When you think of hot tubs, Canada, and sub-freezing temperatures, what's the first thing that comes to mind? Could it be high energy bills? Hot tubs in the winter don't necessarily mean that your water heater must run continuously. In fact, it's possible to conserve energy and still enjoy hot tubs. Covers, timers, and shelters play an important role in this and are well worth the investment.

The Importance of Covering Hot Tubs

Cover your hot tub any time it's not in use. Covers serve several purposes:

• They keep debris out of hot tubs

• Covers prevent children and pets from falling in

• They prevent water loss due to evaporation

• They insulate and conserve energy

Did you know that hot tub covers become less energy efficient with age? Covers absorb water over time. If you've noticed that your hot tub's cover has become heavier over the years, its foam core is likely waterlogged. When this happens, its insulating properties diminish and it becomes less energy efficient. If your hot tub cover has become waterlogged or is over about five years old, it's time to replace it.

Use a thermal blanket along with your hot tub's cover to keep heat in when not in use. Doing so will use less energy than it would if you allowed heat to escape.

The Importance of a Hot Tub Timer

In addition to using a cover, timers are great energy savers for hot tubs in Ontario. Unlike hot water used for washing dishes and taking a bath, you don't generally need hot water in your hot tub 24/7. In the winter, you will need to keep the water at a warm enough temperature to prevent freezing and a timer can help you regulate the water temperature when not in use.

In addition to preventing freezing, you can set your timer to heat the water to your desired temperature about 20 minutes before you intend to use it. For example, if you regularly enjoy your hot tub on Friday evenings after you get home from work, set the timer to start heating it to your desired temperature on Friday afternoon while you're still at work. By the time you get home, the water should be just right.

The Importance of a Shelter for Hot Tubs

Covers and timers play an important role in conserving energy, but they're not the only tools you have available. If your hot tub is located outdoors, you may want to invest in a shelter. Your shelter may be an enclosed room or it could be as simple as a privacy screen that also blocks the wind. By sheltering your outdoor hot tub, you can further protect it from the elements and reduce heat loss.

The more that you can do to prevent heat from escaping your hot tub, the less energy it will require. By replacing your waterlogged hot tub's cover, using a thermal blanket, and sheltering an outdoor hot tub, your hot tub will retain more of its heat. Add a timer to regulate the temperature and pre-heat the hot tub when needed and you'll conserve even more energy.

Jacuzzi Ontario has retail locations scattered across Ontario as well as an informative website, making ordering new hot tub covers, thermal blankets, and hot tub timers a simple matter. You can even get a price quote online. If you want to get the most out of Canadian hot tubs, plan on visiting Jacuzzi Ontario in person, online, or on Facebook today.