Save energy when you heat up your hot tub by following these tips:

• Set the hot tub heater thermostat to maintain a 102 degree temperature.
• If your hot tub has a timer, you can help reduce peak loads and pressure on utility rates by programming the timer to “off” from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• Turn down the thermostat when you’re on vacation.
• Because most hot tub heat loss is through the cover, it’s important to use a foam cover with good insulation qualities and keep it in good condition. Replace the cover if the interior foam is broken or water saturated. Make sure the cover and tub lip fit snugly, straps are tied and the cover is latched when the hot tub is not in use.
• Add a floating blanket to help retain heat and reduce the amount of moisture building up on the inside of your solid cover.
• Drain the hot tub only when necessary; if you use it heavily, draining every three to four months is sufficient. Drain your hot tub to a sanitary sewer or use the water for lawn irrigation. Make sure no chemicals have been added for at least 48-72 hours before draining.
• Cut wind exposure to avoid heat loss by installing privacy panels, landscaping or fencing.
• If you’re thinking of buying a hot tub, be sure to buy an energy-efficient model. An average sized energy-efficient hot tub consumes five to seven kilowatt-hours per day, while a poorly insulated, inefficient hot tub can use 12 to 18 kilowatt-hours per day.