How To Heat A Hot Tub Without A Heater
If you've recently dealt with your hot tub heater breaking down, you may feel like you're out of luck. As you already know, your heater is one of the main components in your hot tub.
Luckily, there are ways that you can heat your hot tub without a heater. Of course, we do recommend that you get your heater fixed as soon as you possibly can, even if you decide to use this method, as, without it, your hot tub's energy efficiency will drastically decrease.
For the time being, follow the methods below to heat your hot tub without a heater.
Use Your Hot Tub Without A Heater
If you live in a sunny region, one of the best ways to heat your hot tub up is by simply leaving it in the sun.
Of course, this can take many hours, if not days, but it can bring your hot tub up to a healthy soaking temperature if you're patient.
If you choose to heat your hot tub in the sun, you will want to make sure to keep the cover on.
Remember, one of the primary reasons for owning a cover is to trap heat in your hot tub.
You can almost think of your hot tub cover as a lid on a boiling pot. The minute you take your cover off your hot tub, heat will begin seeping out.
A quality locking cover on a well-insulated hot tub has the ability to maintain heat for surprisingly long periods. If you have a waterlogged hot tub cover, shop for new ones at the cover guy reviews article, or if you think it can be saved, DIY hot tub cover repairs are also an option. To make sure your hot tub cover is working optimally to maintain temperature, it is important to section out a portion of your maintenance routine for cover care. Cleaning your cover every once in a while by removing debris and spraying it down can keep it from cracking, developing holes, and becoming waterlogged.
The Impact of Your Landscaping
You might also want to consider where your hot tub is placed in your backyard. For example, if your hot tub is placed under a tree or is shaded by an awning, it won't have a chance to heat up using sunlight. In this case, you may consider moving your hot tub to an area where it can receive direct sun exposure.
You may also consider installing a windshield in your yard surrounding your hot tub. These are inexpensive and ultra-effective solutions for blocking out wind, which can quickly lower your water temperature.
Improve Your Hot Tub Insulation to Maintain Heat
The majority of heat loss in a hot tub comes from the surface of the water. If you're making use of sunlight and ambient temperature to keep your hot tub warm during the summer, it is crucial to make sure your insulation can maintain that heat.
If you have an older spa, you might consider adding more insulation to maintain a warm temperature.
We recommend adding attic insulation or wall insulation to the inside of your hot tub cabinetry to boost its heat-retaining capabilities. We also offer instructions on how to insulate a hot tub if that is the direction you choose to go.
Troubleshooting Your Spa Heater
If your hot tub isn't staying hot, one of the very first things that you should check is the filter. Filters often get clogged, forcing the heater to fizzle out. If you find debris of any kind in your filter, clean it out and see if that does the trick.
If your filter isn't the issue, you might want to check the heat sensor or the thermostat.
Depending on how long you've had your hot tub, the electrical components may have gone bad. In that case, it may be as simple as replacing your components that aren't working.
If the thermostat is in good condition and your heat sensors are firing away, the last thing you'll want to check is your spa circulation system. Your hot tub water won't be able to circulate properly if the plumbing is clogged. When the water isn't able to circulate, your hot tub will gradually cool down once it's done heating up.
If your plumbing is clogged, you will need to drain the water and clean your hot tub using a hot tub-friendly line flushing product.
What If My Hot Tub Isn't Heating At All?
A lack of heat may stem from two major points in your hot tub, including your hot tub pump or your heating element. Both of these elements can be easily replaced by referencing your owner's manual.
The heating element can be found in the hot tub housing. The housing is the portion of the heater that exchanges heat to the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use My Hot Tub Without A Heater?
If your heater stops working during the summer, you may not even have to repair it just yet to get enjoyment out of your hot tub. Many people choose to put their hot tub heaters in sleep mode or economy mode during the summers anyway, as it allows them to enjoy the cool water.
A hot tub can be a wonderful alternative to a swimming pool!
Of course, if you choose to keep your heater in sleep mode or economy mode during the summer, you must keep your pumps running. We see so many hot tub owners make the mistake of cutting the power to their hot tubs completely. Without water running through your pump system, bacteria can build up.
To use your hot tub safely without your heater, refer to your hot tub owner's manual, as every brand has different heating modes.
How Do I Cool My Hot Tub Down?
One of the best ways to cool your hot tub down during the summer is by throwing ice in it.
To dispel any potential fears you may have, ice will not ruin your hot tub.
However, you need to be cautious about the amount of ice that you add, as you could end up overfilling your hot tub.
Do note that you may also have to make some adjustments to your chemical balance if you choose to add ice to your hot tub, as you'll have more freshwater without chlorine.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Spa Heater?
Replacing a heater in a hot tub will typically cost anywhere from $250 to $650, which includes the cost of the heating element. A heater will last up to five years on average before it begins developing issues, including:
Typically, knowing whether a heater has gone bad or not requires minimal inspection.
Final Thoughts - Using a Hot Tub Without a Heater
So, as you can see, if your hot tub heater isn't working right now and you can't fix it due to financial or time restrictions, you can still benefit from using it.
During the summer, you may choose to heat it up by harnessing the power of the sun. On the other hand, you may choose to keep it cool by shading it or adding ice to keep it cold.
When all is said and done, the most efficient way to heat up your hot tub is with your heater, and there is no way around it.
Here at Yardsharing, we have a few hot tub troubleshooting guides that can help you repair any potential issues with your system. Make sure to head over to our blog to find out ways in which you can repair your hot tub with ease!
Of course, don't be afraid to get in touch with a professional if you suspect it is an electrical problem, as dealing with water and electricity can be dangerous.
Good luck and happy hot tubbing!
