Relaxing in your hot tub at the end of a long day is one of your favorite ways to wind down, whether you're alone or with your partner. Unfortunately, the cost of using your hot tub can add up fast! If you want to be able to enjoy your hot tub guilt-free, try these simple steps to ensure that you're able to lower the monthly cost of running your hot tub.

1. Check your temperature. Your hot tub has a thermometer that will allow you to select the temperature it remains when it's in use. Check that temperature! Typically, it will be set at 104 degrees for safety. By lowering it to 101 or 102 degrees, you can create a significant difference in your electric bill over time.

2. Make sure your filter is clear and replace it regularly. If your spa filter parts aren't working properly, you can end up with a big increase in energy bills! Make sure that your filter is clean and that everything is in working order. Putting off replacing your filter may seem like it's saving you money, but in the end, it may cost a lot more in terms of energy output. Ideally, your filter should be replaced every year and cleaned every 3-4 months at minimum.

3. Turn off those jets. The longer the jets run, the more power you're using. This Vico by Balboa jetted tub control switch makes it easy to kick back, relax, and enjoy your soak in the tub with the jets turned either on or off.

4. Try a new cover. A hot tub cover with a radiant heat shield can keep the temperature in your hot tub warmer when it's not in use without having to waste energy. That means that you'll be able to easily hop in your hot tub and enjoy the warm temperatures without having to worry about how much it's cost to keep the hot tub warm throughout the day.

5. Install wind breaks. An outdoor hot tub loses a large percentage of its heat to the wind as it skims across the surface of the water. By installing wind breaks, you can prevent your hot tub from losing heat and save those vital energy costs. You don't have to enclose your hot tub completely to manage it; small breaks in the wind will create big differences--not to mention making your soaking experience more pleasant.

6. Turn off everything unnecessary when you aren't using your hot tub. From lights to jets, there's no reason to leave them on when you aren't out there to enjoy them. Go ahead and turn off the electricity-using items that you don't need and enjoy the energy savings.

7. Turn off everything when you go on vacation. If you're going to be away from home, you won't be using your hot tub at all. Go ahead and turn everything off while you're going to be gone to save on those critical costs while you're away. If you're going to vacation during the winter months, either make sure your hot tub is winterized or leave it on low heat while you're gone.

8. Try a thermal blanket. A thermal blanket beneath your hot tub's cover will make it easier to keep the water warm with a lower energy usage than using the normal heating elements. This is a great way to retain heat all day and keep your heating costs lower.

Your hot tub is a big investment, but it's one that's well worth it in terms of how much you'll enjoy it. Keep the hot tub and skip the guilt! Implementing these simple tips will make it less expensive to maintain your hot tub each month.