Are you ready to take your hot tub experience to the next level in 2023?
A cozy soak in a hot tub is a perfect way to unwind, relax, and soothe your tired muscles. Having the right hot tub heater is essential to make every dip enjoyable. As we dive into the new year, it’s time to explore the top contenders in the hot tub heater market.
We’ve scoured the options, considered user reviews, and evaluated performance to bring you our list of the best five hot tub heater products that promise to elevate your hot tub experience in 2023.
What Is a Hot Tub Heater?
A hot tub heater is an essential component responsible for warming the water in a hot tub, ensuring a relaxing and comfortable experience. There are three main types of hot tub heaters: electric, gas, and wood-fired.
Electric heaters are common, easy to use, and offer precise temperature control but can be costly to run. Gas heaters are efficient, quick to heat, and suitable for colder climates, albeit with higher installation costs.
Wood-fired heaters are eco-friendly and cost-effective but require more maintenance and are less common. The choice depends on personal preferences, budget, and climate, with a focus on energy efficiency, usability, and reliability.
Best Hot Tub Heaters
We know that finding the right hot tub heater can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available in the market.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best hot tub heaters currently available. So, whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end model, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
1. Briidea Hot Tub Heater
- FAST HEATING: Briidea Titanium Heater has 1300W of power and is designed to heat liquids quickly and keep them at the temperature you want
- ACCURATE TEMPERATURE CONTROL: The sensitive and corrosion-resistant temperature sensor can be submerged directly in the liquid to accurately maintain the temperature within 0.1°C of your desired level,...
- EASY TO USE: You can set the expected temperature by pressing the button, which is easy to operate, besides, the set comes with a power-off memory function; the LED screen displays both the set temperature...
- SAFE & RELIABLE: The product uses UL-certified wire and comes with GFCI plug to effectively protect your safety; compared to stainless steel, the titanium alloy heating rod has good heat resistance and...
We highly recommend the Briidea Hot Tub Heater for those looking for an efficient and reliable way to heat their hot tubs or other liquid containers.
Pros
- The Briidea Titanium Heater heats liquids quickly and accurately, maintaining the desired temperature within 0.1°C, eliminating the need to worry about saving energy and overheating.
- The product is easy to use, with a simple button operation and an LED screen that displays both the set and current temperature.
- The Briidea Hot Tub Heater is safe and reliable with UL-certified wire and a GFCI plug for effective protection against electrical hazards.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the heater is not powerful enough to heat a large hot tub.
- The product requires regular cleaning to prevent buildup and maintain optimal performance.
- One user reported a fire caused by leaving the heater on and out of the water, highlighting the importance of following the product’s instructions and safety guidelines.
The Briidea Hot Tub Heater offers an efficient and user-friendly solution for heating hot tubs and liquid containers. Its quick heating and precise temperature control ensure reliability, while safety features enhance peace of mind.
However, it may not be ideal for larger hot tubs or those seeking low-maintenance options. Overall, the Briidea Hot Tub Heater is a solid investment for a warm and relaxing soak.
2. UCEDER Hot Tub Heater With Adjustable Temperature Thermostat
- Requires a 20A circuit(Connect 20A adapter or breaker),with 1.5" outlet , min 0.35MPA pressure,suggest work with at least 0.25HP,suitable small bathtub & spa tub /hot tub 2 KW /110V-120V.No plug, just 3...
- We suggest water capacity not more than 400 US gallon,the heater won't work if it exceeds the standard, see the picture 2.
- We suggest the pump not less than 200 wat (3600 L/ h), small pump will cause the heater cannot work,see the picture 3.
- Make sure the mount direction is correct,arrow direction is the water flow direction,wrong direction will not make the heater work. see the picture 4.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly hot tub heater that can handle small tubs and pools, the UCEDER Hot Tub LX H20-Rs1 Thermostat is worth considering.
Pros
- Easy to install and connect to a 20A circuit.
- An adjustable thermostat to set your desired temperature.
- Durable construction with UL-approved metal pipe electric-heating element.
