Hot tubs have become a popular feature in many holiday parks, but they are also raising concerns about their energy usage and environmental impact. Severin Borenstein, a researcher at the University of California, Berkeley, has calculated that running a hot tub for a year can produce greenhouse gas emissions comparable to a one-way flight between Boston and London.
Despite the criticism, hot tubs continue to be a sought-after amenity for vacation rentals. Owners report that having a hot tub can boost bookings by 10-20%. However, the costs of maintaining hot tubs can be substantial, with some owners spending around £100 per changeover to clean, refill, and heat each hot tub.
To address the energy consumption of hot tubs, some holiday parks are exploring alternative heating systems such as solar and biomass boilers, as well as heat pumps. These measures can significantly reduce energy costs and carbon dioxide emissions.
While the debate around hot tubs and their environmental impact continues, many tourism entrepreneurs believe that hot tubs are now considered a standard feature in vacation rentals. Despite the energy usage, the health benefits of hot tubs, such as reduced blood pressure and improved sleep, are also being highlighted.
As the hot tub market sees fluctuations in sales, with a recent upturn in demand, the industry is looking for ways to balance the popularity of hot tubs with their environmental impact. Whether it’s through alternative heating systems or guest behavior policies, the hot tub industry is evolving to address concerns about energy usage and sustainability.
