Hot Tub | Energy Efficient Covers & Mats

Yes, thermal covers can significantly cut your hot tub’s running costs by reducing heat loss overnight by up to 70% and lowering heating expenses by 40–50%. Covered spas maintain heat for 12+ hours (vs 4–6 uncovered), heat up 30–40% faster, and use about half the energy for temperature maintenance.

They also reduce water evaporation by 70%, prevent wind and rain cooling, and boost heating efficiency, especially in winter, when savings can exceed 60%. For maximum benefit, choose a Wave Thermal Cover and pair it with our Foam Mats.

Thermal mats are insulating barriers placed between your hot tub’s base and the ground, preventing 25–30% of heat loss through ground contact. Without one, spas can lose significant warmth to cold concrete, decking, or soil, especially in winter.

Made from high-density, weather-resistant foam and sized to fit all Wave models, these mats not only improve energy efficiency but also offer puncture protection, added comfort, and structural support. In summer, they block ground moisture; in winter, they prevent freeze damage.

Installed before spa setup on a flat surface, they require only an annual check and mild cleaning. Paired with a thermal cover, they can reduce energy costs by as much as 60% for maximum efficiency.

The most effective energy-saving accessory for any hot tub is a thermal cover, delivering a 40–50% energy reduction and paying for itself quickly, this should be your first investment. Adding a thermal ground mat boosts savings to around 60%, particularly important for inflatable models (also offering puncture protection) and cold climates.

In cold regions, the full accessory set will save around 50% in energy costs annually; in milder climates, a good-quality cover alone often meets most needs. Foam models benefit most from a perfectly fitted cover, while inflatables gain extra efficiency and durability from a ground mat.

If your hot tub isn’t heating efficiently, common culprits include poor insulation (missing/damaged cover or mat can double heating time), dirty filters reducing circulation by up to 30%, or incorrect water chemistry affecting heater performance. Wind exposure, cold ambient temperatures, and direct ground contact without thermal protection also slow heating.

Start by cleaning filters, checking pH levels, and ensuring you have a good thermal cover and mat. You can boost efficiency further by lowering the thermostat 1–2°C, using the spa during warmer parts of the day, and keeping it covered when not in use. If you see an E3 error code or notice persistent heating issues despite these fixes, please contact our support team. Regular maintenance and seasonal prep help prevent most heating problems.

To manage energy costs year-round, use a thermal cover and ground mat as your foundation, they can save up to 60%, especially critical in winter (Nov–Feb), along with windbreaks for exposed spas and optional floating liners in extreme cold. During winter, keep the temperature steady at 97–100°F for efficiency. In spring (Mar–May), lower the thermostat by 1–2°F as it warms, keep using your cover, and deep-clean your energy accessories. Summer (Jun–Aug) still calls for the cover to prevent overheating and evaporation, consider slightly cooler settings and cover the spa during the hottest hours. In autumn (Sep–Nov), inspect and replace worn accessories and prepare your spa for winter heating with chemical balance optimization.

Year-round, never run your spa without a thermal cover, maintain all accessories, and monitor energy use to spot trends. Adjust these tips based on your local climate, milder regions need less insulation than colder ones.