Hot tubs offer a luxurious retreat, whether it is after a long day’s work or a weekend gathering with friends and family. Yet, to keep your hot tub experience enjoyable and your investment protected, choosing the right cover is crucial. Hot tub covers come in several types, each offering unique features and benefits. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different types of hot tub covers, top brands in the market, maintenance tips, and factors to consider when selecting the perfect spa cover.
Hot Tub Cover Types:
- Hard Hot Tub Covers: Hard hot tub covers are the go-to standard for most hot tub owners, as they typically come included with the purchase of a new tub. These covers are often made with a foam core wrapped in durable vinyl or weather-resistant materials, providing adequate insulation and protection against the elements. These covers are available in various shapes and sizes, including square hot tub covers, round hot tub covers, and alternative shapes like those found in Bullfrog or Marquis hot tubs. For most hot tub users, these standard covers suffice in keeping the water clean, retaining heat, and prolonging the lifespan of the tub. With proper care and maintenance, including regular cleaning and applying a vinyl protectant, these covers can last the life of the hot tub, offering reliable protection and peace of mind. However, hard covers can be heavy and cumbersome to remove, requiring assistance for larger models.
- In Ground Hot Tub Covers: When it comes to in-ground hot tubs, selecting the right cover is essential for both functionality and aesthetics. While the same spa cover design used for aboveground spas and hot tubs can be adapted for in-ground installations, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. One key difference is the skirt length, which is typically shortened or even eliminated depending on whether the spa is raised above the surrounding deck or flush with it. A shorter skirt of 1-2 inches may be more suitable for raised spas or those with rough edges. Additionally, it’s advisable to have the spa cover made slightly larger, around 6-8 inches, than the inside spa diameter to ensure proper coverage without the risk of it falling in during installation or removal. Proper storage is also crucial to protect the cover from damage, whether using a hot tub cover stand or a DIY cover rack. In-ground spa covers may or may not feature locking straps, but it’s recommended to have them installed to secure the cover during high winds and prevent unauthorized access to the spa water. Alternatively, over-the-top straps or pool safety cover anchors can provide a more secure strapping method. For custom in-ground spa covers tailored to specific sizes and shapes, opting for heavier foam density and thickness can enhance durability and weather resistance, ensuring long-term protection against the elements.
- Soft Hot Tub Covers: Soft spa covers, and soft hot tub covers offer a more economical alternative to foam core hard covers, primarily due to their standardized sizing and construction from durable tri-ply vinyl tarp material. While the soft spa covers effectively keep debris, rain, and critters out of your hot tub, they require an air bladder to prevent water pooling and are not suitable for hot tubs that need to be drained. Additionally, these covers provide minimal insulation, making them best suited for spas that are continually heated and used rather than left unheated for extended periods. In summary, soft hot tub covers work well for situations where heat retention is not a priority, where the hot tub remains filled with water, and where the cover can be securely strapped down around the sides.
Top Spa Cover Brands:
- Covana: Covana, the best automatic hot tub covers. Covana offers more than just a standard hot tub cover; it presents an innovative solution that transforms your hot tub experience. In less than 30 seconds, the Covana hot tub cover converts into a stylish and luxurious gazebo or pergola at the push of a button, shielding you from inclement weather while providing comfort and intimacy. Gone are the days of struggling with heavy covers or dealing with snow and debris; Covana systems grant quick and effortless access to your hot tub. With automated opening and closing controlled by a simple key turn, you can securely lock your cover, ensuring peace of mind and complete control. Crafted in Canada using resilient, high-quality materials, Covana hot tub cover prices are usually in the eight to ten thousand range or more, but their products are engineered to withstand even the harshest climates, ultimately saving you money on heating bills and maintenance. Its durability ensures year-round, hassle-free use of your hot tub, promising comfort and convenience. Developed by the Canimex Group, Covana’s unique automation system is the culmination of collaborative efforts across various divisions and partners. Covana hot tub cover reviews are generally 5 stars and they have earned a reputation for safety, comfort, and elegance in backyard hot tub experiences. With its range of features and benefits, including durability and ease of use, Covana stands as a trusted brand in the realm of hot tub covers, delivering an unparalleled blend of functionality and sophistication.
