Want to cut spa heating costs? A spa heat pump keeps your water warm (or cool) year-round while using less energy. This guide covers how they work, costs, savings, and whether it’s the right option for you.
Want to lower your spa running costs? A heat pump could be a smart investment, helping you maintain a warm, comfortable spa while using significantly less energy. But how much can it really save? And is it the right choice for you?
In this article, we’ll break down how spa heat pumps work, their costs, efficiency, and whether they’re worth it in the long run.
A spa pool heat pump works like a household heat pump, but instead of heating or cooling air, it regulates the temperature of your spa or swim spa water.
Unlike traditional electric or gas heaters, heat pumps use ambient air to generate heat, making them a more energy-efficient option. Some models can also cool the water, which is perfect for hot summer days.
A heat pump is an external unit that sits outside the spa and connects via pipes and fittings to the spa’s plumbing system.
It is important to note that heat pumps only work with heat pump-compatible spas, such as those sold by Spa World.
Heat pumps function like reverse-cycle air conditioners—they extract warmth from the surrounding air, amplify it, and transfer it to your spa water through a heat exchanger.
Most spa heat pumps can generate up to five times more heat energy than the electricity they consume, making them a cost-effective alternative to standard electric or gas heaters.
They take about the same amount of time to heat the water as built-in electric elements but do so far more efficiently.
Thinking about installing a spa heat pump? Read our step-by-step guide on how to do it right, Please note: This guide is for SpaNet™ SV Series™ Heat Pumps.
Yes, heat pumps are considered the most energy-efficient heating option for spas and swim spas.
Comparison with other heating methods:
Heat pumps are by far the most energy efficient and cost-effective way to heat your spa.
Using refrigeration technology, they heat your spa water much faster and use less energy than the spa’s inbuilt electric heaters.
While individual savings vary based on spa size, climate, and usage habits, heat pumps can significantly reduce electricity costs—often paying for themselves within 2 to 3 years for a standard spa and as little as 12 months for a swim spa.
The cost of running a spa heat pump depends on several factors:
For every 1 kilowatt of electricity used:
This efficiency can translate to hundreds or even thousands of dollars in savings over the lifespan of your spa.
Over a short amount of time, the electricity savings repay the investment, resulting in a $0 net cost. The return on investment (ROI) can be as short as 12 months for a swim spa and 2 to 3 years for a standard spa.
Curious about how much you could save with a heat pump?
Use the Spa World Heat Pump Calculator to estimate potential savings based on your spa’s size, location, and usage.
Note: This calculator provides a general estimate. Actual savings may vary based on climate, insulation, and energy costs.
The price of a spa heat pump varies depending on brand, size, and efficiency. Generally, prices range between $3,400 and $5,200.
As an example, we’ve compared four models of SpaNet® heat pumps, one of the world’s most popular heat pump brands.
SpaNet® heat pump prices (RRP at the time of writing—check with the retailer for the latest prices):
For the latest pricing, visit the Spa Store website.
Larger units with higher kilowatt ratings typically cost more but also offer faster heating times and greater energy savings.
Pros:
Cons:
A spa heat pump makes sense if:
A heat pump may not be necessary if:
Important: If a Purezone™ filter is included in your spa, it should not be used with a heat pump, as it may cause a water flow error. We recommend using pleated filters instead.
A heat pump is one of the most efficient ways to heat your spa or swim spa, offering up to 75% energy savings compared to traditional electric heaters.
Not only can a heat pump heat your spa, but many models also offer cooling functionality, allowing you to enjoy a refreshing dip in warmer months.
With various models available for Fisher Spas™, Vortex Spas™, and Jacuzzi® Spas, it’s essential to select the right one for your setup.
Use our heat pump model reference guide to find the best option for your spa and maximise energy efficiency. Click the button below for full details.
Explore a wide range of heat pumps for all spa and swim spa sizes on the Spa Store New Zealand website.
If you’re unsure whether a heat pump is right for your spa, visiting a showroom or speaking with a spa specialist can help you make an informed decision.
Visit your nearest Spa World showroom or schedule a virtual consultation with a spa expert.
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