Hot Tub Heater

Fire Up Your Spa Experience With The Right Hot Tub Heater

Part of the duty and responsibility of being a hot tub or spa owner includes a fairly regular maintenance of this source of relaxation and comfort.  One principle item that you may have to get is a replacement hot tub heater.  The reason for replacement may be from a heater that is no longer functioning, one that is not sufficiently heating the water, one that is no longer cost effective, or a host of other reasons.  Regardless of your situation, you will need to be aware of some options if it ever is heater replacement time for you.

Maybe you have an older hot tub that, by and large, still does the trick.  However, with rising energy costs, you may have come to a conclusion that your current hot tub heating mechanism is the culprit.   If you decide that your tub has plenty of life left in it, you might think seriously about an energy source change.  Your decision could be based on how frequently you use the tub or spa.  If it is a regular source of enjoyment then a heater change is probably in order.

Most of the time, your choices are simple -- gas or electric.  If you want to go "green," there are solar powered heater options.  These are considerably more expensive than the more traditional heaters.   But for long term energy costs this could be an alternative worth considering.

Though, if it is a choice between gas and electric, you will have to do a little comparative study.  What is the cost of gas or propane in your area?  Is gas and propane available?  How much water does your hot tub hold?  The answer to these questions and other could determine the road you go down.

You will also need to consider how much patience you have as a "hot tubber."  If you need immediate satisfaction and quick heating, you might opt for  a heater with a larger heating capacity.  If, on the other hand, you are primarily a plan-ahead-weekend-only soaker, a smaller heater may be just fine.

Typically the electric heaters are easier to use.  Either a 110 volt or 220 volt outlet is all that is required.  These are usually contained within the tub structure and are easier to repair than the average gas heater.  The gas and propane heaters are your best bets for frequent users.  Gas is mostly cheaper, especially with the newer heaters.

If you have a newer Bull Frog or Sundance hot tub, for example, your heater may be under an extended warranty.  Even if the warranty has expired, the newer spas typically have state of the art heaters with the best in heat transfer efficiency.  If this is the case, then simple replacement or repair is most likely your best bet.

Again, assessing your personal hot tub needs is the first step toward making a heater choice.  Once you have done that, you can weigh all the options.  Finally, make your decision and give yourself the soothing soak you deserve.