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Generally, it is more cost-effective and energy-efficient to leave your hot tub on all the time rather than turning it on and off. Reheating a hot tub from a cold temperature consumes a significant amount of energy, so maintaining a constant temperature is usually more economical, especially with frequent use.

For daily or weekly use, it's recommended to keep the water at a constant, reduced temperature, such as between 80 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit, and then increase it to your desired temperature before getting in. If you know you won't be using the hot tub for an extended period, you can lower the temperature to save on energy costs. However, if you use it very infrequently, you can turn it off completely, as long as there is no risk of the water freezing.

Most hot tub motors can last between five and 10 years; however, hot tub motors can burn out sooner if the hot tub water is not maintained or if the motors themselves are not maintained or protected from the elements. Since hot tub motors (also referred to as spa pumps) power the jets and circulate the water, they are important for the functioning of your spa. Buying a quality motor, keeping the hot tub filter clean, and keeping the wet end of the motor wet and the dry end dry can help them last longer.

Properly maintaining your hot tub will prevent serious issues from occurring down the road. You should replace the filter once a year, regularly look for and repair small cracks in the shell, and test the water quality every few months. You can do this yourself for less than $100 per year.

You can also hire a hot tub service to service your hot tub annually to identify problems early, which could save you money in the long run. They cost about $100 to $200 per call.

No. In fact, some owners prefer to “summerize” their hot tubs and use them primarily over winter to enjoy the contrast of cold and hot water. It’s possible to keep the tub filled and running year-round, and some pros may even recommend this method compared to the work and risks of a full winterization every year.

However, keeping the hot tub running will require additional resources. You’ll use more power and more chemicals to keep it in good shape. Weigh the pros and cons of your situation before making a decision.