With the chilly days of autumn upon us, it's time to think about ways to keep your hot tub hot when you're ready to use it without using extra energy. You can also maximize the heat while you're in it.

Hot Tub Timers
One way to minimize the time and attention spent on your spa is by using a timer. If you have a routine of soaking in your hot tub in the morning and at night, you can regulate the temperature through a timer. By setting it to run at certain hours of the day, specific days of the week, you can be assured that it will always be ready to use without wasting energy when it's dormant. If you're not satisfied with the timer that you have, you can replace it with a time clock that fits your model. Hot tub replacement parts are available from Grasslin, Kiehl and other manufacturers for use with a panel mount or a surface mount.

Covers
If you haven't replaced your hot tub cover within the past five years, this is a good time to look at your insulation to see what kind of shape it's in. If it's tired and water-logged, it's time for a new one. This will minimize the amount of heat that escapes when you have the cover on your unit. While universal covers are available, choosing one that's made to fit your spa will ensure a proper fit. At Hot Spring Spa Supplies, we carry a variety of brand models, including Limelight, Watkins, Caldera and Hot Spring Spa covers. If your current hot tub cover is in good shape and you're not quite ready to replace it, you can get a hot tub cover protector from Spa Slip instead. It's made of polyester with a durable knit laminate designed to boost energy efficiency and prolong the life of hot tub covers. Some cover protectors come with wind straps to keep them secure in windy and stormy weather.

Placement
One way that your spa will lose more heat is if it's located outside in an open area. A breeze and chilly temperatures will carry away some of the warmth while you're in it. Counteract this by putting an enclosure around all or part of your unit. A lattice wall, fencing and a privacy screen are all attractive solutions to preventing heat loss. These options can also keep you warmer as you're getting in and out of the hot tub.