Hot tub vs. inflatable hot tub: running cost
A hot tub is cheaper to run: about $540 a year versus $552 for an inflatable hot tub at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $12 difference.
| Hot tub | Inflatable hot tub | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 4,000 W | 2,000 W |
| Watt range | 1,500–6,000 W | 1,300–2,300 W |
| Typical use | 3,000 kWh a year | 24 hours a day for 6 months a year |
| Energy per year | 3,000 kWh | 3,068 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 6.2¢ | 13¢ |
| Cost per day | $1.48 | $3.02 |
| Cost per month | $44.97 | $91.99 |
| Cost per year | $540 | $552 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $1,305 | $1,335 |
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What drives the difference
- Hot tub: A typical 240 V hot tub has a 4 kW heater plus pumps; with a good cover it averages about 2,000-4,000 kWh a year depending on climate and use.
- Inflatable hot tub: Inflatable tubs run on 120 V with a 1.3-2.2 kW heater and poorly insulated walls, so they cost more per gallon to keep hot than a hard-shell spa.
Ways to cut either cost
Reduces evaporation and heat loss under the cover.
See options on AmazonA tight, dry cover is the biggest single savings for a hot tub.
See options on AmazonCuts heat loss into the ground.
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Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a hot tub or an inflatable hot tub?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), an inflatable hot tub costs about $552 a year versus $540 for a hot tub. That's $12 more.
How many watts do hot tub and inflatable hot tub use?
A hot tub typically draws 4,000 W (range 1,500–6,000 W). An inflatable hot tub draws 2,000 W (range 1,300–2,300 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.