Hot tubs are inviting because they offer a warm, bubbly bath that soothes your entire body. If you purchased a new hot tub, you might wonder how long to heat up hot tub. It can take longer than you anticipated.
The water heater in your hot tub determines how long it takes to heat the water in the hot tub. A powerful heater can heat your hot tub faster to your desired temperature. However, it can take three to eight hours for hot tubs that don’t have an efficient heater.
There’s much to know about hot tubs other than how long it takes to heat the water inside. Read on to answer lingering questions about prepping a tub before a warm bath.
How Long Does It Take To Heat Up Hot Tub Water?
A hot tub in good condition can increase the water’s temperature by 3 to 6 degrees every hour. Keep the hot tub’s covers on; heat can’t escape from the water’s surface.
Some hot tubs can take around 4 hours to reach 100 degrees, but it might take up to 8 hours to reach the ideal temperature.
The time it takes for your hot tub to reach its desired temperature depends on the condition of its parts, such as the water heater, pump, cover, and jets. It may take longer to heat the water if some features are worn out or not functioning correctly.
Factors Affecting A Hot Tub’s Heating Time
Most hot tubs usually have a maximum capacity of holding 320 gallons of water which could take a long time to heat up. There are factors affecting the time it takes to heat a hot tub; here are some of the following:
Initial Water Temperature
Specifying the base temperature of your hot tub’s water is essential. The starting temperature of your tub affects how quickly the water heats up.
Leaving your hot tub running can help shorten the time it takes to heat the water. However, this process will cost you in the long run, increasing your electricity bills.
You can choose not to use the tub’s equipment if you live in a place with mild weather. But if you use it again, it will take a longer time to heat the cold water.
Surrounding Temperature
The cold or warm air around your hot tub is the ambient air temperature. If your tub is outside, surrounded by cold air, instead of being indoors where it’s warmer, the heating process will take longer.
If your hot tub is in a windy spot, it’s hard to control the surrounding temperature. You can create a windscreen that prevents air from coming in by installing a fence enclosing the yard. Other ways to block the harsh air include:
- Installing a windshield on the side of the tub.
- Planting two rows of shrubs around the tub.
- Putting the tub in a compact area.
You can also take advantage of the sun’s warmth by placing your hot tub in a sunny location; it can gradually increase the hot tub heat.
Thermal Insulation
A hot tub will heat up more quickly with the proper insulation to retain the heat inside. Heat can leak out through gaps and tiny cracks in the tub and can escape into the air, prolonging the process of heating the water.
Another spot where the heated water could lose its heat is the hot tub’s base. If your tub is placed on a concrete pad, it can heat up slower.
Determine all the potential sources of leakage, like the hot tub cabinet, and add insulation to reduce the risk of the heat escaping outside the tub.
How To Heat Hot Tubs Faster
There is speculation on whether using a hot tub’s jets can heat a hot tub faster. Some hot tub owners believe running the jet while heating the water warms the water more tightly. Others claim that activating the jets slows down the water heating of a hot tub.
Nevertheless, switching the jets on is not a problem because they help you achieve your desired water ambient temperature.
It’s difficult to know precisely how long does it take for a hot tub to heat. However, following some simple steps can increase a tub’s heating element efficiency.
Use A Hot Tub Cover
Hot tub covers are the first line of defense to prevent heat loss. The water heats up faster with the help of a thermally efficient cover. Using a hot tub cover, you can save money on maintenance.
Invest In A Floating Thermal Blanket
A hot tub heat faster by using floating thermal blankets. They’re insulated sheets used to trap heat inside the water, especially useful during winter.
Add an extra layer of protection using a thermal blanket underneath your hot tub’s cover. Thermal blankets have different sizes that can fit various types of hot tubs.
Run A Maintenance Check
If you plan on having a relaxing soak in your hot tub, you need to make sure that it’s kept in good condition. Fix any outdated and damaged parts of your hot tub as soon as you notice them. A hot tub in good condition can reduce energy costs.
A hot tub heats effectively when maintained in good working condition. Although maintenance is time-consuming, it could affect how well the hot tub’s heating system works. If you don’t take proper care of your hot tub’s components, you risk ruining them.
Help your hot tub heat quicker by improving water circulation; make it function effectively for a short period by doing the following:
- Ensuring the jets function properly.
- Maintaining the pump frequently.
- Cleaning and replacing the filters as needed.
Conclusion
Most hot tub owners will do anything to enjoy a warm bath in their hot tub as soon as possible. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce the time it takes to heat a hot tub, such as installing a new heater and creating a windbreaker.
Additionally, you might want to invest in a high-durable filtration system; this can effectively heat your hot tub’s water and keep the chemicals at safe levels.
Keep these tips in mind the next time you heat a hot tub.
