Your hot tub cover is much more than just a visually appealing accessory. It traps in heat when not in use, which not only lowers your energy consumption but your energy bill as well. It prevents evaporation, which helps you preserve the water you have and the time it takes to refill your spa. It also keeps out leaves, seeds, and other debris that can dirty up the water and clog your filters.
Needless to say, maintaining your hot tub cover is of utmost importance. That said, even the most properly maintained covers will eventually need replacing, which begs the question…
How long does a hot tub cover last?
On average, a hot tub or swim spa cover will need to be replaced every 5–7 years. While some covers are built to last much longer than others, any object that is subjected to the elements will eventually show signs of wear.
Knowing when to replace your cover may not be as easy as you think. Luckily, the experts at Cal Spas of Minnesota are here to help. These are the top five signs to keep an eye out for.
Sign #1: Your hot tub cover is sagging in the middle
One of the clearest indicators that a hot tub cover needs to be replaced is when it begins to warp, or “cup” in the middle. This is typically the result of heavy rain or snowfall failing to run off the sides and instead pool into the center and weigh down the cover.
This is especially troublesome because when excess weight is applied to the center, the corners of the cover will begin to lift and lose their seal. This causes heat and steam to escape, which means you’ll have to add more water and deal with a significantly higher energy bill.
Sign #2: The outer vinyl is torn, cracked, and/or discolored
Dry, cracked, and discolored vinyl can’t be easily repaired and is an absolute eyesore that no hot tub owner wants to put up with. A slowly deteriorating cover not only looks bad, but it can also have a negative impact on the safety and efficiency of your hot tub as well.
If your cover has large tears or holes, it may be releasing heat and steam and allowing unwanted dust and debris to get into your spa.
You should also make sure to check the stitching, particularly at the center seam where most cover lifters support the cover when it’s open. If you notice the stitching is beginning to rip, you’ll want to replace your cover as soon as possible to avoid any further damage.
Sign #3: The cover is much heavier and difficult to remove
Try lifting your hot tub’s cover. Is it significantly heavier than you remember? No, you’re not getting weaker—it’s your cover that has gained weight!
This is primarily the result of your cover’s insulating foam core becoming waterlogged. This core is designed to retain the heat of your hot tub by trapping warm air inside the bubbles of the foam. Over time, however, the vapor barrier can fail and allow water to be absorbed.
An overly saturated core will not insulate nearly as well, causing your monthly energy bill to skyrocket. If you don’t replace the cover soon, the extra weight will add strain on the seams and may even damage your automatic cover lifter.
Sign #4: The straps, locks, or hinges are broken
To keep your cover safely and properly secured, every part needs to be in working order. If even one of the tie-down straps or locks is broken, you run the risk of a loose seal. Torn hinges can also allow heat to escape and should be repaired or replaced immediately.
Sign #5: Your hot tub cover emits a foul odor
Even if your hot tub cover looks fine, an unpleasant smell could be a dead giveaway that something is not right. A saturated foam core can be the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mildew to grow unchecked, producing a foul aroma. You may have grown accustomed to the odor over time too, so you might want to get a second opinion from a non-frequent soaker.
Is it time for a replacement cover? Consider upgrading to a Covana Gazebo.
Is your hot tub cover showing one or more signs of damage? If so, you’ll want to start thinking about a replacement—and what better time to step up your cover game!
The Covana Gazebo is an innovative design that combines a spa cover and a private enclosure in one sleek, hybrid solution. They offer:
- Ease of use: The cover automatically opens and closes.
- Added security: Only you can open it with your key.
- A weather-proof roof: The hard polymer top is angled for improved run-off and is unaffected by UV rays.
- Increased insulation: Thicker foam and a high-quality rubber gasket provide the best seal and heat retention of any cover on the market.
- More privacy: Retractable screens offer privacy from the neighbors and help keep away pesky bugs.
- Built-in lighting: Choose from several color options to illuminate and set the mood for your late-night soak.
Is a Covana Gazebo not for you? That’s okay too. At Cal Spas of Minnesota, we offer traditional rigid vinyl covers for your swim spa or hot tub as well, in a wide variety of fun colors.
Give us a call to learn more or visit one of our two convenient Twin Cities locations to see these covers in action.