Cons
- Takes a long time to heat up water, especially for larger tubs or pools.
- Requires an insulation cover to maintain temperature.
- Installation can be tricky and requires careful attention to water flow direction.
The UCEDER Hot Tub LX H20-Rs1 Thermostat is a budget-friendly option suitable for smaller hot tubs or pools. While it features an adjustable thermostat and a durable UL-approved metal pipe heating element, it does have a slower heating time, especially for larger water bodies.
An insulation cover is necessary to maintain the temperature, and installation can be tricky, requiring careful attention to water flow direction. Overall, it’s a good choice for those with smaller tubs or pools who are willing to invest effort in installation.
3. Aubric Immersion Water Heater
- 2000W Instant Water Heater - The electric hot water heater has a power of 2000W and a voltage of 110-125V. It will quickly heat 5 gallons of water with high power in a few minutes, and it will take about...
- 【Easy to Operate】Our submersible portable water heater is easy to operate and comes with a digital LCD thermometer to help you monitor the water temperature. Simply make sure the immersion heater is...
- 【Upgrade Design】Our 2000W High Power Immersion Heater features an upgraded design with a stainless steel protective shell for added safety and durability. The bottom drainage design prevents accidental...
- 【Used Anywhere】Use our bathtub water heater anywhere for a super comfortable hot bath in cold weather or a relaxing foot soak. Suitable for rapid heating in different small capacity containers such as...
If you’re looking for a portable and easy-to-use hot tub heater, the Aubric Immersion Water Heater is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 2000W power heats up to 5 gallons of water quickly.
- The stainless steel protective shell is sturdy and safe.
- The compact design makes it easy to carry and use anywhere.
Cons
- It takes about 30 minutes to heat the water to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, which may be longer than expected.
- The bottom drainage design may not be suitable for all types of containers.
- The LCD thermometer may not be very accurate.
The Aubric Immersion Water Heater offers quick water heating with its 2000W power and safety ensured by a stainless steel protective shell.
Its compact design enhances portability, although it may take around 30 minutes to reach 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and the bottom drainage design may not fit all containers.
The accuracy of the LCD thermometer is uncertain. Nonetheless, we recommend it for on-the-go heating of smaller pools, buckets, and bathtubs.
4. HASTER Portable Pool Immersion Water Heater
- ☀[Heat water faster]: 1500W high-power immersion water heater can make 5 gallons of water warm in a few minutes. While camping can bring this portable bucket heater and can enjooy shower even outside .In...
- ❀[Safety Protection] This UL Certified immersed portable hot tub heater with 304 stainless steel cover guard. Heating in water for a long time will not cause rust,effectively preventing burns. Bathtub...
- ♥ [Easy to Use] Just put the US Version pool warmer for inflatables into the water and connect it to power supply without much fuss.. Please note that the heater must be completely immersed in water...
- ♛[Portable and Versatile]: You can use the portable electrical submersible heater in many occasion. It supports to use in containers of different sizes, such as buckets, basins, bathtubs, mini inflatable...
If you’re looking for an affordable and portable pool or hot tub heater, the HASTER Portable Pool Immersion Water Heater is a great option.
Pros
- It heats up water quickly, making it perfect for small pools and bathtubs.
- The 304 stainless steel cover guard provides safety protection and prevents rust.
- The digital LCD thermometer makes it easy to monitor the water temperature.
Cons
- It’s not suitable for heating large swimming pools.
- The heater doesn’t have a thermostat or temperature adjustment.
- The water heater should not exceed 3 hours of continuous use.
The HASTER Portable Pool Immersion Water Heater is impressive with its 1500W high-power heating, perfect for swiftly heating small pools and bathtubs.
Its 304 stainless steel guard ensures safety and durability, while the digital LCD thermometer allows easy temperature monitoring. It’s user-friendly but not suitable for large pools, lacks a thermostat for temperature adjustment, and requires manual monitoring.
Overall, it’s a recommended choice for an affordable and portable hot tub heater, offering quick heating and safety features. Be sure to read the instructions carefully.
