Hot tubs have become a popular way for us to relax at home and create a spa-like environment in our gardens. They offer therapeutic benefits for our muscles and joints, and they are a pleasant way for us to socialise or unwind after a long day.
However, traditional hot tubs can use a lot of energy, which makes many people look for more efficient options.
When we search for the best energy efficient hot tubs, it is important to consider a few key features. The type of insulation, the quality of the cover, the heating system, and the size all have a direct impact on energy use.
Price, maintenance needs, and available space are also important. Our research focused on comparing these aspects to find hot tubs that help us save energy without sacrificing comfort.
Best Energy Efficient Hot Tubs
We have highlighted the top energy efficient hot tubs available right now. Let’s take a look at our picks to help you save on electricity without giving up comfort.
1. Lay-Z-Spa Helsinki Hot Tub
If we want an energy efficient hot tub that’s easy to set up and enjoyable all year, this is a top pick for families or groups.
Pros
- Keeps heat in well and stays warm even on chilly evenings
- Simple to assemble, inflate, and fill in under half an hour
- Spacious inside for relaxing with friends or family
Cons
- The cover can sometimes lose air and needs topping up
- Jets make a fair bit of noise when in use
- The liner may occasionally develop small leaks if not handled gently
Setting up the Helsinki Hot Tub was surprisingly straightforward. We managed to get everything ready in less than 30 minutes, and the simple controls made balancing the temperature effortless.
The wood-effect exterior gives it a stylish look, blending in nicely beside our patio.
We appreciated the sturdy sides, which felt reliable and supportive when getting in and out. While the AirJet system creates enough bubbles for a relaxing massage, it does get relatively loud when all the jets are running.
It’s still one of the most comfortable hot tubs we’ve tried, and there’s plenty of room for up to six adults without feeling cramped.
Insulation is impressive. The Freeze Shield technology meant we could use it throughout the winter without massive energy bills.
However, we did notice the inflatable lid losing firmness from time to time, so it’s worth keeping an eye on that. Overall, this Lay-Z-Spa Helsinki Hot Tub strikes a great balance between affordability, energy efficiency, and comfort.
1. Lay-Z-Spa New York EnergySense Hot Tub
Anyone who values energy efficiency and ease of use in a hot tub will find the Lay-Z-Spa New York EnergySense a clever addition to their home.
Pros
- Runs noticeably cheaper thanks to the thermal insulation
- Lets us relax with strong bubble massage jets
- Easy to put together and sturdy in use
Cons
- The cover could fit more snugly
- Creases can appear in the base material
- Bulky to move once filled
After a few weeks with this Lay-Z-Spa, we’re impressed by how much energy we’ve saved compared to older models. The new insulation really helps keep the water warm overnight, so we’re not constantly topping up the temperature.
We like not worrying as much about running costs, especially when using it several evenings in a row.
Setting everything up went smoothly with clear instructions and simple steps.
The hot tub feels strong and steady, and the included cover is easy to use, but we did find a bit of a loose fit around the top after a few uses.
This does make us check it before heading inside for the evening to make sure all the heat stays where it should.
We particularly enjoy the bubble massage jets, which fill the tub with soothing bubbles at the push of a button. It’s spacious enough for everyone to enjoy at once.
Overall, the Lay-Z-Spa New York EnergySense offers a good blend of efficiency and relaxation for families or anyone wanting less hassle on their energy bills.
1. Wave Atlantic Energy-Efficient Hot Tub
This is a smart choice for those of us focused on saving energy while enjoying a decent garden soak.
Pros
- Keeps water warm with great heat retention features
- Simple and fast setup—no headaches
- Solid and weather-resistant build
Cons
- The included heater could be better explained in instructions
- High cost compared to smaller tubs
- Some may find the cover awkward to fit just right
After trying the Wave Atlantic, we noticed the thermal cover and insulated mat really help keep the water at a consistent temperature, even when the breeze picks up.
This hot tub heats up quicker than others we’ve used, so we found ourselves wasting less time waiting and more time relaxing. The foam mat gives the base a bit of extra comfort underfoot, which made a noticeable difference during longer soaks.
