Once a hot tub is installed, it is the responsibility of the owner to take proper care of it. One of the best things that can be done is to purchase a hot tub cover. Hot tub covers serve many purposes, but the main goal of using one of these it to keep the unit free of debris and animals when not in use. In addition to protecting the hot tub, covers help keep the costs of operating it down. An energy efficient cover can help keep the costs of operating the hot tub down by almost half, while an insufficient one can almost double a homes energy usage. Popular manufacturers of hot tub covers include America’s Spa Mart, Coverplay and The Cover Guy.
Hot tub covers come in all shapes and sizes. Many of the leading manufacturers, including America’s Spa Mart, Coverplay and The Cover Guy offer custom services to make hot tub covers that fit perfectly on the unit. Custom covers can be made in round, oblong, square, rectangle and other geometric shapes, based on measurements sent in with the order.
When purchasing a new hot tub cover it is necessary to take a measurement of the unit. Measurements needed include the full length and width of the hot tub. If there are rounded corners, measuring for the radius will also be required. Having the proper measurements will ensure the hot tub cover fits securely.
Most spa covers from the above manufacturers support between 100 to 200 pounds. The overall integrity of a hot tub cover depends greatly upon the foam density and strength of the support channel in the fold of the cover. Different foam options are available when ordering a custom made cover.
Foam thickness will help insulate the hot tub. The ticker a cover is, the more insulation the hot tub has when covered. Those living in climates with moderate to harsh winters will want a higher foam thickness. The higher the foam density the heavier it will weigh, but it will offer a stronger cover for the hot tub.
The vapor barrier wraps around, protecting the foam from getting wet. Covers made with a thick poly barrier offer the best protection when preventing water absorption. Most covers are manufactured with two steam stoppers on either side of the fold. A steam stopper helps prevent the escape of any heat or steam from the hot tub when the cover is closed.
There are many different signs that show a hot tub cover is in need of replacing. The most obvious one is when the cover starts to get heavy and difficult to maneuver due to it absorbing a bunch of moisture. Other signs may include a bend in the cover, cracks in the liner or difficulty getting it to fit properly.
Warranties offered with covers vary by manufacturer. America’s Spa Mart offers a five year warranty of all covers and a 30 day money back guarantee. Coverplay offers a three year warranty with an option to purchase additional coverage for up to seven years. The Cover Guy offers a seven year warranty protecting consumers against manufacturer defects.
Delivery costs vary with each company. America’s Spa Mart offers free shipping on qualified purchases to most areas in the continental United States. Shipping from Coverplay will range between $139 to $169 depending on where it is being shipped to. The Cover Guy calculates shipping based on delivery area and services available at the time of ordering.