5. Treela Immersion Water Heater
- Heat Fast: there are 2 pieces of the electric pool heaters, they have porous surface made of 304 stainless steel, with the high power, so that they feature the reliable thermal conductivity, and can help...
- Dependable and Safe: designed with reliable automatic power off function, the bath tub heater for bath can automatically turn off when the water getting 120 to160 degrees Fahrenheit, which relieves you...
- Simple to Apply: place the pool water heater in a container, then fill the container with water to completely cover the heater, including the stainless steel shroud and plastic parts, and plug the heater...
- Extensive Applications: the immersion water heater is suitable for containers in various sizes, like portable bathtubs, pond, sink, bucket, mini inflatable swimming pools; Please make sure that your...
If you’re looking for a portable and easy-to-use hot tub heater, the Treela Immersion Water Heater might be worth considering.
Pros
- The Treela Immersion Water Heater can heat up 5 gallons of water within minutes, which makes it a great option for small inflatable hot tubs and other small containers.
- The automatic power-off function ensures the heater turns off when the water temperature reaches 120 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a safer option.
- The Treela Immersion Water Heater is easy to use. Simply place it in a container, fill the container with water, plug it in, and wait for the water to heat up.
Cons
- The Treela Immersion Water Heater is not recommended in large pools or containers.
- The heater should not be used continuously for more than three hours.
- If you have a swimming pool that requires more than two heaters to be heated simultaneously, it’s best to avoid plugging two heaters into the same outlet to avoid a fire.
The Treela Immersion Water Heater offers quick heating with its efficient 304 stainless steel heating elements, ideal for inflatable hot tubs. Its automatic power-off feature enhances safety.
Overall, it’s a reliable choice for a portable and user-friendly hot tub heater, with the note to follow instructions, avoid large containers, and limit extended use.
Hot Tub Heaters: Gas vs. Electric
When it comes to hot tub heaters, there are two main options to consider: gas and electric. Each type of heater has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand their differences before deciding.
Gas Heaters
Gas heaters are powered by propane or natural gas and are known for their quick heating capabilities. They are also typically less expensive to purchase upfront than electric heaters.
However, gas heaters require a gas line to be installed, which can add to the overall installation cost. Gas heaters are also less energy-efficient than electric heaters, which can result in higher monthly operating costs.
Electric Heaters
Electric heaters are powered by electricity and are known for their energy efficiency. They are usually more expensive to purchase upfront than gas heaters, but they may be more cost-effective in the long run due to lower monthly operating costs.
Electric heaters also do not require a gas line to be installed, which can simplify the installation process. However, electric heaters may take longer to heat the water than gas heaters.
Ultimately, the decision between a gas or electric heater for your spa or hot tub will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as upfront costs, monthly operating costs, and heating speed when making your decision.
How Does a Hot Tub Heating System Work?
A hot tub heating system uses a heater, control panel, and pump to maintain water temperature.
The control panel activates the heater when the bath water cools below the set temperature. The pump circulates water through it until the desired temperature is reached, at which point the heater turns off.
These systems can be electric or gas-powered. Electric systems use immersed heating elements, while gas systems rely on a burner heating a heat exchanger. Regular maintenance is vital for efficiency and system longevity.
How to Troubleshoot a Hot Tub Heater
It can be frustrating if your hot tub heater is not working properly. However, there are some simple troubleshooting steps to diagnose and fix the problem. Here are some common issues and solutions:
No Power
After first checking the power source, ensure the circuit breaker is on, and the GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) is not tripped.
If the GFCI is tripped, reset it and try turning on the heater again. There may be an issue with the wiring or the heater itself if there is still no power.
Low Water Flow
If the water flow in your hot tub is low, the heater may not function properly. Check the filter and make sure it is clean. If it is dirty, clean or replace it. Also, check the water level in the hot tub. If it is too low, the heater may not be able to function properly.
Faulty Temperature Sensor
If the temperature sensor is faulty, the hot tub heater may be unable to regulate the water temperature properly. Check the temperature sensor and make sure it is properly connected. If it is damaged or disconnected, replace it.
