How to Reduce Spa Running Costs in 2025: 7 Proven Ways to Save Money

What are the ongoing costs of owning a spa?

A common question we get at Spa World is: “How much does it cost to run a spa?”

The answer? It depends.

Factors like spa size, model, brand, local climate, and usage all affect operating costs. But as a general guide, a mid-size, mid-range spa used three times a week could cost between $30 and $50 a month in heating bills alone.

The good news? There are several ways to reduce this significantly, especially when you buy smart and follow expert advice.

1. Use a Heavy-Duty Spa Cover

Up to 75% of heat loss happens through evaporation—and a poor spa cover is often to blame.

Investing in a high-quality, insulated spa cover with a tight seal can dramatically cut heat loss and electricity usage.

Look for features like:

• Thick foam insulation
• Durable marine-grade vinyl
• Heat-retaining design with corner seals

Expert Tip: Don’t skimp on the cover. It pays for itself over time by saving energy.

2. Choose an Energy-Efficient Circulation Pump

Your spa’s circulation pump is running almost all the time. Make sure it’s efficient.

Opt for a dedicated low-wattage circulation pump rather than a two-speed pump. Why?

• Uses significantly less power
• Quieter and longer-lasting
• Provides better filtration
• Leaves the jet pump to operate only when needed

Think of it like using a fuel-efficient, hybrid car instead of a truck for your daily commute, it just makes sense for everyday use.

Find out more about two speed spa pumps vs circulation pumps in our detailed article below.

3. Install a Spa Heat Pump

If you want maximum energy savings, a spa heat pump is the single best upgrade.

Spa heat pumps can save you up to 75% in energy costs compared to standard electric heaters. They work just like home heat pumps—drawing heat from the air and transferring it to your spa water efficiently.

Over a spa’s 15–20 year lifetime, that adds up to thousands of dollars in savings.

Learn more about spa heat pumps at Spa World’s heat pump guide.

6. Choose the Right Location for Your Spa

Did you know that the placement of your spa can directly impact its energy efficiency and running costs? It’s true—and often overlooked.

Spas installed in exposed, windy areas tend to lose heat faster. That means the heater has to work harder, leading to higher electricity bills. By simply choosing the right spot for your spa, you can reduce heat loss and save money over time.

Best practices for spa placement:

• Install your spa in a sheltered area, such as near a fence, pergola, or wall
• Use windbreaks like hedges, privacy screens, or purpose-built barriers
• Place it on a solid, insulated base such as a concrete pad rather than timber decking

Planning to install a spa, plunge pool, or swim spa? Make sure you get the location right from the start.

7. Upgrade to a Smart Spa Controller

Smart spa controllers help reduce energy costs and make spa use easier. By maintaining consistent temperatures and allowing you to schedule heating only when needed, they can lower electricity usage by up to 15% compared to older systems.

At Spa World, all spas include advanced control systems designed for efficiency:

• Vortex™ and Fisher™ spas use SpaNet™ SV Series controllers with PowerSmart technology to optimise heating and filtration.
• Jacuzzi^® spas use premium Balboa^®-licensed systems, with SmartTub™ app control and full-colour touchscreens on high-end models.

Want to compare spa control systems? Read our guide below.

Frequently Asked Questions About Reducing Spa Running Costs

Summary: How to Reduce Spa Running Costs

Want to enjoy your spa without the high power bill? This article from Spa World outlines seven proven strategies to reduce your spa’s running costs—whether you're buying your first spa or upgrading an existing one.

Key Takeaways:

1. Use a high-quality spa cover to lock in heat and reduce evaporation.
2. Install a dedicated low-wattage circulation pump for quieter, more efficient filtration and chemical distribution.
3. Upgrade to a spa heat pump to save up to 75% in heating costs over traditional electric heaters.
4. Leverage solar energy for eco-friendly, low-cost spa heating.
5. Lower your water temperature by a few degrees during off-peak times or warmer months.
6. Position your spa in a sheltered area to minimise heat loss from wind exposure.
7. Use a smart spa controller (like SpaNet™ SV Series) to optimise heat cycles and reduce energy spikes.

With these energy-saving strategies in place, you can relax in your spa more often—knowing you're spending less and soaking smarter.

Ready to Choose Your Energy-Efficient Spa?

Visit your nearest Spa World showroom or contact us online for expert help choosing the best spa or swim spa for your home, lifestyle, and budget.

*DISCLAIMER: In this article, we mention brand names used across products sold by Spa World™.

Affiliations: Spa World™, Vortex^® Spas, and Fisher™ Spas are part of Jacuzzi Brands LLC. Vortex^® and Fisher™ spas use control systems supplied by SpaNet Pty Ltd. Jacuzzi^® spas use control systems manufactured under license by Balboa Water Group.

All information, including pricing and product details, was accurate at the time of writing and may change without notice.