Hot tub vs. pool pump (single-speed): running cost
A pool pump (single-speed) is cheaper to run: about $372 a year versus $540 for a hot tub at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $167 difference.
| Hot tub | Pool pump (single-speed) | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 4,000 W | 1,700 W |
| Watt range | 1,500–6,000 W | 800–2,500 W |
| Typical use | 3,000 kWh a year | 8 hours a day for 5 months a year |
| Energy per year | 3,000 kWh | 2,070 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 6.2¢ | 31¢ |
| Cost per day | $1.48 | $2.45 |
| Cost per month | $44.97 | $74.47 |
| Cost per year | $540 | $372 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $1,305 | $901 |
Compare at your rate and settings
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.
- Pool pump (single-speed): A 1.5 HP single-speed pump draws about 1.7 kW and running 8 hours a day uses roughly 2,000 kWh in a 5-month season (over 5,000 kWh where pools run year-round).
Ways to cut either cost
Moves the same water at low speed for 60-80% less energy.
See options on AmazonEnsures the pump only runs needed hours, off-peak.
See options on AmazonReduces evaporation and heat loss under the cover.
See options on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. It never changes the numbers we show. Disclosure.
Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a hot tub or a pool pump (single-speed)?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a hot tub costs about $540 a year versus $372 for a pool pump (single-speed). That's $167 more, or 1.4× as much.
How many watts do hot tub and pool pump (single-speed) use?
A hot tub typically draws 4,000 W (range 1,500–6,000 W). A pool pump (single-speed) draws 1,700 W (range 800–2,500 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.