Hot Tub Air Source Heat Pumps – Are They Worth it?

How Does a Hot Tub Air Source Heat Pump Work?

A hot tub air source heat pump is designed to extract heat from the surrounding air, amplify its temperature using a compressor, and then transfer the elevated heat to your hot tub. The process operates through the following stages:

1. The heat pump’s fan efficiently draws air over tubes filled with refrigerant, which subsequently absorbs the heat and transitions into a gaseous state.
2. Utilising an electric pump, the gaseous refrigerant undergoes compression, significantly raising its temperature. The heated gas is then channelled into a heat exchanger, where it effectively transfers its heat to the hot tub water.
3. As the refrigerant gas passes through a pressure valve, it cools down and reverts to its liquid state, resetting the cycle for continuous operation.

Hot tub air source heat pumps perform optimally in warmer weather conditions, as they can extract more heat from the air, leading to greater efficiency. However, they are also capable of functioning in temperatures as low as -15°C. Although it may require a longer duration to heat the hot tub in colder conditions, the heat pump maintains its efficiency and reliability.

Will an Air Source Heat Pump Affect the Heating in My House?

If you have an air source heat pump for your hot tub, it will not affect the heating system in your house. This is because it is fitted to the hot tub only.

Many households in the UK have gas central heating and whilst you can have air-source heat pumps connected to the main heating of your house, this is a separate topic.

Are Hot Tub Air Source Heat Pumps Expensive to Run in the UK?

Compared to just having a standard 32 amp electrical supply to your hot tub, no. With an impressive efficiency rating of approximately 300%, air-source heat pumps outperform conventional hot tub heaters by a considerable margin.

This high efficiency translates to substantial savings on your heating expenses. For instance, we have found that the 7kw AquaIntel heat pump on a 32 amp hot tub saw a decrease in energy of up to 65%. In preliminary tests conducted on hot tubs, daily heating costs decreased from £3.76 to £1.35.

In terms of electricity costs for your hot tub, an air source heat pump can result in annual savings in some cases of well over £500. As energy costs continue to escalate, these savings are poised to grow even further.

How Much Does an Air Source Heat Pump Cost?

Depending on the make and model, from £1,200 to £3,500 to buy. For an independent contractor to install one on your hot tub, the cost may be around £300-£400+. 

When considering the total outlay, do consider the savings and the lifespan of your hot tub. As an example:

• Air source heat pump cost to buy and have fitted: £2,500 
• Hot tub lifespan: 10+ years
• Energy savings: £500+ per year
• Total lifespan energy savings: £5,000+

One of our most popular air source heat pumps is the AquaIntel 7kw heat pump which costs £1,799. Alternatively, we have a 3kW EcoFlow air source heat pump at £1,495. For more models, check our air source heat pump range.

As a bonus, with us, you get this cost-saving piece of kit with installation included on some of our hot tubs. 

Are Air Source Heat Pumps Noisy?

As a general rule, no. This will vary between models and manufacturers though.

Both the AquaIntel 7kw & EcoFlow air source heat pumps run at 43dB(A) which is between a human whisper and rainfall. The Silence range is lower than that.

Conclusion – Are they worth it?

Having a hot tub air source heat pump fitted is a great way to be energy efficient and whilst it will cost initially, the savings over time more than make up for it. 

We would certainly recommend it and we have found that more and more of our past customers are coming back to us to have one fitted. 

If you have any questions on this, feel free to get in touch and our team would be happy to help wherever possible. Make sure to take a look at our 9 Essential Considerations For Buying A Hot Tub

You can email sa***@*****************co.uk or call us on 01246 261 807.