Understanding the Monthly Running Costs of Owning a Swim Spa in the UK (2024)
If you’re thinking about investing in a swim spa, one of the key considerations is the long-term cost of ownership. Beyond the initial purchase, it’s essential to understand the ongoing expenses, like energy, chemicals, and maintenance, so you can budget effectively and avoid surprises down the line.
As a Hydropool retailer here in the UK, we frequently get asked about the monthly operating costs of swim spas. With rising energy prices and cost-of-living concerns, many customers are eager to know exactly how much they can expect to spend each month to keep their swim spa running smoothly.
So, how much does it really cost to own a swim spa in 2024? On average, the monthly cost in the UK is around £210, or roughly £7 per day.
Breakdown of Monthly Swim Spa Costs:
–Power: £180/month
–Chemicals: Just under £30/month
–Water: £3/month (based on an annual refill)
This estimate includes all major costs like energy, chemicals, and water, providing a full picture of what it takes to maintain a swim spa. However, it’s important to note that your specific costs may vary depending on several factors, including where you live and how often you use the spa.
Factors That Affect Swim Spa Costs
While we’ve estimated the average monthly cost to be around £210, various factors can influence your individual expenses. Let’s dive into the details to give you a better understanding of what to expect.
1. Power Consumption
A typical mid-range, energy-efficient swim spa uses about 600 kWh of electricity per month if used for approximately one hour per day. This can fluctuate depending on the spa’s size, insulation, and how frequently it’s in use.
Monthly Power Costs
Electricity prices in the UK vary, but we’ve based our estimate on an average rate of 30p per kWh, which results in about £180 per month to run your swim spa. This can fluctuate depending on your usage patterns, the size of your spa, and factors like whether you use an energy-efficient cover.
2. What Impacts Monthly Running Costs?
Beyond electricity, several factors affect your overall running costs. The biggest contributor is how often you use your swim spa. The more you use the jets and keep the cover off, the more energy the spa will consume. Other factors include:
–Climate: The colder it is, the more energy your swim spa will use to maintain temperature.
–Insulation: Well-insulated swim spas, like those from Hydropool, help lower running costs.
–Water Temperature: Higher temperatures and frequent adjustments will lead to higher energy usage.
–Cover: Using a high-quality cover can help retain heat and reduce energy consumption.
–Spa Size and Accessories: Larger swim spas or those with additional features will naturally require more power.
–Electricity Rates: Local electricity rates can have a big impact on monthly costs.
Can a Heat Pump Reduce Costs?
Yes, installing a heat pump can significantly lower your swim spa’s monthly energy costs and it can reduce daily running costs to as low as £3 in the summer and £7 in the winter. Over time, a heat pump can pay for itself in around three years through the savings it generates.
Reach out to us today at support@londonessexhottubs.com or give us a call at 020 3150 1503 to enquire about our heat pumps. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your relaxation oasis!
3. Chemical and Water Treatment Costs
Maintaining clean and safe water is essential for any swim spa. This means regular testing and sanitizing using chemicals, and you can expect to spend just under £30 per month on chemicals. The exact cost depends on factors like spa size and frequency of use.
Swim spas with an AOP (Advanced Oxidation Process) system, such as Hydropool’s Pure Water AOP, can help reduce chemical usage. This technology uses a combination of UV light and ozone to clean the water, much like how drinking water is purified, which can reduce chemical costs in the long run.
Visit our online shop to find out more about maintenance chemicals.
4. Water Refill Costs
Water costs are relatively low, averaging about £35 per year, based on an annual refill of around 10,000 litres. Most swim spas only need to be refilled once a year, especially if they come with a self-cleaning system like Hydropool’s patented design. However, if you opt for a spa without these features, you might need to refill it more often, leading to higher water bills.
5. Potential Repair Costs
As with any machine, swim spas may require repairs over time, especially after several years of use. Common issues include pump failures, water leaks, or electrical problems. Most major repairs, such as pump and heater failures, usually occur between 5 to 10 years after purchase.
Repair costs depend on the nature of the problem, but you can expect to pay around £100-£120 per hour for labour, depending on your location and warranty coverage. Fortunately, well-maintained swim spas often last for 15 years or more without needing significant repairs.
Final Thoughts on Monthly Swim Spa Costs
The monthly cost of owning a swim spa in the UK in 2024 is approximately £210, though this figure may vary based on factors like location, spa size, and how often you use it. As a Hydropool retailer, we believe in being transparent about the costs associated with owning a swim spa so that you can make an informed decision before making your purchase.
If you’re considering adding a swim spa to your home and would like more tailored advice based on your specific circumstances, feel free to reach out to us or visit our showroom. We’re happy to answer any questions and help you find the perfect swim spa that fits your budget and lifestyle.