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How much does a hot tub cost to run?

Written by James Whitfield · Updated 28 October 2026 · 6 min read · Checked against 2026/27 DWP & HMRC rates
Contents (4 sections)
  1. Quick answer: hot tub running costs
  2. Costs an hour
  3. Electrical safety
  4. Who these figures cover
Quick answer: hot tub running costs
  • Lay-Z-Spa's figures: heater 2000 W, filter pump 50 W, massage 800 W; the socket must support 2050 W while heating.1
  • Heating with the filter running costs 54p an hour at 26.32p per kWh. The filter alone: 1.3p an hour.
  • Lay-Z-Spa: “The cost of running a Lay‑Z‑Spa hot tub depends on many individual circumstances.”1
  • Last checked: 28 October 2026.

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Costs an hour

At full rated power while each part runs.

Lay-Z-Spa, 26.32p per kWh
RunningAn hour
Heater and filter (2050 W)54p
Massage (800 W)21.1p
Filter pump (50 W)1.3p

Electrical safety

Lay-Z-Spa: “No, extension cables cannot be used with a Lay‑Z‑Spa.” and “always use a grounded socket with RCD protection.”1

Who these figures cover

Costs use the Ofgem price cap average for England, Scotland and Wales, 26.32p per kWh by Direct Debit, 1 October to 31 December 2026. Your region and tariff change it.2

HMRC: “The temporary zero rate applies from 1 October 2026 to 30 June 2027.” The Budget on 28 October 2026 extended it from 31 March (announced; the legislation is due in early 2027). Gas stays at 5% VAT.3 In Northern Ireland, use the unit rate on your bill.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hot tub cost an hour?
54p an hour while heating, for a Lay-Z-Spa at 26.32p per kWh.
Can I use an extension lead?
No. Lay-Z-Spa says extension cables cannot be used.

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Sources & references

The figures and rules in this guide are drawn from the official UK government sources below. Rates are the confirmed 2026/27 amounts. Each link opens the relevant official page in a new tab.

  1. Lay-Z-Spa: FAQ www.lay-z-spa.co.uk/pages/lay-z-spa-faq
  2. Ofgem: Energy price cap unit rates and standing charges, 1 October to 31 December 2026 www.ofgem.gov.uk/your-energy-supply/your-energy-bill/energy-price-cap-unit-rates-and-standing-charges
  3. HMRC: VAT on fuel and power (Notice 701/19), updated 28 October 2026 www.gov.uk/guidance/vat-on-fuel-and-power-notice-70119
Verified against published UK government guidance.
Independent guide only. Written using published 2026/27 DWP and HMRC figures. Not an official government service. For case-specific guidance, contact Citizens Advice or a welfare-rights adviser. Methodology · Editorial standards

Written and reviewed by James Whitfield and the editorial team.

Every figure is checked against current GOV.UK guidance and reviewed for the 2026/27 tax year. We explain the numbers in plain English with worked examples. Editorial standards · About us