to monitor and control your energy use based on your preferences and needs.

Shop app-controlled spas here.

So, are energy efficient hot tubs worth it? The environmental benefits are clearly impactful, but the economic and cost-saving implications make it clear that it’s a valuable investment for everyone. Plus, with the extensive range of energy efficient options from Bestway, it's never been easier to make a difference!

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