- Core Covers: Core Covers specializes in crafting high-quality spa covers designed to provide optimal protection and insulation for your hot tub. They are the major hot tub cover maker for most of spas sold including Marquis, Vita Spa and most swim spas. With a focus on customization, Core hot tub Covers offers a wide range of options to suit various hot tub sizes, shapes, and configurations, including square hot tub covers and round. Core can also make replacement bullfrog hot tub covers that have irregular sizes. Their covers are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, protecting your hot tub from debris, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations. Additionally, Core Covers prides itself on offering excellent customer service, assisting clients in selecting the perfect cover for their specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a standard cover or a custom solution, Core Covers delivers reliable, high-quality products that help you maintain and enjoy your hot tub for years to come.
- End 2 End Roll up Hot Tub covers: End 2 End Rolling spa cover offer a convenient and innovative solution for hot tub owners seeking ease of use and efficient protection. With their unique design, one person can effortlessly away roll these covers to provide quick and easy access to the hot tub, eliminating the need for heavy lifting or cumbersome removal processes. The End 2 End rolling hot tub cover is engineered to provide reliable coverage and insulation when closed, effectively shielding the hot tub from debris and retaining heat. Its rollaway design ensures minimal obstruction to the surrounding area, and ease of opening which makes it ideal for anyone that has trouble with a standard heavy hard spa cover. With End 2 End Rollaway covers, hot tub maintenance becomes hassle-free, allowing users to enjoy their spa experience with utmost convenience and ease.
Hot Tub Cover Care and Maintenance:
Maintenance of hot tub covers is essential for ensuring their longevity and efficient functioning. Neglecting proper care can lead to premature replacement, resulting in unnecessary expenses. Hence, it is imperative for all hot tub owners to grasp the significance of regular maintenance routines. Fortunately, maintaining hot tub covers is relatively straightforward and requires minimal effort. Here is a concise checklist to guide you through the process:
- Keep it clean: Regular cleaning, ideally every three months, is crucial for extending the lifespan of your hot tub cover. This practice not only prevents chemical buildup but also mitigates the risk of mold growth. Avoid using harsh substances like bleach or household detergents, as they can degrade the cover’s UV protection. Instead, opt for specialized hot tub cover cleaners available at local supply stores. In the absence of these cleaners, vinegar or mild soap can serve as effective alternatives. When cleaning, use moderate water pressure to wash away dirt and cleaning solution.
- Apply UV protectant spray: The UV protectant coating on spa covers deteriorates over time, necessitating the use of additional UV protectant spray after each cleaning session. This extra layer of protection helps shield the cover from harmful UV rays, prolonging its lifespan.
- Handle with care: Exercise caution when handling your hot tub cover to prevent damage. Avoid contact with sharp edges and rough surfaces, and refrain from dragging it across the ground. Investing in a hot tub cover lifter is advisable, as it facilitates easy lifting and lowering while keeping the cover off the ground, thereby reducing wear and tear.
- Keep it clear: Prevent the accumulation of snow or dirt on your hot tub cover, as excessive weight can cause it to sag in the middle, compromising its seal and insulation properties. Additionally, ensure that pets and children refrain from sitting or playing on the cover to avoid potential damage.
- Allow chemicals to dissipate: After adding chemicals to your hot tub water, allow the cover to remain off for up to an hour. This allows chemical vapors to escape, preventing them from accumulating inside the cover and causing damage over time. It’s also essential to monitor pH levels regularly to maintain water quality.
By adhering to these maintenance practices, hot tub owners can ensure that their covers remain in optimal condition, maximizing both longevity and performance.
Lifespan and Common Issues:
The typical lifespan of a hot tub cover varies depending on usage, climate, and maintenance practices. On average, a well-maintained cover can last anywhere from five to ten years. However, issues such as water absorption, mold growth, and structural damage can occur over time, necessitating repairs or replacement. Investing in quality cover and following proper maintenance guidelines can help mitigate these issues, ensure optimal performance, and avoid hot tub cover replacement.
In conclusion, choosing the right hot tub cover is essential for maintaining water cleanliness, preserving heat, and protecting your investment. Whether you prefer a hard cover for durability, a soft cover for flexibility, or an automated cover for convenience, there are options available to suit every preference and budget. With proper care and maintenance, your hot tub cover can provide years of enjoyment and peace of mind.