How to Calculate the Energy Costs of a Large Hot Tub
You might think that a large hot tub is the only way to relax with your entire family, but this is not always the case. Many people use these spas alone or with their partner. This situation is great for those looking to enjoy a relaxing soak without having to worry about crowding the hot tub. Instead, they enjoy a private moment with their partner. This way, they get the best of both worlds, a large tub and the privacy it offers.
Dimensions
When shopping for a hot tub, the dimensions should be checked for both the space and the logistics of delivery. Take measurements for the size of your path and the size of the area where you will install the hot tub. Ideally, the path will be unobstructed and wide enough to accommodate the spa. Alternatively, you can have the hot tub delivered via crane. Make sure that the path is wide enough for a truck to pull in and unload the tub.
The dimensions of a large hot tub vary according to manufacturer, but generally speaking, they range from five to nine feet by 84 inches wide. These are best suited for a patio or deck area, and may be too large for a small backyard. However, if you live in a city, a small four-person hot tub can be perfect for your space. In any case, make sure that you measure the space around the control panel to make sure that it will fit in your yard.
Cost
While it is possible to purchase a cheap, disposable hot tub, you will need to spend about two to six thousand dollars to install a large one. Cost of ownership depends on how many people use the tub and whether you’ll have to pay for delivery and installation. The cost of an in-ground hot tub is at least $15,000, and it will require a crane to move it. In-ground tubs also require electricity, so you’ll need to install a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet.
In addition to the price, the features and accessories available in a hot tub can affect the final cost. A hot tub can have several water features, jet counts, or other features, depending on your needs. The features of a hot tub can influence the price, so make a list of the things that are important to you. It can help when professionals estimate the cost, since they’ll know exactly what to look for in a hot tub.
Adding in labor for installing an in-ground hot tub can also increase the overall cost. Some hot tub dealers may charge up to 50% more than a similar standard model. For in-ground models, however, the costs of running electrical and plumbing can be even higher. Delivery and installation are also typically not included in the price, so you’ll want to negotiate prices with local dealers and plumbers. Ultimately, it will cost you less to install a walk-in hot tub than to hire a professional.
Energy costs
How much will your large hot tub cost to heat? This will depend on a variety of factors, including the size of the tub, its thermostat settings, and the climate in which you live. The cost of hot tub heating is also influenced by the quality of the water heater. In order to figure out the exact cost of heating a hot tub, use a hot tub energy calculator. Here are some tips for calculating energy costs of a large hot tub.
The energy cost of a hot tub is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Three thousand watts equals three kWh, and seven hundred and fifty watts are 7.5 kWh. Once you have this information, multiply the kilowatt-hours by the kilowatt-hour rate on your electric bill. For example, if your hot tub uses 120 volts, you will pay about 45 cents an hour to heat it. Likewise, if you use 240-volts, the energy cost of a hot tub is 12.5 cents an hour.
Electricity costs are largely determined by how frequently you use your hot tub. The more you use it, the higher your electricity bill. Running the jet pumps continuously uses more energy than running a regular vehicle. In addition, hot tubs with multiple jet pumps can draw more electricity than smaller models. It’s also important to keep in mind that if you want to save money on electricity, you should make sure your hot tub is insulated well.
Size of footwell
If you’re considering purchasing a large hot tub, you should pay close attention to the size of the footwell. You want to make sure your legs are comfortable. Additionally, you should consider how tall your family is. Tall people are not well-suited for hot tubs with small footwells. Before you purchase a large hot tub, sit in it to see how comfortable you’ll be. Also, remember to consider the age of any children you plan to purchase for the tub.
Medium-sized hot tubs are the most common types sold today. They are perfect for families with children or occasional guests. They also provide more personal space. Another important factor when selecting a hot tub is the size of the footwell. A larger footwell provides more leg room. Large hot tubs range in size from 84 by 84 inches to 108 by 110 inches. They may be as deep as 38 inches, providing plenty of leg room.
Another important factor in selecting the right size of footwell is the number of people. A 6-seater hot tub can comfortably seat four or five adults. Obviously, no one wants to be cramped in a hot tub. Therefore, if you intend to use the tub full-time, consider a model with ample space for everyone’s feet. You might be surprised to see that it only seats four or five people, so it’s a good idea to opt for a larger footwell size.
In-ground vs. above-ground installation
While installing an in-ground swimming pool is more expensive than installing an above-ground model, the in-ground design offers significant benefits. Listed below are some of the advantages of in-ground installation:
An in-ground installation will blend into your landscaping and will be much easier for children and pets to access. It can also feature additional features such as a waterfall and other structural add-ons. If you want to decorate your hot tub, an in-ground installation is ideal. Aside from the safety benefits, in-ground hot tubs can be decorated and will blend seamlessly with your landscape.
Another benefit of in-ground installation is that it is less likely to be a tripping hazard for people. Above-ground hot tubs can be difficult for older people to access, but they can be fixed by installing stairs. In-ground hot tubs also offer a wider aesthetic variety. However, you may need to install stairs to access an above-ground hot tub.
An in-ground hot tub can be located anywhere in your outdoor space. While they don’t blend in as well as an above-ground version, they can be easily moved or sold. Above-ground hot tubs have the added benefit of being more comfortable for more people, but they have several disadvantages, including the fact that they stick out from the landscaping. If you’re looking for a large hot tub, above-ground installation is the way to go.
Warranty
In the industry of large hot tubs, the warranties on these appliances are generally pretty good, and it’s easy to understand why. Consumers are used to the warranty, and it is expected of them. Then there’s the dealer who expects reimbursement for covered service repair. The warranty reimbursement rate varies by manufacturer, but one California hot tub dealer estimates a price of $100 or more from one brand. It is important to understand exactly what the warranty covers and what it won’t.
In most cases, the warranty is good for a year after purchase, but some warranties cover the spa for up to 10 years or lifetime. The warranty on a large hot tub is worth its weight in gold. The standard warranty comes with the product, but there are also extended warranties you can buy separately. The manufacturer will pay for any necessary repairs or replacement parts during a warranty period. However, it is always recommended to buy a warranty extension, if possible.
In addition to the warranty, some manufacturers offer extended warranties on parts, labor, and the cedar cabinet. Bullfrog’s lifetime warranty covers the tub’s components for its first year, but if you buy a used one, the manufacturer’s warranty will cover any parts for another five years. You may want to ask about this warranty before buying a large hot tub, as it’s easy to break or damage a large hot tub after only a few years.