We found the bubble jets to be gently invigorating, perfect for tired muscles after a long day. The entire hot tub feels durable and has a stylish, neutral look that blends in easily with patio furniture or garden décor.
We set this one up ourselves and got everything bubbling in less than an hour.
The downsides are worth noting: fitting the cover can be fiddly at first, and the setup isn’t quite tool-free if you follow every step closely.
With a price tag a bit above the basic models, it’s still a fair investment for energy savings and long-term enjoyment. For us, the balance of comfort, warmth, and lower running bills make it a top pick among portable, energy-conscious tubs.
1. Lay-Z-Spa Santorini Pro Hot Tub
Anyone who wants an energy-efficient and feature-rich hot tub for the whole family should consider this model.
Pros
- The energy saving timer really helps keep the electricity bills down.
- Built-in HydroJet and AirJet system feels genuinely soothing after a long day.
- LED lighting adds a nice touch of atmosphere for evening soaks.
Cons
- The setup instructions could be easier to follow.
- Lid quality isn’t quite as robust as we’d like.
- Fitting in the maximum number of people feels a bit tight.
We found the Lay-Z-Spa Santorini Pro surprisingly easy to keep warm, especially using its energy saving timer. Setting our soak schedule means it’s always ready without constantly needing to reheat, which really helps.
The built-in massage system is top notch; the combination of jets and bubbles actually feels relaxing rather than just noisy.
Our first attempt at setup wasn’t the smoothest since the manual is vague, but a few online videos quickly cleared things up.
Once inflated, it looks inviting and more expensive than expected. Sitting in it with the coloured LED lights cycling in the evening gives a lovely atmosphere, and the soft-touch pillows actually made it comfortable enough for long sessions.
For families or small groups, it’s a good fit but the space gets cramped once you get past four adults.
We appreciated the Freeze Shield during a chilly weekend, keeping everything working smoothly without worry.
Overall, it’s a great choice if you want efficiency and comfort without breaking the bank.
1. Wave Como Eco Foam Hot Tub
This model stands out for impressive energy efficiency and solid comfort, though we think build quality might be hit or miss.
Pros
- Holds heat remarkably well, even on cooler evenings
- Quick to set up with minimal fuss
- Feels sturdy, better than flimsy inflatables
Cons
- Lid is awkward and can collect rainwater
- Customer service response time is slow
- May not actually seat six adults comfortably
We set up the Wave Como in under half an hour without needing any special tools. The rigid foam walls gave us confidence straight away, as they felt much more durable than the inflatable tubs we’ve tried in the past.
Fitting it in our garden was easy and the octagonal shape looks modern.
Using the hot tub was relaxing, and the rapid heating system worked faster than expected. Once warmed up, it kept the temperature steady and we didn’t have to worry about running up the electric bill.
The insulation clearly pays off, especially for longer soaks.
There are some drawbacks that stood out for us. The cover is tricky to handle alone and seems to gather water if left out in the rain.
Also, fitting six adults inside felt cramped. If you’re looking for a spacious option for a group, this might come up short.
We also noticed mixed feedback about the inner lining and had our own concerns about after-sales support, so keep that in mind when deciding.
Buying Guide
Before we pick a hot tub, we should think about our space and how many people will use it. We need to check the size so it fits well in our garden or patio.
Insulation is important. Look for quality foam or thermal wraps. This keeps heat in and saves energy, lowering our running costs.
Heating systems vary. Some tubs have fast-heating pumps, while others use energy-saving modes. We should pick one that balances quick heating with low energy use.
We must look at the cover quality. A thick, well-sealing cover stops heat escaping when the tub is not in use.
Below is a quick comparison of key features to check:
| Feature | Why it Matters |
|---|---|
| Insulation | Reduces heat loss and saves money |
| Pump Efficiency | Uses less power per session |
| Cover Fit | Prevents heat escape |
| Jet Technology | Some offer energy-saving options |
| Controls | Look for programmable settings |
It helps to review the energy rating. Some hot tubs offer better power usage based on new efficiency standards.
Easy-to-use controls are a bonus. Programmable timers and eco modes let us manage energy smarter.
We should also ask about maintenance. Filters and water treatments can affect long-term efficiency and cost.