Inflatable hot tub vs. pool pump (single-speed): running cost
A pool pump (single-speed) is cheaper to run: about $372 a year versus $552 for an inflatable hot tub at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $180 difference.
| Inflatable hot tub | Pool pump (single-speed) | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 2,000 W | 1,700 W |
| Watt range | 1,300–2,300 W | 800–2,500 W |
| Typical use | 24 hours a day for 6 months a year | 8 hours a day for 5 months a year |
| Energy per year | 3,068 kWh | 2,070 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 13¢ | 31¢ |
| Cost per day | $3.02 | $2.45 |
| Cost per month | $91.99 | $74.47 |
| Cost per year | $552 | $372 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $1,335 | $901 |
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What drives the difference
- 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.
- 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 AmazonCuts heat loss into the ground.
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Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, an inflatable hot tub or a pool pump (single-speed)?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), an inflatable hot tub costs about $552 a year versus $372 for a pool pump (single-speed). That's $180 more, or 1.5× as much.
How many watts do inflatable hot tub and pool pump (single-speed) use?
An inflatable hot tub typically draws 2,000 W (range 1,300–2,300 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.