About
ASAP

Hot Tubs

Last Updated: October 2007
See the federal standards main page to view current status

Portable electric spas are self-contained hot tubs. They are electrically heated and are popularly used in homes for relaxation and therapeutic effects. The most popular portable spas hold between 210 and 380 gallons of water; however, some models can hold as much as 500 gallons.

California adopted efficiency standards for portable electric spas, or hot tubs, in 2004, which specified maximum allowable standby energy consumption.  Over half the energy consumed by a typical hot tub is used for its heating system, making improved covers, increased insulation, and programmable thermostats key measures to improving efficiency.  The California standard is a modest initial effort and is probably met by the majority of spas now being sold. DOE is not currently required to set standards for these products. 

There is no recent ASAP activity regarding hot tubs.