Faulty Heater Element
If the heater element is faulty, the hot tub may be unable to heat the water properly. Check the heater element and ensure it is clean and debris-free. If it is damaged or broken, replace it.
Faulty Control Board
If the control board is faulty, the hot tub may not be able to regulate the water temperature properly. Check the control board and make sure it is properly connected. If it is damaged or malfunctioning, replace it.
Following these troubleshooting steps, you can diagnose and fix most hot tub heater issues. If you cannot fix the problem alone, it may be time to call a professional for assistance.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a hot tub heater, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Heating Capacity
The first thing to consider is the heating capacity of the hot tub heater. This refers to the amount of water that the heater can heat up at a time.
You’ll want to choose a heater with a heating capacity that matches the size of your hot tub. A heater that is too small will take longer to heat up the water, while a heater that is too large may be more expensive to operate.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is another important factor when choosing a hot tub heater.
Look for heaters that are Energy Star certified or have a high energy efficiency rating. These heaters will use less energy to heat the water, saving you money on your energy bills in the long run.
Type of Heater
There are two main types of hot tub heaters: electric and gas. Electric heaters are typically more energy-efficient and easier to install, but they may have a higher upfront cost.
Gas heaters, on the other hand, are usually less expensive upfront but may be more expensive to operate in the long run.
Installation
Finally, consider the installation process for the hot tub heater. Some heaters may require professional installation, while others can be easily installed by the homeowner.
Make sure to choose a heater that is compatible with your hot tub and that you feel comfortable installing yourself or with the help of a professional.
FAQs
What Is the Cheapest Way to Heat a Hot Tub?
The cheapest way to heat a hot tub is by using a solar cover. Solar covers trap the sun’s heat and keep it in the water, reducing the amount of energy needed to heat the water. Another option is to use a heat pump, which is more energy-efficient than traditional electric heaters.
What Size Heater Is Best for a Hot Tub?
The size of the heater you need for your hot tub depends on the size of your hot tub and the climate you live in.
As a general rule, you need a heater that can heat your hot tub at a rate of 1 to 2 degrees per hour. For a small hot tub, a 5.5kW heater is sufficient, while a larger one may require an 11kW heater.
What Is the Alternative Heating System for a Hot Tub?
The alternative heating system for a hot tub is a heat pump. Heat pumps extract heat from the air or ground and transfer it to the water in your hot tub.
They are more energy-efficient than traditional electric heaters, and the pumps can save you money on your energy bills in the long run.
How Much Does a Hot Tub or Spa Heater Cost?
The cost of a hot tub heater depends on the type and size of the heater you need. A small electric heater can cost as little as $200, while a larger heat pump can cost $2,000 or more. Installation costs will also vary depending on the complexity of the installation.
Can a Hot Tub Heater Be Replaced?
Yes, a hot tub heater can be replaced. If your hot tub heater is not working properly or has stopped working altogether, you may need to replace it. It is important to choose a replacement heater that is compatible with your hot tub and meets your heating needs.
How Do I Choose a Hot Tub Heater Replacement?
When choosing a hot tub heater replacement, you need to consider the size of your hot tub, the climate you live in, and your budget.
You should also choose a new heater that is compatible with your hot tub and meets your heating needs. It is best to consult with a professional to ensure that you choose the right replacement heater for your hot tub.
The Last Splash
In wrapping up our exploration of the best hot tub heater products, we’ve examined a number of options, whether you seek rapid heating, energy efficiency, or eco-friendliness.
Remember, the best hot tub heater is the one that aligns with your specific requirements, budget, and heating expectations.
With insights from our review of these top products, you’ll find the ideal solution to keep your hot tub inviting and warm for countless moments of relaxation and enjoyment.
For over 15 years, Sean Moore has been sharing his love and enthusiasm for swimming pools and hot tubs with everyone he knows. His goal is to help everyday people DIY their maintenance to save money by teaching how to properly take care of your equipment, safely and correctly balance chemicals, and extend the life of your water oasis.
Pricing on this page was last updated on 2024-10-13